Throughout Military Appreciation Month in May, we honor and celebrate the dedication of military members and their supporting personnel, including military spouses and families. Various days within the month pay tribute to different aspects of patriotism and the individuals who contribute to the strength and success of the military. From Military Spouse Appreciation Day to Loyalty Day, VE Day, and Armed Forces Day (sometimes referred to as Military Appreciation Day), the calendar is packed with events recognizing the sacrifices and achievements of military personnel. Throughout the month, discounts are offered in commemoration of these occasions, with the possibility of last-minute…
Author: USVM
Networking involves cultivating relationships that can be beneficial to your job search and career advancement. While it’s common knowledge that many job opportunities arise through networking, you may feel disheartened if you’re unsure where to start. However, building a professional network is within reach for nearly everyone by following these suggestions to identify and nurture your connections. Firstly, consider who is already within your network beginning with those closest to you, such as family, neighbors, friends, and members of community groups you participate in. From your educational background include current or former classmates, teachers, professors, and school personnel. Don’t forget…
The VIB Network’s Express Connect event, held on April 25, 2024, was a success, enabling Veteran business owners to connect with corporations and government agencies in a fun, supportive and professional environment. The Welcoming Reception was met with some surprise rain, but provided a memorable experience for those on the private tour of the historic USS Constitution. Thursday’s event continued the excitement and furthered connections. Our Keynote Speaker Col. Greg Gadson inspired attendees to stay motivated even when faced with tough times. A big thank you to this year’s Express Connect host Takeda Pharmaceuticals and the ‘wicked smaht’ Boston/Cambridge welcome…
In 2019, the U.S. military established the Space Force, a specialty branch of the Air Force dedicated to operations and protections in space. Less than five years after its conception, a Space Force Guardian is finally heading to the stars. Space Force Col. Nick Hague will be the first Guardian to launch into space on a NASA mission to the International Space Station. Though his exact launch date is unknown, Hague will embark on the mission no sooner than August 1st of this year. Commander Zena Cardman, Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson and Roscosmos cosmonaut Mission Specialist Aleksandr Gorbunov will join…
Embrace the Celebration: LA Fleet Week at the Port of Los Angeles Join us for an unforgettable celebration at LA Fleet Week, Southern California’s largest Memorial Day event, happening from May 22 to May 27, 2024, over Memorial Day weekend. This annual extravaganza takes place on the LA Waterfront at the Port of Los Angeles and features a dynamic lineup of activities, demonstrations, and live entertainment – and best of all, it’s FREE for everyone! Event Details LA Fleet Week is a vibrant multi-day celebration of our nation’s Sea Services, showcasing military equipment demonstrations, educational activities, and exciting live entertainment.…
WHAT/WHY: Girl Scouts San Diego will host the Operation Thin Mint℠ Sendoff and Family Festival on Saturday, May 4 for more than 1,500 attendees. The event commemorates 23 years of Operation Thin Mint℠ (OTM), a service project launched in San Diego that has inspired the donation of more than 4.2 million Girl Scout Cookie packages for U.S. military personnel since its inception in 2002. Girl Scouts San Diego will also recognize two groups of Girl Scouts who rose above and beyond during the 2024 cookie program, the world’s largest girl-led entrepreneurial program: The top 10 Operation Thin Mint℠ Entrepreneurs, who reached…
Navigating the interview process as a veteran or transitioning service member is a critical step towards successfully transitioning into civilian employment. Understanding how to effectively prepare and showcase your unique skills and experiences can significantly enhance your confidence and prospects during job interviews. Preparing thoroughly for interviews is essential as it not only demonstrates professionalism but also allows individuals to effectively communicate their qualifications and suitability for civilian roles. By investing time in interview preparation, veterans can confidently articulate their value to potential employers and address any gaps between military and civilian job requirements. Key Tips for Interview Success Research…
Established in 2015, the GI Film Festival San Diego is a multi-day showcase of films for, by, and about military and veteran experiences. Films featured in the festival reveal the struggles, triumphs, and experiences of service members and veterans. The festival also provides veterans and service members with an opportunity to further their creative skills. Documentaries, shorts, narratives, and feature-length films are presented. The festival includes local films, which feature San Diego filmmakers, events, people, or places. Post-screening discussions with filmmakers, actors and documentary subjects are also part of the festival. The 2024 event takes place May 6-11 in San…
The Department of Veterans Affairs has recently implemented a final rule to amend its regulations concerning character of discharge determinations, aiming to broaden access to VA care and benefits for certain former service members who were discharged under conditions other than honorable or through special court-martial proceedings. When former service members with other than honorable discharges and those discharged by special court-martial apply for VA benefits and services, their records are thoroughly examined to assess eligibility for the requested care and benefits. This meticulous process ensures that deserving former service members, including those who may have experienced discrimination, survived sexual…
Starting and maintaining a business takes a lot of organization, dedication and drive. While it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day of entrepreneurial life, it’s also important to take the time to celebrate and reflect on the accomplishments you’ve made. “We need to take a small break to reflect and celebrate,” says Dan O’Toole, the CEO of the delivery service company, Arrive, “We need some encouragement from time to time, so take some time to give yourself a silent, or not so silent, toast for the occasion.” According to NorthOne, there are around 582 million entrepreneurs globally,…
