ORLANDO, Nov. 8, 2025 – In honor of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Carnival Cruise Line, in partnership with the Orlando Veterans Affairs Healthcare System (Orlando VA), and the Gary Sinise Foundation, today welcomed nearly 100 local veterans, surviving spouses and children of fallen military and first responder heroes for a special tribute reception aboard Carnival’s Mardi Gras, celebrating their courage and sacrifice.During the event, Carnival announced the donation of an adapted sedan to the Orlando VA, supporting the organization’s specialized driving rehabilitation program to restore independence and improve the quality of life for veterans. The vehicle will help veterans determine…
Author: USVM
By Mona Lisa Faris As the publisher of U.S. Veterans Magazine and a passionate advocate for veterans’ success, I have spent years understanding the unique skills and strengths that military veterans bring to the civilian workforce. One industry where veterans are particularly well-suited is the sports and fitness industry. Their military experience often translates seamlessly into the demanding and fast-paced nature of sports, providing them with valuable skills like leadership, teamwork, discipline, adaptability, a strong work ethic and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. Additionally, the camaraderie and community aspect of sports can be especially beneficial for veterans transitioning back…
After surviving the Second Battle of Fallujah and enduring a long road to recovery, David Battle Jr. found healing and purpose not just in physical therapy or military honors—but on the football field.“I always say my toughest campaign began the day I came home,” said Battle, who suffered two gunshot wounds and a grenade blast during combat in Iraq in 2004. “I was told I’d never walk again—but after months of dragging my leg forward, falling more times than I can count, I eventually took my first steps. Three years later, I suited up to play junior college football. That…
To honor our nation’s veterans, numerous companies are offering discounted or free products, meals, services and events to active-duty service members, veterans and—in many cases—military spouses and dependents. These deals are available on or around Veterans Day 2025 and may vary by location. Note: While not all locations require proof of military service, it’s always best to bring a valid military ID, veteran ID card, DD214 or other accepted documentation in case verification is needed. This list will be updated as we get more companies offering deals and freebies. Food & Dining Applebee’s: Free full-size entrée from a special menu…
Washington, D.C. will once again take center stage this November as the nation comes together to honor America’s heroes at the Third Annual National Veterans Day Parade. This year’s celebration spans an entire weekend of events dedicated to recognizing the service and sacrifice of our veterans.The festivities begin on Friday, November 7th with the Grand Marshal Dinner at the Ronald Reagan International Trade Center. On Saturday, November 8th, the National Field Show for Bands takes over the National Mall from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by opening ceremonies at the National Archives at 11:00 a.m. The parade itself steps…
This Veterans Day, one of the nation’s most storied ships will again serve as a beacon of remembrance and gratitude. On Nov. 11, 2025, the Queen Mary will open its decks to veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families for a day of free admission, heartfelt tributes and patriotic celebration.Docked in Long Beach Harbor, the historic ocean liner will transform into a floating tribute to the men and women who have served the United States in uniform. From live music to interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities, the Queen Mary’s Veterans Day event promises to blend history, honor and community spirit…
Film lovers and military-community insiders, get ready: the GI Film Festival is making a special November comeback in Washington, D.C., and it’s bringing some of its most powerful stories back to the screen.What’s Happening?From November 4 to November 5, the festival will host “Best of the Fest”, a two-day showcase featuring 13 standout films drawn from across the past decade of GI Film Festival programming. These aren’t just any films — they’re a curated selection of narratives and documentaries that highlight military, veteran, and family experiences.Screenings will take place at the NCTA – The Internet & Television Association in D.C.…
In the evolving world of supplier diversity, one organization has redefined what it means to be certified: the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC). As the gold standard for third-party certification of veteran and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses (VOBs/SDVOBs), NVBDC is more than a certifier—it’s a catalyst for opportunity.Delivering ResultsNVBDC is the only veteran certification body recognized by the Billion Dollar Roundtable (BDR)—a mark of integrity, impact and influence. In 2023 alone, NVBDC-certified businesses secured more than $4.3 billion in contracts and expenditures, directly connecting veteran entrepreneurs with major supply chains.These businesses span every industry and background. To ensure equity, NVBDC…
By any measure, Vincent J. Delie, Jr., (pictured above), leads with purpose. As Chairman, President and CEO of F.N.B. Corporation and First National Bank (FNB), Delie is at the helm of a premier financial institution spanning seven states and Washington, D.C. Beyond business growth and strategy, Delie brings a deeply personal commitment to supporting veterans and military-affiliated individuals—both within his organization and throughout the communities FNB serves.It’s a commitment rooted in family. “Many of my close relatives served our country,” Delie shared. “I saw the impact of their sacrifices on my family as well as how their service influenced their…
Transitioning from military service to civilian life presents a wide range of financial adjustments, and for many veterans, navigating credit is one of the most critical—and often confusing—parts of that journey. Whether you’re just starting to build a credit history or recovering from financial setbacks, understanding how credit works and how to manage it effectively is essential to long-term stability and success.Why it MattersCredit plays a central role in civilian life. It impacts everything from qualifying for a mortgage or auto loan to renting an apartment or securing favorable insurance rates. Unfortunately, many service members leave active duty with limited…
