Let me get to the heart of my passion for veterans, and for
the nation. We have a golden opportunity
to leverage an untapped resource that is ready to unleash levels of
productivity not seen in the modern era. This valuable resource comes with a deep-rooted
sense of what it takes to be the absolute best. It also embodies a moral
compass that executes with dignity and respect.
That valuable resource is our veterans.
Our veterans have proven skills that have elevated and sustained the U.S.
military as the nation’s most respected and successful organization. Let there be no mistake: our veterans stand
apart from their civilian counterparts who have never worn this nation’s
uniform. Yes, they are amazing!
Yet, the
business community, with a few notable exceptions, has not fully embraced these
not-so-secret weapons, despite their tremendous potential. Smart employers have already discovered that
veterans can deliver a “secret sauce”…an intangible skill set that cannot be replicated
or learned in a classroom. This awesome
capability can only be gained through life experiences that illustrate the
Proverb, “just as iron sharpens iron, so does one person sharpen another.”
In
terms of education, leadership and character our veterans come from a pool of
the top candidates from our communities. That top-notch raw talent is educated, challenged and trained to push
their limits, their minds, and their leaders. Yes, they are empowered to push their leaders!. They obtain education
and experience that is unmatched anywhere in the world, let alone in our local
communities. They have executed
high-pressure assignments to help the military become the most respected
institution in this nation.
When they complete their service to the nation, they
return home. When veterans arrive in the
civilian world, there are abundant expressions of gratitude, flags are unfurled,
and community leaders acknowledge the community’s appreciation for veterans and
their service. But what happens after
the flags are furled and the speeches faded away? Do you think our veterans are
appreciated valued as an asset to their civilian community?
Unfortunately, in my
experience the answer is no. I am
passionate about searching for answers, helping civilians understand all of the
benefits veterans have to offer in businesses and nonprofits across the
nation. I also hope to contribute to
conversations that help veterans connect with the jobs they desire…and
deserve.
I hope you’ll join in this
discussion and help me address these issues, so the nation can take advantage
of the golden opportunity that veterans can offer to our communities.
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