SMART Heroes

Rosie the Riveter Day is this week! Though not an official holiday, Congress has approved resolutions from year to year marking the day. March 21 is a time to reflect on the hard work women did in World War Two. While Rosie represents the "everywoman" who supported the war effort, the famous image Normal Rockwell painted was based on his friend Mary Doyle Keefe. And, for a time, there was a "Wendy the Welder" too!

Every dog has his day! Today is K9 Veterans Day, and the anniversary of the founding of the United States K9 Corps in 1942. You can read about the history of this day, and some four-legged heroes below.

With the many changes to government funding going on, remember you can check on how any of it affects your benefits at the VA's online press room.

On March 2, the #20 DEWALT car, proudly sporting the SMART Heroes logo, raced its way to victory! ???? An incredible win that not only dominated the track but also highlighted the heroes we support. Adding to the excitement, SMART Heroes instructors were present to witness this remarkable win firsthand. ??????

Are you deciding on your career options after military service? The SMART Heroes program is available in Western Washington and Colorado, and offers free accelerated training to jump-start a rewarding, life-long career in the sheet metal industry.

Are you artistically inclined? Do you have a photographer's eye? The VA is holding its annual poster contest to find a winning design for Veterans Day 2025. Visit the website to see guidelines and past winners. The deadline to submit is April 13!

Businesses and organizations of any size can support SMART Heroes on six different levels, so there is a sponsorship level for every company that wants to support military veterans making their way in a new career as a civilian. Find out more at: https://lnkd.in/grs5bHQw

Cohort 33 at our Colorado Springs location is hard at work in the classroom and shop this week!

Thank you to the The PenFed Foundation, which recently awarded the SMART Heroes Foundation a $50,000 grant! The PenFed Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports service members as they transition to civilian life, empowering them to find their purpose after the military and realize their potential. Read the full article here: https://ow.ly/3r2Z50UYSyP

Happy birthday to the Coast Guard Reserve! The passage of the Coast Guard Reserve and Auxiliary Act in 1941 created the reserve, and it's one of seven reserve components of the armed forces.