Get Inspired by a Veteran's Courage

I'd like to introduce you to someone special: Naomi Mercer.

• She's a Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army.
• She's a mom.
• She served in Iraq.
• She has a PhD in Literary Studies from the University of Wisconsin.

I believe the technical term for someone with that kind of profile is "badass."

Naomi and I connected through American Corporate Partners (ACP), an organization that helps service members transition from the military to the civilian workforce. Like hundreds of thousands of Americans each year, Naomi is making that transition courageously, and I am honored and happy to provide her with my perspective and guidance as she makes that journey.

My relationship with Naomi is definitely a two-way street—I've been inspired and energized by her dedication and life story. So I urge my readers, if they're not doing this already, to consider getting involved somehow with assisting veterans. Visit the ACP site, or email them directly about mentoring at [email protected]. In the United States, in addition to ACP, there are a ton of great organization and programs working in this area, including Hire Our Heroes, Boots to Business, and Hope for the Warriors. The National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) runs a terrific program, From Battlefield to Boardroom, for veterans interested in joining a corporate board.

For anyone who, like Naomi, is transitioning from the military to civilian life, let me put in a plug for the accounting and auditing profession; its firms have proven themselves as leaders and innovators when it comes to hiring those with military service on their resumes. Deloitte, for example, offers a Career Opportunity Redefinition & Exploration Leadership Program, which helps armed forces members and veterans translate their skills, knowledge, and experiences into a business environment. RSM's Stars & Stripes Employee Network Group provides resources, organizes activities, and supports scholarship opportunities.

Have you been inspired by a veteran? Do you have insights or perspective to share on making a successful transition from military to civilian life, or helping others to do so? If so, please share in the comments. And to my readers in the United States, happy Fourth of July!

A securities lawyer, Cindy Fornelli has served as the Executive Director of the Center for Audit Quality since its establishment in 2007.