Veterans | Top Tags in June

Veterans | Top Tags in June

June was a time of transition in our neighborhood.?As I walked our dog Fen, I saw numerous yard signs celebrating class of 2023 graduations. Talking with proud parents, I heard concerns about a new journey and descriptions of advice they received from those who had “been there, done that.”?It was easy to see the parallel between what they were experiencing and the journey of exiting service members.

One active-duty Soldier nearby transitioned in a different way.?I met him once, while he was leaving early and again while I was walking Fen.?I thanked him for his service and he indicated he was retiring shortly.?

Our paths didn’t cross regularly, but when I was by his house in late June it was vacant.?My sense is he retired and moved back to Texas – I did notice the ceramic boots on the lawn and the license plates.

In retrospect, I wish there was a sign I could have put in his front yard, acknowledging his accomplishments and letting those without exposure to the military know what he had devoted most of his life toward.?Ideally, they too, would have offered tips and support.

While that didn’t happen, I trust he engaged with the #Veteran focused resources and support available on LinkedIn .?In June I saw many of these and divided my top posts into these groups:

1.?Employment Opportunities

Thomas Braden , explained three types of Veteran’s preference for federal employment in this post.

It’s important to remember that Veteran’s preference is an earned benefit for serving in the military.?Recently, some have begun questioning whether it needs to revised or eliminated altogether.?My reply – this is open to those who serve – enlist, serve, and then let us know how you feel about this afterward.

James Miller , shared another avenue to access companies who are hiring.?

As he points out, there are many ways to get your credentials/resume in front of top companies.?Don’t limit yourself – check this out.

Kevin Schmiegel , points out that Veterans do well as franchise owners.

It’s still work, but nothing that beats being your own boss.

Matt Quick , reminds us that you can develop passion while in a job.

Too often the search for the perfect job prevents a Veteran from taking a good job.?Matt points out that he had jobs that he mastered later and then developed a real passion for that work.?Jumping in is almost always better than sitting on the sidelines.

Lawrence Haywood , hosted a conversation about “Strategies for Veterans Facing Job Loss.”

In this time of the world, this is happening all too often.?Watch the replay for insights. ?

2.?Opportunities for Military Spouses (MilSpouses) and Women Veterans

Beth Conlin reposted an announcement from Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce .

Pointing out the possibilities of engaging private sector procurement functions to do business.

Kelly Barner has also written and spoken about learning more about supplier diversity programs and how Veteran entrepreneurs can leverage these.?The post contains a registration link for the discussion/training.

Amanda Lalonde , announced the next Fall cohort in Syracuse University?D'Aniello?Institute for Veterans and Military Families - IVMF,?V-Wise program.

V-Wise is, Veteran Women igniting the spirit of entrepreneurship and the program helps women Veterans and female military spouses/partners find their passion and learn the business savvy skills necessary to turn an idea or start-up into a growing venture.?Instead of lamenting the high rate of military spouse unemployment, another path is to open your own business, work the schedule you want and employment military spouses.?A registration link is included.

Bruce Thompson, MBA gave a special shout out on Women’s Veterans Recognition Day.

It’s not too late to email/call a Women Veteran in your network.?Mark June 12 on your 2024 calendar now.

3.?Valuable Insights and Tips

Daniel Collins, MBA, PMP shared a summary and link to articles he has written in response to the shortcomings Veterans have told him about TAP.

The 10 articles are detailed and specific.?Share these with your battle buddy preparing to leave military service.

Tyrone Hewitt , continues to share insights about the support from the @U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that Veterans have earned through their honorable service.

His explanation of how the GI Bill housing allowance works is clear and timely as many begin to plan for Fall enrollment.?Notice his point that a partial month of school reduces the allowance.?Avoid cashflow problems and ask questions in advance.

Michael (Mike) Stoddard , reminded us about the no-cost support from Wounded Warrior Project for Post 9/11 Warriors filing for their VA benefits.

His post has a direct link to get help.?Share this with a buddy who may be reluctant to start the process to access benefits because he/she is concerned its “too hard.”??With the right support, it doesn’t have to be.

4.?State Support for Veterans

Virginia Department of Veterans Services , reminded Virginia Veterans about the state’s tuition waiver program - the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program.

As a Virginia Veteran its fantastic to see outreach emphasizing reasons why service members should stay here (or return) when they complete their military service.?Candidly, we have work to do to catch up with Texas, but there is no reason why we can’t.

Eric Horton , points out the educational benefits available to California Veterans from California Department of Veterans Affairs .

Check out the comments with a link to a PDF of the resource guide for that state.

5.?Helping Others

Albert Meza , set a good example by donating blood.

I regularly donate blood and particularly like the snacks you are encouraged to have before you leave.?Cookies are my favorite and I believe when you donate blood, because it’s such a selfless act, those cookies have no calories.?Albert, what was your snack afterwards?

The KEY Community , announced the next meeting of its Military Dependent support group.

Growing up in an Army family, we moved often.?I know there are many who had this experience. It would have been nice to have a group like this to discuss common experiences and challenges.??

John W. Harman , shared the small success in fundraising by Shield of Sisters .

SoS is an ambitious non-profit dedicated to helping women who are #MST Survivors.?Reach out to founder Shannon Hough, MPA, MBA to learn more.

6. Lacey Langford, AFC? , provided thoughts for a short and informative article about the Best Banks for Military.

Having a great bank in your life is a key part of financial wellness.?The article describes special services military banks provide to service members, understanding their unique needs.

In a related note, check out the Veterans Benefits Banking Program where banks and credit unions offer no-fee accounts to Veterans.

7.?Listen and Learn

I discussed Veterans benefits with Jack Tilley on his Your Next Mission? podcast.?We did a three part series

Part 1 – We discussed how to access Veterans benefits

Part 2 – We covered Financial Wellness

Part 3 – We covered the GI Bill and other education benefits

8. Quick Takes

During June on Veterans Stand-Up I discussed important topics with these Veteran thought leaders:

Josh N. , though not a Veteran, told the story of his journey as he returned from incarceration.?His message of resilience and entrepreneurship is relevant to justice-involved Veterans.

? Thomas Palladino , described the many benefits Texas offers its Veterans.

They set a high benchmark, demonstrating what it means to be a Veteran friendly state.

James Gfrerer , provided advice for soon to be Veterans who are interested in a career in Information Technology.

He pointed out the value of certificates, how to translate your military experience, and how to demonstrate you have and can deal with change.

Chris Lewis , described the opportunities for Veterans in the Drone industry.

Many of the job features – travel, being outside, independence – resonate with Veterans.?He explained the training, career path, and compensation.

John Solheim , described his passion for supporting Veterans and why his company provides Golf equipment and other support to Veterans groups.

It was enjoyable to hear a CEO talk about doing the right thing for our nation’s Veterans regardless of what his accountants told him about the affect on the P&L.

9.?Book Report

On the anniversary of the founding of Arlington National Cemetery , I shared a brief report about Robert Poole’s book – “On Hallowed Ground: The Story of Arlington National Cemetery.?If you have ever been curious about this important place, it’s well worth the time.

I also read a fascinating book by Judy Goodman Ikels about her journey to understand her father’s military service – “Death in Wartime China: A Daughter’s Discovery.”

Her book had special meaning for me so close to Father’s Day.

Special thanks for Alfredo ?? Torres , for having me on his Coffee House to talk about Veterans benefits, my new book, and answer questions.

He calls out many folks in his network who work with him to help our Veterans.

10.?Never Forget

On Flag Day, Jason Premo , took the time to explain how this day came to be.

After reading this, if you decide you need a new American flag, please purchase one made in America, by an American company, ideally Veteran-owned.

On the anniversary of the U.S. Army, Jack Tilley .Explained its importance in upholding our way of life.

Jack’s post is a very good reminder.?What’s your answer to his question – “What would it be like if we did not have a capable and healthy Army?”

11.?Finally

Lately I’ve thinking about…

I saw a headline and read further about a survey of Veterans and their support for domestic extremism.?Contrary to the gist of the article, the survey indicated Veteran support for these groups is well below that of the general public.?When you consider the affection Veterans have for our country and our way of life, most wouldn’t find this a surprise. Nonetheless, it’s a reminder about reading more closely and a call for all of us to help change the narrative by talking about the many, very positive characteristics and actions of Veterans.

I talked about this, here.

I was also struck by an experience my battle buddy had with the timeliness of VA appointments for medical care. I was surprised to learn that legislation is being considered to require VA to provide same day appointments – that is, make the appointment, not provide care, the same day.?

I talked about attentive service for Veterans and the often different service levels we experience in the private sector vs the VA.

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I continue to believe LinkedIn provides the best platform for Veterans to get information and support to pursue their American Dream. If you don’t already, follow these voices.

- Paul Lawrence