Hiring America's Veterans

America’s commitment to its veterans must be an enduring one. After the service they’ve given us and the sacrifices they have made, we have a responsibility to make sure our service members receive the benefits and the opportunities they have earned. That’s why I was so happy last week to participate in the first Veterans on Wall Street Conference.

The conference took place in New York City on board the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum and coincided with a U.S. Chamber of Commerce “Hiring Our Heroes” job fair.  Approximately one thousand veterans were on site to meet with more than a hundred employers, including some of the largest Wall Street firms. Application reviews and initial interviews were conducted on the spot.  Veterans also had access to seminars on a range of topics- everything from the basic concepts of the financial industry to resume-writing. And there were seminars for employers, too – because it’s important for businesses to understand the value they receive when they hire a veteran.  This conference is a great example of advocacy groups and industry leaders coming together to ensure that those who have served are not left behind.  It’s the kind of thing that we know can have a real impact. 

As our veterans return from war and transition into the next phase of their lives, we must continue to stand by them and support them at every turn.  Communities are an integral part of making a successful transition.  This conference was an example of one community coming together to hire veterans, but so much more remains to be done.  Behind this large, well-financed and well-produced event were people willing to help organize a community to tap into our nation’s greatest asset – our men and women who serve and have served in uniform.

Watch a video from the Conference below:

To find out how you can get involved in helping veterans and military families, go to www.joiningforces.gov

Matt Flavin is Director of Veterans and Wounded Warrior Policy.