As we remember those who have fallen in our nation’s defense, support those who are currently providing our nation’s defense, and give respect to all who have served, and to our men and women in uniform today, please consider the special and unique challenges that our veterans and active duty personnel face when they return home from service.

Many have injuries, both visible and invisible to the naked eye that will require care. Many will be scarred for life, either physically, emotionally, or both. Many will have outstanding leadership and decision-making skills, honed in conditions many of us will never face and could never imagine. Many will have skills learned on the battlefield in combat, providing highly complex and technical support to those on the battlefield, or providing political, logistical, or other support in circumstances that we can only imagine.

Yet, many employers are reticent to higher veterans.  Many have ill-conceived notions of psychological or physical barriers that they deem to big to overcome in the workplace. Many see service members as too used to working in a field that favors rigid hierarchy and total obedience to command; or, a lack of creativity and flexibility.

Oftentimes, these are total myths. It’s no wonder that the unemployment rate for veterans is so high. What a disservice to our fellow citizens who have served our nation to help protect us – even more amazing is that our service members are volunteers who have chosen this path for any number of reasons, and who ask nothing in return, but our nation’s gratitude.

Let us ask employers across our nation to give our veterans a fair shot at jobs and not to hold onto myths about their abilities. It’s an honor that they have earned and most certainly deserve.

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