As Veterans Day Approaches, U.S. Chamber Promotes Employment of Our Returning Heroes

Business Community Remains Focused on Finding Jobs for Wounded, Ill, and Injured Veterans

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and National Chamber Foundation hosted government, military, and private industry leaders at the “3rd Annual Business Steps Up: Hiring Our Heroes” event today to highlight how the business community has aided the brave men and women of our armed forces while they transition from military service to meaningful employment.

Delivering the keynote speech, former National Security Advisor, General James L. Jones, Jr., USMC (Ret.) emphasized that both public and private sector organizations can make a difference in the lives of American heroes transitioning to employment from military service.

“This event was another successful step in our efforts to bring together the public and private sectors to help veterans find meaningful employment after serving our nation,” said LTG (Ret.) Daniel W. Christman, a senior counselor at the U.S. Chamber. “We can honor these heroes for their sacrifices, while the business community will benefit from their technical expertise, leadership skills, and dedication.”

The event also showcased the 14-state pilot program recently launched by the Chamber and the Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (DOL VETS) agency, which will educate employers on the value of hiring veterans and help connect employers with veteran talent.

To support this program, Chamber executives are collaborating with the DOL VETS directors in their states and creating unique opportunities for veterans to network with prospective employers. The pilot program was launched on October 1, 2010 in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Virginia, and Georgia. The Chamber’s goal for 2011 is to expand the program into all 50 states.

“Given the sacrifices our heroes have made while we wage two wars, the Chamber remains committed to creating an environment in which thousands of military veterans can find meaningful work,” Christman said.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.

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