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• Veteran Resume Writing Services & Tips

Written by: Robert Shaw

Home » Veterans » Veteran Jobs After Military Service » Veteran Resume Writing Services & Tips

Your chance to make a good first impression in a crowd – without handing out $100 bills – is even more difficult when your first contact is a job resume fighting for consideration in a pile on an employer’s desk.

A military career can be a leg up in that regard, not only because it distinguishes you from the great majority of job seekers, but because military careers nurture and sharpen skills coveted by the civilian world.

That’s not a recent development. Military experiences paying dividends in the civilian afterlife has been the trend for a good long while and for plenty of good reasons.

The unemployment rate for veterans is dropping again after fluctuating during the pandemic – a time when getting your footing in the job market was the equivalent of steadying yourself on stormy seas.

That unemployment rate for veterans is lower (4.2%) compared to non-veterans (4.6%) and is clearly headed in the direction of the 3.1% veteran unemployment of 2019.

That’s good news for anyone making the transition from military life (assuming you need the job and you’re not sitting on a $60 million trust fund. If you are, call me.)

No matter the ample opportunities to apply skills such as leadership, team building and perseverance in the civilian world, the best jobs won’t just fall in your lap.

It’s important for veterans to know the many resources available and how to craft a resume that can help the transition into a competitive workforce.

Building a Competitive Military Veteran Resume

Your skills might well be translatable in a variety of fields. In fact, it’s hard to imagine a field where military experience wouldn’t be a good fit. But if the language used on a resume to introduce those skills is in dire need of a military-to-English dictionary, you’ve likely wasted a terrific opportunity.

Beware military jargon. Speaking in acronyms might be how you’ve communicated for the past number of years. And as Shakespeare said, brevity is the soul of wit, but if you’re not applying for a job with a military contractor or the Department of Defense, you need to leave the acronyms behind.

Most terminology in the military simply does not translate. Know your audience. Use more approachable language on a resume. The time might come for you to use that terminology you became so comfortable with, but that time is not when you’re writing a resume.

Keep in mind that you have one chance, and a brief one at that, to make a winning first impression. Research suggests job recruiters will usually decide on a candidate’s qualifications quickly, sometimes within 10 seconds.

So while you’ll find many effective veteran resume building services somewhere online, be careful not to simply slap and paste your experience into a resume template. Make the most of your chance to stand out – again, paying close attention to the language you use.

You can find military-to-civilian thesaurus help online. An example: instead of referring to oneself as a “hand receipt holder,” it’s significantly more relatable to call yourself a “logistics manager” or “supply manager.”

Platoon commander is no doubt a complex and challenging position. That complexity and challenge might well be understood better if you “provided the required training and support to lead a 60-person team in projects from start to finish.” Otherwise known as “missions.”

Converting Military Experience to Civilian Resumes

Getting the acronyms out of your resume when applying for veteran jobs is a good first step, but you also need to understand the common strategies used to translate military experience into an attractive civilian resume.

There are differences in style as well as resume format and vocabulary. If there is one bit of broad advice that covers the successful translation of your military experience to a civilian job application it’s that you need to know your audience.

Style: Hiring managers aren’t so much assessing you on the basis of individual tasks undertaken and accomplished. They’re viewing you as a complete candidate and are especially interested in seeing how your skills have evolved given the challenges you faced along the way.

Format: Military resumes often list the most relevant jobs and skills first. That can be impressive. But a civilian hiring manager will want to trace your career evolution – most recent job first, down to your (often humbling) entry level position.

Resume writing experts recommend you list your work experience in the 10-15 years prior. Resume writing coaches caution that condensing your military record accordingly – especially if you’ve had almost that many military roles – can be a challenge but is nevertheless important.

A chronology can help hiring managers see how your skills (and no doubt high recommendations along the way) led to your rise up the ladder.

Vocabulary : Your goal is to make your military experience understandable and relatable to someone who probably has all the respect in the world for your career but doesn’t have the background to decipher jargon.

Acronyms may be unavoidable in some cases since they often are part of the job title listed. In those cases, it’s better to spell out the acronyms and explain any definition or topics that aren’t common knowledge to the civilian sector. Try using a military skills translator to help you figure out what employers are asking for and match their phrasing.

Again, your goal is for the person doing the hiring to see you as a candidate capable of smoothly transitioning into a new workplace. That challenge is many faceted, whether the candidate is a veteran or has no military experience whatsoever. In either case, it starts with how you communicate.

Types of Veteran Resumes

The concept of “knowing your audience” covers everything from the kind of jokes you might tell at a church fundraiser to how you’d tailor a resume based on the job you’re seeking.

How you translate your military experience in a resume seeking a corporate job will be different in ways both minor and significant to how you’d translate that same experience in a resume seeking a federal job.

The same applies to the kind of job within those respective fields; for instance, a management versus non-management position.

Military to corporate job resume : Those skills you developed in a disciplined, accountable military career might be just what the corporate world wants and needs.

Your job is to show how “leadership,” “perseverance” and “team building” – skills that might well seem matter-of-fact in a military career – translate in a corporate setting. Those are real strengths you’ve solidified over the years. Don’t let that get overlooked by failing to make their importance understandable to a hiring manager.

Military to federal job resume: Federal jobs are a natural landing spot for military veterans seeking civilian jobs. There are more than 350 job types filled by civilians at the federal level.

Some government employment opportunities may even offer preferred status to veterans over non-veterans. But since it is a natural landing spot, it’s also ultra-competitive. Crafting a resume that stresses the skills, talents and strengths that set you apart is crucial.

Military to government contractor resume: This is also a popular next chapter for veterans. You might even have worked at the same – or quite similar – job that a government contractor is trying to fill.

Government contract work can offer a much less stressful transition. Assuming you demonstrate your particular set of skills in a way human resources departments find relatable and understandable, you might be able to use some of that military jargon we warned against. But use it carefully.

Management role resumes: “Leadership” can be such a static term. Don’t let it be that.

These types of resumes need to emphasize a veteran’s experience in leadership positions. Use examples of team building. Tell how you motivated your team (not your platoon) despite different personalities and backgrounds to reach successful results (not missions).

Executive role resumes: These resumes build on the management role resumes already discussed. They need to highlight experience in

leadership, business knowledge, organization, and teamwork.

Make sure to highlight applicable experience in these areas. If you do this successfully and use the proper language, those skills could be seen as more of a fit than a projection.

Along with knowing your audience, know yourself. Take a hard look at what kind of job you want and what kind of job best fits your skills. Then pick the most appropriate resume type and be sure to highlight your relevant skills in a way that both military and non-military members will understand.

Job Programs and Veteran Resume Help

Transitioning to the civilian workforce after a military career is exciting but  certainly not without its stresses. Fortunately, there are programs available to help support veterans in making the transition.

Resume writing is only one tool at the disposal of veterans needing support and direction. That support and direction also come in the form of financial assistance, and job placement and other aspects of transitioning from a military career.

Resume Engine : Helps translate your military record into a strong resume that civilian employers can understand. Your completed resume is viewable by thousands of employers using the site to look for qualified job candidates.

My Career Spark : Resume builder for military spouses. It’s an effective job search and prep tool that helps candidates set goals and track their progress.

LinkedIn Benefits: Offers a free premium account for one year and access to LinkedIn Learning’s library of classes for professional development. Benefits job seekers as well as employers who are looking for the most qualified veteran candidates.

CASY : Free job placement assistance through job boards and job prep services to veterans, military, and military spouses. Offers a direct introduction to certain employers on behalf of qualified candidates.

Hire Heroes USA :  The website says it all: “When heroes get hired, companies prosper and America grows stronger.” Offers free job search assistance with career coaching, resume writing, mock interviewing, mentoring, job sourcing and career events for active-duty service members, military spouses and veterans.

Indeed:   Offers several avenues of support, including a job search boot camp and resume review that includes a curated 10-minute video with personalized recommendations.

VA for Vets : Provides employment readiness assistance and outreach for

VA Federal Employment opportunities. Provides guidance in the hiring, support and management of veteran and military service member employees.

The transition to the civilian workforce can be overwhelming but available resources like resume writing services, interview preparation and job placement can help simplify the process and put you in position to let your skills and talents speak for themselves.

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Secure the perfect civilian job with veteran resume help and 6 resume-writing tips

Honor. Integrity. Dedication. Veterans bring these core ideas with them when they leave the service. Indeed, veterans’ skills and values can bring many benefits to civilian companies. But they’re hard to write on a resume when you’re looking for a new job.

Unfortunately, resume writing isn’t included during military training. Too many service members miss out on top job opportunities as a result. Everyone loses in these instances. After all, veterans are often the best choices for jobs in industries like tech, engineering, and education.

If you’re a veteran and want to improve your chances of securing the perfect civilian job, you need an excellent resume. More than that, you need a resume that identifies you as a veteran with all your skills.

Good news — you’ve come to the right place. Here’s how you can identify yourself as a veteran on your resume and optimize your job applications.

6 ways to translate your military skills to a resume

A good resume for any job will be one to two pages long and include key information like:

• Your contact info, including your name, address, email address, and phone number.
• A list of your qualifications/training. Veterans often have skills that will serve them well in the civilian workforce. These range from mechanical knowledge to logistics aptitude to math proficiency.
• A summary of your work or service history. This should include your job responsibilities, and whether you commanded or oversaw others, etc.
• Any special skills or proficiencies that set you apart from other applicants. These can be certifications for equipment handling or using certain software, for example.

The above inclusions are necessary for everyone, of course. But it can be tough to translate your unique skills, leadership experience, and personal standards to a compressed resume. Here are some ways you can identify yourself as a veteran on your resume effectively and concisely.

1. Convert any military job training terms into civilian equivalents.

First, scan your resume for any military-specific terms. You need to change them into their civilian equivalents. For instance, replace “CO” or “commanding officer” with “manager”. You should also avoid using acronyms or military jargon as much as possible. Simplify your descriptions and keep things concise and easy to understand. For instance, the phrase, “Executed logistics operations conducted in the FOB” can change to, “Fulfilled logistics and supply chain operations in key areas for management.”

2. Include “intangible” skills that bring value to the position.

Veterans bring their leadership skills and dedication to excellence when they leave the service. You can — and should! — include these attributes as noteworthy skills on your resume. Soft skills like leadership are particularly vital for growing companies in many industries.

3. Include all relevant accomplishments.

Your resume is no place to be overly humble; you have to sell yourself to employers. Be sure to include any relevant accomplishments or awards you may have received during your service. That includes promotions and/or medals. These accomplishments show recruiters that you are management material and will be an important asset.

4. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes.

The best resumes are error-free and written to perfection. Typos or grammar issues can reflect badly on your good record. Recruiters believe a perfect resume indicates good attention to detail and communication skills. Give your resume a twice-over and ask someone you respect to review it before submitting it to any job. You can also use spellchecker software, tools on Microsoft Word, or plug-ins like Grammarly for help.

5. Tailor your resume to each job application.

You should have a basic, generalized resume ready to go for any new opportunity. Still, tweak your resume here and there before applying to any new job opening. For example, if you’re applying to an engineering position, adjust your resume to emphasize your mechanical skills and certifications.

Maybe you’ll decide later to apply to a teaching position. Add an extra sentence about your leadership experience or mentoring capabilities. That could go a long way toward making your resume look even better for that job. The same principle is true for all applications.

6. Add a cover letter.

Cover letters are extra pages included with an application that explain why you’re interested in a position. A cover letter is your opportunity to personally describe why your skills and experience make you the best fit for the job. An exceptional cover letter shows your dedication to a job and may set you apart from other applicants.

7. Leverage resume-building tools and services

Your job hunt is important, so it doesn’t hurt to check out veteran-focused resume-building tools and services. These sites and professional services can optimize your resume to draw the interest of recruiters.

Some of the best resources for resume help include:

• Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment for Veterans
• Wounded Warrior Project – Warriors to Work Program
• Paralyzed Veterans of America – Operation PAVE
• Veteran One

Applying to a federal job? Don’t forget to claim Veterans’ Preference

Writing the best resume possible can help you get an excellent job after your service. But veterans may also qualify for preferential consideration when applying to specific jobs. According to Title 5, United States Code Section 2108, eligible veterans may be entitled to Veterans’ Preference. This status grants veterans an advantage when applying to federal job openings. You can use it if you apply to permanent or temporary positions in the excepted and competitive services of the executive branch.

Note that Veterans’ Preference doesn’t guarantee you’ll get a federal job. But when used with a great resume, you may increase your chances of getting a good job in the government.

Veterans’ Preference operates on a points scale. This ranges from a 0-point Preference to a 10-point Preference. Disabled veterans or veterans with a Purple Heart are eligible for higher points ranges. You can learn more about Veterans Preference on the Office of Personnel Management website.

To qualify for Veterans’ Preference, you’ll need to include documentation with your job application. This will prove your veteran status and discharge conditions. These materials are:

• A copy of your DD-214 form, or “Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty.” You should have received a copy of this form upon your discharge. It includes your dates of service and the details of your discharge.
• A Standard Form (SF) 15, Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference if you are applying for that preference level.
• If you are not yet discharged from active duty , a signed document from your branch of the armed forces certifying that you are leaving active duty under honorable or general discharge conditions no later than 120 days after signature.
• Once you have an informative and well-crafted resume ready to go, you can start applying to jobs that match your skills and temperament. Don’t know where to look for civilian employment or which jobs might be a good fit? If so, we encourage you to contact our team at Veteran One .

We’re a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans find great careers in corporate America. It all starts with our free, in-depth skills assessment. The assessment helps you determine the ideal career based on your unique strengths and personality.

Next, we’ll take the data from your assessment and use it to find career opportunities perfectly tailored to you. We’ll use your profile information to craft a quality resume employers will love .

That’s right – no need to sweat over writing your resume. We’ll do it for you! If you want to tweak the wording afterward, our experts can help with that and more. We’re Veteran One, and we’re here for you. Start your assessment at Veteran One today.

Military to Civilian Resume Example for Veterans [Updated 2024]

Transitioning from a military lifestyle to that of a civilian is far from easy.

According to a Pew Research Center study, 95% of veterans seek employment after serving in the military.

26% of veteran respondents, however, found shifting from the military to the civilian lifestyle to be somewhat difficult.

Coincidentally, one of the biggest struggles for veterans is creating a compelling military to civilian resume that’s going to help them get a job that’s well-paid and enjoyable.

To help solve that problem, though, we wrote this guide. Read on to learn everything you need to know to create a compelling veteran resume, including:

• Military to Civilian Resume Example
• How to Write a Military Veteran Resume (8 Simple Steps)
• Free Military to Civilian Resume Template
• Essential (Free) Job-Search Resources for Veterans

In case you’re looking to brush up on the resume basics, watch the video below.

If you’re ready to get started, though, let’s start by reviewing a well-written military to civilian resume example.

Military to Civilian Resume Example (for Veterans)

Compelling, right? Here’s what the above military to civilian resume example does right: 

• Follows a functional resume format. The functional resume format focuses more on your skills and strengths rather than work experience. It helps convey how your military experience is going to help you perform well in the civilian role you’re applying for.
• Lists the contact information the right way. It includes the applicant’s full name, email, location, phone number, and even a LinkedIn URL while skipping out on a photo.
• Captures the hiring manager’s attention with a resume summary. The summary on top of the military to civilian resume example offers a brief snapshot of the candidate’s career, instantly showing the recruiter their value.
• Focuses on transferable skills instead of work experience. Instead of mentioning military buzzwords that civilians wouldn’t understand in the first place, the resume example instead focuses on how the candidate's experiences helped them develop valuable skills.
• Mentions achievements when possible. Achievements help convince the recruiter that they’re not just any candidate - you’re an overachiever who plays to win.
• Uses bullet points to make the resume easier to skim. The recruiter doesn’t have all day - they have hundreds of other resumes to review just for a single role. Making the resume easy to skim makes it more likely to be read.
• Includes educational history (in brief). The military to civilian resume example describes the candidate’s educational background, which includes taking a leadership course and basic training.
• Makes use of the optional sections. The achievements and interests sections help shed light on the candidate’s personality outside of work, as well.

Now, let’s talk about how YOU can make your resume as impressive as the example above.

How to Write a Military Veteran Resume (8 Easy Steps)

In this section, we’re going to walk you through the 8 steps to creating a powerful military veteran resume, starting with:

#1. Pick a Functional Resume Format

These are the 3 most popular resume formats out there:

• Reverse-chronological . This format focuses on your work history over education or skills.
• Functional . It focuses less on your work background and more on your skills and how they make you a qualified candidate.
• Combination . This format is a mix of the other two formats. It puts equal emphasis on skills and experiences. 

As a military veteran, you’re better off with a functional format .

As you can see above, the resume example focuses more on key strengths instead of just listing out work experiences.

This improves your odds of landing a civilian job for one important reason: 

Most recruiters aren’t really familiar with military lingo.

Your experiences in the military might be super compelling, but chances are, most recruiters won’t understand how these experiences make you a good candidate for the role.

By framing your experiences around your skills, on the other hand, your resume becomes more understandable for a civilian.

Once you’ve decided on the format, you also need to sort out your resume style, layout, font, and more. Here’s what this includes:

• Don’t go over one page . Your resume should be concise and to the point. More often than not, if you’re going over one page, you’re probably including information that isn’t relevant for the role.
• Pick the right font and font size . In terms of size, go for 11-12 pt for body text. For the font, pick something like Ubuntu, Times New Roman, etc. That way your resume will look professional AND stand out at the same time. 
• Use the military-to-civilian resume template . Want to skip the hassle of formatting a resume? Hit the link and pick from one of our free templates! Our templates are easy to use AND look much more compelling than the conventional black-and-white ones.

#2. Include Contact Information

Now that we’ve got the formatting hassle out of the way, let’s talk about resume content.

The first thing in your veteran resume is the contact information section.

Here, you need to include:

• Descriptive title. This should include your title in the military, as well as the title you’re applying for. Something like “Security Officer Seeking a Role as Customer Support Specialist.”
• Phone number.
• Professional email address. Think, [name][lastname]@gmail.com
• Location. City and state are good enough, you don’t need to include an address.
• (Optional) LinkedIn URL. If you have an up-to-date LinkedIn profile, you can include a URL in the contact information section.

And finally, make sure NOT to include a photo in your military to civilian resume. In the US, employers prefer that you don’t include a picture to avoid unconscious bias during the hiring process.

Here’s what your resume contact information section should look like at the end:

Security & Customer Service Professional

[email protected]

416-821-9879

Seattle, US

linkedin.com/in/john.doe

#3. Capture the Hiring Manager’s Attention with a Military Veteran Resume Summary

When reading your resume for the first time, the recruiter will spend roughly 7 seconds skimming it to make sure that you’re qualified for the role.

If the resume catches their attention, they’ll give it a more in-depth look.

If it doesn’t, they’ll simply move on to the next one.

This is where a compelling resume summary can come in handy.

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence “summary” of your past work experience. It helps the recruiter understand your skill-set and whether you’re relevant for the role in a single glance.

Here’s what a convincing military to civilian resume summary looks like:

Dedicated professional with over 9 years of outstanding performance and results in the U.S. Military. Earned three promotions and excelled as a leader. Seeking to apply the skills I gained in the military as a Customer Support Specialist at Company X.

When writing your resume summary, make sure to include the following information:

• Your title in the military and the role you’re applying for.
• Years of experience.
• Top achievements and experiences.

#4. Summarize Your Experiences with a Key Strengths Section

This one’s arguably the most important part of your military to civilian resume.

At the end of the day, the main deciding factor in whether you get invited for an interview or not is if your resume manages to convince the recruiter that you’re capable of doing the job…

And that’s where the key strengths section comes in handy.

To create yours, start by listing out your top strengths as section headers. Then, underneath each header, list your achievements and responsibilities that prove you actually have the relevant skill.

Here’s what this looks like on a resume:

Customer Service

• Promoted within a short period by demonstrating an over-achieving dedication that maximized results for the entire team. 
• Proved internal customer service by relating to all personnel in a professional manner that facilitated the development of a diversified group. 
• Enhanced soldiers’ individual and professional growth, developing them into independent decision-makers.
• Accounted for the safety of equipment valued at over $1.3 million. 
• Secure the personal safety, training, and performance of fifteen U.S. Army soldiers.

Operations and Administration

• Organized schedules for over 45 soldiers. 
• Implemented new routes, resulting in savings in gas time and reduced work time. 
• Prevented over 10 cancellations and negotiated over 20 contract renewals with the local government.

Applying for a Military or Private Security Role? Do This

Now, in case you’re applying for a role that’s somewhat related to your experience in the military (e.g. in private security), then you can simply create a conventional Work Experience section instead of Key Strengths .

If that’s your case, here’s how you should format the section:

• Create a section header called “ Work Experience .”
• Start by listing your most recent role and go backward in time from there.
• For each entry, include your title, company name, dates employed, and 3-5 top achievements.
• For older positions, you can include fewer achievements and responsibilities.

Now, if you want your work experiences to stand out from the rest of the candidates, we recommend you to include achievements over responsibilities.

• Achieved a 99.5% average delivery rate on all assignments, resulting in no losses of materials or assets.
• Conducted deliveries of materials and assets.

The first example shows just how the candidate stands out from other applicants. The 2nd, on the other hand, does not.

#5. Mention Your Education (the Right Way)

On to the next section!

The next step to creating a convincing military to civilian resume is mentioning your educational background .

This is where you mention your higher educational degrees, as well as training (e.g. boot camps) and any personal development courses you’ve taken.

First things first, here’s how you’d go about the formatting part:

• Create a header called “Education”
• Add your latest degree right on top. Then, include older degrees underneath.
• If you have a B.A. or an M.A., you can skip your high school degree altogether.
• You can skip mentioning a GPA. These days, no one cares about your grades.

Here’s how the end result would look like:

B.A. in Communications Boston University 08/2016 - 05/2020

Now, if you don’t have the relevant experience needed for the role you’re applying for, you can use your education section to show off your knowledge or skills.

You can do this by including:

• Any honors you might have earned.
• Exact courses you’ve attended.
• Any other way you’ve excelled during your education.

#6. Include In-Demand Skills (For the Industry You’re Applying for)

Another must-have of a military to civilian resume is the skills section.

This is where you list out all of your hard and soft skills and (optionally) grade them by knowledge level.

The key here, though, is not to simply list out random skills like:

• Critical Thinking
• Microsoft Word

Rather, you want to include the skills relevant to the role . 

E.g. applying for a role in accounting? You should probably mention payroll tax accounting, cost reduction strategies, budgeting and forecasting , and so on.

You wouldn’t want to mention your Adobe Illustrator skills, for example (even if you’re an expert at it).

So, how can you know which skills are essential to your resume, and which ones aren’t?

The best way to understand this is to read the job ad you’re applying for. More often than not, they include an exact list of skills required for the role, and all you have to do is mention them in your resume (as long as you possess the said skills, of course).

#7. Take Advantage of the Optional Resume Sections

If you still have some space on your military veteran resume, you can take advantage of some optional resume sections.

While these sections won’t land you the job on their own, they can definitely help you stand out from other applicants seeking the same role.

Some optional sections you can include are:

• Projects. Any type of personal project you’ve worked on. This can be a local business you started, a side-gig, freelance work, and so on.
• Certifications. Any type of certification you might possess. If you don’t have the experience for the role you’re applying for, certifications can help show the recruiter that what you do have is the right skill-set.
• Volunteering Experience. If you’ve volunteered in the past, you should definitely include it in your resume. Employers love candidates who love to help others (even if there’s no monetary incentive for it).
• Hobbies & Interests. Including hobbies or interests in your resume helps the recruiter see more of your personal side. While your hobbies won’t land you the job, they might help you build rapport with the interviewer.

#8. Make Sure Your Military to Civilian Cover Letter is as Impressive as Your Resume.

At this point, your military veteran resume should be quite compelling…

But you’re not done just yet!

To have both a complete and compelling job application, you need to pair your resume with a cover letter that’s just as good.

Here are our top tips on how to write a quality cover letter :

• Start the cover letter by addressing the hiring manager directly. Sure, you could go with the default “Dear Sir or Madam,” but mentioning the hiring manager’s name shows that you’ve done your research and really care about working at the company.
• In your introduction, mention the most important parts of your background. E.g. years of experience, key achievements, top skills, and why you’re applying for the job in question.
• In the body section of your cover letter, expand on whatever you mentioned in the introduction. This is where you can also explain how the experiences mentioned in your resume make you a good candidate for the role.
• Conclude the cover letter with a call to action . E.g. “Looking forward to hearing more from you!” or “I’d love to discuss how I can help Company X as a Support Specialist over a call or an interview.”

Want to learn more? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Essential Job-Search Resources for Veterans

There are a lot of free job-search resources for veterans on the internet - everything from dedicated job boards to free tools, programs, and more.

Here’s a comprehensive list of some of the very best resources:

Veteran Job-Search Resources

• Job board that helps you find federal organizations that prioritize hiring veterans over other candidates.
• Lots of quality resources to help you transition into civilian life.
• If you’re not sure what kind of career you want to focus on, you can use this website to discover different occupations and learn what they’re about.
• Website for finding veteran job fairs in your area.
• Free career consulting and job search help for veterans.
• American Corporate Partners matches you with a free, year-long mentor to help you build your career.
• For group discussions for veterans on resumes and gaining employment after service. (Veterans only/ screened and weeded out by questions and profile)
• For discussing Skill Bridge opportunities and military transitions. Skill bridge is a military program for giving veterans an opportunity to learn and work at civilian companies for 6 months before leaving the military.
• LinkedIn offers its Premium program to veterans for free for a year. You can use the platform to learn new skills, kick-start your career, as well as find and apply for jobs.
• A website dedicated to helping veterans transition into a civilian lifestyle. You can use it to find jobs, discover career events, attend job fairs, and more.
• Job board for US federal jobs. While it’s not specifically made for veterans, the US government prioritizes hiring veterans over other candidates.
• Job board for veteran-friendly roles and companies.
• Job board for roles in the private security industry.
• Another veteran-only job board.

Key Takeaways

And that’s all you need to know to create a strong military veteran resume!

Before you go, though, let’s do a quick recap of the key learning points we just covered:

• For a military to civilian resume, use a functional resume format to show off your skills instead of work history.
• Use a “Key Strengths” section to explain how your military experience distills into valuable skills for a civilian role.
• Don’t include every skill under the sun on your resume. Instead, pick the ones relevant for the role you’re applying for.
• Take advantage of the optional resume sections to show the recruiter that you’re an individual and not just a resume.
• Finally, make sure that your cover letter is just as impressive as your resume by following the tips we mentioned above.

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Hire Our Heroes

For Veterans

At Hire Our Heroes, our goal is to help you market you experience and find the career that is right for you.

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The New Frontline: Are you a Veteran who is looking to transition into the civil workforce?

Joining the civilian workforce is much different than serving in the military. As a veteran-owned company, Hire Our Heroes understands the challenges veterans face when separating from active duty. HOH began ‘Veterans Strong’, a military to civilian transition assistance program, designed to aid veterans in their move from the battlefield to the corporate frontlines. HOH delivers workshops and seminars targeted at veterans, focused on reinforcing interviewing skills, resume building, social media skills, coaching, mentoring, and job placement. Hire Our Heroes will demonstrate how to translate military service into highly sought after civilian skills. We work to provide the best in career guidance and support services, and match your skills and experience to the needs of organizations looking to hire. Our specialist can help you:

• Set attainable goals with our one-on-one assistance
• Prepare for an interview
• Build an effective resume and cover letter
• Network with local employers
• Find training courses to refresh or build skills in a particular field of interest
• Teach you about educational programs and how to take advantage of the benefits offered from your military service
• Utilize those benefits to boost your career and enhance your education
• Obtain real-world advice from successfully transitioned veterans

ABOUT HIRE OUR HEROES

• Not-for-profit, veteran established organization
• HOH workshop speakers are comprised of experts with a wide array of certifications:
• All-veteran board of trustees from all branches of the military
• Nationally recognized by:

Veterans Strong Transition Workshops and Seminars

Launch your career with the assistance of Hire Our Heroes. We invest in comprehensive training and development programs to help you take your military service and apply it to corporate America. HOH holds one-day workshops for veterans interested in taking their service to the next level. Participants receive free, one-on-one mentoring which includes resume writing assistance, interview preparation, social media skills, and more. All coaching is provided by HOH’s staff of dedicated veterans who have been through military to civilian workforce transitional stages, just like you. Our personal attention to each participant will help to ensure your individual goals and needs are met, separating us from other transition assistance programs. Veterans sit down with real experts, get individualized, hands on assistance, providing the most impact in this unique, one day workshop. Each session will teach transitioning and recently separated service men and women how to effectively search for civilian careers and boost their ability to interview, thereby increasing their chances of a successful transition.

• Discover how your military experience translates into civilian opportunities, take self-assessments to learn where your strengths lie, and build professional resumes to apply to jobs matched to your skills.
• We offer current and potential employees a one-stop shop for career planning and exploration. Our Veterans Strong program helps vets define career goals and provides guidance on training, education, and professional experiences necessary to chart a successful, long term career path with HOH backing you all the way.
• Our dedicated Veteran mentors ensure you will have the tools you need for professional development.
• Veterans Strong is a full-service training platform to enhance on-the-job performance. New feature include individualized plans, a 360 degree evaluation of your skills, and career competency and performance plans. Veterans will also have access to HOH’s blog, networking opportunities, social networks and videos for on-the-go training.

Lend Your Skills to the Veterans Strong Program

We’re looking for partners to assist us with resume revision, social media, and interview coaching.

Warriors to Work

Wounded Warrior Project’s veteran career program empowers veterans and their family members to thrive in the civilian workforce.

Career Transition and Development for America’s Injured Veterans

The Wounded Warrior Project ® (WWP) Warriors to Work ® program provides warriors and their family members with the resources and assistance they need to be successful in the civilian workforce. Program participants learn the skills necessary to find meaningful employment, live financially resilient lives, and be empowered to reach their highest career ambitions.

We know that every journey is different. That’s why Warriors to Work works alongside wounded veterans and their families to provide them with:

• Career counseling
• Veteran job placement programs
• Resume writing assistance
• Interview preparation
• Tools and education for salary negotiation
• Goal-setting assistance
• Military skills translation guidance
• Networking opportunities

Contact the WWP Resource Center

Frequently Asked Questions

Employer Resources

Find Support

We're here to help you reach your career goals. Contact the WWP Resource Center for more information.

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Warriors to Work Success Stories

Hear From Warriors and Employers About the Impact Warriors to Work Has on the Lives of Injured Veterans

On the Right Track: Wounded Warrior Project, CSX Help Veterans Overcome Employment Barriers

How One Warrior Worked with Wounded Warrior Project and Dog Tag to Spark Entrepreneurship

For employers.

Learn more about how the Warriors to Work program educates and informs employers on how to recruit, retain, and support veteran employees.

How does Warriors to Work help veterans?

The Warriors to Work program provides registered warriors and their family support members with the resources and assistance needed to be successful in the civilian workforce and live financially resilient lives. Through personalized services, qualified participants may receive access to the following resources and veteran employment programs that include but are not limited to:

Can Warriors to Work help me find a better job?

Absolutely! The Warriors to Work team has veteran career counseling experts who can assist you in finding a meaningful career that suits your current professional needs.

Does the program assist family members in finding employment?

Yes. Family Support Members who are registered with WWP and are 18 years of age or older are eligible for support from the program.

Can the program help me find part-time employment?

The Warriors to Work program is dedicated to supporting veterans in finding employment through our program. We match job seekers with full-time or part-time employment. Additionally, eligible participants can be connected to apprenticeships or internship opportunities.

How can interested employers work with Wounded Warrior Project to connect with eligible veteran candidates?

Employers are encouraged to fill out the Employer Registration form or reach out to the Warriors to Work team via email for more information about hiring warriors and wounded veterans.

What if I’m not a registered warrior?

WWP supports veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness, or wound while serving in the military on or after September 11, 2001. If you are not currently registered with WWP, please visit our registration page for details about registering with WWP and how to get started. You may also be eligible for the program if you are the family member or caregiver of a wounded warrior .

Our veterans work program is one of a variety of veteran programs and services to help you take the steps that are right for you, including programs for physical and mental wellness , career transition, and support in obtaining disabled veterans benefits from Veterans Affairs (VA).

How does Warriors to Work assist employers?

Through collaboration and partnerships, the Warriors to Work veteran employment program educates and informs employers about the transferrable skills veterans bring to the civilian workforce. Additionally, Warriors to Work collaborates with employers across the country to help veterans find work and:

• Facilitate productive onboarding processes
• Identify optimal roles for veterans and provide qualified candidates
• Reduce the stigma around combat-related injuries and veteran employment
• Develop practices to help increase retention among veteran employees

Veterans Crisis Line

If you are in crisis or concerned about a loved one, please call the Veterans Crisis Line at  988  then press " 1 " or text 838255 to connect with a crisis counselor 24/7, 365 days a year.

GET INVOLVED WITH WWP

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High Touch, High Impact

Helping America's top tier service members and veterans find personal and professional purpose after military service.

Help Empower Our Nation’s Finest

The best way to honor the dignity of those who have sacrificed for our country is to support them in their military transition. Please support our efforts by supporting The COMMIT Foundation.

Upcoming Transition Mentoring Workshops

The COMMIT Foundation conducts workshops across the nation, finding locations suited for close interacting environments. Service members and veterans from across the country are sponsored to attend COMMIT workshops, held in areas to accommodate where they are at in their transition journey.

COMMIT seeks to provide high touch transition support that becomes the standard nationwide so veterans in all communities can access services helping them identify their passions, build strong networks, and leverage their skills in civilian careers.

Misconceptions, skill translation gaps, and culture gaps may hinder service members and veterans from earning the right job and companies from hiring the right veteran, information.

COMMIT helps service members and veterans understand and articulate the value of their knowledge, skills, and abilities. We help them understand how to transfer that value to a meaningful life both personally and professionally.

COMMIT helps service members and veterans rediscover their individual confidence throughout the transition process. We provide the information and resources service members and veterans need to self-identify and understand their unique and personal value.

Imagination

COMMIT enables service members and veterans’ ability to rethink and redefine what is possible. We encourage service members and veterans to set high goals and then help to ensure they achieve them.

COMMIT connected me with a diverse group of veterans and mentors, who showed me new ways to develop and leverage my network while opening my eyes to opportunities I had never considered.

George - LtCol U.S. Marines

In less than 48 hours, COMMIT truly set the foundation for my military transition to civilian life. COMMIT professionals provided unique tools, information and contacts to execute my final military operation! I am thankful for this organization and recommend it to America's best.

Thomas - COL U.S. Army

The anxiety I was feeling about my civilian career transition has been replaced with excitement and enthusiasm thanks to COMMIT and its mentors. I can't wait to see where my journey after the military takes me.

Dana - CDR U.S. Navy

COMMIT aims to create serendipity for men and women who transition from the military to pursue a purposeful post-service career

We provide tailored solutions to meet the personal needs of every individual we serve.

• One-on-One Transition Assistance

Highly individualized services before, during, and beyond transition including resume assistance, interview assistance, skills assessment, executive coaching, salary negotiation and mentoring.

The Digital Library

Study key insights and best practices from highly successful COMMIT alumni and leaders across various industries, Corporate America, academia and government.

• Pursue Your Purpose

An online, interactive version of our mentoring workshop. Thoughtfully developed exercises utilize design thinking to holistically create a post-military life anchored by purpose and meaning.

• Transition Mentoring Workshops

Focus on goal-setting, life’s decision points, and powerful lessons that reinforce values, family, and the passionate pursuit of a meaningful career.

True to our name, we are committed to making significant, long-term impact in changing the way Corporate America thinks about hiring and retaining veteran talent.

• Corporate Programs

We teach our partners how to effectively identify, hire, empower and retain veteran talent in order to improve business outcomes.

Our Partners

Commit is a deeply sophisticated and nuanced provider of veteran transition services. Their integrity and investment in veterans' journeys is a best in class benchmark to which all VSOs should strive.

Christian - CPT U.S. Army

Upcoming Events

Apr 23, 2024 — Apr 24, 2024

~Transition Mentoring Workshop~ April 2024

Austin, Texas

May 15, 2024 — May 16, 2024

~Transition Mentoring Workshop~

Virtual Program

Jun 26, 2024 — Aug 29, 2024

~COMMIT Cares: Spouse Workshop~ Applications Open

Latest News

Mar 18, 2024

The commit foundation names jc glick as new chief executive officer.

The COMMIT Foundation, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering veterans in defining the...

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VETERAN RESUMES Free Online Resume Builder For Veterans!

Creating a Professional Resume and Cover Letter Has Never Been So Easy. Build a Resume Today.

VETERAN RESUME BUILDER

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Each template is expertly designed and follows the exact “resume rules” hiring managers look for.

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Jumpstart Your Career with the Best AI- Veteran Resume  Builder

At SkillMil, we understand that the transition from military service to the civilian workforce can be challenging. Your military experience is a valuable asset, but translating it into terms that resonate with civilian employers can be a daunting task.

That’s where SkillMil’s AI-veteran resume builder and military skills translator  comes in to help you shine.

Why Choose SkillMil's Veteran Resume Builder? Simply, because it is the BEST!

• Precision and Clarity Our AI-driven technology specializes in articulating your skills, achievements, and work experiences into language that resonates with hiring managers. We ensure your resume highlights the qualifications that employers are specifically seeking.
• Keyword Optimization In the digital age, keywords are key to getting your resume noticed. Our technology identifies the most relevant keywords for your target job, boosting your chances of passing through applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• ATS-Friendly Resumes Many companies use ATS to screen resumes. SkillMil ensures your resume is ATS-friendly, giving you a better chance of making it to the interview stage.
• Expert Guidance Our team of resume reviewers and editors are here to guide you through the entire resume writing process. They have a deep understanding of the job markets and the unique needs of each job seeker that will help you craft a compelling resume that stands out.
• Unique Career Story Your military experience makes you unique. SkillMil's resume editing services help you showcase your military skills and individuality, making you a standout candidate.

How it Works

Create an account on SkillMil and choose our resume writing service.

Expert Review

Our team of resume experts reviews the AI-generated resume to ensure it captures your unique story.

Upload Your Information

Share your military background, achievements, and job preferences.

Receive Your Resume

You'll receive a polished, ATS-friendly resume ready to impress employers.

AI-Powered Analysis

Our advanced AI technology analyzes your information, identifies key skills, and tailors your resume accordingly.

Launch Your Civilian Career

Don't let your military experience go unnoticed in the civilian job market. Join SkillMil's community of job seekers who have used our AI-powered resume writing services to achieve their career goals. Your next adventure awaits, and SkillMil is here to help you seize it.

Ready to take the next step? Click the button below to get started on your journey to a fulfilling civilian career!

Need help getting started?

No worries, we got you covered!  We've put together Demo Mode with a step-by-step tutorial that will guide you through the process.

Our Trusted Partners

SkillMil partners with companies, governments, nonprofits, and other organizations to address the challenges our transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses face in the civilian job marketplace.

We share their ideas, mission, in-kind support, and more to continue to strengthen our veterans and military community. If you would like to help support our veterans' efforts during their transition out of service, consider partnering with us.

Please email us at [email protected] .

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Mastering Resume Essentials for Military Spouses and Caregivers

Transition Employment Assistance for Military Spouses and Caregivers (TEAMS) is a series of Department of Labor (DOL) employment workshops that extend the Department’s Transition Assistance Program to assist military spouses and caregivers as they plan and prepare for their job search in pursuit of their employment goals. All TEAMS workshops are instructor-led virtual training, provided at a variety of times, to meet the needs of individuals stationed throughout the world.

Mastering Resume Essentials - A four-and-a-half-hour workshop designed to create your most effective resume for the career you want. Trained facilitators will provide guidance and teach you to evaluate your resume and understand job application techniques.

Sign up for this class BEFORE April 19, 2024 Note: time is in Eastern Time (ET)

Space is limited. Visit :  Transition Employment Assistance for Military Spouses and Caregivers (TEAMS) page  for additional workshops and times.

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VA Introduces New 'Last Resort' Loan Program to Help Roughly 40,000 Veterans Keep Their Homes

The Department of Veterans Affairs will launch a new program in May designed to help veterans who are in financial dire straits to keep their homes.

The Veterans Affairs Servicing Purchase program, or VASP, will serve as a "last resort" option for former service members who have defaulted on their home loans and aren't eligible for other VA loan assistance programs.

Under VASP, the VA will purchase delinquent loans from holders and become the primary loan servicer, providing borrowers a stable payment plan at a fixed rate of 2.5% for the remainder of their loan, according to VA Under Secretary for Benefits Joshua Jacobs.

Read Next: Military Pharmacies Return to Full Operation Following Breach by Transnational Hacking Group

The purpose, Jacobs said during a call with reporters on Tuesday, is for the program to serve as a safety net for an estimated 40,000 veterans at the highest risk for foreclosure and who "cannot resolve their delinquency through traditional VA home retention options."

"Let me be clear, VASP is a last resort option that may be available when it is the most appropriate home retention option under VA's home retention waterfall," Jacobs said.

Since the VA began backing home loans in 1944, it has helped active-duty troops, veterans and survivors purchase more than 28 million homes. Currently, more than 3.7 million veterans have a VA-guaranteed home loan, with the VA backing nearly 401,000 home loans in 2023 alone.

The department announced in November that it would ask mortgage service providers with VA-backed loans to pause foreclosures and extend a modification program instituted during the COVID-19 pandemic through the end of this year.

The move followed a report by NPR that found veterans who used the COVID-19 Refund Modification program , which allowed them to defer their payments, were at risk of losing their homes after the VA ended a program it had in place that allowed them to make partial payments.

Instead, when the VA ended the Partial Claim Payment program, veterans and their families received bills from their mortgage companies for the total payments missed, facing large amounts of debt to either keep existing low-interest mortgages or refinancing under rates that rose significantly in 2023.

According to the NPR report, roughly 6,000 VA homeowners were in the foreclosure process at the time, while another 34,000 were delinquent.

VASP will allow the department to purchase defaulted VA loans from mortgage companies, modify them, and then put them in the VA's direct loan portfolio.

"This new program will help more than 40,000 veterans and their families stay in their homes, and there's nothing more important than that," VA Secretary Denis McDonough said in a release Wednesday.

Most loans described as "VA home loans" are VA-backed loans, in which the department guarantees a portion of the loan, ensuring that if a veteran homeowner goes into foreclosure, the lender will recoup some or all of its losses.

The VA has a number of programs to help veterans who need assistance in covering payments. In addition to asking mortgage services to pause foreclosures, it extended its COVID Refund Modification program that helped veterans obtain a second mortgage at 0% interest and modified existing loans to ensure that payments were affordable.

The VA also provides counseling and other types of assistance for homeowners.

Veterans will not apply directly to the program, which will begin on May 31. Instead, mortgage holders will identify borrowers in need and submit requests for the program on behalf of the veterans, VA officials said.

VA officials stressed that the program is only for those "facing seriously delinquent and serious default situations."

"If you are not in default, this program is not for you. You have to be in default and you have to be in default a certain amount of time," said John Bell, executive director for the home loan guarantee program at the VA.

Veterans who do not qualify but are facing financial hardship should work with their mortgage services to explore other options, officials said.

According to Jacobs, the new program is projected to be "net revenue positive" for the federal government, resulting in a benefits reduction of $1.5 billion over 10 years. That's because the savings associated with foreclosure outweighs the cost of purchasing the loans, he said.

In 2023, the VA helped 145,000 veterans avoid foreclosure and stay in their homes, according to the department.

VA officials said any veteran struggling with making their mortgage payments should check out the department's housing assistance website or call 877-827-3702.

Related: Inspector General Finds VA Overcharged Disabled Vets on Home Loans

Patricia Kime

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Nearly 50,000 veterans used free emergency suicide prevention in first year of program, VA says

By Kathryn Watson , Sara Cook

January 17, 2024 / 9:30 AM EST / CBS News

Nearly 50,000 veterans received free emergency suicide prevention care in 2023, the first year of the program, the Department of Veterans Affairs will announce on Wednesday. 

In January 2023, the Department of Veterans Affairs instituted a new policy allowing eligible veterans and certain former service members in acute suicidal crisis to go to any VA or non-VA health care facility to receive emergency care at no cost. The policy covers emergency room care, inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days, and outpatient care for up to 90 days.

The VA says 49,714 veterans have taken advantage of the no-cost emergency care policy since it was implemented exactly one year ago, amounting to more than $64 million in saved health care costs.

"There is nothing more important to VA than preventing veteran suicide — and this expansion of no-cost care has likely saved thousands of lives this year," VA Secretary Denis McDonough said in a statement. "We want all veterans to know they can get the care they need, when they need it, no matter where they are."

A 2021 Brown University study estimated that more than 30,000 veterans of post-9/11 conflicts have died by suicide, more than four times the 7,057 U.S. military personnel killed at the time in those conflicts. 

And the veteran suicide rate has outpaced the rate of the general U.S. public. A 2023 report by the Department of Veterans Affairs found that in 2021, the suicide rate for veterans was 71.8% higher than non-veterans when adjusted for age and sex differences.

That same report found that 6,392 veterans died by suicide in 2021, an average of more than 17 veterans taking their lives every day.

• Veterans and suicide risk: The warning signs — and how to get help

In November 2021, the Biden administration released a new national strategy to reduce military and veteran suicide, calling it a "public health and national security crisis."

"I've often said that we have only one truly sacred obligation as Americans—to prepare and properly equip our women and men in uniform when we send them into harm's way, and to care for them and their families when they return," President Biden wrote in the introduction to the strategy document. "Yet for too many who are serving or have served, we are falling short."

The strategy included goals of enhancing crisis care and increasing access to high quality mental health care.

Veterans, including those not enrolled in the VA, can now to go any VA or non-VA emergency room for free emergent suicidal care. The policy also covers veterans who experienced sexual trauma while in uniform. It also covers some people who don't meet the technical requirements to be considered a veteran, like people who were released from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable.

Transportation costs are also covered by the VA. Any eligible veteran who does receive a bill can call the VA customer service center at 877-881-7618 to resolve the issue. 

In addition to the no-cost emergency care policy implemented last year, the VA has taken steps to improve suicide prevention support. In 2022, it launched a new Veterans Crisis Line number – Dial 988 then press 1.

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, you can reach the  988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline  by calling or texting 988. You can also  chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline here .

For more information about  mental health care resources and support , The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine can be reached Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. ET, at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or email  [email protected] .

Kathryn Watson is a politics reporter for CBS News Digital based in Washington, D.C.

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St. Louis County Veterans Treatment Court providing hope and help for a decade now

A milestone anniversary for the St. Louis County Veterans Treatment Court. They celebrated their 10th anniversary on Monday.

Things got started in 2014, but the court became official in 2018. Since then, about 30 people have graduated.

Michelle Pike is one of them. She spoke at the celebration on Monday, sharing she’s repaired relationships with her family, and has a good job as an Ironworker now.

Bill Hayes added that they helped him so much, even with life things like a new mattress. “I have a good job now, as a manager of a parts store. They really helped me figure things out.”

During the celebration, Mayor Roger Reinert proclaimed it “Veterans Treatment Court Day.”

Judge Dale Harris is handing over the reigns of this work to Judge Nicole Hopps on July 1st.

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Vets advocates push Supreme Court to dump laws punishing homelessness

Veterans advocates are warning that arguments presented to the Supreme Court on Monday regarding laws criminalizing homelessness could have a troubling impact on efforts to help former troops struggling to find stable housing .

The case — Johnson v. City of Grants Pass — centers on an Oregon town where officials approved regulations fining people $295 for sleeping outside in public areas, part of an effort to manage homeless encampments in the city’s parks. Offenders can face jail time for multiple violations.

Courts have generally ruled against the city laws, arguing that individuals cannot be punished simply for being homeless, particularly if adequate support services are not available. Supreme Court justices heard arguments from plaintiffs and defendants on Monday morning and are expected to deliver a final ruling later this summer.

The legal showdown comes just a few months after the Department of Housing and Urban Development announced a nationwide increase in homelessness among veterans from 2022 to 2023, the most recent data available.

Homelessness among veterans jumps more than 7%

The rise comes after years of progress in reducing the number of veterans facing stable housing issues..

The 7% jump in homelessness among veterans was less than the 12% rise in homelessness among the general population, yet it was still concerning for advocates given the focus and financial resources devoted to the problem in recent years.

Earlier this year, 44 veterans advocacy groups filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court on the Grants Pass case, arguing against the financial and criminal penalties.

“Their ruling could have dire consequences for unsheltered veterans,” Kathryn Monet, CEO of the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, said in a statement.

“It is absurd to think that the use of civil penalties against veterans and others experiencing homelessness will do anything other than harm people for being impoverished and make it harder for them to get back on their feet.”

Retired Army Lt. Col. Elizabeth Kubala, executive director of Syracuse University’s Veterans Legal Clinic (which also signed on to the amicus brief), said for many veterans, accessing support services is a challenge even under ideal circumstances.

“We’ve seen firsthand the inequities rendered in the lives of homeless veterans when complex legal battles and unjust rulings prevent them from receiving critical benefits,” she said, adding that the case speaks to “the importance of ensuring that criminal enforcement actions do not further complicate access to housing, medical care and benefits.”

The Associated Press reported that dozens of demonstrators protested outside the court on Monday, some holding signs which read “housing not handcuffs” and “housing solves homelessness.”

Veterans seeking help with homelessness or related financial problems can call 877-424-3838 for help or visit the department’s website .

Leo covers Congress, Veterans Affairs and the White House for Military Times. He has covered Washington, D.C. since 2004, focusing on military personnel and veterans policies. His work has earned numerous honors, including a 2009 Polk award, a 2010 National Headliner Award, the IAVA Leadership in Journalism award and the VFW News Media award.

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