Veterans Day Thoughts

Beyond just saying "Happy Veterans Day" and a thank you to all that have worn the uniform, I'd like to share a few thoughts & ideas:

First, I want to give a big THANK YOU to a couple of groups in the Atlanta area that are doing incredible things for the #Veteran community: VETLANTA  and the Veterans Empowerment Organization (VEO). VETLANTA is on a mission to make Atlanta the #1 destination for Veterans and the organization does an outstanding job of helping to connect Veterans with a wide variety of vetted resources. I'm honored to have been able to volunteer with the group's Business Pillar. And VEO is literally taking our Vets off the street - - giving them warm meals, shelter, support and a job, while they get back on their feet. Do NOT believe that we don't have a problem with Veteran homelessness. That's politician double-talk. Big thanks to Frantz Fortune, Dan Valentine and Tyler Bowser & the whole VEO team for all that they do. The VEO is truly doing the Good Lord's work and are moving the needle like few others.

Second, I also want to give a big high five to my buddy & fellow USAF Veteran Jason Moss. Jason & the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance do a lot with and for the #Veteran community - - and he's always up for the newest challenge. I admire leaders like Jason that are willing to take action and not just provide lip service.

Finally, for anyone reading this rambling, coffee-fueled message: I encourage you to take action, any kind of action to reach out and engage our Veterans. There is so much need in the community. And while it's highly encouraging to see all the good work & initiatives that corporate America and our government are doing to provide for the Veteran community - - there is SO much more work to be done. I know a lot of folks would love to help, but aren't quite sure how to go about it. Let me share this with you: Jason Moss mentioned the acronym ABC the other day, as in "Always Be Connecting". I'm going to steal that idea, but challenge my network to apply it to the Veteran community. Look for ways to engage, communicate, support, & contact with Veterans. Look for ways that you can connect them with helpful network contacts or resources for their transition or post-military career. One of the biggest disadvantages for folks that transition out of the military and into the private sector (I believe at least) is a lack of a professional network. Be the one to help Veterans tackle this simple need. Shake a hand. Ask a question (or two). Share a cup of coffee. But whatever you do, take ACTION. They need it and we need to provide it.

Sorry for the soapbox commentary. But it comes from the heart of this lowly former USAF data analyst.. And on this day, while so many Veterans have given and continue to give so much - - it should be heard & acted on. #dogood