Ways Your Company Can Support Veteran Employees

Supporting veteran employees is vital throughout the year, and it’s particularly impactful during observances such as Military Appreciation Month in May, Fourth of July, Patriot Day (Sept. 11), and Veterans Day. These moments provide special opportunities to provide support and reinforce the value veterans bring to the workplace.

Veterans contribute unique skills and perspectives that enhance company performance and culture. By implementing thoughtful initiatives that recognize their service and cater to their specific needs, companies can demonstrate their appreciation and commitment to their veteran employees.

In this article, WWP outlines practical ways your company can support veteran employees all year round.

1. Recognize military service: Dedicate time to acknowledge and appreciate the service of veteran employees. Host a special event or ceremony to recognize their contributions and sacrifices. During military awareness months, like Veterans Day, consider providing breakfast, lunch, or some other special treat for the veterans in your workplace.
2. Create a veterans resource group or veteran mentorship program: If your company doesn’t already have one, a veterans resource group or mentorship program can help veteran employees acclimate to their civilian workplace. Companies can also encourage the formation of peer support networks within the workplace. Having colleagues who share similar experiences can provide valuable emotional support.
3. Create a supportive environment: Foster a workplace culture that is educated on the military experience.  Share profiles of veteran employees on your company’s internal website or newsletter, highlighting the branch they served in, their job in the military, and what their favorite memory of service was. You could also host a company-wide lunch-and-learn and invite speakers from veterans service organizations like WWP to discuss issues affecting the veteran community. 
4. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and mental health resources: Ensure that veteran employees are aware of and can access EAPs. During varying times of the year, including holidays, these programs can provide a variety of support, including support for mental health issues that may be exacerbated. Sharing and providing resources can encourage veteran employees to seek help if needed.
5. “Adopt” a veteran family in need: Give presents or holiday meals to a veteran family you know in your community or workplace. The Veteran.com Community also has a list of organizations that do this.
6. Create a patriotic workplace: During certain holidays, like the week of Veterans Day, Patriots Day, or Military Appreciation Month, encourage employees to add a patriotic touch to their workspace, even if it’s just veteran-related screensavers on the computer or some red, white, and blue décor in the cubicle. Companies can also promote patriotism during military-related holidays by holding a flag etiquette clinic with the help of veteran employees.
7. Observe a moment of silence: Encourage employees to take a couple of minutes to honor service members and veterans around special holidays like Veterans Day and Memorial Day. For example, at 11:11 am on Nov. 11, use a moment of silence to remember the contributions and sacrifices of those who have served.
8. Volunteer opportunities: Offer opportunities for employees, including veterans, to participate in volunteer activities. These can provide a sense of purpose and community.

WWP warrior and U.S. Marine veteran Dan Miller said working for a company that shows support for veteran employees through things like a veterans resource group or EAP makes the workplace a more comfortable environment and safe space for veteran employees.

“If you create a more open atmosphere with your veteran employees, then you’re going to get payback in a positive way,” Dan said. “You’re going to get dividends that you might not even realize until you do it. I’ve talked to different employers about getting their veterans involved in service projects and doing community events that breed unity, that unity breeds trust, that trust breeds loyalty, and that loyalty breeds a team mentality. … [It builds] pride in who they work for, pride in getting up each morning and coming to work and doing the best job they can possibly do. It just makes the company shine. It makes everyone shine. And it just makes for a better atmosphere for all involved.”

Planning Resources

• Download our Veterans Day Planning Guide for more help with Veterans Day activities and ways in which you can recognize veteran employees.

If you know a veteran who could benefit from WWP's free programs and services, encourage them to contact the Resource Center. 

Find out how you can get your company involved and support injured veterans.

Contact: — Paris Moulden, Public Relations, pmoulden@woundedwarriorproject.org, 904.570.7910

About Wounded Warrior Project

Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more.