DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE: Veterans Employment Special - 2012

This country owes a profound debt to all Veterans, and military families. In these tough economic times, we're especially cognizant of our service members transitioning to civilian life, as well as our military spouses. And we must give them the best possible tools to succeed in professional pursuits." - Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta

A Snapshot of Our Nation's Veterans

Federal, state and community leaders; private businesses; non-profits; and community organizations use information about the military veteran population from the American Community Survey and Economic Census to determine the programs, services and infrastructure that serve the needs of our veterans. What follows is the most recent snapshot of veterans statistics. PDF | HiRes

Who Are U.S. Veterans?
Where Do They Live?
What Are Their Education Levels?
When Did They Serve?
Where Do They Work?
What Are Their Incomes?

Top Stories

Employment Numbers Nearly Triple Initial 'Joining Forces' Goal

Some 290,000 veterans and military spouses have been hired since the inception of the "Joining Forces" initiative two years ago, nearly tripling the initial goal, First Lady Michelle Obama said. Story

First Lady Announces Certification Plan for Veteran Jobs

First Lady Michelle Obama unveiled the new Information Technology Training and Certification Partnership to put thousands of service members to work with industry-recognized IT certifications in hand before they leave the military. Story

Official Discusses Transition Assistance Program at House Hearing

The Defense Department, in concert with the military services and interagency partners are successfully implementing the department's revamped Transition Assistance Program, a senior DOD official told a HASC subcommittee April 24. Story

First Lady Joins Maryland Governor at Veterans' Bill Signing

First Lady Michelle Obama joined Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley today at the State House here as the governor signed into law the Veterans Full Employment Act of 2013. Story

Labor Department Helps Veterans

Labor Department officials announced the availability of up to $5 million to fund 16 or more Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program grants. Story

First Lady Urges Businesses to Hire Veterans, Spouses

Veterans and military spouses make good hires because they know how to develop and execute complex plans and work best in high-pressure situations, First Lady Michelle Obama told attendees at the Business Roundtable Conference Center in Washington, D.C. Story