Obama Unveils Jobs Program for Veterans

For veterans returning home from Afghanistan and/or Iraq finding a job can be a challenge – especially, in an economy with 9.1% unemployment, roughly 20% underemployment, and a stock market experiencing unprecedented volatility. 

To assist them in their quest for employment, the Obama Administration has announced a new initiative that combines programs to help veterans better prepare for the civilian work force with tax credit incentives for businesses who hire out of work veterans. 

The tax credits would fall under proposals such as the Returning Heroes and Wounded Warrior Tax Credit and would range in size, from $2,400 to $9,600, depending on how long the veteran has been unemployed and whether or not the individual has a disability. 

“Our companies need skilled workers like our veterans to help them grow and there is no reason why we can’t connect the two,” Obama said unveiling the initiatives last Friday at the Washington Navy Yard in front of 300 servicemen and women.

He added, “If you can save a life in Afghanistan, you can save a life in an ambulance in Wyoming. If you can oversee $1 million in Afghanistan, you can help a business here balance its books.”

To oversee the work force transition and training programs, dubbed “reverse boot camp,” Obama has created a new task force that will be comprised of economic advisors and policy experts that will operate under the umbrella of the Department of Defense.  These programs will ensure that veterans have access to career advice and counseling as they seek employment.    

“Today we are saying to our veterans, ‘You fought for us and now we are fighting for you — for the jobs and opportunities you need to keep your families strong and to keep America competitive in the 21st century,” Obama said in his speech.