In a move to support U.S. veterans, many of whom have served overseas, been injured and undergone intense emotional stress, Wal-Mart has announced that it will offer a job to any honorably discharged veteran in his or her first year off from active duty. The standing job offer will begin on Memorial Day, and specific job opportunities will be in stores, the chain's home office, and in distribution centers.
With unemployment high among veterans, the move couldn't come at a better time. As of last November, Gulf War-era II veterans were unemployed at a rate of 10%, higher than the national average. Even worse, Post-9/11 vets between the ages of 20 and 24 are unemployed at a whooping 28%. That numbers is especially troublesome given the service that has been rendered by these young veterans for their country.
"Hiring a veteran can be one of the best business decisions you make," Wal-Mart U.S. President and CEO Bill Simon noted. "Veterans have a record of performance under pressure. They're quick learners and team players. They are leaders with discipline, training, and a passion for service. There is a seriousness and sense of purpose that the military instills, and we need it today more than ever." Wal-Mart has estimated that it will hire over 100,000 veterans over the next five years. First lady Michelle Obama, who has been working on veterans' issues, noted, "This is exactly the kind of act we hoped would be possible when we started Joining Forces - a concrete example of our nation's love and support that our troops, veterans, and their families can feel in their lives every day. Today, my challenge is simple: for every business in America to follow Wal-Mart's lead."
With unemployment high among veterans, the move couldn't come at a better time. As of last November, Gulf War-era II veterans were unemployed at a rate of 10%, higher than the national average. Even worse, Post-9/11 vets between the ages of 20 and 24 are unemployed at a whooping 28%. That numbers is especially troublesome given the service that has been rendered by these young veterans for their country.
"Hiring a veteran can be one of the best business decisions you make," Wal-Mart U.S. President and CEO Bill Simon noted. "Veterans have a record of performance under pressure. They're quick learners and team players. They are leaders with discipline, training, and a passion for service. There is a seriousness and sense of purpose that the military instills, and we need it today more than ever." Wal-Mart has estimated that it will hire over 100,000 veterans over the next five years. First lady Michelle Obama, who has been working on veterans' issues, noted, "This is exactly the kind of act we hoped would be possible when we started Joining Forces - a concrete example of our nation's love and support that our troops, veterans, and their families can feel in their lives every day. Today, my challenge is simple: for every business in America to follow Wal-Mart's lead."
