From War to Work: Vets, Jobs and the Stigma of the Wounded Warrior

Veterans groups and at least one Republican have called the situation “a national disgrace.” President Obama has said it’s a “moral obligation” to find suitable employment for those who have served. Despite being praised as heroes, despite scores of job programs for vets, many men and women who served in Iraq and Afghanistan can’t find a job once they come home, or end up in lower paying jobs than they had in the military. According to the latest unemployment reports, 9-11 veterans lag behind civilians in job gains. Are potential employers turning vets away because of the stigma of the wounded warrior, or are veterans not getting the right support to help them transition into a tough job market?