Kitsap Sailors Recognized at Hire America's Heroes Symposium

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles Whetstine, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest

May 8, 2010 - TACOMA, Wash. (NNS) -- Nearly 200 military personnel, business leaders and government officials attended the 2010 Hire America's Heroes (HAH) symposium held at the McChord Field Consolidated Clubs on Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma, Wash., May 6.

HAH is a nonprofit origination whose purpose is to expand employment options in corporate America for service members when they leave the military through retirement or separation. The group recognizes the excellent performance of veterans in the civilian workplace, and its primary mission is educating other employers on reaching out and hiring former military members.

"This annual symposium allows us to showcase to people who are in the human resource departments for major corporations within the local area what military personnel have to offer to the job market," said Majorie James, president, Hire America's Heroes.

Washington State Senator Patty Murray spoke to the audience via pre-recorded video and shared her endorsement of the HAH program.

"Hire America's Heroes plays a critical and unique role in the veteran's support system," Murray said. "While you at HAH continue to challenge military, Veteran Affairs and private sectors to build bridges and help veterans find jobs, you should know you have a strong ally fighting by your side in the U.S. Senate."

Top performers from each branch of the military were introduced along with a brief background on each as examples of the types of skills veterans can bring to the corporate sector.

"I'm here representing the Navy, and it's a great honor," said Chief Electrician's Mate (SW/AW) Leo Pulan, Navy Recruiting District (NRD) Seattle. "I think this symposium is a great resource and opportunity for networking. It also provides people in uniform better information to transition into the civilian world."

HAH engages interested corporations in activities designed to educate, promote and facilitate best practices and success strategies for sourcing, recruiting, hiring, on-boarding, supporting and retaining America's transitioning service members and veterans.

"This symposium is an excellent networking tool for those who have done well in the military but choose to get out and explore other options outside of the military," said Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Adelle Thompson, Naval Base Kitsap (NBK) Bangor. Hire America's Heroes bridges the gap between civilian and military for the way we work with each other because we're all one team."