The Congressional Wounded Warrior Program - Helping Wounded Vets Find Jobs on Capitol Hill
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Service members returning from a tour of duty in good health should give thanks that they will be able to find a job faster. Wounded veterans, however, have had some serious difficulties in securing employment. As a result, the House of Representatives has developed a new program called the Wounded Warrior Program, with the goal of hiring injured and disabled military personnel from Iraq and Afghanistan.
Creating The Wounded Warrior ProgramIn an effort to get wounded veteran quality jobs, the Wounded Warrior Program allows ex-GIs the opportunity to work with Congress members, committees, leadership and support service offices. With a five million dollar budget, the initiative’s goal is to hire up to 50 people within the next year.
Retired marine sergeant Patricia Orsini will act as the director of the program. She has a background in assisting wounded and disabled service members with the transition to civilian life, including helping active duty members with securing medical benefits, working for the American Legion as deputy director for health care services and developing the Wounded Warrior Regiment in the Marine Corps.
How The Wounded Warrior Program WorksApplicants have to be referred to the program, by either Veterans Affairs or a branch of the service. Only veterans with a 30 percent or more disability rating can apply. Once the program receives the referral and resume, a representative contacts the veteran discusses when vacancies are available.
After interviewing, accepted candidates can work in different fields of the House, trying to earn full-time employment status. The positions are not guaranteed full-time jobs, but the possibility is definitely there.
The Benefits Of Helping Wounded VetsSpeaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and Rep. Robert Brady from the Committee on House Administration helped establish the program. These lawmakers pushed the initiative through citing that, “We are well aware that these service men and women possess a wide range of valuable skills and experience, as well as enthusiasm for hard work.” Now, those skills and experience can lead to a great job serving the country in another way.
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