A SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM THE SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

In fiscal year 2007, VA hired over 9,000 veterans, the most of any year on record.  I ask that every VA employee continue the effort to make the Department the leading agency in the employment of veterans.

Helping veterans transition from military to civilian life after service to our Nation is one of VA’s foremost commitments in our mission “to care for those who have borne the battle.”  The success of this commitment depends on VA’s employment outreach efforts.

On that note, I am proud to announce the establishment of the Veterans Employment Coordination Service (VECS) in VA’s Office of Human Resources Management.  The mission of this service is to attract, recruit, and hire veterans into VA, particularly severely injured veterans returning from the Global War on Terror.  VECS, led by Director Dennis May, will work to ensure that veterans are able to successfully enter VA’s workforce and that VA managers and supervisors are fully aware of special hiring authorities that can be used to hire veterans.

In November 2007, VA first announced plans to hire 10 full-time Regional Veterans Employment Coordinators.  These regional coordinators will work collaboratively with local coordinators in Human Resources offices VA-wide to provide direct hands-on assistance to veterans in accessing career opportunities at VA.

At a time when members of our Armed Forces are being asked once again to sacrifice in defense of our great Nation, it is important that VA continue to set the example for others in the manner in which we honor the service of men and women in the military.  Please join me in taking the next step to enhance employment opportunities for veterans in VA – Hire the veteran!

-- James B. Peake, MD