Army Vet Talks About Veterans Day

Online, November 11, 2011 (Newswire.com) - The war to end all wars came to a close 93 years ago today. It was called Armistice Day for the next 30 plus years until a Kansas shoe storeowner named Al King had the idea to expand Armistice Day to celebrate all veterans, not just those who served in World War I. By act of Congress, November 11th has been Veterans Day ever since.

Every American owes a debt to those who serve their country. It is a debt that cannot be repaid by waving a flag or slapping a magnetic sticker on their car. Those men and women who took time out of their lives to protect and defend the constitution of the United States deserve more. Today is a good day to recognize that obligation and resolve to do something to even the score.

For many of you, writing a check makes things simple. So, many excellent programs could really use your help. Operation Homefront, the Wounded Warrior Project, and the Fisher House are just three of many. You can find out more about them on the internet.

Unemployment among veterans who served after Sept. 11, 2001, is about 12 percent -- significantly higher than the nation's overall unemployment rate of 9 percent. New tax credits know as "Returning Heroes and Wounded Warrior Tax Credit will provide further incentives for employers. The Senate measure would provide up to $9,600 for hiring a disabled veteran who's been out of work for six months or more, up to $5,600 for hiring any veteran unemployed for six months or more, and up to $2,400 for hiring any veteran unemployed for more than four weeks.

Urge Congress to support veterans going back to work by voting today in favor of the Returning Heroes and Wounded Warrior Tax Credits. Encourage our political and business leaders - when they actually do work in a bipartisanship manner - encourage them to do more together for our veterans. To learn more of the problems our veterans face and become part of a solution.

If you operate a business, think about what your company can do to demonstrate your appreciation to the men and women of the armed forces. Any special consideration you give would earn you the respect of all who have served. It is the right thing to do and now is the time to do it.

For most Americans, the most rewarding contribution is a donation of time. Make yourself a promise to visit a veteran's hospital for a few hours on your day off. You will come away richer for the experience. Or call any of the non-profit military support organizations and ask how you can volunteer. There are hundreds of worthy causes to choose from. Email the address at the end of this article if you would like a list.

Make this Veterans Day a special one. Honor America's veterans with more than just words. Get involved. Our entire country will be better off when you do.

About the Author: Kevin T. K. Sullivan, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army (Ret.) served 20 years as an Aviation Officer with the United States Army. He is the Chairman of the Board for Operation Homefront Colorado and founder and president of Leading Points Corporation, a company that assists businesses in establishing themselves within the military and government markets. We encourage you to support some of Leading Points Partners that give back to the military - They include;

JUMP Beverages Inc. (www.Jumpbeverages.com)
Bravio LLC. (www.herobar.com)
Kinder Lift (www.Kinderlift.com)
GoFit LLC (www.gofit.net)
Wobble Wedges® (http:/buywobblewedges.com)
The Wiffle Ball Inc. (www.wiffle.com/)
Rocket Tour Golf (www.rockettour.com)
Vail Resorts (www.vailresorts.com)

You can write Lieutenant Colonel Sullivan at Sullivan@leadingpoints.com

For further information and press inquiries, please contact Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Sullivan at 303-975-6731 or visit www.leadingpoints.com.