WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the nation observes Veterans Day and National Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month, federal leaders gathered at U.S. Department of Agriculture headquarters to recognize veterans’ contributions and highlight new initiatives aimed at supporting service members, military families and veteran entrepreneurs.
The event brought together U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins and Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler to reaffirm their agencies’ commitment to expanding opportunities for veterans both during and after military service.
A centerpiece of the announcement was the successful completion of USDA’s “100 Hires in 100 Days” initiative, which sought to recruit veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses into careers supporting the nation’s food supply, agricultural security and rural communities.
USDA officials reported that the department exceeded its original goal, hiring more than 240 veterans and military spouses during the initiative, more than doubling the target established at its launch.
Rollins said veterans bring valuable experience and a strong sense of mission to the agency’s work protecting America’s agricultural interests.
“Equipping the USDA with mission-minded veterans who share a profound commitment to our nation has fundamentally strengthened our ability to protect American agricultural security,” Rollins said. “Our veterans understand what it means to defend a vital frontline.”
The department also announced a new partnership involving the Department of War and the U.S. Forest Service to establish the Gold Star Trails Program. Under the initiative, selected trails within the national forest system may be named or renamed in honor of service members who died while serving the country.
Officials said the program is intended to create lasting places of remembrance where Gold Star Families, fellow service members and visitors can reflect on the sacrifices made by military personnel.
Rollins said the initiative is designed to honor those who gave their lives in service to the nation while providing meaningful spaces for remembrance on public lands.
In addition to hiring efforts, USDA highlighted its expanding participation in the Department of War’s SkillBridge Program. The program allows eligible service members to spend up to the final 180 days of military service gaining civilian work experience while continuing to receive military pay and benefits.
Through the program, USDA is recruiting transitioning service members for careers in areas including cybersecurity, contracting, data analysis and other mission-critical positions.
The department also continues to support military spouses through the Department of War’s SpouseWorks Program, which connects military family members with employment opportunities.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins emphasized the role agriculture can play in helping veterans continue serving their communities after leaving military service.
“Veterans dedicated their lives to defending this nation, and now many are helping us feed it,” Collins said. “Agriculture offers veterans an opportunity to build businesses and support their families and communities.”
Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler highlighted efforts to support veterans through entrepreneurship, federal contracting opportunities and small business development.
The event also included the announcement of Richard Lopez as USDA’s new Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison. In the position, Lopez will work to connect veterans with agricultural opportunities and resources, including loans, grants and business planning assistance.
Lopez previously served with the USDA Farm Service Agency as a regional beginning farmer and rancher coordinator, helping veterans pursue careers in agriculture. He is also an Army veteran who served eight years as an intelligence analyst and staff sergeant.
USDA officials noted that veterans continue to play a significant role in agriculture, conservation, natural resource management and rural development, making their experience a valuable asset to the department’s mission.
The agency encourages veterans interested in careers, education and business opportunities in agriculture to explore available resources through USDA’s veterans outreach programs.
The announcements come as communities across the country prepare to honor veterans and military families during Veterans Day observances, recognizing the service and sacrifice of those who have served in the armed forces while highlighting pathways for continued service in civilian life.
