National Day

National Hire A Veteran Day

Celebrated on 07/25/2026

Quick Fact

National Hire A Veteran Day is observed annually on July 25. It was created to encourage employers to recognize the value of military veterans and to actively recruit them into the civilian workforce. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, veterans often bring unique skills like leadership, discipline, and teamwork that benefit businesses.

Origins and Establishment of National Hire A Veteran Day

National Hire A Veteran Day was established by the National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) in 2014. The day was created to address the high unemployment rates among veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, and to encourage private sector businesses to actively recruit and hire veterans. The first observance took place on July 25, 2014, and has since been recognized annually.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Hire A Veteran Day has grown in visibility, with many companies hosting job fairs, workshops, and networking events specifically for veterans. Social media campaigns using hashtags like #HireAVeteran help spread awareness. In recent years, the day has also highlighted the importance of translating military skills to civilian job descriptions, and many organizations now offer resources to help veterans transition into the workforce.

Facts & General Observations

  • According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the veteran unemployment rate has dropped from 8.7% in 2014 to 3.5% in 2019, partly due to initiatives like National Hire A Veteran Day.
  • Over 200,000 service members transition to civilian life each year, making veteran hiring a critical issue.
  • Veterans are 45% more likely to be self-employed than non-veterans, often starting businesses that create jobs for other veterans.

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