Unemployment may not be one of the toughest obstacles facing veterans, as it has been in previous years. In 2015, unemployment rates for post-9/11 veterans was 5.4 percent in 2015 — down from 10 percent in late 2013. Unemployment for all veterans was 4.4 percent in 2015, a drop from 6.9 percent in 2013. That compares to a national unemployment average of 5.3 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
However, a study shows that many veterans don’t think their skills are valued by private corporations. RallyPoint/Rasmussen Reports conducted a national survey of 1,473 active and retired military personnel. Here’s what that poll revealed:
When it comes to issues of PTSD, a RAND study also revealed that at least 20 percent of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans have PTSD or depression. Of the veterans who do have PTSD, 50 percent of them don’t seek treatment. Of those who do seek treatment, only 25 percent receive minimally adequate treatment, the study says.
In the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.