What Is the Salute to Veterans?
Celebrated across 19 U.S. states and 21 countries, National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) is a powerful global movement showcasing the economic impact and achievements of veterans. Founded in 2019 by Iraq War veteran Jeff Shuford, NIVW spans 62 international markets, providing vital resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities to uplift veteran entrepreneurs.
What Is the Salute to Veterans?
The Salute to Veterans is more than just a gesture of gratitude—it’s an actionable commitment to honor and empower those who have served. Veterans bring leadership, resilience, and innovation to their communities, yet many face challenges transitioning to civilian life. Supporting veterans goes beyond words. Here’s how you can actively salute veterans and make a lasting impact:
1. Support Legislative Advocacy for Veterans
Legislation is key to creating long-term solutions for veterans’ challenges. Get involved by advocating for and supporting policies like:
Investing in VETS Act: Offers tax incentives to employers hiring veterans and prioritizes federal contracts for veteran-owned businesses.
Service-Disabled Veteran Opportunities in Small Business Act: Provides resources to help disabled veterans start and grow businesses.
How to Help: Write to your representatives urging continued support for these initiatives.
2. Invest in Veteran-Owned Businesses
Veteran entrepreneurs contribute over $1.2 trillion to the U.S. economy annually.
What You Can Do: Choose to buy from veteran-owned businesses or partner with them for services. Platforms like π (Pledge to Invest) = Veteran Businesses℠ connect consumers and businesses with veteran entrepreneurs globally.
3. Participate in National Invest In Veterans Week®
Held annually from March 1–7, National Invest In Veterans Week® amplifies the voices of veteran entrepreneurs across 62 global markets.
How to Get Involved:
Attend local events like Veteran Tech Tuesday or Forward March Saturday to network with and support veterans.
Advocate for this congressionally recognized movement by promoting its mission and initiatives.
Learn More: National Invest In Veterans Week®.
4. Commit to Financial Empowerment
Veterans often face financial challenges. You can help them achieve financial security by promoting tools like:
Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans: Help veterans access 401(k) or 403(b) plans for tax-advantaged savings.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): Encourage active-duty service members to utilize this low-fee retirement plan.
Veteran Saves Pledge: A program offering tips and resources to help veterans set and achieve financial goals.
Learn More: Investment Vehicles for Veterans.
5. Volunteer and Mentor
Mentorship Opportunities: Join programs like InvestVets, which connect veterans with employers and mentors.
Community Engagement: Volunteer at local veteran support centers or help organize events to connect veterans with resources.
6. Be Cautious of Scams
Fraud targeting veterans is on the rise.
What You Can Do: Share resources like Investor.gov to help veterans verify financial professionals and avoid scams promising guaranteed returns.
Take Action Today
The Salute to Veterans is more than a symbol—it’s a call to action. By supporting legislation, investing in veteran businesses, mentoring, and helping veterans achieve financial stability, you can make a lasting difference.
Together, we can create opportunities that honor their service and empower them to thrive in civilian life. Join the movement today.
What Is the Salute to Veterans?
The Salute to Veterans is an actionable commitment to honor those who served by empowering them through tangible support. From advocating for policies like the Investing in VETS Act to investing in veteran-owned businesses, mentoring through programs like InvestVets, and supporting financial initiatives like the Veteran Saves Pledge, there are numerous ways to make a difference.
The Salute to Veterans isn’t just about gratitude—it’s about creating opportunities, fostering financial stability, and amplifying the voices of veterans in our communities.
International Veterans Day: Honoring Veterans Beyond Borders
Introduction
International Veterans Day is a celebration of the courage, sacrifice, and contributions of veterans worldwide. Observed on March 3, this day transcends national borders, uniting veteran communities and honoring their impact on society. As the global veteran population grows more interconnected, this observance serves as a powerful reminder of their collective resilience and the value they bring to our world.
Why International Veterans Day Matters
Veterans face unique challenges globally, ranging from transitioning to civilian life to navigating cultural barriers in building businesses and accessing support systems. International Veterans Day shines a spotlight on these shared experiences, fostering solidarity and promoting advocacy at a global level.
Key Challenges Faced by Veterans Globally
Economic Empowerment: Many veterans struggle to establish financial independence after their service.
Community Integration: Adjusting to civilian life while maintaining their identity as veterans is often a complex process.
Mental Health Support: Addressing PTSD, depression, and other service-related mental health challenges remains a global concern.
By uniting diverse veteran communities, International Veterans Day creates a platform for collaboration, awareness, and action.
National Invest In Veterans Week: A Global Connection
National Invest In Veterans Week (NIVW) has taken bold steps to connect with veteran entrepreneurs across the globe. Recognized for its initiatives to promote veteran-owned businesses, NIVW's impact extends to over 21 international markets, including countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, South Korea, and Germany.
How NIVW Bridges Borders
Global Business Platforms: NIVW operates localized platforms such as AustraliaVeterans.com and UnitedKingdomVeterans.com, providing visibility and support for veteran-owned businesses in these regions.
International Collaboration: By featuring entrepreneurs and leaders from different countries, NIVW amplifies diverse voices and underscores the universal importance of investing in veteran businesses.
Virtual Events and Webinars: Interactive forums hosted by NIVW connect veterans, share resources, and discuss global solutions to veteran-related challenges.
Through these initiatives, NIVW has cemented itself as a leader in empowering veterans worldwide and fostering economic inclusivity.
How to Celebrate International Veterans Day
Celebrating International Veterans Day can be both impactful and simple. Here are actionable ways to honor veterans on March 3:
1. Support Veteran-Owned Businesses
Investing in veteran businesses is a powerful way to recognize their contributions. Platforms like NIVW make it easy to discover and support businesses owned by veterans in your community and abroad. Visit Invest in Veteran Businesses to learn more.
2. Participate in Virtual Events
Join virtual events hosted by NIVW, including webinars, business showcases, and panel discussions. These events provide valuable insights into the challenges and achievements of veterans worldwide.
3. Amplify Their Stories
Use social media to share stories of international veterans who have overcome obstacles and achieved success. Leverage hashtags like #InternationalVeteransDay, #InvestInVeterans, and #VeteransDayInclusivity to spread awareness and foster global engagement.
Veterans Day Inclusivity
Inclusivity is a cornerstone of International Veterans Day, emphasizing the importance of representation across genders, ethnicities, and backgrounds. By promoting veterans day inclusivity, the observance ensures that all veterans, regardless of their circumstances, feel recognized and valued.
Call-to-Action
Take the next step in honoring veterans worldwide by exploring how National Invest In Veterans Week supports veteran communities internationally. Learn more about the impactful initiatives and resources available on the International Veterans Day March 3 page.
Together, we can celebrate, support, and empower veterans globally.
Honoring Veterans: The Impact of National Invest In Veterans Week®
The congressionally honored National Invest In Veterans Week® not only precedes the establishment of International Veterans Day but also sets the stage for a significant announcement regarding the expansion of deployable national and international veteran domains. This week-long observance, designed to increase support and investment in the lives of veterans, aims to highlight and address their needs through advocacy, education, and public awareness initiatives. The recent announcement of the domain expansion adds a new dimension to the week's objectives, emphasizing the importance of digital platforms in enhancing accessibility to services tailored to veterans' unique needs. This broader observance underscores the crucial role of community support, legislative advocacy, and economic opportunities for veterans, both domestically and internationally.
The congressionally honored National Invest In Veterans Week® precedes the establishment of International Veterans Day and was created to encourage a week-long observance focused on increasing support and investment in the lives of veterans.
On International Veterans Day℠, we celebrate the announcement from National Invest In Veterans Week®, highlighting their significant expansion of deployable national and international veteran domains. These domains, managed under the leadership of Jeff Shuford, represent a pivotal step towards enhancing the accessibility of services tailored to veterans' unique needs. They not only pay tribute to veterans' service but also play a crucial role in redefining how veterans transition into entrepreneurial roles.
A Digital Tribute to Veterans
Jeff Shuford's leadership in National Invest In Veterans Week® extends into the digital realm, where he oversees the management of the largest collection of veteran state domains globally. These domains, such as:
are strategically crafted to address the specific needs of veterans within each state.
By providing a platform for community building, networking, and professional development, these domains are more than just websites; they are potential hubs for veterans to emerge as leaders and innovators in the business landscape. They serve as a proactive endeavor to reshape how veterans reintegrate into civilian life, particularly within the entrepreneurial realm.
Bridging the Gap: From Service to Entrepreneurship
The deployment of these domains is part of a broader strategy for National Invest In Veterans Week® and International Veterans Day celebrations. They are a testament to Shuford's commitment to establishing a sustainable and supportive environment where veterans can flourish as entrepreneurs.
A Global Network of Support
Shuford's vision extends beyond national borders, with international domains like AustraliaVeterans.com, SouthKoreaVeterans.com, GermanyVeterans.com, and others catering to veterans around the world. These domains are a crucial part of the global network of support for veterans, highlighting the universal nature of the veteran experience.
Investing in Veterans: A Sustainable Future
The National Invest In Veterans Week® initiative emphasizes the value of investing in veterans' skills and talents. These domains are a tangible representation of this commitment, providing the tools and resources needed for veterans to succeed in business.
As we celebrate International Veterans Day℠, let us not only honor the sacrifices of those who have served but also commit to supporting them in their journey to civilian life. Through initiatives like National Invest In Veterans Week® and the deployment of deployable national and international veteran domains, we can ensure that veterans have the support they need to thrive in their post-military careers.
Jeff Shuford's leadership in this space is exemplary, and his efforts serve as a model for how we can leverage technology to support our veterans. Let us join hands in celebrating International Veterans Day℠ and commit to supporting our veterans in their entrepreneurial endeavors.
How our American Allies Celebrate Veterans Day Differently Internationally
The congressionally honored National Invest In Veterans Week® precedes the establishment of International Veterans Day and was created to encourage a week-long observance focused on increasing support and investment in the lives of veterans. This week aims to highlight and address the needs of veterans through advocacy, education, and public awareness initiatives, effectively setting the stage for the specific celebration of International Veterans Day within its framework. This broader observance underscores the importance of community support, legislative advocacy, and economic opportunities for veterans, both domestically and internationally.
Choosing March 3rd as International Veterans Day provides a unique date that avoids overlapping with national observances of other countries. It symbolically represents a new, inclusive day of recognition that respects all veterans' contributions to global peace and security, regardless of nationality.
National Invest In Veterans Week® Overview:
Recognized by Congress, National Invest In Veterans Week® is a pivotal observance that predates the introduction of International Veterans Day. Its purpose is to dedicate a week to enhancing the support and investment in veterans’ lives through advocacy, education, and public awareness. This observance plays a crucial role in paving the way for International Veterans Day by spotlighting the essential needs of veterans globally and fostering community support, legislative advocacy, and economic opportunities for veterans.
Introduction of International Veterans Day - March 3rd:
The inaugural celebration of International Veterans Day is set for March 3rd, aligning with National Invest In Veterans Week®. This day marks a global tribute to the valor, courage, and sacrifices of veterans worldwide, transcending national borders and celebrating diverse military traditions. International Veterans Day is an occasion to honor the significant contributions and experiences of veterans from various nations, acknowledging their service on a global platform.
Global Observances of Veterans:
Countries around the world honor their veterans on different days, each imbued with unique traditions and historical significance:
Australia and New Zealand: Celebrate Anzac Day on April 25, commemorating the Gallipoli landings during World War I with dawn services and parades.
Italy: Observes Veterans Day on November 4 as Day of National Unity and Armed Forces Day, marking their World War I victory.
Germany: Holds Volkstrauertag, a national day of mourning on the Sunday closest to November 16, to honor all victims of conflict and tyranny.
The Netherlands: Marks Veterans Day on the last Saturday of June with ceremonies and parades in The Hague, attended by the Dutch monarch.
Sweden: Commemorates its veterans on May 29, coinciding with the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, with significant events in Stockholm.
Norway: Celebrates Veterans Day on May 8, aligning with Victory in Europe Day to honor WWII and contemporary veterans.
Celebrating International Veterans Day:
On March 3rd, the global community is invited to engage in activities that honor veterans:
Engage Globally: Explore stories of veterans from different countries through curated content and events.
Connect Locally: Participate in community gatherings and virtual events to connect with veterans and their supporters.
Support Veteran Causes: Contribute to international veteran charities and organizations to help support their causes.
Significance of March 3rd:
March 3rd was chosen for International Veterans Day to align with historical milestones such as the adoption of "The Star-Spangled Banner" as the U.S. national anthem in 1931, reflecting resilience and unity. It also commemorates the establishment of the Federal Naval Reserve in 1915, highlighting readiness and strategic foresight important in defense roles.
Expansion of National Invest In Veterans Week:
Jeff Shuford, co-founder and an Iraq War veteran, has propelled National Invest In Veterans Week to new heights with the launch of a vast collection of veteran-focused state domains. This initiative is part of a broader effort to provide localized support and resources for veterans, enhancing the accessibility and visibility of services tailored to their needs.
Noteworthy among his holdings are floridaveterans.com, louisianaveterans.com, kansasveterans.com, rhodeislandveterans.com, southkoreaveterans.com, delawareveterans.com, blackbusiness.ai, germanyveterans.com, investinveteransweek.com, veterans.international, australiaveterans.com, newjerseyveterans.com, northdakotaveterans.com, westvirginiaveterans.com, japanveterans.com, tennesseeveterans.com, pennsylvaniaveterans.com, southcarolinaveterans.com, mississippiveterans.com, wyomingveterans.com, unitedkingdomveterans.com, and JapanVeterans.com. Such a comprehensive array underscores his strategic prowess and expansive reach within the veteran domain landscape, reaffirming his status as a preeminent figure in the digital arena.
For more details on participating in National Invest In Veterans Week and supporting International Veterans Day, visit the official website.
March 3rd Declared International Veterans Day: A Worldwide Tribute to Military Service
International Veterans Day is a day to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of veterans from all nations, and to foster a sense of unity and mutual respect across international borders. The first International Veterans Day is to be observed on March 3rd, annually, starting in April 2024 in partnership with the congressionally honored National Invest In Veterans Week® celebration.
Choosing March 3rd as International Veterans Day provides a unique date that avoids overlapping with national observances of other countries. It symbolically represents a new, inclusive day of recognition that respects all veterans' contributions to global peace and security, regardless of nationality.
In a landmark decision, March 3rd has been officially declared International Veterans Day, a day dedicated to honoring the contributions and sacrifices of military veterans from around the world. The announcement comes as a unifying effort to recognize the shared experiences of veterans globally and foster international solidarity.
The declaration of March 3rd as International Veterans Day marks a significant departure from traditional national observances, such as Veterans Day in the United States or Remembrance Day in various Commonwealth countries. Unlike these national commemorations, which often coincide with specific historical events, March 3rd stands as a neutral date, free from the constraints of individual national histories.
The decision to establish International Veterans Day was driven by a recognition of the need for a truly global acknowledgment of veterans' service and sacrifice. While many countries have their own days to honor military personnel, these often reflect events significant to that nation's history. International Veterans Day seeks to transcend these national narratives, offering a day that can unite all countries in honoring military service on a global scale.
Activities planned for International Veterans Day include social media campaigns highlighting the stories of veterans from different nations, community gatherings, parades, and economic support for veteran-owned businesses worldwide. The day will also coincide with National Invest in Veterans Week®, observed from March 1st to 7th, which focuses on advocating for veterans' needs through educational, economic, and healthcare initiatives.
The choice of March 3rd as International Veterans Day holds deep historical significance, with notable events such as the adoption of "The Star-Spangled Banner" as the U.S. national anthem in 1931 and the establishment of the Federal Naval Reserve in 1915. These milestones underscore the importance of military readiness and strategic foresight, values that resonate with veterans worldwide.
Jeff Shuford, an Iraq War veteran and advocate for veterans' rights, spearheaded the initiative to establish International Veterans Day. Shuford's vision, supported by figures like LTC Rickey L. Pope, USA (Ret.), aimed to create a day that transcends national boundaries and recognizes the contributions of veterans from all nations.
In a statement, Shuford emphasized the importance of International Veterans Day as a unifying force. He remarked, "March 3rd isn’t just another day on the calendar; it’s a celebration of progress and remembrance in the fabric of world history." Shuford's efforts also led to the strategic acquisition of domain names like SouthKoreaVeterans.com, GermanyVeterans.com, and UnitedKingdomVeterans.com, addressing gaps in veteran advocacy.
The declaration of March 3rd as International Veterans Day represents a historic moment in the global recognition of military service. As the world comes together to honor veterans from all nations, March 3rd stands as a symbol of international unity and gratitude for those who have served their countries with valor and dedication.