International Veterans Day: A New Chapter in Global Remembrance and Unity

March 3rd marks a significant milestone in the global calendar as International Veterans Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the contributions of veterans worldwide. This day transcends national boundaries and unifies international sentiments, acknowledging the shared experiences and sacrifices of military veterans from various nations. Unlike the traditional Veterans Day observed in the United States and similar commemorations on November 11th in other countries, March 3rd serves as a unique day of recognition, setting a new precedent for international veteran appreciation.

March 3rd holds deep historical roots with multiple significant events enhancing its selection as International Veterans Day. For instance, on this day in 1931, "The Star-Spangled Banner" was declared the national anthem of the United States, symbolizing national unity and resilience. Similarly, the establishment of the Federal Naval Reserve on March 3, 1915, underscored the importance of military readiness and strategic foresight. These events, among others, such as the statehood of Florida and the creation of the Minnesota Territory, contribute to the rich tapestry of March 3rd, making it a day not just of remembrance but also of celebration of progress and strategic milestones.

The decision to establish March 3rd as International Veterans Day was driven by the recognition of a gap in a truly global acknowledgment of veterans' contributions. While many countries have specific days to honor their military personnel, these often coincide with significant historical military events pertinent to those nations. International Veterans Day aims to transcend these national narratives, offering a day that can unite all countries in a collective acknowledgment of military service and sacrifice. It represents a day of solidarity, reflection, and celebration that resonates across all borders.

Compared to other commemorative days like the United States' Veterans Day, Anzac Day in Australia, or Volkstrauertag in Germany, March 3rd does not align with any existing national military remembrance days, thereby avoiding historical overlaps and ensuring its unique position as a day of inclusive international remembrance. This strategic choice allows for a more unified global observance, which celebrates the common values and sacrifices shared among the veterans of the world's military forces.

International Veterans Day encourages various forms of recognition and celebration. Activities range from social media campaigns promoting stories of international veterans, to community gatherings and parades in different countries. The day also promotes economic support for veteran-owned businesses globally and encourages educational and resourceful workshops that aid veterans in accessing benefits and opportunities. Through these actions, the day not only honors veterans but also supports their continued welfare and integration into civilian life.

Tied closely to International Veterans Day is the National Invest in Veterans Week®, observed from March 1st to 7th. This week focuses on advocacy for veterans, aiming to draw attention to and address their needs through educational, economic, and healthcare initiatives. By investing in the welfare of veterans, the week serves as a proactive approach to enhancing their lives and acknowledging their sacrifices in a tangible, impactful manner.

International Veterans Day on March 3rd is not merely a day of remembrance; it is a call to action for nations worldwide to unite in their respect and gratitude towards those who have served. It challenges the global community to rise above historical and nationalistic differences, fostering a shared identity and mutual respect among all veterans. This day asks us to reflect on the broader implications of military service — understanding it as a commitment that transcends national boundaries and unites individuals under the common cause of peace and security. As we move forward, March 3rd stands as a beacon of international unity and a testament to the enduring spirit of those who have served their countries across the globe.

Quick Facts:

"The Star-Spangled Banner" becomes official: On March 3, 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed a congressional act making "The Star-Spangled Banner" the official national anthem of the United States.

Establishment of the Federal Naval Reserve: On March 3, 1915, Congress established the Federal Naval Reserve, which played a significant role in the U.S. Navy's operations during major conflicts including World Wars I and II.

Statehood and territorial organization: Florida was admitted as the 27th state of the United States on March 3, 1845. Additionally, on March 3, 1849, Congress created the Minnesota Territory.

First amphibious military operation: March 3 marks the date of the first amphibious landing operation by American forces during the Revolutionary War.

Veterans Day Observances Worldwide: March 3 also provides an interesting contrast to how various nations honor their military veterans.

South Korea observes its Veterans Day on June 6th, which is also known as Memorial Day or "Hyun Choong Il".

Germany’s equivalent to Veterans Day is Volkstrauertag (People’s Day of Mourning), observed on the Sunday closest to November 16th.

Australia commemorates Anzac Day on April 25th.

Japan observes its Memorial Day for War Dead on August 15th.

In the United Kingdom, Remembrance Day is observed on November 11th, with the Sunday nearest to November 11th celebrated as Remembrance Sunday.

Choosing March 3rd as International Veterans Day provides a unique date that does not overlap with the national observances of these countries, allowing it to stand as a distinct day dedicated to celebrating the contributions of veterans globally.

Concluding Thoughts:

March 3rd isn’t just another day on the calendar; it’s a celebration of progress and remembrance in the fabric of world history.

March 3rd has been selected as the date for International Veterans Day to establish a unified global observance that honors veterans from every nation, surpassing the limitations of individual national histories.

International Veterans Day was established in 2024 by Iraq War veteran Jeff Shuford, under the guidance of LTC Rickey L. Pope, USA (Ret.), and with strategic advisement from Lonnell McCall II and NFL legend Drayton Florence.

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.

Read the story: https://losangelers.com/article/international-veterans-day-announcement-march-3rd

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Luminary Global Endorsed by National Invest In Veterans Week® for Tampa Bay Chamber SBOY Award: A Model of Ethical Business Practices, Innovative Management, and Community Leadership

Luminary Global, co-founded by Valerie Ellis Lavin and Jeremy Lavin, is a remarkable company that embodies solid ethical business practices, effective management, operational excellence, innovation, and exceptional community leadership.

Valerie Ellis Lavin, a retired Army First Sergeant with over 21 years of service to her country, established Luminary Global with a mission to serve those who serve. Her passion for supporting veterans and everyday heroes is reflected in the company's philosophy of integrity, quality, and ethical business practices. Luminary Global prioritizes the needs of its clients and employees, ensuring a positive and productive work environment.

The company's management team is highly effective in setting business goals and planning for the future. Their operational management practices are efficient, ensuring personnel, profitability, and administrative processes are optimized. Luminary Global's use of innovative technology has enabled the company to adapt and respond to adversity, economic conditions, and competition.

Luminary Global's leadership philosophy centers on community contributions, including community service involvement, leadership, and corporate citizenship. Valerie and Jeremy are active members of state and local organizations advocating for veteran entrepreneurship. The company's community leadership has made a positive impact on the lives of veterans, military families, and everyday heroes.

Luminary Global's commitment to ethical business practices and exceptional management is evident in its operational excellence. The company's personnel are highly trained and motivated, ensuring customer satisfaction and profitability. The company's use of innovative technology has enabled it to stay ahead of the competition and respond effectively to economic challenges.

In addition to its business success, Luminary Global is a model of community leadership. Valerie and Jeremy are active volunteers in organizations advocating for veterans and military families. The company's commitment to corporate citizenship is evident in its support of community service projects and other charitable initiatives.

Luminary Global's exemplary performance in all these areas makes it a clear choice for the Tampa Bay Chamber Small Business of the Year (SBOY) award. We are confident that the company's history and philosophy, management, operational management, innovativeness, technology, response to adversity, and leadership philosophy will continue to guide its success in the future.

We applaud Luminary Global's dedication to quality, integrity, and support for heroes - both professional and everyday individuals. Their commitment to serving those who serve sets an example for other businesses to follow. We are honored to endorse Luminary Global and its founders for their unwavering commitment to ethical business practices, operational excellence, innovation, and community leadership.

Legislators That Support Veteran Businesses: Why Veteran-Owned Businesses Matter

When veterans return home from serving our country, they often face unique challenges that can make it difficult to transition back to civilian life. These challenges can include physical and mental health issues, limited access to education and training, and a lack of job opportunities. By starting their own businesses, veterans can gain greater control over their careers and financial futures.

At the same time, veteran-owned businesses also benefit the broader economy. According to the Small Business Administration, veteran-owned businesses employ over 5 million people and generate nearly $1 trillion in annual revenue. These businesses also tend to be more resilient during economic downturns, helping to stabilize local communities.

Despite the many benefits of veteran entrepreneurship, however, starting a business is never easy. Veterans often face unique challenges, such as limited access to startup capital and a lack of business experience. That's why it's essential for legislators to support veteran-owned businesses through policies and programs that can help overcome these obstacles.

One way to encourage veteran entrepreneurship is through government contracting programs that give preference to veteran-owned businesses. These programs can provide a significant boost to veterans starting a business by providing them with access to valuable government contracts.

Another important way to support veteran-owned businesses is through training and education programs. Many veterans have valuable skills and experiences that can translate into successful business ventures, but they may need additional training and support to get started. By providing these resources, legislators can help more veterans achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.

Legislators can also encourage entrepreneurship by promoting access to capital for veteran-owned businesses. This can include providing low-interest loans and grants, as well as tax incentives for investors who support veteran-owned startups. By making it easier for veterans to access the capital they need to start and grow their businesses, legislators can help create more jobs and economic opportunities in their communities.

In addition to these efforts, legislators can also show support for veteran-owned businesses by issuing proclamations and designating specific days or weeks to recognize their contributions. These proclamations can help raise awareness of the importance of veteran entrepreneurship and encourage more individuals and organizations to support these businesses.

Moreover, legislators can also support veteran-owned businesses by advocating for policies that help them access new markets and customers. This can include initiatives to expand export opportunities for veteran-owned businesses, as well as efforts to promote their products and services to consumers and other businesses.

Finally, it's worth noting that supporting veteran-owned businesses is not just a moral obligation, but also a smart economic decision. By helping these businesses succeed, we are creating jobs, boosting local economies, and promoting innovation and competition in a wide range of industries. And because veteran-owned businesses tend to be more resilient during economic downturns, they can play a crucial role in stabilizing communities during times of crisis.

In conclusion, there are many reasons why legislators should support veteran-owned businesses. From providing access to capital and contracting opportunities to promoting education and training programs, there are numerous ways that legislators can help veterans start and grow successful businesses. And by issuing proclamations and advocating for policies that support veteran entrepreneurship, we can ensure that our veterans receive the support and recognition they deserve for their service to our country.

VBO Exclusive: The Art of Crafting Engaging Content for Your Audience

The first step in crafting engaging content is to define your target audience. You need to know who you are writing for and what their needs, interests, and pain points are. This will help you tailor your content to meet their needs and make it more relevant to them. Once you have defined your target audience, you can start researching and brainstorming ideas for your content.

When creating content, it's essential to keep in mind the importance of storytelling. People are naturally drawn to stories, and they help us connect with our audience on an emotional level. Your content should tell a story that engages your readers and keeps them interested from start to finish. Whether you're writing a blog post, social media post, or video script, storytelling should be at the core of your content.

Another crucial element of crafting engaging content is to make it easy to read and understand. Use short sentences, simple language, and avoid technical jargon whenever possible. Your content should be easy to skim and scan, and the most critical information should be at the top. Use bullet points, headings, and subheadings to break up your content and make it more accessible to your readers.

In addition to making your content easy to read, it's also essential to make it visually appealing. Use images, infographics, and videos to break up your text and make your content more engaging. Visual content not only helps to capture your audience's attention, but it also helps to convey complex information in a more digestible format.

Lastly, don't forget about the importance of SEO in crafting engaging content. Your content should be optimized for search engines, using relevant keywords and meta descriptions. This will help your content rank higher in search engine results pages, making it easier for your audience to find.

In conclusion, crafting engaging content is a skill that requires a deep understanding of your audience, storytelling, readability, visual appeal, and SEO. By following these tips, you can create content that resonates with your readers, keeps them engaged, and boosts your website's SEO.

Partnering with Veteran-Owned Businesses: How to Create a Successful Affiliate Marketing Program

As a supporter of veteran-owned businesses, you likely already know the importance of promoting and supporting these businesses. Veteran entrepreneurs face unique challenges and have unique perspectives that make them valuable members of our business community. One way to support veteran-owned businesses is through affiliate marketing, which can help drive traffic and sales while also building strong relationships between businesses.

To get started with an affiliate marketing program, it's important to choose the right partners. Look for businesses that align with your values and have a product or service that complements your own. It's also important to consider the size and reach of the business, as well as their target audience and marketing strategy.

Once you've chosen your partners, it's time to create a successful affiliate marketing program. This requires clear communication and a strong understanding of each other's goals and expectations. It's important to set clear guidelines for commissions, promotions, and other aspects of the program. It's also important to track results and adjust the program as needed to ensure that it's driving the desired outcomes.

One of the key benefits of affiliate marketing for veteran-owned businesses is that it allows them to tap into new audiences and markets. By partnering with businesses that have a different customer base or a different product offering, veteran-owned businesses can expand their reach and increase their sales. This can be especially valuable for businesses that are just starting out or that have a limited marketing budget.

Another benefit of affiliate marketing is that it allows businesses to build strong relationships with their partners. By working closely together to promote each other's products and services, businesses can develop a sense of trust and camaraderie that can lead to further collaboration and success.

To ensure that the affiliate marketing program is successful, supporters of veteran-owned businesses must first establish a strong relationship with the business owner. This means taking the time to understand their business, their brand, and their target audience. Once this is done, supporters can work with the business owner to create an affiliate marketing plan that aligns with their goals and objectives.

It's also essential to select the right affiliates for the program. This means choosing affiliates who have a similar target audience and can effectively promote the business's products or services. Supporters should also look for affiliates who have a proven track record of success in affiliate marketing.

To maximize the impact of the affiliate marketing program, supporters should provide their affiliates with the necessary tools and resources to promote the business effectively. This includes access to high-quality product images and descriptions, as well as promotional materials such as banners and ads.

Finally, supporters of veteran-owned businesses must continuously monitor and analyze the affiliate marketing program's performance to identify areas for improvement. This includes tracking the performance of individual affiliates, as well as the program as a whole. By doing so, supporters can make data-driven decisions that improve the program's effectiveness and ensure that it continues to drive revenue and growth for the business.

In conclusion, partnering with veteran-owned businesses through affiliate marketing programs can be an effective way to support these businesses while also driving revenue and growth. By taking the time to establish strong relationships with business owners, selecting the right affiliates, providing them with the necessary tools and resources, and monitoring performance, supporters can create successful affiliate marketing programs that benefit both the business and their own organization.

How to celebrate National Invest In Veterans Week? 

Consider the following tips:

1. Promote Veteran-Owned Businesses on Social Media.

2. Buy from Veteran-Owned Businesses.

3. Host a workshop for aspiring veteran entrepreneurs.

4. Nurture Veteran Startups—partner with a veteran-owned business.

5. Host a gathering of Veteran-Owned Businesses.

6. Mentor a veteran entrepreneur.

7. Promote National Invest In Veterans Week via social media.

8. Petition your local legislators to honor veterans during National Invest In Veterans Week.

9. Visit www.investinveteransweek.com to see how you can get involved, learn more about National Invest In Veterans Week's mission, and share your favorite veteran entrepreneur or veteran business on Social Media using the hashtag #National Invest In Veterans Week.

Established Veteran Business Owners: Mastering Digital Marketing Strategies in 2023

When it comes to digital marketing, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. The best approach will depend on your specific business goals and target audience. However, there are some key strategies that are likely to be effective for most veteran-owned businesses.

One essential element of any digital marketing strategy is a strong online presence. This means having a website that is optimized for search engines and user experience, as well as a social media presence that allows you to engage with customers and share valuable content.

Another important aspect of digital marketing is content creation. Whether it's blog posts, videos, or social media updates, creating valuable content is a great way to attract new customers and keep your existing ones engaged. By providing valuable insights and information, you can position your business as a thought leader in your industry and build trust with your audience.

Of course, content creation alone isn't enough. You also need to have a solid plan for promoting that content and reaching your target audience. This might involve using paid advertising, influencer marketing, or other tactics that can help you get your message in front of the right people.

One trend that is likely to continue in 2023 and beyond is the importance of mobile optimization. With more and more consumers using smartphones and tablets to browse the web, having a website and marketing strategy that is optimized for mobile devices is essential. This means ensuring that your website is easy to navigate on smaller screens and that your content is designed with mobile users in mind.

Finally, it's important to track your results and make data-driven decisions when it comes to your digital marketing strategy. This might involve using tools like Google Analytics to monitor your website traffic and user behavior, or investing in customer relationship management (CRM) software to track leads and sales.

By following these key digital marketing strategies, established veteran business owners can position themselves for success in 2023 and beyond. With the right approach, you can stand out online, reach new customers, and build a loyal following for your veteran-owned business.

Bonus Tip: Utilizing Email Marketing to Increase Customer Retention

One digital marketing strategy that can be especially effective for veteran-owned businesses is email marketing. By building an email list of past and potential customers, you can stay in touch with your audience and keep them informed about new products, services, and promotions.

But email marketing isn't just about sending out newsletters and promotional messages. To be effective, you need to focus on providing real value to your subscribers. This might mean sending out exclusive discounts or coupons, sharing helpful tips and insights, or providing behind-the-scenes glimpses of your business.

To maximize the impact of your email marketing campaigns, it's also important to segment your audience and tailor your messages to specific groups. For example, you might send different messages to new subscribers, loyal customers, or those who have abandoned their carts on your website.

Behind the Mission: National Invest In Veterans Week

Welcome to National Invest In Veterans Week. I am sure you have numerous questions regarding the mission and vision of National Invest In Veterans Week. Below are our most commonly asked questions regarding who we are and how to get involved with National Invest In Veterans Week.

What's National Invest In Veterans Week? 

National Invest In Veterans Week is a veteran-owned, award-winning social impact organization dedicated to advocating for veteran entrepreneurs nationwide. Established in 2017 by nationally syndicated columnist and Iraq War veteran Jeff Shuford and National Football League star Drayton Florence, National Invest In Veterans Week is hyper-focused on veteran business development nationwide.

So what awards has National Invest In Veterans Week won? 

A 2017 BizTech Award from Comcast Business, Named Best Social Impact Initiative Of 2021 by The Ritz Herald. A Veterans in Business Award from The Hudson Weekly and an Innovative Media Excellence Award from the Belmont Star. We are truly honored and dedicated to serving veterans nationwide.

What problem does National Invest In Veterans Week solve? 

For decades, veterans have embarked on the mission of launching successful businesses after serving our country. During their transitions, veterans are commonly presented with opportunities to work for companies rather than start their own. Our organization supports veteran entrepreneurs through advocacy, impact, and branding to help them become established, veteran business owners. 

When is National Invest In Veterans Week? 

National Invest In Veterans Week is observed each year from March 1st through March 7th. During the week, we honor aspiring and established veteran business owners and their contributions to the economy. Celebrate National Invest In Veterans Week by recognizing aspiring and established veteran entrepreneurs nationwide.

Why celebrate veteran business owners? 

According to the Small Business Administration, small business firms owned by veterans employed 5.03 million people, had an annual payroll of $195 billion and receipts of $1.14 trillion. Representing only 9.1 percent of all U.S. businesses, veterans have an unquestionable invaluable impact on economic ecosystems nationwide. A recent study by the SBA also noted, "For decades, military veterans have been a vital part of the nation's business sector—leveraging the valuable skills they gained during their service to start businesses across the country. However, veteran entrepreneurship is facing a generational decline, with younger veterans owning businesses at lower rates compared to past generations. Furthermore, we are now beginning to see veterans owning businesses at lower rates compared to nonveterans." National Invest In Veterans Week's mission is to empower veteran business owners of all generational demographics and to inspire the community to support our brave heroes as they start and grow businesses.

How to celebrate National Invest In Veterans Week? 

Consider the following tips:

1. Promote Veteran-Owned Businesses on Social Media.

2. Buy from Veteran-Owned Businesses.

3. Host a workshop for aspiring veteran entrepreneurs.

4. Nurture Veteran Startups—partner with a veteran-owned business.

5. Host a gathering of Veteran-Owned Businesses.

6. Mentor a veteran entrepreneur.

7. Promote National Invest In Veterans Week via social media.

8. Petition your local legislators to honor veterans during National Invest In Veterans Week.

9. Visit www.investinveteransweek.com to see how you can get involved, learn more about National Invest In Veterans Week's mission, and share your favorite veteran entrepreneur or veteran business on Social Media using the hashtag #National Invest In Veterans Week.

   Read More: https://www.investinveteransweek.com/veteran-entrepreneurship-insights-opportunities