Finding your “Mission” again.
The Power of Veteran organizations and networking.
Why is it that when a veteran leaves the service and comes into the corporate life, he/she struggles to stay on track? Why are Veterans more prone to depression? Why do some Veterans struggle with their emotions and have a hard time relating to corporate leadership?
There are a lot of questions like these that have been the beginning of some of my very long, heartfelt conversations. I’ve grown passionate over the last 10 years in trying to help both Veterans peel back their layers and realize, they already know the answer to each of these. They just have to step out of their comfort zone and trust in themselves. I’ve also had these same conversations with non-veterans in hopes that they might be able to see the signs ahead of time and possibly help the Veterans in their lives before it’s too late.
Here's my personal thoughts. I hope that sharing them will be of assistance, even if only to a few of you. Having served myself I understand these struggles to the core, but also understand that there are people out there who are trying to help. You just need to look a little harder and be willing to send that email, make that phone call, or ask for more information.
Advice from one Veteran to another.
Taking initiative and not expecting handouts is the first step. If you sit by quietly, not getting involved in your community and just let the world pass by, then you are not going to find your mission again.
Seek out your local Veteran nonprofits! They are truly there to help and can be your greatest source of networking. Organizations like Permian Warrior Partnership among others are amazing resources not only for networking but can assist you with many things to include assistance with military benefits, education assistance, employment placing, housing assistance and legal assistance. Utilizing organizations like these can go a long way in helping you break free of the struggles that are holding you back. https://www.permianwarriorpartnership.org
Seek out Companies that are heavily active in supporting Veterans. Making connections with their employees on LinkedIn and attending events they host are a few of many ways to get yourself in front of the right person. Hint: There's a huge list at the bottom of this article!
Help others! No matter what position we find ourselves in, there is always time to help someone else. Never forget that. Whether it’s making a phone call, sponsoring an event, offering to volunteer, or making an introduction, we can all help one another.
I’m going to share an example of just how powerful the things I’ve listed above can truly become.
On February 7th, 2014, I received a phone call from Roy Dobbins with Permian Warrior Partnership (PWP) asking if I was available to attend the Blast into Spring Veterans Clay Shoot that was being hosted by Battle Dawgs and PWP. Without even a question I agreed to come help support this great cause.
Rick Casillo , Founder of Battle Dawgs, has a vision of exposing our nations bravest heroes to therapeutic and exciting experiences by harnessing the natural splendor of Alaska’s landscape and the power of sled dogs. In doing so he can provide a natural portal to help rehabilitate the battle wounded and the battle weary. His vision is to collaborate with other long-distance organizations so that he can not only bring Veterans to Alaska, but to a large network of amazing excursions that he continuously grows. https://www.battledawgs.org
It was with Rick’s vision and the combined efforts of Roy Dobbins, the Permian Warrior Partnership, and Battle Dawgs team that made this such an amazing event.
Such an amazing turnout!
I personally was able to witness the power of networking at this event. In 3 months-time they were able to network with the list of sponsors below and put together an epic event that will never be forgotten. They were also able to raise an amazing amount of money to be used in future Veteran camps, all while bringing five of the 1st Special Forces group team members together from all over the country and show them just how much we care.
I thank each of the five Veteran Brothers below for all that you’ve done as well as the sponsors, and volunteers for assisting in such a memorable day. I’m looking forward to helping grow this event on a massive scale and showing Battle Dawgs just what we’re all capable of down here in the Permian Basin. I urge each of you to reach out to Roy Dobbins and get involved in the massive movement that has been started.
Sponsored Veterans:
Chris Johnson; Drew Busic; Nate Abkemeier; Mark Colbert; Earl Plumlee Jr
Sponsors:
Diamondback Energy
Axis Energy Group
CAVU International
Herc Rentals
ExxonMobil
Select Chemistry Services
Victory Well Servicing LLC.
Endeavor Energy Resources, LP
Chad McAllaster
MMP Consulting, LLC
2 Dudes Carpet Cleaning
Bear Pipe & Tool
Permian Basin Chevrolet
Prime Well Solutions
Rwdy Inc
Night Hawk Services
ConocoPhillips - NM
American Well Services
BlackStar Operating
Certarus Ltd.
Jacam Catalyst
Old School Services, LLC
ConocoPhillips - TX
J&J Tamez
Rental King
H-E-B
HTeaO
Mil 2 Civ
Nine Energy Service
SuperRod
Volunteers:
Melissa waller - Herc Rentals
CJ Summers
Cymber Solis
Percey - Eight Energy
Lewis Hinojos
Gina Laub
Joshua Laub
Marcus Nichols
Jay Whitlow
Jessy Lakin
Rick Casillo
Jennifer Casillo
Scott Emerson
Janie Snelson
Daniel Radabaugh
