Employers are joining with the Wounded Warrior Project to hold a job fair for disabled veterans in Arlington tomorrow (Wednesday).
The daylong event is being held at the Sheraton National Hotel (900 S. Orme Street), near the intersection of Columbia Pike and Washington Boulevard. About 60 unemployed or underemployed disabled vets will have the opportunity to network with local employers while receiving job placement training.
In addition to helping to find employment for the disabled attendees, the event is also intended to bring attention to unemployment among U.S. combat veterans. As of 2010, the unemployment rate for those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces since Sept. 2001 was 11.5 percent.
“Despite their unwavering courage, many of these men and women return home from duty only to become part of a growing group of unemployed veteran,” said Gen. Richard B. Myers, retired chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff, in a statement. “The Wounded Warriors Project provides these individuals with a tremendous opportunity to make a successful transition into the private sector and have a chance for economic prosperity.”
The event — the “Aon Salute to America’s Wounded Warriors” — has also been held in cities like New York, Chicago and Pittsburgh.