Hi Vets,

I have read a lot on information on this site and there are some goodies. I have found it to be very informative. I am very happy to have found this site because it has helped me understand the problems that veterans face today; many of these problems are similar to ones I faced after serving in Southeast Asia. I wanted to share some ideas on how enthusiasm is key for your transition. Whether you are running your own small business or working for a larger company, enthusiasm is important.

After leaving the service, there's no greater opportunity than starting a business. I was very fortunate to operate my own small businesses: one was family owned and another was my own business. Veterans have an advantage and many have become very successful by showing their integrity, honesty and superior product knowledge. There are many times you will find yourself alone having to wear many hats. This can be scary, but it's also exciting! You and you alone control your future.

On the other hand, a large company offers you the opportunity to network with some great talent, both military and private sector. Did you know a large number of former Military men control many large companies and sit on various boards and commissions? For instance, the new Head of the VA, a former solider and Ranger, was running a very successful Fortune 500 Company before he left to run the multi-billion dollar enterprise. He was approved without any debate - this approval speaks volumes about the leadership of former military personnel. It's is exciting to see former service members achieve success!

It has been often said, that even former Marines who are running large companies today still say "Yes Sir/Ma'am" and "No Sir/Ma'am" to their customers. If I have one piece of advice, it's this: don't wait for someone else; you are going to have to know more, be more, and do more than your competition. Be willing to share your success.

Good luck and contact me if you want.

Joe Floyd
USAF