Why the Business Community Should Support Reassignment Programs for Injured Veterans

In today’s evolving workforce, where diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are front and center, it’s time for the business community to take a bold stand for another critical value: reasonable reassignment for injured military personnel. These programs don’t just benefit the individuals who serve—they strengthen our national workforce, boost morale, and reflect the values many companies already claim to uphold.

The Problem: Injured Veterans Are Being Discharged, Not Reassigned

Each year, thousands of service members are separated from the military due to injuries that make them non-deployable—but not incapable. Despite possessing valuable skills in cybersecurity, logistics, leadership, administration, and technical fields, these men and women are often let go without a path to continue serving in modified roles.

For private employers, this would be unacceptable. A civilian employer is required by law to consider reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. But in the military, no such protection currently exists for those who want to stay and serve in non-combat roles.

The Opportunity: Business Values in Action

Veteran-hiring initiatives have already become a badge of honor for many companies. Now imagine if those same companies used their influence to advocate for policy reforms that align with the principles they champion in the civilian world—like:

• Retention of skilled personnel

• Access to reasonable accommodations

• Recognition of invisible injuries and long-term potential

• Leadership through adversity

Supporting reassignment programs is not just about keeping someone in uniform—it’s about honoring their whole potential and recognizing that ability does not end at injury.

The Business Case

Companies that support reassignment initiatives will benefit in multiple ways:

• Brand Reputation: Public alignment with veteran well-being sends a clear message to consumers, investors, and employees that your business walks the talk.

• Talent Pipeline: Veterans who are reassigned and retained in service build skills that make them better prepared for your workforce later. Think: leadership, discipline, crisis management, and adaptability.

• Corporate Citizenship: Advocacy for reassignment policies is a powerful way to fulfill your social responsibility goals and deepen relationships with veteran-focused organizations.

What Can You Do?

1. Partner with veteran advocacy groups like Covenant of Courage and the #ReasonableRanks campaign.

2. Speak out publicly in favor of military reassignment policy reforms.

3. Include reassignment and accommodation equity in your government affairs and CSR platforms.

4. Fund or sponsor transition training for veterans who are reassigned rather than discharged.

Final Thought: Support That Goes Beyond Lip Service

The business world has the platform, resources, and credibility to push for systemic change. If we’re truly committed to equity and inclusion, we must ensure our service members aren’t discarded when they can no longer deploy—but rather uplifted and empowered in new roles.

Reassignment is not charity—it’s justice. It’s smart. And it’s a mission the business community can help lead.

✊ #ReasonableRanks #VeteranRights #DisabilityJustice #MilitaryPolicyReform #BusinessForGood #SupportOurTroops