WASHINGTON, Nov. 9, 2017 – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced the launch of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) resources to provide comprehensive and timely support to veterans interested in opportunities in agriculture, agribusiness, and in rural America. Today, USDA unveiled a new website, announced a new Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison, and developed a USDA-wide AgLearn curriculum to allow all employees to understand the unique opportunities offered to our nation’s veterans. USDA-wide AgLearn curriculum to allow all employees to understand the unique opportunities offered to our nation’s veterans.

“From the beginning of this Administration, USDA has focused on how to best serve our veterans,” said Secretary Perdue. “These men and women of the United States military have kept America free and deserve the utmost respect. Across the country, these veterans are beginning to fill roles that preserve rural communities while providing for their livelihood. Through these resources, USDA is committed to helping veterans in agricultural areas so we can strengthen the American economy and provide assistance for those who have served. Veterans and agriculture are just a great fit.”

Secretary Perdue also announced William B. Ashton as USDA’s new Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison (MVAL). Mr. Ashton comes to USDA from the Naval Sea Systems Command Headquarters where he recently served as Security Director for the Commander to lead the security efforts of the command.   

“I’m incredibly thankful for this opportunity,” said Mr. Ashton. “USDA is devoted to helping veterans learn and succeed through the agriculture industry, throughout rural America, and around the world. I’m honored for this opportunity by Secretary Perdue to help implement his vision to support veterans and to open the doors of opportunity at USDA, in agriculture and agriculture-related careers to those who, like me, have defended this great nation.” 

USDA supports veterans in the areas of the “3Es” – employment, education, and entrepreneurship, and pulls together programs from the Department’s 17 agencies that veterans may use.
 
You may click HERE to learn more about USDA’s new veterans resources.

Veterans who are interested in learning more about opportunities through USDA can visit www.usda.gov/veterans or visit their local USDA Service Center.

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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.