Many veterans have found employment in the trucking sector after their military service. Although the shift to civilian life can be challenging, some veterans have discovered healing by helping others and improving the lives of fellow ex-soldiers. Here are three accounts of veterans and company leaders who have helped their peers find job opportunities and established nonprofits to support them.
Gus Corona’s Journey
Gus Corona’s life took a significant turn after serving 24 years in the Air Force. He faced planned transitions like moving back to Texas and adapting to civilian life, but also unexpected challenges, such as an 18-year marriage ending and losing contact with his children.
For veterans, the shift from military to civilian life varies widely. Some navigate it smoothly, while others encounter serious struggles. Many return with both physical injuries and psychological scars. Corona’s experience was no exception.
Describing the struggle, he said, “It really messed me up. I was in a dark time when I got out of the military, used to structured environments. Transitioning felt like starting all over.” Overcoming difficult thoughts, Corona found new job paths including a gym trainer and chef, which mirrored some aspects of military life. Eventually, he secured a position at Melton Truck Lines while pursuing his CDL, and a year later, he was promoted to train new drivers.
A Mentor and Advocate
David Harper, a Marine Corps veteran and Corona’s supervisor at Melton, noted that Corona serves more than just as a trainer; he acts as a mentor and a vital presence in the company. Harper and Corona are committed to raising awareness about veteran suicide and offering support to first responders.
“Mental health is something I try to help with as best as I can,” Corona shared. Harper added that many veterans experience challenges in adapting, as military life provides a close-knit community that can be difficult to leave behind. Together, they aim to support veterans through their transition to civilian life.
Fastport’s Mission
Fastport was established to assist military veterans and their families in finding meaningful employment. Originally tied to the Hiring Our Heroes initiative, the company developed tools like the resume engine that translates military experience into civilian job skills. Fastport has worked with the U.S. Department of Labor to address long-standing veteran hiring issues.
One of their initiatives, the Transition Trucking Driving for Excellence Award, recognizes veterans, employers, and training institutions contributing to the trucking industry’s safety and comfort. Each December, finalists gather for a ceremony where the grand prize is a truck from Kenworth Truck Co., symbolizing the transition from military to civilian life.
Waypoint Vets: Sarah Lee’s Story
Sarah Lee faced her own challenges after serving in the Army National Guard, looking to recreate the sense of teamwork she found during service. After her military career and subsequent injuries ended her photography business, she struggled with physical pain and loss of purpose, leading to a critical moment in her life.
Turning to cycling for healing, Lee embarked on a journey of over 4,000 miles from Yorktown, Virginia, to San Francisco, which inspired her to establish Waypoint Vets. The organization focuses on taking veterans on outdoor adventures to foster camaraderie and healing.
Recent Initiatives
Waypoint Vets has organized multiple trips for veterans, including a November 2023 excursion for Vietnam War veterans that provided an opportunity for healing and connection. Lee noted the power of shared experiences during the trip, which aimed to promote closure for many participants.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available via the National Suicide Lifeline at 988, or visit 988lifeline.org. Veterans can also reach the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1.
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