Koby Langley
Senior Vice President, International Services and Services to the Armed Forces, American Red Cross
When transitioning back to civilian life, many veterans choose to continue serving their country through work at the Red Cross.
Navigating the many transitions connected with military and veteran service can be challenging. Many returning to civilian life after service find meaningful work at the American Red Cross, either through full-time employment or volunteer work. The organization gives former military personnel the opportunity to continue their service to the country while supporting fellow soldiers.
“After departing from the United States Navy, I was seeking an opportunity to put my skills and talents to work in service of my community,” says Anthony Tornetta, director of media relations, American Red Cross. “I was excited to find out the Red Cross provided me a way to continue serving my country while also making an impact in my community.”
Approximately 6 percent of Red Cross employees include transitioning military or veterans, occupying positions at all levels of the organization – from nurses to logisticians, emergency management experts, project managers, and preparedness experts. Today, a number of veterans hold leadership roles in chapters across the country.
Tens of thousands of volunteers serve in Veterans Administration (VA) and military hospitals across the nation and around the world. Volunteers provide vital assistance in the areas of rehabilitation, recreation, administration, and personal services to the men and women who answered their country’s call and who are now cared for in these facilities.
Since 2011, Stephen Peth, a Vietnam veteran, has been forming bonds with wounded warriors as a Red Cross volunteer at the Department of Rehabilitation in the Amputee Program at Walter Reed. Through empathy and personal experience as a wounded combat veteran, he has made unforgettable personal connections.
“You’re around patients that are severely wounded. And if you can bring a smile to their face in one way or another, that makes me feel good. And the appreciation expressed by the staff makes me want to volunteer even more,” Peth said.