SALEM - Governor Ted Kulongoski has proclaimed two significant times in November to recognize Oregon veterans.  Veterans Awareness Week and Hire A Veteran Month have been designated to honor veterans and to encourage all employers to hire Oregon's military veterans.
 
Veterans Awareness Week will be celebrated Nov. 9-15, as Oregonians prepare for and take part in patriotic activities on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
 
Oregon is home to approximately 345,000 veterans and many do not have work despite their skilled training and experience. Governor Kulongoski says “Hire A Veteran Month” is a tremendous opportunity for all employers to help put veterans back to work.
 
"When leaving military service, having a job can make all the difference in the lives of veterans and their families. As an employer, if you have employees who are called to active duty, ensure their jobs are waiting for them when they return," Governor Kulongoski said. 
 
"I am encouraging employers statewide to hire as many veterans as possible, not only during this month, but as a long-term matter of policy. Let that be your thanks for their service."
 
Several thousand Oregon servicemembers are currently serving in harms way in the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. More than 48 million men and women have served in the United States armed forces with more than one million having made the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives. Another 1.5 million have been wounded.
 
Along with the Governor, Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs Director Jim Willis is strongly urging all Oregonians to honor and remember veterans during November.
 
"Our veterans left the security of their home and family. They delayed or forfeited personal opportunities to volunteer their service. Some have given their lives to serve in the cause of freedom and the threats to its stability," Willis said. 
 
"When they return home, employers should strongly consider the training, leadership and strong work ethic these veterans bring to any job. Hiring veterans and their experience will contribute to the continued success of the businesses willing to employ them."