Video by Sandi Moynihan

FORT CARSON, Colorado–When service members move to a new job within the military, it’s a relatively simple process. Cover letters aren’t written, resumes aren’t exchanged and there’s no need to wear a suit.

But when service members transition out of military, finding a civilian job – and all that the process entails – can seem like a daunting task.

As part of the USO Transition 360 Alliance, USO has teamed up with Hiring Our Heroes to host free transition summits at military installations across the country to connect service members, veterans and military spouses to meaningful career opportunities. These summits include town-hall style panel discussions, networking opportunities, employment workshops and hiring fairs.

“When we’re face-to-face with hundreds of service members and their families, it provides an opportunity … to make sure that the service members are making a successful transition,” USO Vice President of Programs and Operations Alan Reyes said.

Earlier this fall, the USO and Hiring Our Heroes, along with the George W. Bush Institute, hosted a special two-day transition summit at Fort Carson featuring former President George W. Bush as a keynote speaker.

“Having the president here, and being able to partner with great organizations like the George W. Bush Institute and the USO, is a prime example of what we can accomplish when we work together to address the complex challenges faced by military families and chart the way ahead,” said Eric Eversole, president of Hiring Our Heroes and a vice president at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

You can send a message of support and thanks directly to service members via the USO’s Campaign to Connect. Your messages will appear on screens at USO locations around the world.