August is Purple Heart Month! This month is dedicated to all the brave men and women wounded or killed in combat. The official Purple Heart Day is observed on the 7th day of August each year, commemorating the historic day in 1782 that General George Washington commissioned the first Purple Heart Medal, originally called the Badge of Military Merit. This month, we encourage everyone to recognize and support the military-connected individuals and families who make a lasting impact in our communities.
Upcoming Events:
| National Harbor Veterans Makers Market Saturday, August 1, 12–6 p.m. Registration Link |
| Governor's Challenge: Veteran Families and Caregivers: Understanding Needs, Roles, and Economic Impact Monday, August 10, 2–3 p.m. Registration Link |
| 2026 HIRE VETS NOW - Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Registration Thursday, August 13, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Registration Link |
| Military Cultural Competency Training Tuesday, August 18, 1–3 p.m. Registration Link |
| NCPTSD – Clinical Strategies for Treating Co-Occurring PTSD & Substance Use Disorder Wednesday, August 19, 2–3 p.m. Register Link |
| 2026 Boots to Business (Entrepreneurship) Class Thursday, August 20, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Registration Link |
Military Observances
| Antiterrorism Awareness Month |
| August 4: Coast Guard Day |
| August 7: Purple Heart Day |
| August 10: U.S. Department of Defense Birthday |
| August 10: Agent Orange Awareness Day |
| August 14: Navajo Code Talkers Day |
| August 16: National Airborne Day |
| August 29: Marine Corps Reserve Birthday |
Free SMVF Trainings with CEU Credit
| Supporting Hidden Helpers in the Classroom PsychArmor Training | Register This course is designed to increase the awareness and knowledge of professionals on the unique needs, strengths, and challenges faced by military caregiving youth. |
| Women Veterans Series PsychArmor Training, .5 CMEs | Register This online course is designed to introduce learners to the unique experiences and contributions of women service members and Veterans. |
| Connecting with the VA PsychArmor Training, .5 CEUs | Register This module is designed for healthcare professionals who treat military service members and military and Veteran-connected patients, wishing to work more effectively to promote patient understanding and culturally-informed care. |
| Caring for Our Diverse Military Population Register This innovative training program prepares mental health providers to address identified gaps in cultural competency within behavioral health services. The training covers key topics including military cultural humility, intersectionality, diversity in the military, mental health disparities, and culturally responsive treatment practices to improve care and outcomes for the military-connected community. |
To login to PsychArmor, follow this link. Create a username and password, and enjoy free trainings catered to professionals working within the
SMVF community.
Employment Opportunities
Are you seeking employment, and you are a veteran in need? Check out the resources below:
American Job Centers:
Career One Stop
Enter your military occupation and branch and it’ll populate where it can be utilized in a civilian career
VA Careers:
VaCareers.va.gov
Connect with a recruiter in your area
Hiring Our Heroes
Fellowships, career fairs, and networking events