News Release
OPM Sends Recruiters to "Screaming Eagles" Nest at Fort Campbell Kentucky to Promote Federal Job Opportunities for Veterans
Director Kay Coles James cites acclaimed history of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) and calls on FortCampbell's personnel to serve America in a civilian capacity after completion of military service
Washington, D.C. -- Sixty-two years after its Commander foresaw "a Rendezvous with destiny" for the recruits of 1942's inaugural class of the 101st Airborne Division, U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director Kay Coles James offered her own prediction for the 101st, famously known as "The Screaming Eagles."
"When the military history of America is spoken, the accomplishments of ‘The Screaming Eagles' are among those front and center," said James. "And when the men and women of today's 101st Airborne complete their military duties serving America with bravery and distinction and are ready to volunteer for America's civil service, they, too, will be destined for greatness as civilian public servants. We are ready to embrace them, their leadership qualities, and their readiness to further serve this nation."
The 101st Airborne is one of the most storied units in U.S. military history. The unit fought at Normandy and Bastogne in World War II. They also saw action in Viet Nam and the Gulf Wars.
The visit by OPM staffing and recruitment experts supports Phase II of the Veteran Invitational Program (VIP), the Bush Administration's initiative to communicate Veterans' Preference rights on federal employment opportunities to airmen, soldiers and sailors.
"We were very fortunate at Fort Campbell to be visited by the OPM Outreach Team," said Sonya Leavelle, Transition Services Director. "The information shared was invaluable. Thanks to the Office of Personnel Management for servicing our soldiers."
OPM's staffing and recruiting experts greeted servicemembers at Fort Campbell with information and workshops on Veterans' Preference employment rights and special hiring authorities federal agencies can use to hire qualified veterans. Workshops also were held on résumé writing and improving interviewing techniques.
Fort Campbell military personnel also were hosted at training seminars and workshops that covered the use of the USAJOBS website (www.usajobs.opm.gov), where 17,000 federal job openings are advertised daily. Hands-on tutoring sessions were available for rehearsals with the résumé-builder and other features that enhance and improve the job-search experience for job seekers.
"For many reasons, the federal government wants to employ veterans," said James. "For one, uniformed personnel have a track record of success and have acquired many skills and technical disciplines that can be transferred into federal civilian operations. Another, it is simply the right thing to do; to offer a job to someone who has put his or her professional life on hold to serve our nation. I can think of no greater deed than to honor our returning servicemen and servicewomen with the opportunity to further serve America."
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