One of the distinguishing strengths of the U.S. military is its commitment to continuous learning. From initial training through professional military education and operational assignments, service members develop technical expertise, leadership, critical thinking and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Learning is not an occasional activity. It is an expectation embedded throughout a military career.
Why should that expectation, or our investment in it, end when someone leaves the military? Honoring service should also mean investing in what comes next.
For generations, the GI Bill has opened doors to higher education and economic opportunity. The promise of education remains a powerful incentive to serve and a means of changing the trajectory of entire families.
Student veterans are not traditional college students. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, 62%…