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National Military Thriving Change Forum: Empowering Veterans and Communities

On June 8, 2026, the third edition of the National Military Thriving® Change Forum was held in partnership with Georgetown University. This year’s event marks a critical moment in reshaping how military families are supported across the United States. With the backdrop of significant anniversaries, including the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and America's 250th year, the forum was convened by ZeroMils, a service-disabled veteran-owned social impact organization, aimed at enhancing the lives of military personnel and their families.

A History of Change

The journey to this pivotal moment began three years ago, when the first Military Thriving Change Forum was organized in 2024, reflecting the urgency of connecting veterans with the resources they need. The inaugural gathering saw 160 leaders from various sectors collaborate to tackle the alarming statistic that the U.S. military had fallen short of its enlistment goals by 41,000 recruits the previous year.

In 2025, the second forum took a step further by launching the Military Thriving® Action Coalition with the help of key partners such as National University and Wells Fargo. Through community engagement and extensive discussions across 15 regions, a path was forged that propelled the military narrative towards empowerment and pride in service.

The 2026 Forum: Focused on Future Generations

Today's forum, hosted at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., is not just about reflection but action. It brings together community leaders from six cities that will host their own Regional Military Thriving Change Forums in the upcoming year. The primary goal is to enhance local leadership and community collaboration to improve outcomes for military-affiliated families.

A significant part of the agenda reflects the need to equip service members and their families with the knowledge necessary for successful transitions to civilian life. Experts will discuss various pathways in education and entrepreneurship, ensuring clear, actionable insights for attendees.

One of the highlights of the day was the keynote address by Dr. Mark Milliron, President and CEO of National University, emphasizing a tailored educational model for military families and veterans. He stated, "Military ANDers — those who juggle being students, employees, entrepreneurs, and caregivers — require an educational framework that aligns with their unique lives."

Keynotes and Workshops

The forum featured insightful discussions, including a lunch keynote by Mike Davis, CEO of Neighborly, who discussed how veterans can leverage their leadership skills to thrive as franchise business owners. Breakout sessions encouraged interaction and collaboration among stakeholders from various states, all focused on laying the groundwork for future forums.

As Kevin Schmiegel, CEO of ZeroMils and a retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel, pointed out, the forum serves a crucial purpose: "To change the narrative surrounding veterans, transforming their experiences into triumphs rather than tales of struggle. We are here to empower veterans and inspire their contributions to society."

A Call to Community Action

This forum stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of community support in shaping the futures of veterans. As the nation reflects on acts of service and commitment, ZeroMils, alongside Georgetown University, calls upon individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to foster enduring relationships that help military families thrive.

The event was livestreamed to extend its reach, allowing countless others across the nation to engage with the ongoing dialogue about military service and community responsibility.
With a diverse lineup of speakers, including notable veterans and business leaders, the forum showcased various perspectives on how to cultivate an environment where veterans can flourish as active community members.

Looking Forward

As the nation prepares for the monumental anniversaries of 9/11 and its founding, the time is ripe for a renewed commitment to veterans' support and service. The ZeroMils movement fosters a collective responsibility, calling upon all sectors of society to contribute to the development of a supportive culture.

The ongoing mission of ZeroMils is clear: transforming how we view and engage with our veterans, ensuring their stories are celebrated not just on memorial days but every day as integral pieces of our national fabric. Their journey to thriving begins not just with their service but with our unwavering support and recognition of their enduring contributions to our society.

For more details, visit ZeroMils.