DyNAMC Issue 10 November 2015 Preview | Page 16

Joseph Krulder II: Fought for His Country, and Now Fights Discrimination Against Veterans By Writer Diane DiPiero Rodio DyNAMC Board member, Joseph Krulder, II, is the Senior Director of Communications for Hope for the Warriors and former Vice President at Drexel Hamilton. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in the spring of 2001 and served as an Infantry Sergeant in the 101st Airborne Division during OEF/OIF. Joe was a member of the invasion force into Iraq in the spring of 2003 with the 101st Airborne Division 1/327th Infantry Regiment. Upon completing two tours of duty in Iraq (2003- 2004), Joe finished his enlistment in 2004. Joe is a Service Connected Disabled Veteran, whose military awards and decorations include: The Combat Infantry Badge (CIB), Army Jump Wings, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and National Service Defense Medal. A hands hake and an enthusiastic “thank you for your service” typically greet soldiers returning from war. This country’s respect for our military knows no limits -- until it comes to business opportunities, employment and housing. Such discrimination often leaves soldiers feeling unappreciated and sometimes desperate. Joseph Krudler II Joseph Krulder, II knows this feeling all too well. Through his own emotional journey, he shares with DyNAMC readers insights on how to remove the obstacles often faced by vets returning home.