WV Farm Bureau Magazine December 2015 | Page 13

M ilitary veterans returning to civilian life can find the transition difficult, especially when it comes to employment. Thanks to the American Farm Bureau Federation's Patriot Project, service men and women can put their skills to work in a new field back home. The Patriot Project connects military veterans interested in farming with experienced Farm Bureau members. The mentorship is a natural fit for many of our nation's veterans. They are up for the challenges agriculture brings, according to Damon Helton, an army veteran mentee from Arkansas. "Farm life has had such a positive impact on me and my family," Helton said. "My military experience helped me contribute to my country with hard work and dedication. Farming has given me that same opportunity and leaves me very fulfilled." At its heart, the Patriot Project is about strengthening community and creating mentorships that help