On October 15, 2013, President Obama awarded the Medal of Honor to Army Capt. William Swenson for his heroic actions during the 2009 Battle of Ganjgal in eastern Afghanistan. Captain Swenson was an Afghan Border Police advisor in support of 1st Battalion 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Bridgade Combat Team, of the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) at the time of the battle.
According to the Medal of Honor description, he pulled numerous comrades out of danger in an ambush. Much of the battle and, particularly, Capt. Swenson’s heroics were captured on video thanks to a video camera on a colleague’s helmet.
Captain Swenson is re-enlisting. After leaving the Army in 2011, he could not find a job. That’s right. This hero, who risked life and limb for the USA and his comrades, never found a job when he returned home. Unbelievable. According to an article in the Washington Post, Capt. Swenson is single and living in Seattle where he spends free time alone in the mountains. He can’t find a job.
On this Veterans Day, we thank Captain William D. Swenson for his service and bravery. You are truly an example to us all of exemplary leadership.
We encourage everyone in a position to hire to consider hiring a veteran. The person you hire could be like Captain Swenson, a true leader.