Companies that hire veterans employ men and women who have received some of the worlds best skills and leadership training. Theyve been pushed to achieve high personal performance and know how to work in teams theyve had to cover someones back. They bring all this to work every day, along with their personal integrity and strength of character.

We need to help more veterans make the transition to a successful civilian career.

At a time when leaders across the political spectrum agree on the need to boost employment, most of us would also agree that our veterans deserve an extra level of support in getting a job.

Today, while we collectively honor the brave men and women who have served our country, we must also commit to providing that support. American businesses and individual citizens, working with community organizations and private charities, can make a huge difference now.

It wont be easy. The challenges are immense.

Were in the middle of an unprecedented influx of veterans. Since the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan began, 2.4 million soldiers have returned home.

Coming back from war and adjusting to the civilian world can be difficult. Many veterans suffer serious combat wounds. Many more carry emotional and psychological scars. They need a range of support -- from education and re-training, to career guidance and job-hunting skills, to appropriate role models and mentors.

We cant assume that government agencies can handle this task. For example, the Veterans Affairs (VA) wing of the federal government is, like the rest of the military, under severe fiscal pressures. There likely wont be a substantial expansion in VA services over the next few years. Thats why the private sector and individual citizens need to step up to help provide the educational, professional, and mental health services veterans need to thrive.

Here are some ways we all can help.

First, recognize that this isnt a partisan issue. Whether you live in a blue state or a red state, chances are that you are connected to someone in the military -- either in your own family or that of a friend, neighbor, or co-worker. Make a commitment to do what you can to help.

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Kennedy: This Veterans Day, do your part to honor today’s heroes