In the early fall, I joined the HillVets LEAD Cohort 6. The goal was to plan a conference for the military and veteran supportive community But what does that exactly mean?

“The HillVets LEAD proteges are dedicated individuals that spend 12 weeks improving their skills alongside some of our Nation’s most sought after leaders. Individuals join a lifelong “fireteam” of 6 who will push each other to success.  These individuals will stay engaged in the years to come, look for ways to improve each other and the program, and pay it forward to those that follow in their footsteps.” HillVets LEAD – HillVets

The conference was located in Washington D.C. at the culmination of the program. Panels focused on defense, veterans, and media. The proteges planned and coordinated the panels in teams. The theme of the conference was “9/11+20: Impacts of a Generational Conflict”.

Events like these are important because they keep the conversations going. After moderating the veterans panel: “Picking Up the Pieces: Exploring Veterans’ Challenges and Opportunities Following GWOT”, I spoke with many veterans and military/ veteran supporters who were impacted by topics brought up in our panel. The other panels were fantastic! The defense team focused on the “Signature Wounds of War”, and the media team focused on “The Physical, Mental, and Emotional Impacts of Covering Post 9/11 Conflict”.

CAPCON occurs at least twice a year through HillVets. Visit their website at: HillVets – Improving the lives of veterans in government, policy, and politics.

Plus, there will be more HillVets involvement in the future, stay tuned for updates at: Home – Kirsten Laha-Walsh (kirstenlw.com)