The Marine Raider Foundation is one of the largest supporters of The Honor Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides a world-class transition institute for U.S. Special Operations Forces to help them navigate the transition from military to civilian life and careers. Together, they were able to successfully build a third campus for transitioning Marine Raiders near Camp Lejeune in Surf City, North Carolina.
The first cohort at the new campus commenced in August 2018. Fellows can join a cohort each fall and spring for a three-month program that provides tailored executive education, 120 hours of one-on-one coaching, and access to a nationwide professional network. The Honor Foundation has served over 125 Marine Raiders and continues to see a steady increase across all campuses.
Andrew Christian, Executive Director of the Marine Raider Foundation, is a retired Marine Special Operations Officer who completed the program and was honored as the Class Honor Man for Group 13. The Honor Foundation also employs proud alumni like Michael Halterman, a retired Marine Raider, and Plank Owner of 1st Marine Raider Battalion. After graduating, he assumed the role of Director of Virtual Programs, where he ensures those attending the virtual campus from around the world have the same experience as those within the classroom.
“I am most fortunate being around those service members who have given so much and helping them through tough times to shift from trepidation or fear to opportunity,” said Halterman. As an alumnus and staff member, Mike knows how to help others find success and flourish. He aims to help as many transitioning service members with high quality and high touch support.
“I can’t imagine not working in the non-profit sector, and not working at the Honor Foundation,” said Halterman. Transition Assistance is one of four main programs that the Marine Raider Foundation supports and is a major component of what we do.
We resource this effort to ensure that the Raiders who have dedicated their lives to service are supported as they transition to their next mission, finding meaning and purposeful employment after leaving the military. There are many ways to support our efforts for Transition Assistance, and if you feel compelled please consider volunteering or donating, so that the Marine Raider Foundation can continue to expand its reach with important partnerships that support transitioning Raiders.
Photo Credit: The Honor Foundation