In May, the U.S. veteran unemployment rate was 3.8%, up from 3.7% the previous month and up from 2.9% in 2024. While veterans usually have a lower unemployment rate then the general population, the rise in unemployment is a concern. 

One place many veterans find a home after service is in the New York State Police, among the largest employers of military and veterans in New York state.

The State Police is so successful at employing veterans that it's being recognized for it. This Friday an awards recognition luncheon will take place with over 100 New York State Police officers who are also in the military, recognizing the support that they have received while working at the State Police. 

Capital Tonight discussed recruiting and retaining veterans for positions within the State Police with the U.S. Department of Defense’s Emil Baker, director of employer outreach for New York State, ESGR (Employers Support of the Guard and Reserve), and New York State trooper and military liaison, Lt. Col. Mike Richardson, of U.S. Army Reserves.

For more information on positions with the State Police, visit joinstatepolice.ny.gov or call the military liaison at 518-457-6498.