North Carolina is the most military friendly state in the nation and has the third largest military presence in the country, as well as more than 720,000 veterans who call our state home.
In 2023, the State of North Carolina was ranked by Forbes as a top-50 Best Employer for Veterans in the country, clocking in at No. 46. North Carolina was the only state government to receive recognition in the Best Employers for Veterans 2023 rankings, which consisted of 150 employers.
To help make North Carolina a welcoming place for servicemembers who are transitioning into civilian life, Governor Cooper established the Governor’s Working Group on Veterans Affairs, which focuses on job creation, workforce enrichment, health and wellness, legal and financial services and benefits for veterans.
- In 2024, Governor Cooper hosted a veterans roundtable to discuss employment initiatives and how the state can better support members, visited Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune where he viewed construction on base and met with military leaders and service members, and visited Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point where he participated in the North Carolina Commanders’ Council Meeting and joined officials on a tour of the installation.
- Governor Cooper proclaimed Employ a Veteran Week, hosted a Military Appreciation Month celebration, and advocated for investments in early childhood education centers and public schools in servicemember communities.