Industry Leaders Address Issues Facing Returning Veterans

Online, August 18, 2012 (Newswire.com) - In an effort to raise awareness about returning veterans and the needs of their families as they reintegrate into civilian life, Big Brothers Big Sisters will be hosting the third annual America's Future Series at 11:30 on Tuesday, September 11th at the Irving Convention Center.

The event will feature guest speakers T. Boone Pickens, Chairman of BP Capital, Joe DePinto, CEO of 7-Eleven, Pete Geren, Former Secretary of the Army and T. Charles Pierson, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. These national and industry leaders will address the corporate community's response to returning vets, as well as actions our nation can take to help insure the men and women of our military return to opportunity and prosperity in their home state.

"Veterans who have proudly served our country are returning home and it is important for business leaders to support them in their transition back to civilian life through job creation," said T. Boone Pickens. "This conference will address whether we are rising to the challenge and assisting our veterans and families as they deal with the everyday stresses of military life and reintegration. Now is the time to discuss these critical issues and take immediate steps for change."

The event will conclude with the induction of Pierson into the T. Boone Pickens Mentoring Hall of Fame, located in Irving, Texas. Former inductees include Don Carty, Randall Stephenson and Governor Rick Perry.

America's Future Series is co-sponsored by the Irving Chamber of Commerce and ESPN Radio. All proceeds from the event will go to support the T. Boone Pickens Military Mentors program of Big Brothers Big Sisters. For ticket, table and sponsorship information, please visit www.bbbstx.org/americasfuture.