Update: Jim Freeman and Jeff Shuford Make History with Five Congressional Record Entries

A Family Legacy in Music, Business, and Veteran Advocacy

For the first time in U.S. history, a single family has secured five Congressional Record entries, honoring their lasting contributions to music, business, and veteran advocacy. The Freeman-Shuford family has left an undeniable mark on American culture, receiving Congressional honors, state proclamations, and even a federal court citation, proving their multi-generational influence across industries.

From Jim Freeman’s legendary role in doo-wop to Jeff Shuford’s leadership in veteran entrepreneurship, their impact has spanned decades, shaping both cultural and economic landscapes.

📖 Read more about their historic journey:
🔗 Invest In Veterans Magazine
🔗 Kellum Corporation Blog
🔗 Courtyards at San Jose News

Breaking Down the Five Congressional Record Entries

🎵 Jim Freeman & The Five Satins (1994) – Doo-Wop Pioneers Recognized

On August 19, 1994, Senator Joe Lieberman honored Jim Freeman and The Five Satins in the Congressional Record, recognizing their then Singer frontman Bill Baker and the Satins role in shaping American music history with their timeless hit, In the Still of the Nite. This entry cemented their status as one of the most influential doo-wop groups of all time.

🎶 Jim Freeman & The Five Satins (2015) – A Second Congressional Tribute

On April 23, 2015, Rep. Rosa DeLauro reaffirmed the group’s lasting impact, noting how In the Still of the Nite remained a cultural touchstone for generations.

🎤 Jim Freeman (2015) – Individual Recognition

Later that same year, Jim Freeman was honored separately for his personal contributions to music, acknowledging his unique role in shaping the doo-wop genre beyond The Five Satins.

🇺🇸 Jeff Shuford (2024) – Championing Veteran Entrepreneurship

On March 8, 2024, Rep. Matt Rosendale entered National Invest In Veterans Week® into the Congressional Record, spotlighting its impact on veteran-owned businesses. As co-founder, Jeff Shuford was recognized for his leadership in advocating for veteran entrepreneurs and shaping policy discussions on their behalf.

📀 Jim Freeman & The Five Satins (2004) – Lost in the Fifties Tonight

On July 8, 2004, the Congressional Record (E1318) acknowledged the cultural significance of Lost in the Fifties Tonight, which features In the Still of the Nite. This recognition further proves the lasting influence of The Five Satins, whose music has been woven into later generations of popular hits.

Iowa House Resolution 36: Honoring Jim Freeman’s Musical Legacy

Alongside Congressional recognition, Jim Freeman was honored at the state level with Iowa House Resolution 36, celebrating his contributions to music and entrepreneurship.

Key Highlights of House Resolution 36:

• Introduced by Representatives Richardson & Smith

• Recognized Jim Freeman as a pioneer of American rock and roll

• Acknowledged his role in recording In the Still of the Nite with The Five Satins

• Highlighted his songwriting for classics like To the Aisle and Wonderful Girl

• Celebrated his induction into the United in Group Harmony Association Hall of Fame (1995) and the American Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame (1998)

• Honored his contributions as a business owner in Iowa since 1970

📜 Read House Resolution 36

State Proclamations Celebrating the Freeman-Shuford Legacy

Beyond national recognition, the Freeman-Shuford family has been honored at the state level for their contributions to music, business, and veteran advocacy:

• South Carolina General Assembly – Recognizing National Invest In Veterans Week® and Jeff Shuford’s impact on veteran entrepreneurship.

• Montana Governor Greg Gianforte (2023 & 2024) – Issued proclamations acknowledging National Invest In Veterans Week®.

• Douglas County, Oregon (2022) – Honored National Invest In Veterans Week® for its role in promoting veteran-owned businesses.

These official proclamations further solidify the family’s lasting influence on American culture and economic progress.

Jim Freeman’s RIAA-Certified Legacy

Jim Freeman’s contributions to music aren’t just cultural—they’re commercially significant. In the Still of the Nite has appeared on multiple gold, platinum, multi-platinum, and diamond-certified albums, proving its enduring appeal.

RIAA-Certified Sales Featuring In the Still of the Nite

• {DIAMOND®} Dirty Dancing soundtrack

• {9X MULTI-PLATINUM®} Boyz II Men Cooleyhighharmony

• {PLATINUM®} Rock & Roll Era, 1956

• {PLATINUM®} Boyz II Men’s tribute version

• {GOLD®} The Beach Boys 15 Big Ones

RIAA-Certified Sales Featuring Lost in the Fifties Tonight

Since Lost in the Fifties Tonight incorporates In the Still of the Nite, it also earned major RIAA certifications:

• {PLATINUM®} Ronnie Milsap Greatest Hits Volume 2

• {GOLD®} Ronnie Milsap Lost in the Fifties

• {GOLD®} Ronnie Milsap 40 #1 Hits

This commercial success reinforces Jim Freeman’s lasting legacy in American music.

A U.S. Court of Appeals Citation Recognizes The Five Satins

In an unexpected legal acknowledgment, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit cited The Five Satins in a landmark case about music ownership and influence. The court referenced In the Still of the Nite as a prime example of a song that has stood the test of time.

🔗 Read the Court Ruling

This legal mention further cements The Five Satins’ impact beyond the music industry, proving their work’s significance in historical and legal contexts.

A Legacy That Spans Generations

With five Congressional Record entries, state proclamations, and legal recognitions, the Freeman-Shuford family has built a lasting legacy in:

🎵 American music history through Jim Freeman
🏛 Veteran entrepreneurship through Jeff Shuford
📜 Legislation, business, and cultural influence across generations

🔗 Learn More & Join the Movement:
🌎 www.InvestInVeteransWeek.com

Angel Shuford Appointed Vice President and CFO of National Invest In Veterans Week®

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Angel Shuford attending a prestigious evening gala, embodying grace and leadership as she represents National Invest In Veterans Week® with poise and professionalism.

Angel Shuford now stands as one of the most influential women in modern veteran entrepreneurship

“Angel’s accomplishments speak for themselves, but as her husband, I’ve had the unique privilege of witnessing her journey up close. Her rise to the rank of Sergeant in the U.S. Army, while excelling as a leader, mentor, and advocate, is nothing short of extraordinary. Although my own military career capped at Specialist, I’ve always admired Angel’s ability to push boundaries and achieve so much more than many thought possible. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, both in and out of uniform, is an inspiration—not only to me but to every veteran who strives to achieve greatness beyond their service. Angel represents the very best of what it means to serve with honor, lead with vision, and empower others to succeed.”

— Jeff Shuford, Army Veteran and proud husband of Angel Shuford, Sergeant and Vice President/CFO of National Invest In Veterans Week®

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Angel Shuford receiving recognition for her outstanding service as a U.S. Army leader, exemplifying leadership and excellence in military aviation. Her dedication continues to inspire her work with National Invest In Veterans Week®

In a moment that will undoubtedly redefine the landscape of veteran advocacy, National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) proudly announces Angel Shuford as its new Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Angel Shuford, an accomplished leader with unmatched expertise in aviation, technology, real estate, and veteran advocacy, now stands as one of the most influential Black women in veteran entrepreneurship and leadership. Her extraordinary career trajectory and visionary insights mark a transformational moment for NIVW, cementing the organization as the ultimate global platform dedicated to empowering veteran-owned businesses.

This appointment isn't just a step forward for NIVW—it’s a leap toward scaling its impact, influence, and innovation on an international level.

A Track Record of Excellence Across Industries

Angel Shuford being awarded for her dedication and exemplary service in the U.S. Army. This moment highlights her commitment to excellence, which she now brings to her leadership role with National Invest In Veterans Week®.

Angel Shuford brings an exceptional history of leadership and success across multiple high-stakes industries. She has led groundbreaking initiatives in aviation, technology, and real estate, establishing herself as a forward-thinking trailblazer. Her influence and innovative approaches have earned her recognition from global powerhouses like Google, Comcast Business, HarvardX, and the U.S. Department of Defense.

Under Angel’s leadership, National Invest In Veterans Week® is strategically positioned to expand its intellectual property assets and amplify its global presence. With a portfolio of over 40 international markets, NIVW is driving opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs on a massive scale. This includes cutting-edge domains such as FloridaVeterans.com, UnitedKingdomVeterans.com, AustraliaVeterans.com, and many more, which serve as critical digital hubs for resources, advocacy, and support. Angel’s appointment is the catalyst that will take these tools to the next level, ensuring they become the cornerstone of veteran empowerment worldwide.

Credentials That Exemplify Leadership and Expertise

Angel Shuford’s career is a showcase of certifications and achievements that highlight her unique ability to lead at the highest level. Every credential reflects her expertise, precision, and drive for innovation—qualities that will elevate NIVW to new heights:

• FAA Control Tower Operator Certification

  • Awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration, this certification demonstrates Angel’s exceptional skill in managing complex air traffic operations—proving her ability to deliver results in high-pressure environments.

• FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot License

  • With this certification, Angel revolutionized the real estate industry by integrating advanced drone technology into property marketing. Her visionary approach has driven over $6 million in combined real estate sales and listings, creating entirely new standards in the field.

• Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Department of Defense)

  • A prestigious clearance that underscores Angel’s trustworthiness, reliability, and ability to manage sensitive operations with discretion and professionalism.

• Technology Entrepreneurship: Lab to Market (HarvardX)

  • A certification from Harvard University, this program focuses on bringing innovative technologies from concept to commercialization. Angel’s participation highlights her strategic approach to innovation and business growth.

• Military Relocation Professional (MRP) Certification (National Association of REALTORS®)

  • This credential positions Angel as a trusted expert in assisting military families with seamless relocations, a vital service for veterans transitioning to new opportunities.

• Google IT Support Professional Certificate

  • Delivered by Google, this globally recognized certification showcases Angel’s adaptability and technical expertise in troubleshooting, networking, and systems management.

• Occupational Safety and Health Manager Certification (OSHA)

  • A credential that highlights Angel’s commitment to safety, compliance, and operational excellence in large-scale initiatives.

• BizTech Award Winner (Comcast Business)

  • This prestigious award celebrates Angel’s achievements as co-founder of Tech From Vets, a trailblazing organization that empowers veteran entrepreneurs with cutting-edge technology solutions.

• Project Management Principles and Practices (University of California, Irvine)

  • This program reflects Angel’s ability to manage large-scale projects with efficiency and deliver exceptional results.

Innovation in Real Estate Marketing

As the Director of Real Estate and Aerial Photography at Kellum Corporation, Angel Shuford redefined the way properties are marketed. Utilizing her FAA Drone Pilot License, she introduced state-of-the-art aerial photography techniques that brought properties to life in stunning detail. Her contributions have not only transformed real estate branding but also facilitated over $6 million in property sales and listings, particularly for military families seeking new homes.

“As someone who’s had the honor of playing in the NFL for teams like the San Diego Chargers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills, Detroit Lions, and Carolina Panthers, I know what it takes to lead under pressure. Leadership is about vision, dedication, and being able to inspire others to rise to their full potential. Angel Shuford embodies all of that and more.”

— Drayton Florence, NFL Veteran and proud advocate for veterans as part of National Invest In Veterans Week®

Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs Through Technology

Jeff and Angel Shuford receiving the prestigious BizTech Award from the Jacksonville Business Journal and Comcast Business. This honor highlights their groundbreaking efforts in innovation and their commitment to empowering veteran entrepreneurs through initiatives like Tech From Vets and National Invest In Veterans Week®.

As the co-founder of Tech From Vets, Angel has spearheaded initiatives that integrate innovative technology solutions into veteran-owned businesses. The organization’s mission to uplift veterans has been widely recognized, earning Angel the BizTech Award from Comcast Business and the Jacksonville Business Journal. Through her leadership, Tech From Vets has become a beacon of hope and resilience for veterans, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive market.

Global Advocacy for Veterans

Angel Shuford’s impact at NIVW extends far beyond borders. Through strategic collaborations with prominent organizations such as Sports Illustrated, Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph, and the U.S. Army Soldier for Life Program, she has elevated NIVW’s global reputation. These partnerships showcase her ability to connect with influential networks and align NIVW’s mission with critical opportunities.

NIVW’s intellectual property portfolio, including its registered National Invest In Veterans Week® trademark, and domains like GermanyVeterans.com and BrazilVeterans.com, serves as a testament to Angel’s strategic foresight. These digital assets, along with initiatives like the Invest In Veterans Week Podcast, are transforming NIVW into a world-class platform for veteran advocacy.

Championing Education and STEM Diversity

Angel Shuford’s contributions extend beyond her professional endeavors. She is the author of "The Manuscript," a groundbreaking resource designed to help service members transition to civilian life while maximizing their benefits. She is also a STEM Scholar, advocating for diversity and inclusion in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. Her work is opening doors for underrepresented communities and ensuring veterans and their families are equipped for the future.

Inspired by Legacy and Mentorship

Angel’s leadership is deeply influenced by her connection to Jim Freeman, her husband Jeff Shuford’s grandfather and a Grammy Hall of Famer. Freeman’s legacy as a founding member of The Five Satins, famous for their timeless hit “In the Still of the Night,” serves as a guiding light for Angel’s mission. His creativity and resilience are values that Angel carries into her work with NIVW every day.

Maximizing Brand Value and Social Capital

Angel Shuford’s appointment as Vice President and CFO represents a strategic leap forward for National Invest In Veterans Week®. Her leadership amplifies the organization’s brand equity, solidifies its global influence, and strengthens its intellectual property portfolio. Partnerships with industry titans like HarvardX, Google, and Comcast Business ensure NIVW’s assets are not just valuable—they’re indispensable.

A Bold Vision for the Future

Angel Shuford is more than a leader; she’s a visionary. Her role at NIVW marks the beginning of a new era for veteran advocacy, one defined by innovation, empowerment, and global impact. Under Angel’s leadership, NIVW will continue to expand its influence, inspire change, and deliver results that honor and uplift the veteran community.

With Angel Shuford at the helm, National Invest In Veterans Week® is positioned to achieve unprecedented growth, empower more veterans than ever before, and cement its legacy as the ultimate advocate for veteran-owned businesses worldwide.

U.S. Army Experience: The Foundation of Excellence

Angel Shuford’s impressive leadership and operational expertise are deeply rooted in her distinguished service with the U.S. Army. Serving for 4 years and 9 months as part of the 1st Battalion, 11th Aviation Regiment, Angel demonstrated extraordinary skill, dedication, and a commitment to excellence that set her apart as a leader in aviation and operations.

In her role as Air Traffic Control Specialist, Angel safely managed over 170,000 air traffic movements with zero accidents, injuries, or loss of life, a track record that underscores her unwavering focus on precision and safety. Supporting the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence (USAACE) flight training mission and the 110th Aviation Brigade, she contributed more than 1,000 air traffic service (ATS) hours, ensuring the success of critical military aviation operations.

As a leader, Angel excelled as the Aviation Company Noncommissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC), where she played a vital role in training, mentoring, and maintaining operational readiness. Her commitment to mentorship was particularly evident in her work as an ATC Training Supervisor, helping four Soldiers achieve their Control Tower Operator (CTO) certification and contributing to an impressive 87% score in Quality Assurance (QA) Inspections.

Angel’s tireless dedication to excellence extended to her safety leadership. As the ATC Stagefield Safety Officer, her efforts were pivotal in earning a commendable safety rating during the Initial Command Inspection (ICI) for Fiscal Year 18 at Goldberg Stagefield, setting a high standard for Bravo Company.

These accomplishments highlight Angel’s ability to lead in high-pressure environments while maintaining exceptional standards in military aviation, safety management, training, and operations. Her time in the Army also showcased her adaptability and technical acumen, reflected in her mastery of Federal Aviation Regulations, the Digital Training Management System (DTMS), and other critical systems.

Angel’s military service is a testament to her resilience, leadership, and capability—qualities that continue to fuel her success at National Invest In Veterans Week®, where her extensive experience and dedication to excellence are helping empower veterans on a global scale.

A Career Built on Excellence and Recognition

Angel Shuford’s illustrious career is punctuated by an extraordinary array of honors and awards, showcasing her relentless commitment to excellence in both professional and academic pursuits. Her LinkedIn profile serves as a testament to her achievements, offering a glimpse into the accolades that define her legacy.

• Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM): Presented by the U.S. Army in recognition of sustained acts of heroism and meritorious service, this prestigious medal reflects Angel’s dedication to excellence in every mission she undertakes.

• Superior Academic Achievement Award: Honored by the Henry Caro Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, this award celebrates Angel’s remarkable academic and professional achievements during her military service.

• Thomas Edison State University President’s List: Angel’s commitment to academic excellence shines through with a 4.0 GPA during multiple terms, earning her a coveted spot on the President’s List in September 2020 and December 2020.

• Army Good Conduct Medal (AGCM): A symbol of honor and fidelity, this medal recognizes Angel’s exemplary service and unwavering professionalism during her time with the U.S. Army.

• SBB Research Group STEM Scholarship: Awarded for her outstanding contributions and academic excellence in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), this scholarship highlights Angel’s passion for innovation and education.

• Five Star Certificate of Excellence: Presented by Broker★Agent Advisor, this recognition is a testament to Angel’s exceptional expertise and dedication in real estate, where she consistently delivers excellence for her clients.

• GoArmyEd "Making The Grade" Honor: Angel’s ability to balance military service and education earned her this award for maintaining an impressive 3.75 GPA while serving full-time as an Air Traffic Controller.

• Susan O. Friedman Endowed Scholarship: As a recipient of this distinguished scholarship, Angel has demonstrated both academic excellence and leadership in the Applied Science and Technology program.

• Military Scholarship (Thomas Edison State University): Recognizing Angel’s service and sacrifice, this scholarship underscores her commitment to education as a U.S. Army veteran.

• Army Achievement Medal: Awarded for her exceptional performance and dedication during her military career, further highlighting her ability to lead and excel.

• BizTech Award Winner (Comcast Business): Celebrated for her groundbreaking work as co-founder of Tech From Vets, this award exemplifies Angel’s innovation and commitment to empowering veteran entrepreneurs.

• Top Sales Award "Rookie of the Year": Angel’s remarkable success as a REALTOR® with Kellum Corporation—closing over $1 million in sales and $2 million in listings during her first year—is a shining example of her entrepreneurial spirit.

• Distinguished Scholar Award (Honorable Mention): Recognized by the Maryland Higher Education Commission, Angel’s academic achievements extend back to her high school years, where she also earned distinctions such as Co-Salutatorian, National Honor Society, and the Outstanding Academic Excellence Award.

From earning military commendations to excelling academically, Angel Shuford’s impressive honors solidify her status as a trailblazer in every field she touches. These accolades highlight the qualities that make her an invaluable leader at National Invest In Veterans Week®, where she continues to inspire and empower veterans across the globe.

Discover more about Angel Shuford’s remarkable journey by visiting her LinkedIn profile: Angel Shuford on LinkedIn

Extensive Aviation Expertise Backed by Advanced Training

Angel Shuford’s exceptional aviation credentials are fortified by a series of advanced courses and certifications that reflect her deep commitment to operational excellence and safety. Through specialized training programs, Angel has developed the expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of modern aviation while maintaining the highest standards of performance.

Her coursework includes:

• AFS-850 National FAASTeam - Airman Certification Standards (ACS): A comprehensive program focused on airman certification and operational standards to ensure safety and proficiency.

• ALC-449 - Aeronautical Proficiency Training, LLC - Cloudy Skies, Clear Judgement: Training designed to improve decision-making in challenging aviation conditions.

• ALC-566 - NAFI PDP: Marketing for the Professional CFI: A targeted course for Certified Flight Instructors on effective marketing strategies in the aviation industry.

• ALC-468 - Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association: Weather Wise - VFR into IMC Course: Essential training for understanding weather dynamics and avoiding inadvertent flight into instrument meteorological conditions.

• ALC-295 - Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: NEXRAD: A specialized program on radar technology and its application in modern aviation.

• ALC-434 - FAA Safety Team: Aviation Weather Data - A Targeted Approach: Focused training on leveraging aviation weather data for improved safety and decision-making.

• ALC-322 - FAA Safety Team: Fatigue Countermeasure Training: Advanced training on mitigating fatigue to enhance pilot performance and safety.

• ALC-174 - FAA Safety Team: Helicopter General and Flight Aerodynamics: An in-depth course covering the principles of helicopter aerodynamics.

• ALC-104 - FAA Safety Team: Helicopter Weight & Balance, Performance: A focused program on helicopter-specific weight, balance, and performance parameters.

• ALC-103 - FAA Safety Team: Top 10 Causes of General Aviation Accidents: A course addressing common safety challenges in aviation to reduce risks.

These certifications are not only a testament to Angel’s expertise but also highlight her relentless pursuit of knowledge to support the missions of the U.S. Army and beyond. Each course further strengthens her ability to lead, train, and inspire within the aviation industry, making her a vital asset to National Invest In Veterans Week®.

“When I think about National Invest In Veterans Week®, I don’t just see an organization—I see a movement. I see an opportunity to honor the sacrifices veterans have made and to empower them to thrive in every aspect of life, especially as entrepreneurs and leaders. My mission is simple: ensure every veteran knows their worth and has access to the resources, networks, and tools they need to succeed.

As someone who’s served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army, managing operations, mentoring others, and driving results in high-stakes environments, I know firsthand the discipline and determination veterans bring to the table. My journey—whether earning my FAA certifications, helping military families navigate real estate, or co-founding Tech From Vets—has taught me that veterans don’t just adapt; we excel. And at NIVW, we’re here to make sure the world sees that.

This isn’t just about one week a year; it’s about building a legacy of support and opportunity for those who’ve served. We’re creating platforms like FloridaVeterans.com, UnitedKingdomVeterans.com, and many more to extend our reach globally. We’re securing partnerships with leaders like Google, Comcast Business, and HarvardX to elevate our mission and expand our impact.

Veterans have the skills, the drive, and the resilience to build successful businesses and transform their communities. My role at National Invest In Veterans Week® is to make sure they have every opportunity to do just that. This is about more than advocacy—it’s about creating a world where veteran-owned businesses thrive and inspire others to do the same.”

— Angel Shuford, Vice President and CFO, National Invest In Veterans Week®

Learn More About Angel and Jeff Shuford's Impact

Angel Shuford’s dedication to empowering veterans and creating lasting change has earned her and her husband, Jeff Shuford, widespread recognition for their efforts. Recently, the pair was honored with the Global Humanitarian Innovation and Legacy Award, celebrating their unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy.

Read the full story on the Kellum Corporation Blog: The Global Humanitarian Innovation and Legacy Award Honoring Jeff and Angel Shuford

This award is just one example of how Angel and Jeff are leaving a lasting legacy through their work with National Invest In Veterans Week®, Tech From Vets, and beyond. Don’t miss this inspiring look at their incredible journey to making a difference worldwide.

Technical Aspects Behind The National Invest In Veterans Week® Logo

Brandon Sugar

Synopsis

The reasoning behind the color choices for the National Invest In Veterans Week® logo is quite significant. The blue reef with a star in the middle represents strength and resilience, which are the core characteristics of our veterans. The blue color (#3c3b6e) symbolizes loyalty, trust, and wisdom, while the star also in blue (#3c3b6e) is a representation of guidance and achievement.

The shopping bag with the American flag overlay (#e8bdad) is a symbol of our nation's gratitude and support towards our veterans' businesses. The color red in the flag represents courage and sacrifice, white represents purity and innocence, and blue represents justice and perseverance.The green sun (#6fbf55) adds a touch of vibrancy and energy to the design, and it represents the growth and prosperity that veteran-owned businesses bring to our economy. Green is also a color of balance and harmony, representing the balance between our nation's support and the hard work and determination of veteran entrepreneurs.

Living the Mission

Partnering with a combat veteran like Brandon Sugar for the design of the National Invest In Veterans Week® logo is not only a symbol of our commitment to supporting veterans, but it's also a testament to the skills and talent that veterans bring to the table. Brandon's degree in graphic design from Jacksonville University and his experience as an Army combat veteran made him the perfect fit for this project.

Partnering with Army Combat Veteran Brandon Sugar, who holds a degree in Graphic Design from Jacksonville University, brought a unique perspective to the design process. Brandon's experience and understanding of the veteran community allowed us to create a logo that truly represents the mission of National Invest In Veterans Week®.

As a nationally syndicated columnist, I had the honor of overseeing the design and deployment of the National Invest In Veterans Week® logo, which was created in collaboration with Army Combat Veteran Brandon Sugar. While graphic design isn't my area of expertise, I was fortunate enough to work with a talented designer who brought our vision to life.

The process behind envisioning and creating the logo was a collaborative effort. We wanted to create a design that would evoke a sense of pride and patriotism, while also highlighting the importance of investing in our nation's veterans. We chose a blue reef with a star in the middle to symbolize the strength and resilience of our military community. The shopping bag with the American flag overlay represents the idea of investing in veteran-owned businesses and supporting our nation's economy. And of course, the green sun adds a touch of vibrancy and energy to the design.

When it came to the color scheme, we selected shades of blue, green, and white to create a cohesive and eye-catching design. The dark blue (#3c3b6e) represents stability and trust, while the light pink (#e8bdad) adds a touch of warmth and approachability. The lavender gray (#b3b1cb) adds a sense of sophistication and balance, while the bright green (#6fbf55) symbolizes growth and vitality. Finally, the white (#ffffff) provides contrast and balance to the overall design.

Overall, the National Invest in Veterans Week® logo was designed with intention and purpose. It is a reflection of our commitment to supporting and investing in our nation's veterans, and we hope that it inspires others to do the same.

Behind the color choices

To start, we carefully considered each element of the design. The blue reef with the star in the middle represented the unity and support that we wanted to promote throughout the week. We chose blue as it is a calming color that also symbolizes trust and loyalty. The star in the center represents the bright future that veterans can achieve with the right support and investment.

Next, we added the shopping bag with an American flag overlaid to emphasize the importance of buying from and supporting veteran-owned businesses. We chose the flag to represent the patriotism and dedication of the veteran community.But we didn't want the design to feel too heavy or serious, so we added a touch of vibrancy and energy with the green sun. Green is often associated with growth, renewal, and hope, all of which are important themes when it comes to investing in our veterans and their businesses.

Finally, we chose the color codes #3c3b6e, #e8bdad, #b3b1cb, #6fbf55, and #ffffff to bring the design to life. The deep blue (#3c3b6e) provided a strong foundation, the pale purple (#b3b1cb) added a touch of sophistication, and the bright green (#6fbf55) brought energy and vitality. Finally, we used white (#ffffff) to create contrast and make the design pop.

Why collaborate with a combat veteran for this branding project?

Partnering with a combat veteran like Brandon Sugar for the design of the National Invest In Veterans Week® logo is not only a symbol of our commitment to supporting veterans, but it's also a testament to the skills and talent that veterans bring to the table. Brandon's degree in graphic design from Jacksonville University and his experience as an Army combat veteran made him the perfect fit for this project.

But this partnership is about more than just creating a logo. It's about honoring and recognizing the sacrifices that veterans have made for our country and their continued contributions to our communities. By investing in veteran-owned businesses and promoting their products and services, we can help create economic opportunities and support their transition into civilian life.

The National Invest In Veterans Week® logo represents this commitment to veterans and their businesses. The blue reef and star symbolize the strength and unity of our country, while the American flag overlay on the shopping bag represents the economic benefits of investing in veteran-owned businesses. And of course, the green sun adds a touch of vibrancy and energy to the design, reminding us of the resilience and determination of our nation's veterans.

In the end, it's all about recognizing the value and potential of our veterans and supporting them in their post-military endeavors. By partnering with Brandon Sugar and Tech From Vets, we were able to create a logo that not only represents this mission but also celebrates the creativity and talent of our veterans.