Jennifer Shumaker is #StillServing.
“As a veteran, I care about giving back to my brothers and sisters. We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers because the oath we took to never leave a fallen comrade has no expiration date,” said Veterans Service Officer Jennifer Shumaker.
Shumaker served with the Minnesota Army National Guard for 27 years. She responded to local disasters and supported Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom with the U.S. Army, which included a deployment to Afghanistan 2009-2010.
While in the military, Shumaker earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and began working with a local nonprofit agency as an independent living program coordinator for veterans with disabilities. In 2014, after 12 years with the agency, she moved to the Olmsted County Veterans Service Office. The following year, she transitioned out of the military and graduated with her master’s in psychology.
“I assist veterans with getting their benefits as well as the families of veterans and deceased veterans,” said Shumaker.
“My nickname around here is ‘bulldog’ because I do not quit. It’s part of never leaving a fallen comrade. I fight to the end to get the veterans the benefits that they are entitled to.”
In addition, Shumaker has used her training to host a Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder support group for veterans and their family members for 11 years.
“The meetings are once a month, and I will continue with this outreach as long as there is a need,” Shumaker affirmed.
Shumaker is a VFW Life member with Post 1215 in Rochester, Minnesota. She’s also Post Service Officer, District 1 Legislative Officer and Department of Minnesota Legislative Co-Chair. She volunteers time with other veterans’ groups and nonprofits as well, and encourages veterans to find a place to connect and keep serving.
“I tell people to get involved. Transitioning from military to civilian life is not easy when you served your entire life,” said Shumaker.
“Getting involved continues the mission and helps the transition by surrounding yourself with those like you. To continue the camaraderie and the life you lived in the military is important.”
To find out more about the VFW’s #StillServing campaign or to share your story, visit vfw.org/StillServing.