In the 10 years since 9/11, the men and women of our armed forces have faithfully served our nation overseas in Afghanistan and Iraq. Military families back home shouldered the burden of multiple deployments of their spouses and parents.

As the troops begin to return to civilian life, we need to express our appreciation by offering employment opportunities to them.

Hiring Our Heroes, a nationwide project introduced in 2011 by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, helps veterans and their spouses find meaningful employment through state and local chambers of commerce, as well as public, private, and nonprofit partners. In its first year, Hiring Our Heroes hosted more than 100 job fairs in 45 states, allowing more than 100,000 veterans and military spouses to connect with some 5,000 employers.

This year, Hiring Our Heroes has expanded to include a Wounded Warrior Transition Assistance Program, a Student Veterans Internship and Employment Program and a Women Veterans and Military Spouses Employment Program.

We encourage all in the business community — whether large or small — to consider hiring a hero. For the commitment they have made to our country, they deserve it.

For more information on Hiring Our Heroes, visit www.uschamber.com/hiringourheroes.