AMSG provides support for a wide variety of missions, and one of the most satisfying is helping service members who are ill or have been injured to successfully transition to new careers and opportunities. One of these programs is Operation Warfighter (OWF), an internship program developed by the Department of Defense for convalescing service members to assist in their transition back into the workforce. AMSG’s James West is an Employment & Education Initiative (E2I) and OWF Regional Coordinator, and he brought us the story of Jeremie J. Mathurin. Jeremie’s journey, and the way that AMSG, through OWF, has positively impacted his life is a reminder of why we do what we do.
Here it is, in Jeremie’s own words.
In June 2021, during my tour of duty overseas, my life changed in an instant when I was injured. When I returned home, I had to undergo bilateral knee surgeries. I was referred to the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Drum, where my care and recovery were managed. The incredible staff and cadre at the SRU were by my side every step of the way, ensuring I had the resources and support I needed to navigate this challenging process.
As my recovery progressed, I discovered that my condition was more complex than I initially thought. Eventually, I was placed in the Medical Evaluation Board process, and the board found me unfit to continue serving. It felt like my world was crashing down around me. The military had been my life, and suddenly, I faced an uncertain future.
Thankfully, the SRU transition office informed me about resources available for soldiers like me who were transitioning out of service. One program stood out to me: *Operation Warfighter* (OWF). This program connects transitioning service members with internships that provide invaluable job training and skills for future employment.
Through OWF, I was paired with a program coordinator who helped me explore potential employers. One of the agencies I interviewed with was Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). To my surprise and excitement, I was accepted into the program.
My time at ICE was a turning point. I gained practical experience conducting data quality reviews of Serious Incident Reports to support analytical responses for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties inquiries. I also managed data input and control within ICE’s ServiceNow Task Management program, analyzed high-level reports, and even created a comprehensive how-to guide for future interns joining the program. Each task not only built my skills but also restored my confidence.
Looking back, what once seemed like the end of my world turned out to be a new beginning. Programs like OWF and the support of the SRU staff gave me the tools to redefine my purpose and prepare for a fulfilling civilian career.
Today, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. My journey is proof that even when life throws you its hardest challenges, there’s always a path forward—you just need the right people and resources to help you find it.
Written by Jeremie J. Mathurin (Intro by Jeffrey Dewhurst)