Gov. Bev Perdue thanked North Carolina veterans at a Veterans Day Remembrance Ceremony in Jacksonville last Wednesday and issued a proclamation honoring the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country.

During the ceremony, Gov. Perdue announced the creation of the “I Hire Military” campaign to encourage businesses to hire veterans and military spouses.

“The close relationship between the civilians and the military is one of the biggest reasons I’m proud to call North Carolina home,” said Gov. Perdue. “The ‘I Hire Military’ campaign is one more example of how North Carolina is the most military-friendly state in the nation.”

To join the “I Hire Military” campaign, businesses must visit IHireMilitary.org, sign a pledge to hire veterans and military spouses whenever practical, display the “I Hire Military” decal in their establishments, and register as part of the “I Hire Military” database.

North Carolina’s military spouses and veterans – including disabled veterans – are highly trained, dedicated workers. Their contributions can be a bonus for any North Carolina company. Veterans and spouses looking for work can go online to IHireMilitary.org to find a list of businesses that have signed up for the “I Hire Military” pledge.

The campaign began as a partnership between the N.C. Military Business Center and the Eastern Carolina Workforce Development Board. At present the campaign is running in four counties – Onslow, Carteret, Craven, and Wayne– and will soon expand statewide.