Operation Warfighter
Operation Warfighter: A DoD Internship Program for Recovering Service Members
Operation Warfighter (OWF) is a Department of Defense (DoD) program that provides temporary assignments and internships to Recovering Service Members. The program is open to service members convalescing at military treatment facilities.
OWF offers meaningful activity outside the hospital environment. It helps participants build their resumes, explore employment interests, and gain valuable federal work experience.
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Eligibility
Participants must be American citizens currently on active duty (including National Guard and Reserve members). They must also be able to fulfill the security clearance requirements for the specific federal agency where they intend to work.
How Operation Warfighter Works
OWF is a partnership between the DoD and various federal agencies, which act as host offices. While the Department of Homeland Security is an active partner, many other agencies participate, including the Department of Justice, the Defense Logistics Agency, and the Department of the Interior.
Based on skills and interests, participants are placed in a host office and assigned a supervisor and a mentor. The mentor assists with in-processing and provides guidance throughout the assignment.
Duty Schedules and Assignment Length
Duty schedules are flexible. They are made to accommodate the service member’s medical treatment and recovery. Participants generally work approximately 20 hours per week; the length of the assignment is determined by the member’s recuperation status, but it averages three to five months.
Compensation
Operation Warfighter is a non-paid internship. Service members continue to receive their military salary while participating in the program.
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Future Employment Opportunities
While the program offers experience and networking opportunities, there is no guarantee of employment. However, after the internship, participants are often considered strong candidates for full-time positions with federal agencies.
Applying for the Program
The Operation Warfighter program is managed by the DoD Warrior Care program. Contact an OWF Regional Coordinator or the Wounded Warrior program direction via the official DoD Warrior Care website.
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About the author
Terry Howell is a retired Coast Guard veteran, where he served for 20 years.
He is currently the Executive Director for Veterans' Legacies, a non-profit that works to preserve veterans personal stories to help educate our youth.
Terry is also the author of The Military Advantage, an annually updated guide to military and veteran benefits.
