From Battlefield to Empowerment: An Army Veteran’s Mission to Assist Others

From Battlefield to Empowerment: An Army Veteran’s Mission to Assist Others

Jeffrey Mittman has mastered the art of transforming personal adversity into a beacon of hope for others. Drawing from his life experiences, this Indianapolis-based veteran has dedicated himself to impactful initiatives that create opportunities for those with disabilities.

A Multifaceted Background

Mittman’s diverse roles include that of Army service member, survivor, and leader. Most recently, he embarked on a new journey as a member of the U.S. AbilityOne Commission, a vital agency dedicated to enhancing employment prospects for individuals who are blind or have significant disabilities.

Life-Altering Service

With over two decades of dedicated service in the Army, Mittman faced an unthinkable challenge when a tragic incident led to his blindness. Starting his military career as an infantry soldier in 1989, he traveled extensively, serving in the U.S., Germany, and Korea, all while completing four combat tours.

Reflecting on his last deployment, Mittman notes that he acted as an advisor to an Iraqi unit. He recalls, “I was moving out on the morning of July 7, 2005. We were ambushed and hit by an improvised explosive device.” This catastrophic event left him unconscious, with Mittman awakening a month later in Walter Reed Hospital, disoriented and unable to see, speak, or walk.

The Long Road to Recovery

As he regained awareness, Mittman found his wife by his side, which puzzled him at first. He initially struggled to comprehend the drastic shift from his last memory of Baghdad to waking up in a hospital bed in Washington, D.C.

His recovery took five long years, during which he underwent approximately 40 operations. Mittman stated, “When I was injured, it never relieved me of my responsibilities as a husband and father. I realized I had to adjust. My military career was obviously over, and I had to figure out what I was going to do next.”

Empowering Others

In his search for purpose, Mittman connected with fellow veterans who had also experienced vision loss through various veterans’ organizations and rehabilitation programs offered by the VA. His journey took a significant turn in 2019 when he became the CEO of Bosma Enterprises in Indianapolis. This AbilityOne-affiliated agency provides meaningful employment opportunities for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, including around 2,500 disabled veterans currently in the AbilityOne program.

Mittman credits his success to the extensive support he received from the Army, the VA, family, friends, and community organizations. He emphasizes, “I was able to do it because I had the Army behind me, I had the VA behind me. I had my family, my friends, and my community.”

A National Role

In August 2025, Mittman received an appointment to serve on the U.S. AbilityOne Commission by President Trump. This position allows him to further influence policies that support employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Addressing Vision Problems

Statistics reveal that over 65% of veterans who suffer from blast-related traumatic brain injuries experience vision issues, according to the Department of Veteran Affairs. Additionally, hearing problems, including tinnitus, rank as one of the most common service-related disabilities among veterans.

Encouraging Workplace Adaptability

As part of his commitment to improving the lives of those with visual impairments, Mittman urges companies to implement supportive measures, such as teleworking options and mental health assistance programs. These adaptations can significantly enhance the work environment for employees facing challenges.

Bosma Enterprises offers a 24/7 assistance program that enables employees to discuss their concerns with individuals outside their direct line of command. Mittman believes this initiative is crucial, stating, “I think it is really important that they have an outlet they do not believe will affect their career.”

Commitment to Growth

Understanding the transition to civilian life firsthand, Mittman is determined to foster growth within the AbilityOne program. He believes that as the program enhances its efficiency, it will open doors to more training and resources tailored for individuals who are blind or have significant disabilities.

Mittman’s inspiring story exemplifies how personal trials can transform into missions of compassion and purpose. Through his ongoing efforts, he continues to illuminate paths for others, proving that resilience can indeed lead to empowerment and positive change.