At first glance, archaeology and military service seem worlds apart—yet history reveals a strong connection. Notable archaeologists such as T.E. Lawrence, Sir Mortimer Wheeler, and the Monuments Men of WWII shared a common military background.

Veterans excel in archaeology because fieldwork mirrors key aspects of military life:

• Mission-Oriented Objectives: Fieldwork contributes directly to real-world scientific research, enabling veterans to once again serve a meaningful purpose.

• Mental Focus & Mindfulness: Archaeological excavations demand precision, patience, and concentration—qualities familiar to veterans and beneficial for maintaining focus in the field.

• Structured Team Environment: Archaeology projects rely on clear roles, organized schedules, and defined leadership, providing veterans with familiar operational frameworks.

• Reward of Discovery: Uncovering artifacts or historical sites offers tangible accomplishments, reinforcing veterans’ sense of achievement and purpose.

At AVAR, we harness veterans' inherent strengths to build successful careers in archaeology, offering professional training, career development, and a supportive community dedicated to preserving history.