Meet Your Counselor - Sam Dillender
Sam Dillender, Veteran Career & Transition Counselor | US Army, Retired
1. Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
My name is Sam Dillender. I’m an Army veteran who retired after more than 20 years of active-duty service, primarily as an M1 series Abrams tanker. My wife and I have been married for over two decades—we’ve been together even longer—and we have two amazing kids. We’re originally from the mountains of Northeast Tennessee, and that small-town, close-knit community mindset has always stayed with me.
2. What is your military background? And did you attend any additional college or educational courses?
I spent my military career in Armor, serving in all positions on the tank, and later in multiple leadership and training roles. I’ve deployed multiple times, including to Iraq and the Horn of Africa, and I’ve led teams through some of the toughest challenges both in combat and garrison environments. I’ve continued my education through professional certifications and am always looking to expand my skills, especially in workforce development and veteran advocacy.
3. What inspired you to join Still Serving Veterans?
What drew me to SSV was the mission—plain and simple. I know firsthand how tough the transition from military to civilian life can be. I wanted to use my own experiences to help other veterans navigate that journey. Joining SSV gave me the opportunity to give back and continue serving, just in a different uniform.
4. What does a typical day look like for you at SSV?
Every day is different, but it always starts with a veteran at the center. Whether I’m reviewing resumes, coaching someone through an interview process, connecting them with community resources, or just being a sounding board, the goal is always the same—help that veteran move forward. I also spend time coordinating with employers and staying current on what opportunities are out there.
5. What do you find most rewarding about your work here?
The moment a veteran realizes they’re not alone—that they have someone in their corner—means everything. Seeing someone walk in feeling stuck and then walk out with a sense of purpose or a new opportunity in hand… that’s the most rewarding part of what I do.
6. In your experience, what’s the biggest challenge veterans face when transitioning to civilian life?
One of the biggest challenges is finding their identity outside of the uniform. So many of us tie who we are to what we did in the military, and when that ends, it can feel like starting from scratch. There’s also the challenge of translating military experience into civilian terms—something I love helping with.
7. What advice would you give a veteran who’s hesitant to seek support?
Don’t wait. Asking for support doesn’t mean weakness—it shows strength. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. There are people who’ve been through it, who get it, and who genuinely want to help. That first step might feel uncomfortable, but it can change everything.
8. What are your hobbies or interests outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my family—we’re big on outdoor activities, whether it’s hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the peace and quiet of the mountains. I’m also a bit of a history buff and enjoy working on home projects when I get the time.
9. Finally, what does “Still Serving Veterans” mean to you?
To me, “Still Serving Veterans” means honoring that lifelong commitment to have each other’s back. Just because we took the uniform off doesn’t mean the mission ends. It’s about continuing to lead, support, and empower those who’ve raised their right hand—no matter where they are in life.
