Blind Army Veteran Transforms Trauma into Mission to Help Others
Jeffrey Mittman, a blind Army veteran who survived a life-altering improvised explosive device (IED) attack in 2005, has transformed his trauma into a mission to help others by leading the U.S. AbilityOne Commission. After 20 years of service and a devastating injury that left him blind, unable to speak, and temporarily incapacitated, Mittman dedicated his life to advocating for employment opportunities for disabled veterans through the AbilityOne Program.
Mittman’s journey began with his service in the Army, where he traveled throughout the U.S., Germany, and Korea, completing four combat tours. His injury during a mission in 2005 left him critically wounded, prompting a month-long recovery at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C. Despite the severity of his condition, Mittman remained committed to his responsibilities as a husband and father, which ultimately shaped his path to advocacy.
After years of rehabilitation and 40 surgeries, Mittman began working again and found purpose through the AbilityOne Program. In 2019, he became the CEO of Bosma Enterprises in Indianapolis, an AbilityOne-affiliated agency that fosters employment for blind and visually impaired individuals. Mittman’s leadership has been instrumental in creating opportunities for over 2,500 disabled veterans.
In August 2025, Mittman was appointed to the U.S. AbilityOne Commission by President Trump, a position that allows him to help shape the future of employment for disabled veterans. His vision for the program includes increasing efficiency, expanding opportunities, and providing more training and resources for individuals with disabilities. Mittman emphasizes the importance of workplace accommodations, such as teleworking and mental health support, to ensure the well-being of visually impaired employees.
Mittman’s story is a testament to resilience and determination, highlighting the importance of support systems and the power of transformation in overcoming adversity. As he continues his work, Mittman’s mission remains clear: to ensure that no one has to face the challenges of disability or military transition alone.