
National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) has been honored with the prestigious Award by Acquisition International
National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) has been honored with a prestigious award by Acquisition International. This recognition solidifies NIVW’s unmatched contributions to veteran entrepreneurship, intellectual property leadership, and its historic congressional recognition as the only trademarked veteran business observance in the United States.
For the first time in U.S. history, a single family has secured five Congressional Record entries, marking their contributions to American culture, economic empowerment, and veteran entrepreneurship. This level of institutional recognition is unprecedented, creating multi-generational leverage for brand expansion, policy influence, and global partnerships.

Jeff Shuford’s Retirement: Honoring a Legacy of Service and Advocacy
Jeff Shuford’s retirement marks the conclusion of an extraordinary career dedicated to service, innovation, and advocacy. As co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), Shuford transformed the landscape of veteran empowerment, creating an internationally recognized movement celebrated across 40 markets worldwide. From securing Congressional recognition to spearheading mental health initiatives like the Vets 22 app, his leadership saved lives, elevated veteran-owned businesses, and inspired countless others.
Now, Shuford has chosen a path rarely seen among public figures—complete and deliberate withdrawal from public life. Declining speaking engagements, appearances, or any formal commitments, he plans to embrace stillness and reflection. In his own words, “It’s time to rest, reflect, and simply live.”
Shuford’s legacy, deeply influenced by his family heritage, including his grandfather Jim Freeman of The Five Satins, endures through the movement he built and the lives he touched. While he retreats from the spotlight, his work continues to ripple across generations, proving that true leadership is not only about making an impact but also about knowing when to step back.

The Legacy of Leadership: Jeff Shuford and His Grandfather Jim Freeman
In the dynamic interplay of innovation, technology, and veteran advocacy, Jeff Shuford emerges as a leading figure whose work is grounded in a profound legacy of leadership passed down from his grandfather, Jim Freeman. Known for co-founding National Invest In Veterans Week®, Shuford champions the cause of veteran-owned businesses, empowering them to thrive in today’s digital economy.
Freeman, a founding member of the legendary doo-wop group The Five Satins, achieved recognition for his contributions to American music, including the timeless classic “In the Still of the Night.” Both men have been honored in the U.S. Congressional Record, a rare acknowledgment that underscores their significant cultural impact.
As Shuford forges ahead, drawing inspiration from Freeman’s enduring values of perseverance and creativity, he reflects, “My grandfather showed me the importance of staying committed to your vision.” This sentiment resonates through Shuford's initiatives, where he utilizes technology to advocate for veterans and uplift underserved communities.
The parallels between Shuford's journey and Freeman's legacy highlight a family commitment to leadership, innovation, and service. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of how music and advocacy can unite generations, fostering connections that inspire change and impact lives.
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