Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell on Securing the Southern Border: SkillBridgeContracts for June 11, 2025Contracts for June 10, 2025

Recently the Secretary announced the Department's historic agreement with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enhance opportunities for transitioning Service members within United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Service members participating in the Department's SkillBridge career transition programs receive civilian professional training opportunities while continuing to receive their military compensation and benefits. Each Military Service may authorize transitioning Service members to participate in industry training, apprenticeships or internships at an employer of their choice during their last six months in service. SkillBridge lets our warfighters focus full-time on building their future career and gives employers access to the world's most highly trained and motivated workforce at no cost to them.

As an exception to policy, the Military Departments will prioritize and broadly advertise these critical DHS career opportunities to transitioning Service members. This is an exceptional opportunity to ensure the best of America can continue to serve and defend their country.

You may view the Secretary's memorandum here.