The International Agri-Center announced today that President George W. Bush will be the featured guest at the Ag Warriors Gala on February 15, 2012 during World Ag Expo in Tulare, California. The event will benefit returning veterans by placing them in long-term professions in the agriculture industry. "We are committed to train and place veterans with both an interest in, and an aptitude for the agriculture industry," said Stacey Beachy, director of corporate partnerships for the International Agri-Center. "The program identifies with the challenges of recently returned veterans who face difficulties starting new careers-we believe the agricultural community is well suited to provide jobs to returning service-members." The gala, which will also include a military musical performance, will be the official launch of the International Agri-Center's Ag Warriors program. Through the program, and with the help of California State University, Fresno and College of the Sequoias, returning veterans will receive training that will prepare them for careers in agriculture. The program is an in-residence course which will include class work, field work, exam preparation, testing, mentorship and internships-all designed to expose returning veterans to the broader aspects of the agriculture industry and to help them gain access to rewarding careers. "We continue to be the industry leader by not resting on our laurels and by breaking the mold," said Jerry Sinift, chief executive officer of the International Agri-Center. "At World Ag Expo 2012, we'll continue to show our pioneering spirit by launching the Ag Warriors program to benefit returning veterans." Many veterans who might otherwise excel in this industry lack the requisite training, certification, familiarity or access to initiate careers in agriculture. The Ag Warriors program at the International Agri-Center will facilitate the necessary training and certification for returning veterans to enter the industry. For more information, or to make reservations for the Ag Warriors Gala, visit www.AgWarriors.com or call 800-999-9186. 11.08.2011