According to a study released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for veterans who served since Sept. 11, 2001 has dropped from 12.1 to 9.9 percent in 2012.

"Soldiers that served in combat, they do bring some really employable skill sets, they do bring some skillsets skill sets into the civilian sector," said Maj. Joe Buccino, Fort Bliss spokesman.

Buccino said it's something employers are starting to recognize.

"I think that the American soldier has a good name and I think that most Americans want to do the right thing and want to take care of our veterans," said Buccino.

He says public awareness about veterans' needs and tax breaks for businesses that hire vets may also be factors in the unemployment rate drop.

Locally, programs on Bliss are progressing.

"We have a very thorough transition program for all soldiers that either retire or leave the Army at the end of their contract," said Buccino.

The post brings in civilian employers that provide job training and the skills to make sure veterans have a career after serving.

"We're also finding that a lot of soldiers are leaving the service and staying here in El Paso," said Buccino.

But it's not all good news.

According to the study, about one in five vets 24 and younger is unemployed.

Buccino says a lack of skill sets and lack of potential education may be to blame.

He says, that's why the tuition assistance program needs to get back on track.

Earlier this month, because of automatic spending cuts, the Department of Defense suspended all of it's financial aid programs.

"It's almost like a breach of contract if you think about it. A lot of these soldiers came into the Army to reap the benefits and kind of get an education. They did their part, they went to Iraq and went to Afghanistan," said Buccino.

On Wednesday, the Senate passed the measure to restore the financial aid funding.

It has to make it through the House before it's fully restored.