WASHINGTON– Companies such as Amazon, AT&T and HP Inc. have all pledged to hire veterans over the next five years.

Since the First Lady Michelle Obama and Second Lady Dr. Jill Biden launched the initiative Joining Forces in 2011 more than 1.2 million veterans and spouses have been hired or trained.

“I am just thrilled that all of you have pledged to hire more than 110,000 of them and train 60,000 of them, thank you so much,” said the first lady.

A total of 15 companies committed to aid 60,000 veterans and military spouses with training programs, sponsor scholarships, and certification programs.