Central Pennsylvania
family puts wounded soldiers first
https://www.pennlive.com/editorials/2012/05/central_pennsylvania_family_pu.html
A Vietnam Peace Story - Jun 6, 2022
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaQDKzDEB_E
VA Veterans Experience Office Community Catalyst Award
(VEOCC)
https://ibility.force.com/Campaigns/s/challenge/a084W00001kFnIGQA0/va-veterans-experience-office-community-catalyst-award-veocc
H.R. 303 – Retired Pay Restoration Act. This bill allows
the receipt of both military retired pay and veterans' disability compensation
with respect to any service-connected disability. Under current law, only
individuals with service-connected disabilities rated at 50% or more receive
both without offset. Individuals who
were retired or separated after at least 20 years of military service due to a
service-connected disability shall be eligible for the full concurrent receipt
of both veterans' disability compensation and either military retired pay or
combat-related special pay. 01/13/2021 -
Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee
on Veterans' Affairs. 03/08/2021 - Referred
to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/303
H.R. 333 - Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act. This bill modifies provisions related to
military retired pay. Specifically, the bill authorizes veterans with a
service-connected disability of less than 50% to concurrently receive both
retired pay and disability compensation. The bill also makes qualified
disability retirees with less than 20 years of retirement-creditable service
eligible for concurrent receipt, subject to specified reductions in retired
pay. 01/15/2021 - Referred to the
Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs. 03/08/2021 - Referred to the
Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/333
H.R. 1282 – Major Richard Star Act. This bill provides that combat-disabled
uniformed services retirees with fewer than 20 years of creditable service may
concurrently receive, without reduction, veterans' disability compensation and
retired pay or combat-related special compensation. 02/24/2021 - Referred to the Committee on
Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 04/12/2021 - Referred to the Subcommittee on
Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. 10/25/2022 - Assigned to the
Consensus Calendar, Calendar No. 4.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1282
H.R. 1361 - Advancing Uniform Transportation
Opportunities for Veterans Act, known as the AUTO for Veterans Act. 02/25/2021 - Referred to the House Committee
on Veterans' Affairs. 04/12/2021 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic
Opportunity.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1361
H.R.1585 - Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of
2019. On August 10, 2022, the
President signed into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our
Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our
PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/1585
H.R. 1836, Guard and Reserve GI Bill Parity Act of 2021. 03/11/2021 - Referred to the House Committee
on Veterans' Affairs. 06/16/2021 - Referred
to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity. 01/12/2022 - On passage Passed
by the Yeas and Nays: 287 – 135. 01/13/2022 - Received in the Senate and Read
twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1836
H.R.1972 - Fair Care for Vietnam Veterans Act of 2021. On August 10, 2022, the President signed
into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to
Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1972
H.R.2127 - Toxic Exposure in the American Military Act or
the TEAM Act. On August 10, 2022, the
President signed into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our
Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our
PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2127
H.R.2250 - Department of Veterans Affairs Information
Technology Reform Act of 2021. 03/26/2021
- Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 06/22/2021 - Referred to the Subcommittee on
Technology Modernization. 11/17/2022 - On
motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by
the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 414 - 2, 1 Present. 11/17/2022 - Received in the Senate.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2250
H.R.2368 - Conceding Our Veterans' Exposures Now And
Necessitating Training Act of 2021 or the COVENANT Act of 2021. This bill establishes a presumption of
service-connection for certain illnesses related to exposure to airborne
hazards or open burn pits and addresses the care available through the
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for veterans with illnesses they assert to
be related to exposures during their service.
Specifically, the bill establishes a presumption of service-connection
for certain illnesses becoming manifest in covered veterans to a degree of 10%
or more. Under a presumption of service-connection, specific conditions
diagnosed in certain veterans are presumed to have been caused by the
circumstances of their military service. Health care benefits and disability
compensation may then be awarded. A
covered veteran is any veteran who served on or after August 2, 1990, in
Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, or the United Arab
Emirates; or served on or after September 11, 2001, in Afghanistan, Djibouti,
Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Uzbekistan, the Philippines, or other
countries the VA determines to be relevant.
Among other elements, the bill
requires the VA to provide medical examinations for
veterans who submit a claim for disability compensation for an illness not
listed in the bill but that is asserted to be related to airborne hazard or
open burn pit exposure; authorizes the VA to stay pending claims for disability
compensation related to the service and illnesses covered by this bill until
the implementation of the bill; and
provides VA hospital care, medical services, and nursing
home care to covered veterans. 04/05/2021 - Referred to the House Committee on
Veterans' Affairs. 06/22/2021 - Referred
to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. On August 10,
2022, the President signed into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson
Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the
‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2368
H.R.2372 - Presumptive Benefits for War Fighters Exposed
to Burn Pits and Other Toxins Act of 2021.
On August 10, 2022, the President signed into law the Sergeant First
Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act
of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2372
H.R.2436 - Veterans Burn Pits Exposure Recognition Act of
2021. On
August 10, 2022, the President signed into law the Sergeant First Class Heath
Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or
the ‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2436
H.R.2569 - Veterans Agent Orange Exposure Equity Act. On August 10, 2022, the President signed
into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to
Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of
2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2569
H.R.2580 - Palomares Veterans Act of 2021. On August 10,
2022, the President signed into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson
Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the
‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2580
H.R.2607 - FASTER Presumptions Act. On August 10, 2022, the President signed
into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to
Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of
2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2607
H.R.2825 - Fort McClellan Health Registry Act. On August 10, 2022, the President signed
into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to
Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of
2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2825
H.R.2935 - VA Beneficiary Debt Collection Improvement Act. This bill addresses the administration of
debt related to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) programs and benefits. Specifically, the bill prohibits an
individual from incurring a debt to the United States that arises from
participation in a VA benefits program and is attributable to the failure of
the VA to process information according to its timeliness standards. The VA must notify an individual if it has
made an overpayment to the individual and include in the notice information on
the right to dispute the overpayment or request a waiver of indebtedness. The
VA is prohibited from taking action regarding an overpayment until 90 days
after the notice is issued, except in specified circumstances. The VA is prohibited from charging interest
or administrative costs for debts related to its disability compensation
program, pension program, or educational assistance program. The bill extends from 180 days to one year
the deadline by which an individual may request a waiver for relief from paying
a debt related to VA benefits.
Additionally, the VA is prohibited from seeking to recover a debt if it
determines the cost to the VA to recover the debt would exceed the amount of
the debt itself. The VA must establish an administrative process for the
dispute of a debt's existence or the amount of the debt. The VA is prohibited
from deducting from an individual's VA benefits to offset a debt if the amount
of the debt is being disputed. 04/30/2021
- Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 05/03/2021 - Referred to the Subcommittee on
Oversight and Investigations. 05/04/2021
- Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 22 - 6.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2935
H.R.5481 - To name the Department of Veterans Affairs
community-based outpatient clinic in Forest City, North Carolina, as the
"Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic". 10/05/2021 - Referred to
the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 11/14/2022 - On motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. 11/15/2022 - Received
in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/5481
H.R.5721 - VA Infrastructure Powers Exceptional Research
Act of 2021 or the VIPER Act of 2021.
This bill addresses research activities of the Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA), particularly those within the Veterans Health Administration
(VHA). First, the bill provides
statutory authority for the VHA's Office of Research and Development to serve
veterans through a full spectrum of research, technology transfer, and
application. Next, the bill exempts VA
research activities from the Paperwork Reduction Act, including research
conducted via the Office of Research and Development. The VA is authorized to appoint
statisticians, economists, data scientists, and other professionals within the
VHA. The bill provides a three-year
authorization for the VA to enter into transactions, other than contracts,
cooperative agreements, and grants, with nontraditional contractors to carry
out extramural basic or applied research. Such transactions must meet specified
criteria (e.g., the research must not be duplicative of other VA research under
another program). Additionally, the VA must notify Congress within 30 days of
entering into a transaction and must provide specified information and records
to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and Congress upon request. The Office of Research and Development is
authorized to establish a grant program for certain individuals employed by
specified research institutions to conduct research related to health care
furnished by the VA. The GAO must study
the amount of time dedicated for research for clinician-scientists appointed by
the VA. Finally, the bill updates the
process by which the VA uses commercial institutional review boards in sponsored
clinical trials. 10/25/2021 - Referred
to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 11/02/2021 - Referred to the
Subcommittee on Health. 11/17/2022 - Pursuant to section 2 of H. Res.
1464, and the motion offered by Mr. Carter (LA), the following bills passed under
suspension of the rules: H.R. 5721, as amended.
11/17/2022 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/5721
H.R. 5916 - Wounded Warrior Access Act. 11/09/2021 - Referred
to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 11/29/2021 - Referred to the Subcommittee on
Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.
09/14/2022 - Pursuant to section 11 of H. Res. 1339, and the motion
offered by Mr. Hoyer, the following bills passed under suspension of the
rules: H.R. 5916, as amended. 09/15/2022
- Received in the Senate.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/5916
H.R. 6411, Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great
Veterans Act of 2022, known as the STRONG Veterans Act of 2022. 01/18/2022 - Referred to the House Committee
on Veterans' Affairs. 01/20/2022 - Referred
to the Subcommittee on Health. 06/23/2022 - On motion to suspend the rules and pass
the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. 07/11/2022 - Received in the Senate and Read
twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/6411
H.R.6482 - Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022. On August 10, 2022, the President signed
into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to
Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of
2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/6482
H.R.6722 - To designate the Department of Veterans
Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in French Camp, California, as the
"Richard A. Pittman VA Clinic". 02/15/2022 - Referred to the House
Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 03/28/2022 - Referred to the Subcommittee on
Health. 11/14/2022 - On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to
by voice vote. 11/15/2022 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/6722
H.R.6863 - To designate the medical center of the
Department of Veterans Affairs in Memphis, Tennessee, as the "Lt. Col.
Luke Weathers, Jr. VA Medical Center" 02/28/2022 - Referred to the House
Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 03/28/2022
- Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. 11/14/2022 - On motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote. 11/15/2022 - Received in the
Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/6863
H.R.7277 - Improving Oversight of the Veterans Community
Care Providers Act of 2022. 03/29/2022 -
Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 04/05/2022 - Referred to
the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. 1/17/2022 - Pursuant to
section 2 of H. Res. 1464, and the motion offered by Mr. Carter (LA), the
following bills passed under suspension of the rules: H.R. 7277, as
amended. 11/17/2022 - Received in the
Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7277
H.R.7299 - Strengthening VA Cybersecurity Act of 2022 or
the SVAC Act of 2022. This bill requires
the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to enter into an agreement with a
federally funded research and development center to provide a cybersecurity
assessment of at least 3, but no more than 10, high-impact VA information
systems and the effectiveness of the VA's information security program and
information security management system.
The VA must submit a plan to Congress to address the findings of the
assessment. The Government
Accountability Office must review the assessment and the VA's response to the
assessment and report its findings to Congress.
03/30/2022 - Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 07/14/2022 - Referred to the Subcommittee on
Technology Modernization. 11/17/2022 - Pursuant
to section 2 of H. Res. 1464, and the motion offered by Mr. Carter (LA), the
following bills passed under suspension of the rules: H.R. 7299, as
amended. 11/17/2022 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7299
H.R. 7500 - Fiscal Year 2022 Veterans Affairs Major Medical
Facility Authorization Act. 04/14/2022 -
Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 05/10/2022 - Referred to the Subcommittee on
Health. 05/17/2022 - On motion to
suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by
the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 402 – 2. 05/18/2022 - Received in the Senate. 09/14/2022 - Passed Senate
without amendment by Voice Vote. 10/10/2022
- Signed
by President.
H.R. 7735 – Improving Access
to the VA Home Loan Benefit Act of 2022.
05/12/2022 - Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 05/17/2022 - Referred to the Subcommittee on
Economic Opportunity. 09/14/2022 - Pursuant
to section 11 of H. Res. 1339, and the motion offered by Mr. Hoyer, the
following bills passed under suspension of the rules: H.R. 7735, as
amended. 09/15/2022 - Received in the Senate.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7735
H.R.7846 - Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living
Adjustment Act of 2022. The 8.7% COLA
will increase the amount paid to veterans and their survivors effective
December 2022, and will be reflected in January 2023 compensation payments. 05/19/2022 - Referred to the House Committee
on Veterans' Affairs. 06/07/2022 - Referred
to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. 07/19/2022 - Committee Consideration and
Mark-up Session Held.
09/14/2022 - Pursuant to section 11 of H. Res. 1339, and
the motion offered by Mr. Hoyer, this bill (and others) passed under
suspension of the rules. 09/15/2022 - Received
in the Senate. 09/22/2022 - Passed
Senate without amendment by Voice Vote. 10/10/2022 - Signed by President.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7846
H.R.7903 - To designate the Department of Veterans
Affairs community-based outpatient clinic located in Canton, Michigan, as the
"Major General Oliver W. Dillard VA Clinic". 05/27/2022 - Referred to the House Committee
on Veterans' Affairs. 06/13/2022 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic
Opportunity. 11/14/2022 - On motion to suspend the rules and pass the
bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. 11/15/2022 - Received in the Senate
and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7903
H.R.7925 - To designate the Department of Veterans
Affairs community-based outpatient clinic located in Palm Desert, California,
as the "Sy Kaplan VA Clinic". 05/31/2022
- Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 06/13/2022 - Referred to the Subcommittee on
Health. 11/14/2022 - On motion to
suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
11/15/2022 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7925
H.R. 7939 – Student Veteran Emergency Relief Act of 2022. 06/03/2022 -
Referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, and in addition to the
Committees on Armed Services, and the Budget.
06/13/2022 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity. 09/14/2022 - Pursuant
to section 11 of H. Res. 1339, and the motion offered by Mr. Hoyer, the
following bills passed under suspension of the rules: H.R. 7939, as
amended. 09/15/2022 - Received in the
Senate.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7939
H.R. 8260 – Faster Payments to Veterans’ Survivors Act of
2022. 07/01/2022 - Referred to the House
Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 07/14/2022
- Referred to the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. 09/14/2022 - Pursuant to section 11 of H.
Res. 1339, and the motion offered by Mr. Hoyer, the following bills passed
under suspension of the rules: H.R. 8260, as amended. 09/15/2022 - Received in the Senate.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8260
H.R. 8660 - Post-9/11 Veteran Business Acceleration Act. This bill requires the Department of Veterans
Affairs to collaborate with the Small Business Administration to implement a
pilot program to provide financial assistance (in lieu of educational
assistance) to eligible individuals under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance
Program for the purpose of (1) establishing and operating a new qualified
business enterprise, or (2) operating an existing qualified business
enterprise. Eligible individuals are those who (1) are entitled to 36 months of
educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program, (2)
are not in bankruptcy proceedings at the time of application, and (3) meet
credit score requirements. 08/05/2022 - Referred
to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8660
H.R.8750 - Expanding Veterans’ Options for Long Term Care
Act. This bill requires the Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) to implement a three-year pilot program to assess the
effectiveness of providing assisted living services to eligible veterans,
including by assessing the satisfaction of veterans participating in the pilot
program. Eligible veterans are those who (1) are eligible for assisted living
services as determined by the VA; and (2) are already receiving nursing home
level care paid for by the VA, are eligible for such care from the VA, or
exceed the requirements for domiciliary care paid for by the VA but do not meet
the requirements for nursing home level care paid for by the VA. The Inspector General of the VA must report
to Congress on the pilot program, and the VA must submit a follow-up plan to
address any deficiencies that are identified in the report. 08/26/2022 - Referred to the House Committee
on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8750
S. ____ - To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to
expand or otherwise modify an existing national cemetery to ensure that full
military honors are provided at such cemetery, to require the Secretary of
Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to jointly submit to Congress a
report containing a proposal to increase national cemetery capacity and an
assessment of the criteria for interment at Arlington National Cemetery, and
for other purposes.
https://moaaorg-my.sharepoint.com/personal/markb_moaa_org/Documents/Desktop/Expanding%20America's%20National%20Cemetery%20Act%20of%202022_Final.pdf
S. 344 - Major Richard Star Act. This bill allows a veteran with a
combat-related disability and fewer than 20 years of creditable service to
receive retirement pay, without reduction, concurrent with disability compensation. 02/22/2021 - Read twice and referred to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
03/17/2021 - Referred to the Committee on Armed Services.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/344
S.437 - Veterans Burn Pits Exposure Recognition Act of
2021. On August 10, 2022, the
President signed into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our
Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our
PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/437
S.565 - Mark Takai Atomic Veterans Healthcare Parity Act
of 2021. On August 10, 2022, the
President signed into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our
Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our
PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/565
S.810 - Fair Care for Vietnam Veterans Act of 2021. On August 10, 2022, the President signed
into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to
Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of
2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/810
S.927 - Toxic Exposure in the American Military Act or
the TEAM Act. This bill requires the
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to expand health care, benefits, and resources
for veterans with conditions related to exposure to toxic substances. Specifically, the bill expands eligibility
for VA hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to include
veterans who (1) were exposed to toxic substances, radiation, or other
conditions, and were awarded certain medals (e.g., the Armed Forces Service
Medal); (2) are eligible for inclusion in the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn
Pit Registry; or (3) have been identified by the Department of Defense to have
been possibly exposed during service to an open burn pit, toxic substance, or
specified hazardous sites. (A burn pit is an area used for burning solid waste
in open air without equipment.) The bill
establishes a presumption of service-connection for diseases associated with
exposure to certain toxic substances and that become manifest within a certain
time period; the VA must specify such diseases and requirements through
regulations. Under a presumption of service-connection, specific conditions
diagnosed in certain veterans are presumed to have been caused by the
circumstances of their military service. Health care benefits and disability
compensation may then be awarded. The
bill also requires the VA to take specified actions to (1) evaluate scientific
evidence regarding associations between diseases and exposure to toxic
substances; (2) train its health care personnel on identifying, treating, and
assessing illnesses related to such exposure; and (3) provide resources to
veterans exposed to toxic substances. 03/23/2021 Read twice and referred to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs. 04/28/2021 - Committee
on Veterans' Affairs. Hearings held. On August 10,
2022, the President signed into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson
Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the
‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/927
S.952 - Presumptive Benefits for War Fighters Exposed to
Burn Pits and Other Toxins Act of 2021. On
August 10, 2022, the President signed into law the Sergeant First Class Heath
Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or
the ‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/952
S.1039 - A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to
improve compensation for disabilities occurring in Persian Gulf War veterans,
and for other purposes. On August 10,
2022, the President signed into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson
Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the
‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of 2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1039
S. 1147 - Retired Pay Restoration Act. This bill authorizes the receipt of both
military retired pay and veterans' disability compensation with respect to any
service-connected disability. Under current law, only veterans with
service-connected disabilities rated at 50% or more receive both without
offset.
Individuals who were retired or separated from military
service due to a service-connected disability shall be eligible for the full
concurrent receipt of both veterans' disability compensation and either
military retired pay or combat-related special pay. 04/15/2021 - Read twice and referred to the
Committee on Armed Services.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1147
S.1151 - Palomares Veterans Act of 2021. On August 10, 2022, the President signed
into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to
Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022’’ or the ‘‘Honoring our PACT Act of
2022’’.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1151
S.1198 - Solid Start Act of 2022. This act permanently authorizes and expands
the Solid Start program, which is an outreach program for veterans in their
first year of separation from the military.
Specifically, the act requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
to coordinate with the Department of Defense to collect updated contact
information during transition classes or separation counseling for members of
the Armed Forces who are separating from service; explain the existence and
purpose of the program;
call veterans three times within the first year of
separation; publish information about the program in booklets and on the VA
website; provide women veterans with information tailored to their health care
and benefit needs; provide information on access to state and local resources,
such as Vet Centers;
gather and analyze data that assesses the effectiveness
of the program; ensure calls are tailored to each veteran's needs by conducting
quality assurance tests; and prioritize outreach to veterans who have accessed
mental health resources prior to separation from the Armed Forces. Under the act, the VA is authorized to (1)
encourage members of the Armed Forces to provide additional contact information
if they are unreachable following their separation, and (2) follow up on missed
phone calls. 04/15/2021 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs. 09/19/2022 - Passed Senate,
under the order of 9/15/22, with an amendment by Unanimous Consent. 09/29/2022
– In the House, Pursuant to section 10 of H. Res. 1396, and the motion offered
by Mr. Hoyer, the bill passed under suspension of the rules. 10/17/2022 – Signed by the President and
Became Public Law No: 117-205.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1198
S. 2159 - A bill to designate the community-based
outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs located at 400 College
Drive, Middleburg, Florida, as the "Andrew K. Baker Department of Veterans
Affairs Clinic", and for other purposes.
06/22/2021 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs. 02/03/2022 - Passed Senate without amendment by Unanimous
Consent. 02/07/2022 - Received in the House. 11/14/2022 - On motion to suspend
the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2159
S. 2513 - Brian Neuman Department of Veterans Affairs
Clothing Allowance Improvement Act of 2021.
07/28/2021 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs. 11/17/2021 - Committee on Veterans' Affairs. Hearings held.
12/15/2021 - Committee on Veterans' Affairs. Ordered to be reported without
amendment favorably.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2513
S.3025 - Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and
Support Act of 2021. This bill modifies
and implements policies and procedures related to Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA) health care and benefits for veterans who have experienced
military sexual trauma (MST), which is generally defined as physical assault of
a sexual nature, battery of a sexual nature, or sexual harassment that occurred
while the veteran was serving in the military.
The VA must report on MST in the digital age. In the case of any veteran who claims that a
covered mental health condition (e.g., post-traumatic stress disorder) based on
MST was incurred or aggravated by active service, the VA must accept specified
diagnoses and evidence as proof of service-connection. The VA may not deny a veteran's claim of
compensation for a covered mental health condition based on MST without first
(1) advising the veteran that nonmilitary evidence and behavioral evidence may
constitute credible corroborating evidence, and (2) allowing the veteran an
opportunity to furnish the corroborating evidence or advise the VA of potential
sources of such evidence. The Veterans
Benefits Administration must conduct an annual special focus review on the
accuracy of the processing of claims for disability compensation for
disabilities relating to MST.
Additionally, the bill (1) expands access to mental health care at VA
facilities for survivors of MST, and (2) requires the Government Accountability
Office to report on access to such care for individuals who have experienced
MST. 10/20/2021 - Read twice and
referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 03/01/2022 - Committee on
Veterans' Affairs. Reported by Senator Tester with an amendment in the nature
of a substitute. Placed on Senate
Legislative Calendar under General Orders.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/3025
S.3369 - Max Cleland VA Medical Center Act. 12/09/2021 - Read twice and referred to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 07/28/2022
- Passed Senate without amendment by Unanimous Consent. 07/29/2022 - Received
in the House. 11/17/2022 - On motion to suspend the rules and pass the
bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 359 – 62.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/3369
S.4359 - Senator Johnny Isakson VA Regional Office Act of
2022. 06/08/2022 - Read twice and
referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
07/27/2022 - Passed Senate without amendment by Unanimous Consent.
11/17/2022 - On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to
by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 418 - 2, 2 Present
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4359
S. 4543 - James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization
Act for Fiscal Year 2023. 07/18/2022 - Committee
on Armed Services. Original measure reported to Senate by Senator Reed. With
written report. Placed on Senate
Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 445.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4543
S.4700 - Equal Access to Contraception for Veterans Act. 08/02/2022 - Read twice and referred to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4700B
S. 4802 – Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022. 09/08/2022 - Read twice and referred to the
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. 09/14/2022 - Committee on Commerce, Science,
and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a
substitute favorably. 09/29/2022 - S.Amdt.6290
Referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4802
S. 4951 - Reduce and Eliminate Mental Health Outpatient Veteran
Copays Act or the REMOVE Copays Act.
This bill prohibits the Department of Veterans Affairs from imposing or
collecting any co-payment for a veteran's first three mental health outpatient
care visits in a calendar year. However, such prohibition must not apply with
respect to the imposition or collection of copayments for medications. 09/27/2022
- Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4951
PA House Bill 1868 - An Act amending Title 63
(Professions and Occupations (State Licensed)) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated
Statutes, providing for military and veterans' licensure. Signed in House, June 30, 2022. Signed in
Senate, June 30, 2022. Presented to the
Governor, July 1, 2022. Approved by the
Governor, July 7, 2022. Act No. 35 of
2022, July 7, 2022
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2021&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1868
VA offers benefit debt relief to Veterans affected by
recent hurricanes
https://www.va.gov/south-texas-health-care/news-releases/va-offers-benefit-debt-relief-to-veterans-affected-by-recent-hurricanes/#:~:text=VA%20offers%20benefit%20debt%20relief%20to%20Veterans%20affected%20by%20recent%20hurricanes,-PRESS%20RELEASE&text=Ian.&text=the%20category)%20or%20call%20800%2D827%2D0648.&text=beneficiaries%20can%20contact%20the%20Health,calling%20866%2D400%2D1238.
Be Vigilant of PACT Act Scams
https://www.va.gov/southern-nevada-health-care/stories/be-vigilant-of-pact-act-scams/
Get Recommended Cancer Screening, Tests, and
Immunizations
https://www.prevention.va.gov/Healthy_Living/Get_Recommended_Cancer_Screening_Tests.asp
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that
returning home for burial with full military honors is -- Navy
Electrician’s Mate 1st Class Edward L. Conway, 29, of Auburn, Illinois,
was assigned to the battleship USS Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island,
Pearl Harbor, when the ship was attacked by Japanese aircraft on Dec. 7, 1941.
The USS Oklahoma sustained multiple torpedo hits, which caused it to quickly
capsize. The attack on the ship resulted in the deaths of 429 crewmen,
including Conway. He will be buried in Decatur, Illinois, on Nov. 12,
2022. Read about
Conway.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/2874020/uss-oklahoma-sailor-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-conway-e/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial
with full military honors is -- Navy Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Keith W.
Tipsword, 27, of Moccasin, Illinois, was assigned to the battleship USS
West Virginia, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when the ship was
attacked by Japanese aircraft on Dec. 7, 1941. The USS West Virginia sustained
multiple torpedo hits, but timely counter-flooding measures taken by the crew
prevented it from capsizing. The attack on the ship resulted in the deaths of
106 crewmen, including Tipsword. He will be buried in Beecher City, Illinois,
on Nov. 15, 2022. Read about
Tipsword.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3099443/uss-west-virginia-sailor-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-tipsword-k/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial
with full military honors is -- Army Cpl. Delbert L. White, 20, was
assigned to Company D, 2nd Engineer (Combat) Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division.
On Dec. 1, 1950, White and many other 2nd ID soldiers were captured by the
Chinese People’s Volunteer Force (CPVF). After reviewing conflicting reports,
the Army determined and declared March 18, 1951, as White’s date of death.
Interment services are pending. Read about
White.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3178854/soldier-accounted-for-from-korean-war-white-d/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial
with full military honors is -- Army Pfc. Roy J. Searle, 22, was
assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 357th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry
Division. He was mortally wounded during enemy engagement on Dec. 9, 1944, and
was reported to have died near Rehligen, Germany. Interment services are
pending. Read about
Searle.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3177343/soldier-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-searle-r/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial
with full military honors is -- Army Air Forces Staff Sgt. George E.
Davies, 27, was assigned to the 345th Bombardment Squadron, 98th Bombardment
Group, 9th Air Force. On Aug. 1, 1943, the B-24 Liberator aircraft on which
Davies was the assistant engineer crashed as a result of anti-aircraft fire
during Operation Tidal Wave. Following the war, his remains could not be
identified. Interment services are pending. Read about
Davies.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3178757/airman-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-davies-g/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial
with full military honors is -- Army Staff Sgt. James Rotunno, 27, was
assigned to Company K, 3rd Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry
Division. His unit was engaged in the Battle of Reipertswiller in France when
it was surrounded by German forces. On Jan. 20, 1945, his unit and four other
companies attempted a break-out through German lines. Rotunno was among those
killed the following day and his body could not be recovered. Interment
services are pending. Read about
Rotunno.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3178798/soldier-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-rotunno-j/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial
with full military honors is -- Army Air Forces 1st Lt. Paul W. Schmidt,
20, was assigned to the 161st Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, 363rd
Tactical Reconnaissance Group, 8th Air Force. On March 23, 1945, Schmidt was
last seen piloting his F-6D Mustang fighter in an attack on an enemy train near
Sedenhorst, Germany. He was declared missing in action, and there was no
evidence he had been a prisoner of war. The War Department issued a presumptive
finding of death on March 24, 1946. Interment services are pending. Read about
Schmidt.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3178832/pilot-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-schmidt-p/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial
with full military honors is -- Army Pfc. Clinton E. Smith Jr.,19, was
assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry
Division. In January 1945, his unit was engaged with German forces during the
Battle of Reipertwiller in France. Smith was killed in an artillery strike on
Jan.14, and his body could not be recovered. Interment services are
pending. Read about
Smith.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3178838/soldier-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-smith-c/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial
with full military honors is -- Army Cpl. Leo J. Barlosky, 24, was
assigned to the 7th Chemical Company, Aviation, when Japanese forces invaded
the Philippine Islands in December 1941. Intense fighting continued until the
surrender of the Bataan peninsula in April 1942. Barlosky was among those
captured and held at the Cabanatuan POW Camp, where he reportedly died on July
27, 1942, and was buried. Interment services are pending. Read about
Barlosky.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3178863/soldier-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-barlosky-l/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial
with full military honors is -- Army Air Forces 1st Lt. John B. Thomas,
23, was assigned to the 345th Bombardment Squadron, 98th Bombardment
Group, 9th Air Force. On Aug. 1, 1943, the B-24 Liberator aircraft Thomas was
the piloting crashed as a result of anti-aircraft fire during Operation Tidal
Wave. Following the war, his remains could not be identified. Interment
services are pending. Read about
Thomas.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3181070/pilot-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-thomas-j/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial
with full military honors is -- Navy Cmdr. Frederick R. Schrader,
31, was the commander of Carrier Air Group Eleven on the USS Hornet. On
Oct. 13, 1944, Schrader’s F6F-5 Hellcat fighter was shot down during an attack
on Toko Seaplane Base on Formosa, now known as Taiwan. There was no evidence he
exited the aircraft before it crashed, and no rescue attempts were possible.
Interment services are pending. Read about
Schrader.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3181833/pilot-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-schrader-f/
VFW Action Corps Weekly, October 10, 2022
https://www.vfw.org/advocacy/grassroots-efforts/vfw-action-corps-weekly
************************************************************************************
October 2022 Veteran News by James Ulinski ( ulinski705@gmail.com ):
[I hope this email reaches you and your
families in good health and enjoying the last quarter of 2022!
Several Pennsylvania senators tried again to
get a week designated as MST Awareness Week (S.R. 348), but it seems doomed once again, since at least a few senators
either feel MST is not worthy of having an Awareness Week, or they do not
believe the numbers are significant enough to warrant one. These cave dwellers
need to get their heads out of their butts and start serving us and not
pandering to their party. The latest Military Sexual Assault Report
shows “Tragic” Rise in Cases according to the Pentagon.
For Fiscal Year 2021, 8.4% of female service
members and 1.5% of male service members contacted experienced unwanted sexual
contact, according to the report. It was
the worst year since 2006 for women and the second worst year for men. "The
findings of the Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military for Fiscal Year
2021 underscores crimes of sexual assault and sexual harassment are pervasive
and remain a persistent and corrosive problem” according to Lt. Alyson
Hands. To read the entire 6-page article written by Heather Mongilio, September
1, 2022, google “Latest Military Sexual Assault Report Shows Tragic Rise in
Cases, Pentagon Officials Say.”
Currently, according to the American Legion,
the VA “deducts the retirement pay of veterans with a disability rating of less
than 50%.” “These veterans who have been forced
into medical retirement are being penalized for their injuries, and there is no
excuse for it.” “Disability compensation and retirement pay are two
different payments, and should be treated as such.” For those of us
familiar with how PA counts our disability income into our tax exemptions for
school, etc. we can see how this should not be!! “The American Legion stands
with disabled veterans and is urging Congress not to continue this denial of
retirement benefits.” “The Major Richard Star Act would repeal
this draconian offset for those medically retired due to injuries sustained in
combat” and allow them to receive both their retirement pay and disability
compensation with no forfeiture! This legislation needs our support, as the
House will not return until after the November elections, leaving little time
for the Act to be passed.
Kudos to Lee Horowitz and Don Logemen for continuing their fight to get Navy Club (Navy, Marine
Corps, and Coast Guard) of the United States of America recognized by
Pennsylvania by getting a seat on the State Veterans Commission. FYI---the Navy
Club is the 4th oldest veterans’ group! ALSO----they were key
in getting the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Navy and Marine
Corps to Philadelphia, which will bring tourists, publicity, and tax dollars in
2025!
“VA physicians will begin screening all
department patients for military-related toxic exposures starting in November,
2022.” “Estimates are that about 3.5 million troops
from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan may have suffered enough exposure to burn
pit smoke to cause health problems.”
Veterans of all eras are now eligible for
caregiver benefits. “Before Oct. 1, 2022, only veterans who
served before May, 1975 or after September, 2001 were eligible for the
benefits.” The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers “is
designed to support and compensate full-time caregivers providing at-home assistance
to severely wounded veterans.”
The new 3-digit suicide crisis line has gone
live (as of July, 2022). Anyone can dial 988 and then press 1 to be connected
to trained counselors. “The current
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number, 1-800-273-8255, remains
available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.”
Breast cancer screening is being expanded to
more women veterans (remember men---we can get breast cancer too). Detecting breast cancer early is essential to reduce the
chances of death. The DAV are VVA are also working to get MST more of a
legislative priority.
I get quite a few questions about Camp Lejeune,
so I’ll give you the news I have. “Section 804 of the act, Federal Cause of
Action Relating to Water at Camp Lejeune, allows veterans who worked or lived
at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune for not less than 30 days between August 1,
1953 and Dec. 31, 1987 to seek compensation from the federal government for
physical ailments related to exposure to contaminated water.”
“The right to file a claim is
limited to those whose illnesses were manifest before the date of enactment.
The settlement comes with an offset; if you receive compensation, you VA
benefits will be offset by the contaminated awards. However, you will continue to
receive your disability benefits.”
The VVA is recommending veterans wait to file
for compensation until the regulations for section 804 have been codified. If
you are approached by a law firm, do not make any commitment until you have
consulted with a VSO (Veteran Service Officer) or county veterans service
officer who provide free legal services to veterans.” *VVA Veteran Magazine, September/October, 2022, Page 5, Middle
Column.
Coatesville VA is offering the latest booster shot for
COVID and also offering flu shots. Pretty sure other VA Centers are
doing the same. After getting COVID about 2 months ago, I will be getting my
COVID booster in November with my wife, (waiting period for booster depending
on when you got COVID).
Kudos to Kirk Fernitz,
Director, Community & Congressional Affairs for continually sending me
monthly information to benefit veterans!
Flu & COVID-19 Vaccination Tent is Open at Coatesville VAMC
The drive-thru vaccination tent is open and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday
through Friday. Schedule your flu shots and COVID-19
vaccinations at (610) 383-0239.
Getting a flu shot protects you,
your family and your community. Also if needed, you can get vaccinated
for COVID at the same time you get a flu shot – one visit, two vaccines by
calling (610) 383-0239.
Influenza Vaccine - available
to all enrolled Veterans. Please bring your VA health care ID and wear a
loose-fitting short sleeve shirt and mask. Veterans can request to receive
their flu vaccine during their scheduled Primary Care, Specialty, and Mental
Health appointment.
COVID-19
Vaccine - booster shots are available to
ALL Veterans and everyone authorized under the SAVES LIVES Act. Please bring your COVID-19
vaccination card, VA health care ID (if you
are an enrolled veteran) and wear a wear a
mask, and a loose-fitting short sleeve shirt.
Call (610) 383-0239 today to
schedule an appointment. Review the
campus map to find the entrance to the drive-thru vaccine
clinic off of New Jersey Ave.
Eligible Veterans can also receive a no-cost seasonal flu
shot at one of more than 60,000 Community Care Network (CCN) in-network retail
pharmacies and urgent care locations. Find your nearest
in-network community location at www.va.gov/find-locations. Veterans will need to present a valid government-issued
identification, such as a Veteran Health ID Card, Department of Defense ID
card, state-issued driver's license or ID card.
PACT-Act - On October 1, 2022, the VA
expanded the eligibility for VA health care for certain Veterans as part of the
PACT Act implementation. The PACT Act includes exposures to
a wide variety of agents, including nuclear, chemical, and physical (such as
sound, vibration, noise, and x-rays) that are part of the military
environment. This expansion will increase health care eligibility for
hundreds of thousands of toxic-exposed Veterans.
Veterans will be in one of
three established categories:
- Category 1 Veterans
are those who participated in a toxic exposure risk activity, as defined
by law, while serving on active duty, active duty for training, or
inactive duty training
- Category 2
Veterans who were assigned to a duty station in (including airspace
above) certain locations during specific periods of time;
- On or after August 2,
1990, in the following countries: Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar,
Saudi Arabia, Somalia, or the United Arab Emirates
- On or after September
11, 2001, in the following countries: Afghanistan, Djibouti, Egypt,
Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Uzbekistan, or any other country
determined relevant by VA
- Category 3 Veterans
are those who were deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom,
Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation New Dawn,
Operation Inherent Resolve, and Resolute Support Mission.
Tickets on sale for the USMC 247th Birthday Ball
at the Brookside Country Club (850 N. Adams Street,
Pottstown, PA 19464). on Saturday, November 12th.
Time—6-10 PM and Price is $45 per person. Anyone interested can contact Tom
Hyland at hytech@comcast.net or 610-476-7425. Advanced ticket sales only---no
walk ins will be accepted! Deadline is November 1, 2022!
Veterans who served in the following locations and time periods
are also eligible to enroll in VA health care effective on enactment (August
10, 2022):
- Republic of Vietnam
(between January 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975),
- Thailand at any US or
Royal Thai base (between January 9, 1962, and June 30, 1976)
- Laos (between December
1, 1965, and September 30, 1969)
- Certain Provinces in
Cambodia (between April 16, 1969, and April 30, 1969)
- Guam or American Samoa
or their territorial waters (between January 9, 1962, and July 31,
1980)
- Johnston
Atoll, or a ship that called there, between January 1, 1972, and
September 30, 1977
Some examples of Toxic
Exposures include:
Chemicals
|
Herbicides
(Agent Orange) used during Vietnam era, burn pits, sulfur fire in Iraq, Camp
Lejeune water supplies, pesticides used during Gulf War, depleted uranium,
industrial solvents
|
Air Pollutants
|
Burn pits,
oil well fire during Gulf War, sulfur fire in Iraq, Atsugi (Japan) waste
incinerator, sand, dust, and very small, fine particles or liquid droplets
|
Occupational Hazards
|
Asbestos,
industrial solvents, lead, radiation, vibration, noise, fuels,
polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs), and special paint used on military vehicles
|
Radiation
|
Nuclear
weapons and testing, x-rays, depleted uranium
|
Warfare Agents
|
Chemical
weapons, Project 112/Project Shipboard Hazard and Defense (SHAD), herbicide
tests and storage, and chemical experiments
|
To find out if you are
eligible:
• Visit www.va.gov/PACT.
• Submit a VBA claim:
· Call 1-800-MyVA411
(800-698-2411)
• Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry: HOME - Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry (va.gov)
I am hoping to have information (did this
last year) on our need to have our final wishes, DD-214, burial wishes,
insurance papers, and other documents in locations where our spouse/significant
other can find the info in November’s email newsletter. I have heard from and personally
seen where a veteran dies and the spouse/significant other has no clue what to
do. This is a time of difficulty for those we leave behind----we should make
that as easy for them as we can. Preparation is the key!! If
you have suggestions for possible inclusion in that email (or any topic)
---feel free to email me.
Lee, Don, and I could always use
more help with our legislative efforts. If anyone has the desire to be
involved, please let me know. Thank you!
“If you sit back and don’t get involved, you may someday
wish you did.” Ulinski
Have a great month and stay safe! Jim]
************************************************************************************
The Navy Turns 247.
The U.S. Navy was founded on October 13, 1775, with the Department of
the Navy established in 1798. The Navy's mission is to “maintain, train and
equip combat-ready naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression
and maintaining freedom of the seas," and it does so with warfare
specialities that include aviation, surface warfare, nuclear submarines,
special forces and support services.
There are approximately 341,000 sailors serving actively in the U.S.
Navy today with an additional 59,000 reserve personnel.
https://www.military.com/navy-birthday
Supreme Court Weighs Exception to Vets Disability
Deadlines
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/10/04/supreme-court-weighs-exception-vets-disability-deadlines.html
DMVA Digest: A publication of the Pennsylvania Department
of Military and Veterans Affairs – October 12, 2022
https://maestro.pa.gov/list/k3hdw2n4/221006C/1cr0b6h1y0r8.vib?a0=13211
Head of VA vows to hire 45,000 nurses in 3 years to
address shortage
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/head-of-va-vows-to-hire-45000-nurses-in-3-years-to-address-shortage/ar-AA12MBNQ
A moral injury for America’s veterans: Retired Lieutenant
Colonel Scott Mann hopes his new book, 'Operation Pineapple Express,' will help
fellow veterans
https://www.foxnews.com/us/moral-injury-americas-veterans
To receive the FREE VBC Magazine, contact us!
https://veteransbreakfastclub.org/magazine/
Oyler Wu Selected for Cold War Veterans Memorial
https://www.world-architects.com/en/architecture-news/headlines/oyler-wu-selected-for-cold-war-veterans-memorial
COLD WAR VETERANS MEMORIAL
https://coldwarveteransmemorial.org/
PRITZKER ARCHIVES & MEMORIAL PARK CENTER
10475 12TH STREET
STURTEVANT, WI 53177
312-374-9377
https://www.pritzkerarchivespark.com/contacts/
The site for the Cold War Veterans Memorial (CWVM) has
been identified in the Master Plan for the Pritzker Archives & Memorial
Park Center (PAMPC).
https://coldwarveteransmemorial.org/memorial-site/
The National Desert Storm and Desert Shield Memorial is a
new national monument to be built at the National Mall in Washington D.C. The
groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for July 14, 2022. Our goal is to dedicate
the completed Memorial in 2024.
http://www.ndswm.org/
Taps
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WChTqYlDjtI
The Last Surviving Veterans
https://blog.fold3.com/the-last-surviving-veterans/
Echoes of the Vietnam War - The Mind Benders 25 min mark
https://echoes-of-the-vietnam-war.simplecast.com/episodes/the-mind-benders?emci=28b687ec-5546-ed11-b495-002248258d38&emdi=307579b0-6546-ed11-b495-002248258d38&ceid=508288
Echoes of the Vietnam War - Kiss Lori for Me
https://echoes-of-the-vietnam-war.simplecast.com/episodes/kiss-lori-for-me?emci=28b687ec-5546-ed11-b495-002248258d38&emdi=307579b0-6546-ed11-b495-002248258d38&ceid=508288
Echoes of the Vietnam War - No Limit
https://echoes-of-the-vietnam-war.simplecast.com/episodes/no-limit?emci=28b687ec-5546-ed11-b495-002248258d38&emdi=307579b0-6546-ed11-b495-002248258d38&ceid=508288
Veterans Experience Office Community Catalyst Award - Oct
9, 2022
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rREyzQWs_Vk
Camella Jane Jones
https://www.englishfuneralchapel.com/obituaries/camella-jones
Over 41,000 VA Patients Warned of Delayed Care Due to
Troubled Electronic Records System
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/10/19/over-41000-va-patients-warned-of-delayed-care-due-troubled-electronic-records-system.html?ESRC=navy-a_221026.nl
2022 Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Deals and
Discounts
https://www.military.com/veterans-day/restaurants-veterans-day-military-discounts.html?ESRC=navy-a_221026.nl
We’re excited to announce the winner of the #StillServing
Top Dog competition is Hannah!
Congratulations to her and her veteran owner, Jill.
https://todaysvfw.org/vote-for-top-dog-finalists/?utm_source=1026memupdate&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=link&utm_id=TodaysVFW&utm_term=POTM
Agent Orange Newsletter - 2022
https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/publications/agent-orange/agent-orange-2022/index.asp
VA invites the public to dispose of unused medications
and prescriptions during nationwide ‘VA Medication Take Back’ days
https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5834
Doctor Sentenced for Accepting Illegal Kickback Payment
in Return for Writing Prescriptions for Compounded Drugs
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndok/pr/doctor-sentenced-accepting-illegal-kickback-payment-return-writing-prescriptions
Slidell Woman Pleads Guilty to Misappropriating Military
Veteran’s Funds
https://www.justice.gov/usao-edla/pr/slidell-woman-pleads-guilty-misappropriating-military-veteran-s-funds
Daniel Smith, Army veteran and one of the last children
of enslaved Americans, dies at 90
https://www.stripes.com/theaters/us/2022-10-20/daniel-smith-obit-us-slavery-7758711.html
Former Defense Secretary Ash Carter dies of heart attack
at age 68
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2022/10/25/former-defense-secretary-ash-carter-dies-of-heart-attack-at-age-68/
Nearly 113K claims already filed for PACT Act benefits
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/burn-pits/2022/10/25/nearly-113k-claims-already-filed-for-pact-act-benefits/
Fewer Black Vets Got Advanced COVID Treatments at VA
Hospitals During Pandemic, Study Finds
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/10/25/fewer-black-vets-got-advanced-covid-treatments-va-hospitals-during-pandemic-study-finds.html
Outrage over NFL brain injuries; silence over military
brain injuries
https://www.militarytimes.com/opinion/commentary/2022/10/25/outrage-over-nfl-brain-injuries-silence-over-military-brain-injuries/
Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection Summary Report:
Evaluation of Leadership and Organizational Risks in Veterans Health
Administration Facilities, Fiscal Year 2021
https://www.va.gov/oig/publications/report-summary.asp?id=5212
Homecoming 250 Navy Marine Corps is a charity created to
host the main celebrations of the Navy and the Marine Corps 250th birthdays (in
2025) in their birthplace – Philadelphia and the Delaware River.
https://www.homecoming250.org/
Additional Actions Needed to Fully Implement and Assess
Impact of the Patient Referral Coordination Initiative
https://www.va.gov/oig/publications/report-summary.asp?id=5215
VA announces funding opportunities to help Veterans
experiencing homelessness
https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5835
NEW DATA SHOWS 11% DECLINE IN VETERAN HOMELESSNESS SINCE
2020—THE BIGGEST DROP IN 5+ YEARS
https://www.usich.gov/news/new-data-veteran-homelessness-drop
Soldier Accounted For From Vietnam War (Finger, S.)
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3138077/soldier-accounted-for-from-vietnam-war-finger-s/
Prior to The Wall ceremony, VVA has sponsored a “Massing
of the Colors” in honor of the 40th Anniversary of The Wall. Color guards from
chapters and state councils across the country will join us in a salute to
those we lost and those of us still surviving….
https://vva.org/veterans-day-events-and-discounts-2022/
Same War, Same Traumas: Vietnam Veterans Demand Better
Treatment. Puerto Rico’s aging veterans
are still battling for equal access to mental health services from the country
for which they fought.
https://globalpressjournal.com/americas/puerto-rico/war-traumas-vietnam-veterans-demand-better-treatment/en/
VA received nearly 113,000 claims under PACT Act, urges
veterans to submit claims quickly
https://www.stripes.com/theaters/us/2022-10-26/veterans-affairs-pact-act-claims-7823326.html
Hearing on the Department of Veterans Affairs
Implementation of the SFC Heath Robinson Honoring our PACT Act on November 16,
2022
https://www.veterans.senate.gov/2022/11/hearing-on-the-department-of-veterans-affairs-implementation-of-the-sfc-heath-robinson-honoring-our-pact-act
VA to Review Burn Pit Registry in Wake of Report Calling
for Complete Overhaul
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/10/26/va-review-burn-pit-registry-wake-of-report-calling-complete-overhaul.html
Deficiencies in Lethal Means Safety Training, Firearms
Access Assessment, and Safety planning for Patients with Suicidal Behaviors by
Firearms
https://www.va.gov/oig/publications/report-summary.asp?id=5218
STATE OF THE FEDERAL CYBER WORKFORCE
https://www.cisa.gov/state-federal-cyber-workforce
U-Haul Receives Distinguished Award from VVA
https://myuhaulstory.com/2022/10/17/u-haul-receives-distinguished-award-from-vva/
Why You Should Think Twice Before Throwing Away Old
T-Shirts
https://www.thelist.com/1052304/why-you-should-think-twice-before-throwing-away-old-t-shirts/
2022 Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Deals and
Discounts
https://www.military.com/veterans-day/restaurants-veterans-day-military-discounts.html
Number One Realist by Nathaniel L. Moir
https://vvabooks.wordpress.com/2022/10/03/number-one-realist-by-nathaniel-l-moir/
Declassified 1986, thanks to Ann Mills Griffith: CIA
Report on POWs/MIAs in SE Asia
https://tile.loc.gov/storage-services/service//frd/pwmia/401/102010.pdf
Promoting Safe Storage of Firearms Can Sway Service
Members, Vets, Study Finds
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/10/11/promoting-safe-storage-of-firearms-can-sway-service-members-vets-study-finds.html
Controlled Substance Public Disposal Locations - Search
Utility
https://apps.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main;jsessionid=7jYsVpxa5xbuaQOPLTDdCstInP5_qjjK0RvCZ9H_.web2?execution=e1s1
From VVA National Treasurer Linda Schwartz: Filing
Extension for 2022 VVA Financial Reports: The deadline for filing Chapter and
State Council 2022 Financial Reports has been extended to January 1, 2023.
Questions, please contact Deborah Johnson at djohnson@vva.org
http://secure.campaigner.com/csb/Public/show/gi98-573aj--3cdrmx-6qytwa5
A popular medical software is failing veterans with
visual impairments: More than a million VA patients are blind or have low
vision.
https://www.popsci.com/health/va-electronic-medial-records-visually-impaired/
Community Healing Ceremony: The event will be hybrid.
Choose your preference at time of registration. In-person registrants will
receive final confirmation by 11/7 .
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/community-healing-ceremony-tickets-413683557657
Let our numbers be known
https://www.legion.org/commander/257385/let-our-numbers-be-known
Tango Alpha Lima: Retired U.S. Army Old Guard Sergeant of
the Guard Chelsea Porterfield
https://tangoalphalima.fireside.fm/132
Honor & Remembrance: Find places to honor and
remember those who have served.
https://www.legion.org/honor/locations
OUR KOREAN WAR STORY: Frozen limbs of Bob Smith
https://www.legion.org/honor/257373/our-korean-war-story-frozen-limbs-bob-smith
Time for a fresh look at the Army Alumni idea
https://www.legion.org/education/257382/time-fresh-look-army-alumni-idea
Your VA claim exam questions answered: Two newly updated
FAQs
https://news.va.gov/110436/your-va-claim-exam-questions-answered/
#VeteranOfTheDay Army Veteran Dwight Eisenhower
https://news.va.gov/110483/veteranoftheday-army-dwight-eisenhower/
AARP, Blue Star Families team up to help female Veterans,
military spouses find employment
Find free employment resources from AARP and Blue Star
Families
https://news.va.gov/110390/femaile-veterans-employment-aarp-blue-star/
Deep discounts from Fitbit for Veterans in November:
Fitness tracking devices can help manage physical activity, sleep and overall
wellness
https://news.va.gov/110337/deep-discounts-fitbit-veterans-november/
247th Marine Corps Birthday Message
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAsCoJj_YfY&t=428s
Veteran Town Hall with Secretary Denis McDonough – Nov 9,
2022
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcwSZpUtBQQ
On November 8, 2022, all Veterans enrolled in VA health
care will be eligible for new toxic exposure screenings
https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5838&mc_cid=f898fb4c9c&mc_eid=5fbd657cc7
VA will prioritize
delivering benefits to Veterans with cancer under PACT Act
https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5839
Paxlovid reduces risk of Long COVID
https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5837&mc_cid=f898fb4c9c&mc_eid=5fbd657cc7
Feds to vets: Beware of scammers charging you to file for
benefits
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2022/11/03/feds-to-vets-beware-of-scammers-charging-you-to-file-for-benefits/?mc_cid=f898fb4c9c&mc_eid=5fbd657cc7
Finalists in $20 Million VA Suicide Prevention
Competition Showcase Proposals
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/11/05/finalists-20-million-va-suicide-prevention-competition-showcase-proposals.html?mc_cid=f898fb4c9c&mc_eid=5fbd657cc7
‘Continue the healing’: How thousands of volunteers put
faces to names on the Vietnam memorial
https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2022-11-06/vietnam-memorial-wall-faces-7914687.html?mc_cid=f898fb4c9c&mc_eid=5fbd657cc7
Between Kanye and the Midterms, the Unsettling Stream of
Antisemitism: For American Jews, this fall has become increasingly worrisome.
On Thursday alone, the F.B.I. warned of threats to New Jersey synagogues and
the Nets suspended Kyrie Irving.
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/04/us/kanye-antisemitism-midterms.html?mc_cid=f898fb4c9c&mc_eid=5fbd657cc7
33rd Allied
Mission to Israel April 20-30, 2023
https://www.jwv.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2023-Allied-Mission-to-Israel-with-Sor-El-and-Egyptian-excursion.pdf?mc_cid=f898fb4c9c&mc_eid=5fbd657cc7
JWV
Sar-El/Volunteers for Israel (VFI) Mission.
(Optional Mission – help support the Israeli Defense Forces). April 16-19, 2023
https://www.jwv.org/programs/building-membership/allied-mission-trip-to-israel/sar-el/?mc_cid=f898fb4c9c&mc_eid=5fbd657cc7
FRA today
Magazine, October 2022
https://www.fra.org/fra/Web/FRA_Docs/FRAToday/2022/OCTOBER2022-PDF-UNMANNED.pdf
National Veteran
Health Equity Report 2021: Focus on Veterans Health Administration Patient
Experience and Health Care Quality
https://www.va.gov/HEALTHEQUITY/docs/NVHER_2021_Report_508_Conformant.pdf
Armistice Day: Soldiers and Vets for Peace. All public ideals of peace with all other
peoples were discarded on June 1, 1954, when the US government renamed
Armistice Day as Veterans Day.
https://www.laprogressive.com/veterans/soldiers-and-vets-for-peace
Volunteers Repair Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial
After Vandals Struck
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppSD6038dRU
Remember The 27 Crusaders
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cX-P9CJFa-8
VFW Magazine, November/December 2022
http://digitaledition.qwinc.com/publication/?m=3914&i=762530&p=4&ver=html5
VFW Magazine, November/December 2022
http://cdn.coverstand.com/3914/762530/2f77e943f16ec9dad69aac73655b04d6c7403183.pdf
VA Merges White House Hotline With Main Call Center
https://www.moaa.org/content/publications-and-media/news-articles/2022-news-articles/advocacy/va-merges-white-house-hotline-with-main-call-center/
I Have Seen the Rain - 2017
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n328orTD25Y
Defense Advisory
Committee on Women in the Services Articles of Interest October 2022
https://dacowits.defense.gov/Portals/48/Documents/News%20Articles/2022%20Weekly%20Articles/News%20Articles_October%202022.pdf
Live Whole Health #145: Tai Chi fundamentals: Standing
side support. Tai Chi fundamentals in
just 90 seconds
https://news.va.gov/110792/live-whole-health-145-tai-chi-standing-support/
You Asked, We Answered: All about updated COVID-19
booster vaccines. What is different
about updated COVID-19 booster vaccines?
https://news.va.gov/110559/you-asked-we-answered-all-about-updated-covid-19-booster-vaccines/
Veteran manages MST, finds her calling to help others:
Army Veteran says VA mental health care helped her regain control of her life
https://news.va.gov/110259/veteran-manages-mst-finds-calling/
Center for Women
Veterans Book Corner: Aurea Franklin
https://news.va.gov/110682/women-veterans-book-corner-aurea-franklin/
#VeteranOfTheDay Army Veteran Phyllis J.
Wilson
https://news.va.gov/110642/veteranoftheday-army-veteran-phyllis-j-wilson/
AARP, Blue Star
Families team up to help female Veterans, military spouses find employment
Find free
employment resources from AARP and Blue Star Families
https://news.va.gov/110390/femaile-veterans-employment-aarp-blue-star/
Twelve senior VA
leaders chosen for prestigious presidential award for service
https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5840
For Tradition
and Americanism, Marty Costello Keeps Memories Alive: The third generation
Radnor Township native continues to fight for rights and freedoms.
https://patch.com/pennsylvania/radnor/for-tradition-and-americanism-marty-costello-keeps-mec0f620d0c1
Joe’s Place in
Wayne Closes After 75 Years Amid COVID-19 Restrictions
https://delco.today/2020/05/joes-place-in-wayne-closes-after-75-years-amid-covid-19-restrictions/
American Legion
Post 418 at 401 E Lancaster Ave., Wayne, PA, 610 989-1361
https://www.cylex.us.com/company/american-legion-vfma-post-418-5298265.html
SANFORD SILVER
OBITUARY
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/sanford-silver-obituary?id=37857158
Meet Jesse Brown
— A US Hero Who Made History In America’s Forgotten War
https://kool108.iheart.com/content/2022-11-11-meet-jesse-brown-a-us-hero-who-made-history-in-americas-forgotten-war/
‘We’re Still
Fighting’: How MOAA Helps Veteran Caregivers
https://www.moaa.org/content/publications-and-media/news-articles/2022-news-articles/were-still-fighting-how-moaa-helps-veteran-caregivers/
‘The Wall’ Turns
40: Reflections on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
https://www.moaa.org/content/publications-and-media/news-articles/2022-news-articles/the-wall-turns-40-reflections-on-the-vietnam-veterans-memorial/
MOAA’s 2022-23
TRICARE Guide
https://www.moaa.org/micro/tricare-guide-2022-2023/
VFP GOLDEN RULE PROJECT. We aim to advance Veterans For Peace
opposition to nuclear weapons and war, and to do so in a dramatic fashion.
http://www.vfpgoldenruleproject.org/
Election-denying
veterans are unusually dishonorable
https://www.bakersfield.com/opinion/froma-harrop-election-denying-veterans-are-unusually-dishonorable/article_7437bda4-4e50-11ed-83f5-9ba1276b60e7.html
MAPS: Preserving
and Restoring Military Aviation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOu0XFWkQB0
WWII’s Ritchie
Boys proposed for a Congressional Gold Medal
https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2022-11-20/ritchie-boys-congressional-gold-medal-8122666.html
Republican state
attorneys general promise challenges to VA’s new abortion rules
https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2022-11-21/states-challenge-va-abortion-rules-8138887.html
Fast facts about
new toxic exposure screening for Veterans: Enrolled Veterans can be screened at
VA medical centers, clinics
https://news.va.gov/110809/fast-facts-toxic-exposure-screening/
DMVA Digest: A
publication of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs,
November 23, 2022
https://maestro.pa.gov/list/k3hdw2n4/221118O/9b16nq9um0gv.vib?a0=13811
************************************************************************************
November 2022 Veteran News by James Ulinski on
November 18, 2022 (ulinski705@gmail.com):
I hope this email reaches you and your families in good health,
getting ready for a great Thanksgiving and safe/enjoyable Holiday Season to end
2022!
This will be my last email for this year (no email news in
December).
Before I tell you about a very serious subject, I am very proud to congratulate a close friend
of mine, and outstanding friend of veterans and their families, Len Johnson,
former State DAV Commander. Len was just gifted a new, retrofitted Chevy
Traverse from TrueCar’s 8th Annual “DriventoDrive”
initiative. Kudos to Len for his outstanding nonstop work
and Kudos to George Edward Brown for sharing this! George does
a fantastic job, sharing information with veterans and others!
https://thewarhorse.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2dfda758f64e981facbb0a8dd&id=e309e8ffb6&e=1e13e58b09
I wanted to give you valuable information on how to prepare for
our death, to make it easier for your remaining spouse/loved one’s.
WHAT IF------ you died
tonight or in the next week, month, year???? Do you feel comfortable that your
spouse/significant other/family will know what to do? What did you want done?
Where to find important information to make their hurt less difficult?
This topic, I have found through experiencing the death of veterans
with the surviving spouse/partner/family is not an easy one for discussion, but
one that needs to be done while we are able to do so. It reduces an already
terrible situation by alleviating a lot of mystery/anxiety on what the
spouse/partner/family needs to know. Preparation is the key and
many of us have failed to do this!
You most assuredly should discuss the topic of death and your
conditions (if any) with your family honestly.
Have you told him/her/them exactly what you want/don’t want in
the form of medical interventions. Do they know what stage of illness you would
choose to forego certain therapies or artificial life support? Share and
discuss your advance directives with him/her/them.
Does he/she/them know who you put in charge of making medical
decisions if you can no longer make them. Your health care proxy or surrogate
medical decision maker needs to understand and agree to carry out your wishes
and desires pertaining to end-of-life care. Reinforce, this is
your death being discussed and you want your wishes fulfilled in how that is
carried out!
You need to think about your beliefs about death and do you need
any spiritual figures involved. Do you or your spouse/partner/family need any
psychological, emotional, spiritual support or care.
Have you created a “bucket list” of things you want to
accomplish with the time you have left? Write this list down and try to work on
it!
Have you thought about your personal belongings? If you have
family friends you wish to give something to, make sure they know and it is
written down. This includes mementos, pictures, items, etc.
Have you left letters or videos for any member/s of your
family/friends?
Does anyone else besides you know the passwords for your
computer or safes?
Who do you want present at your funeral visitation and/or
interment/cremation?
Do you want flowers or donations made instead of flowers to a
specific charity?
Is there a music preference you want, certain songs, your life
in photos/video displayed?
Do you want a special prayer, poem said?
Which funeral home do you want to use (make sure you address
this sooner rather than later) and talk to the director? Do you want to be
embalmed, cremated, buried? What type of casket/box for ashes do you want? Do
you want to write your own obituary? Who do you want invited? Where do you want
buried, local cemetery, family plot, national cemetery? Or, do you want your
ashes (if cremated) scattered somewhere?
What do you want inscribed on your headstone/grave marker?
Do you want a celebration of life, a wake, memorial service, or
something else?
Should I prepay expenses for the funeral, burial, cremation,
etc. or, do you want someone to handle this for you?
Your important documentation should all be in one safe place (if
possible, in a fireproof/waterproof safe)! This
includes; birth certificate, Social Security card, passport, will, trusts,
financial statements, insurance policies, mortgage documents, etc. Inform your
intended executor of the estate and other trusted family members of the location
of these documents!
Create an Advanced Directive (also known as a Living Will),
which is a legal document outlining your wishes for medical treatment, in case
you cannot communicate them yourself. This lets
people know what you want and don’t want for life saving treatment and other
medical treatments. This also can have your choice of life support or not, pain
management, etc.
The Advanced Directive can also have your wish for cremation or
burial.
One of the most important things you can do to prepare for your
death is to write a will. Without a will
(legal document), the state will determine how your assets will be divided,
which may not be the way you wanted it done. You should also designate an
executor in your will who will be responsible for carrying out the wishes
contained in the will. Once the will is completed, make sure your executor,
your spouse/significant other, and any other trusted member have a copy, plus
you should have a copy with your important documents!
Identify and appoint a power of attorney (POA) to make decisions
on your behalf should you not be able to do so. This POA can be for financial, healthcare, or both. There is
paperwork involved for this, so make sure you follow your state laws. Again,
once done, give copies to the people you trust.
If you have not purchased life insurance, you should consider
this. Gets very pricy as we enter later stages of our life. You should talk to a funeral director (with your
spouse/significant other) to let them know you are a veteran, what you want
done after death, etc. A good funeral director can be immensely helpful in your
preparations, including costs incurred for burial/cremation.
You can also decide on a formal service (more somber), memorial
service (less formal and can happen after you are cremated/buried, or a
celebration of life (reflects on celebrating your life rather than focusing on
your death). They are just preferences for you to choose.
You need to make sure your digital assets are taken care of:
Social media accounts, domain names, online banking and financial accounts,
investment accounts, email accounts, photos and other files stored online, and
other online accounts.
When we die, the funeral director needs to be notified asap. If you are a disabled veteran and 100% T&P (total and
permanent), your spouse/significant other may be entitled to monthly
compensation from the VA. Make sure your spouse/significant other knows to
contact the doctor who pronounced/will pronounce the death to see if you died
as the result (direct or indirect) of your rated injuries/illness/es. If they
are in your VA Medical Record, they do not have to be specially the ones you
were getting VA check for. Example---if your VA record shows hypertension,
coronary heart disease, diabetes, etc. that are listed by the VA as causes of
injury/illness---but they were not what you were rated for---your
spouse/significant other can still get a VA check each month---IF it is
determined one or more caused directly or contributed to your death. I
suggest someone (you wanted to help your spouse/significant other when you die
calls the veteran organization you most trust to help in this case. For me it
is 2 of our DAV State Service Officers. Important---do this asap
after death or as we are dying. I have chosen 4 disabled veterans I trust to
help my wife through the process.
Have you made clergy arrangements?
Provide the Funeral Director with a copy of your Discharge,
i.e., DD214, VA claim number if known, and veteran’s Social Security number.
The Funeral Director should (ALWAYS---double check to make sure he/she applies
for you) apply to the Department of Military Affairs for the amount allowable
toward burial expenses and also, the allowable from Social Security for burial.
The Funeral Director should also apply to the Department of
Military Affairs for an American Flag to drape over the casket/urn.
If you are a member of a Veteran Organization, contact the Post
Commander to ask about providing Military Services, Firing Squad. Or
Pallbearers, if wanted/needed.
If you have Veterans/GI Insurance, contact the County Veteran
Service Officer for assistance completing the insurance forms. If you have
Commercial Insurance, contact the agent for the company that insured you.
Your spouse should contact the Social Security office to file
for any benefits that may be available for her/him and for any children.
Your County Veterans Service Officer should also assist the
spouse and (if any) children in obtaining any benefits they may be entitled to,
such as: Survivor’s Death benefits from the VA a Headstone, if buried in a
Private Cemetery. Provide the County Veterans Service Officer with the
following when applying for benefits:
1. Copy of the Veterans service
record (Discharge)
2. The Veteran’s VA claim number,
if there is one.
3. Social Security number of the
Veteran, Spouse, and Dependent Children.
4. GI Insurance policies (if any).
5. Information regarding marriage
(Certificate), birth dates of children (if dependent), if any prior marriages
existed, and information regarding when and how dissolved (death/divorce).
6. Copy
of the Death Certificate of the Veteran. ***Important----what the cause of
death and any contributing circumstances is key for possible monthly death
allowance from the VA (have a knowledgeable Veteran Service Officer from the
DAV, American Legion, etc. assist you!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE VETERAN TO HAVE READILY AVAILABLE!
Name:
_____________________________________________________________
Home Address: ______________________________________________________
Date of Enlistment: ________________Place:
_____________________________
Date of Discharge: _________________Place:
_____________________________
Branch of Service:
___________________________________________________
Date of Birth: __________Place of Birth:
_________________________________
Date of Marriage: _____________Place (City&County:
______________________
Government Life Insurance (if any): ________________Policy #
(Amount)_______
VA Claim Number: ___________________SSN#:
___________________________
Records Located:
____________________________________________________
Received Compensation (if any and amount):
_____________________________
Pension (if any and amount):
___________________________________________
VA Office where Veteran’s Records are kept:
______________________________
*This information should be kept in a safe place and easily
accessible in case of a veteran's death or incapacitation!
Pre-Need Burial Eligibility Determination
Many people (my wife and I already did this sometime ago) and
received our approval for burial/cremation in a Department of Veterans Affairs
National Cemetery. Doing this in advance is not a must, but in my mind, a smart
thing to do. Once eligibility is determined, veterans and eligible family
members will be entitled to some or all of the following at no cost:
Burial in any open VA National Cemetery, including opening and
closing the grave, grave liner, perpetual care of the gravesite,
Government-furnished upright headstone, flat marker, or niche cover, burial
flag, and Presidential Memorial Certificate. Note---special requirements for
internment at Arlington!!
You can get VA Form 40-10007, Application for Pre-Need
Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a National Cemetery. Proof of
military service via a DD 214 is needed, but the VA will attempt to locate
documents that you or the eligible party cannot locate.
Death Notification Checklist
Government Agencies
Social Security Administration, 800-772-1213 (everyone).
Veteran’s Administration (if deceased was formerly in the
military).
Defense Finance and Accounting Service, 800-269-5170 (military
service retiree receiving benefits).
Office of Personnel Management, 888-767-6738 (if deceased is a
retired or former federal civil service employee).
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service, 800-375-5283 (if
deceased was not a U.S. citizen).
State Department of Motor Vehicles, (if deceased had a driver’s
license or stated).
Financial Companies
Credit and merchant card companies.
Banks, savings and loan associations, and credit unions.
Mortgage companies and lenders.
Financial planners and stockbrokers.
Pension providers.
Insurance and Annuity Companies
Life insurers and annuity companies
Health, medical, and dental insurers.
Disability insurer.
Automotive insurer.
Mutual benefit companies.
Credit Reporting Agencies
Experian, 888-397-3742, P.O. Box 9701, Allen, Texas 75013
Equifax, 800-525-6285, P.O. Box 105069, Atlanta, Georgia 30348
TransUnion, 800-680-7289, P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, California
92834
Memberships
Professional associations and unions.
Health clubs and athletic clubs.
Automobile clubs.
Public Library.
Alumni clubs.
Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, Veterans’ organizations and clubs.
Do Not Contact Lists
For a fee of $1.00 you can list the deceased name on the
Deceased Do Not Contact List which is maintained by the Direct Marketing
Association. All members of the Direct Marketing Association will delete the
deceased name from their mailing lists once the name has been posted. The
website is www.ims-dm.com/cgi/ddnc.
Credit Reporting Agency Notification
It’s recommended you send a copy of the death certificate to
each of the three (3) Credit Reporting Agencies I have listed for you on the
previous page. Send as the “Requesting Party” and for the “Deceased”, Name,
address and phone number/s of the “Requesting Party” and Name, Date of Death,
Date of Birth, Location of Birth and Social Security No. of the “Deceased”.
List the addresses of the deceased for the past five (5) years
starting with the most recent. Also list your relationship to the
deceased---i.e., Spouse, Personal Representative of Estate, or other. Include
on each of the three (3) agencies “Deceased” Do Not Issue Credit and request
the current copy of the deceased credit report! Make sure you keep records of
this!!
Notifying the VA of a Death
It is very important that the spouse or someone she/he
designates notify the VA ASAP after the death of the veteran. If the deceased
received VA benefits, or the VA provided any benefits (such as retirement
checks) after the deceased passed away, the VA may require the executor of the
estate to pay them back. The best way to notify the VA when the veteran dies is
through the National Call Center at 1-800-827-1000. I suggest you always write
the name, date and time of call, and what you/they said.
If you qualify to receive benefits and have filed the proper
claim information (A Service Officer can be immensely helpful) you can check on
the status of the claim by calling 1-800-827-1000.
Other suggestions
Have (this is a repeat) at least 3-4 veteran (preferably)
friends (with their phone numbers) you have asked to help your surviving spouse
get through the difficult process of losing you and making sure all bases have
been touched!
Make sure your spouse knows the number of a Service Officer for
a major organization such as DAV, VFW, American Legion, etc. to contact as
quickly after the death. I recommend a State Service Officer, if possible.
Any letters, emails, information you wanted your
spouse/significant other, family to know about your time in service, how you
loved them, pictures, tape/video, etc. readily available with the other important
information.
Remember-----we never know
when death will finally take us, so make sure you have anything I have covered
or things you have thought of readily available and location clearly conveyed!
I tried to incorporate lots of different things I have thought
about/known about, but, as always, this email can be expanded upon (I excluded
major expansion information on many topics to keep this email readable).
However---you can never have enough information on this topic. You can Google
specific topics for more detailed information).
Feel free to send me an email with tips you have on this topic
or ideas for future emails. AND------by all means, feel
free to share and pass on this information.
If you have friends, know of other veterans who might benefit
from monthly emails like this, please tell them to send me an email at ulinski705@gmail.com and I will add them to my growing list. There is strength
in sharing with others, news that could help them or their families and
friends!
Wishing all my veteran friends, families, and friends of
veterans a most joyous Holiday Season and a wonderful beginning to the New
Year!!
Stay safe!
*************************************************************************************
Traumatic Brain
Injury May Contribute to Unexplained Rise in Military Suicides
https://www.moaa.org/content/publications-and-media/news-articles/2022-news-articles/they-said-the-rise-in-military-suicide-is-a-mystery.-traumatic-brain-injury-may-be-an-answer/
VFW Action Corps
Weekly, November 21, 2022
https://www.vfw.org/advocacy/grassroots-efforts/vfw-action-corps-weekly
Get Recommended
Screening Tests and Immunizations for Men
https://www.prevention.va.gov/Healthy_Living/Get_Recommended_Screening_Tests_and_Immunizations_for_Men.asp
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that
returning home for burial with full military honors is -- Army
Cpl. Tommie T. Hanks, 27, of Fort Worth, Texas, was assigned to
Company E, 2nd Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. On
Nov. 26, 1950, he was reported missing in action while his unit was attempting
to withdraw from east Ch’ongch’on River near Anju, North Korea. Following the
war, his remains could not be recovered and there is no evidence that he was a
prisoner of war. Hanks will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery in
Arlington, Virginia, on a date yet to be determined. Read about Hanks.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3118520/soldier-accounted-for-from-korean-war-hanks-t/
The Defense
POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial with full
military honors is -- Army Pfc. Francis P. Martin, 25, of
Scranton, Pennsylvania, was assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 157th
Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division. His unit was engaged in battle with
German forces near Lichtenberg, France, when he was wounded and reported
missing. With no body recovered and the Germans never reporting him as a
prisoner of war, on Jan. 17, 1946, the War Department issued a finding of
death. Martin will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington,
Virginia, on a date yet to be determined. Read about Martin.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3076921/soldier-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-martin-f/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting
Agency announced that returning home for burial with full military honors is -- Army
Staff Sgt. James Rotunno, 27, of Brooklyn, New York, was assigned to
Company K, 3rd Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division. His
unit was engaged in the Battle of Reipertswiller in France when it was
surrounded by German forces. On Jan. 20, 1945, his unit and four other
companies attempted a break-out through German lines. Rotunno was among those
killed the following day and his body could not be recovered. He will be buried
in Rutherford, New Jersey, on a date yet to be determined. Read about Rotunno.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3178798/soldier-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-rotunno-j/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting
Agency announced that returning home for burial with full military honors is -- Army
Air Forces Staff Sgt. Walter Nies, 23, of Eureka, South Dakota, was
assigned to 96th Bombardment Squadron, 2nd Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force.
On Jan. 24, 1944, the B-17F Flying Fortress bomber on which he was serving as a
tail gunner was shot down by enemy fighters. The crew was captured by Germans,
and Nies was among those sent to Stalag Luft 6 prisoner of war camp. Nies died
on May 28, 1944, after being shot. He will be buried in Eureka,
South Dakota, on a date yet to be determined. Read about Nies.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3129993/airman-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-nies-w/
Vision for
Excellence, Issue 32
https://www.visn4.va.gov/VISN4/news/vision/index.asp
The Camp Lejeune
Justice Act - Evaluating and Understanding the Benefits with Answers to
Frequently Asked
Questions: Ensuring You Understand the “Offset”
http://secure.campaigner.com/csb/Public/show/gi98-5cw9f--3cffyl-6qytwa3
Five Veteran's
Benefits for Veterans Day
https://www.benefits.gov/news/article/463?utm_source=enewsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Editors%20Picks%20Selection%20Issue
Resources for
Energy Assistance this Winter
https://www.benefits.gov/news/article/442?utm_source=enewsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Editors%20Picks%20Selection%20Issue
MACV-SOG: The
Vietnam-Era Special Operators You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
https://www.warhistoryonline.com/vietnam-war/macv-sog.html?chrome=1
Lawsuit accuses
VA of denying Black veterans their benefits for decades: Marine veteran Conley
Monk Jr. says the goal of the lawsuit is to open opportunities for other Black
veterans to access VA benefits.
https://taskandpurpose.com/news/va-benefits-black-military-veterans-racial-discrimination/
13 places that
offer free wills or trusts for Veterans
https://news.va.gov/111089/13-places-free-wills-trusts-veterans/
DMVA Digest: A
publication of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs,
November 30, 2022
https://maestro.pa.gov/list/k3hdw2n4/221118P/2gllnfzcsxu2.vib?a0=13914
SERVING
PENNSYLVANIA'S VETERANS. No Warrior
Without Help. All Volunteer
Organization. We are prepared to assist
Pennsylvania Veterans from all Service Branches, Components, and eras. PAWW is an independent statewide non-profit
501©(3) organization providing support to Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors,
Veterans in Crisis, and their families.
https://www.pawoundedwarriors.org/
Outage affects
988 suicide prevention hotline, VA offers alternatives
https://www.militarytimes.com/veterans/2022/12/01/outage-affects-988-suicide-prevention-hotline-va-offers-alternatives/
VA will launch
new life insurance program in January, making life insurance available to more
Veterans than ever before
https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5844
Insights on
Telehealth Use and Program Integrity Risks Across Selected Health Care Programs
During the Pandemic
https://www.va.gov/oig/publications/report-summary.asp?id=5221
Inspectors
General ask the question: How can we make telehealth better? – Nov 30, 2022
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSmctUzJlAM
National Pearl
Harbor Remembrance Day
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Pearl_Harbor_Remembrance_Day
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day 2022
https://www.navymemorial.org/
It's National
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Look back at the 'date which will live in infamy'
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/its-national-pearl-harbor-remembrance-day-look-back-at-the-date-which-will-live-in-infamy/ar-AA150BTs
‘Peeling an
onion’: A single tooth points to missing soldier who died on his birthday in
Vietnam
https://www.stripes.com/theaters/asia_pacific/2022-12-04/vietnam-pow-mia-dpaa-zich-tooth-8303976.html
Benefits at 10%
Disability | Give Holiday Cheer to Veterans in Need | 10% Off Engagement Rings
U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs sent this bulletin at 12/07/2022 05:30 PM EST
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USVA/bulletins/33c158d
Florida Man
Pleads Guilty to Making Threatening Communications
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/pr/florida-man-pleads-guilty-making-threatening-communications
What We Learned
about Federal Telehealth Programs during the First Year of the Pandemic: Recognizing
how critical telehealth has been to the federal COVID-19 response, the PRAC
Health Care Subgroup—which includes six federal Offices of Inspectors
General—worked together to provide insights on the use of telehealth and its
associated program integrity risks.
https://www.pandemicoversight.gov/oversight/our-publications-reports/what-we-learned-about-federal-telehealth-programs
South Florida
Woman Sentenced To 3 Years For Her Role In A Health Care Fraud Conspiracy
https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/south-florida-woman-sentenced-3-years-her-role-health-care-fraud-conspiracy
Rhode Island
Woman Appointed to Serve as a Conservator for a Disabled Veteran Sentenced to
Jail for Stealing the Veteran's Federal Benefits
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/pr/rhode-island-woman-appointed-serve-conservator-disabled-veteran-sentenced-jail-stealing
Former Vice
President and General Manager of New England Compounding Center Sentenced to
Prison
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/pr/former-vice-president-and-general-manager-new-england-compounding-center-sentenced
DAV Membership
Webinar - 11-28-22
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=om97k3K8mVQ
VA, HHS urge veterans
to get COVID shots before holiday season
https://www.militarytimes.com/veterans/2022/12/06/va-urges-veterans-to-get-covid-boosters-before-holiday-season/
GOP Lawmakers
Trying to Cap Attorneys' Fees in Camp Lejeune Toxic Water Cases
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/12/07/gop-lawmakers-trying-cap-attorneys-fees-camp-lejeune-toxic-water-cases.html
Racial
discrimination by Veterans Affairs spans decades, lawsuit says: The case could
determine if the federal government can be held liable for systemic prejudices
that disadvantaged Black military veterans and their descendants, advocates say
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2022/11/28/veterans-affairs-lawsuit-racial-discrimination/
FRA NewsBytes
December 9, 2022
https://www.fra.org/fra/web/news___publications/news_bytes/web/content/newsbytes.aspx?hkey=20e16051-03c8-43a2-89f1-bf3b24ad4a34
VA launches
national PACT Act Week of Action to inform Veterans and survivors about new
health care and benefits. VA to host
90+ events across all 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico to inform Veterans about
the PACT Act, which President Biden signed into law Aug. 10
https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5847
VA to host town
halls for Veterans, families during ‘PACT Act Week of Action’: VA is hosting
90+ town hall events to discuss new eligibilities and benefits for Veterans
https://news.va.gov/111511/va-host-town-halls-pact-act-week-of-action/
Military sexual trauma (MST) refers to sexual assault or
sexual harassment experienced during military service. Veterans of all genders
and from all types of backgrounds have experienced MST.
https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/military-sexual-trauma/
The Army motto of
‘Army Strong’ epitomizes the drive, determination and work ethic of Army
Veteran Nicola Laury, head of CMCVAMC’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Program.
https://www.va.gov/files/2021-11/Choose%20VA%20Newsletter%202021%20Fall_508_reduced_0.pdf
CAMP LEJEUNE
HEALTH and DISABILITY BENEFITS
https://www.va.gov/files/2021-11/ChooseVA_Newsletter_2020_v3FINAL_508_reduced.pdf
The Camp Lejeune Justice
Act – Evaluating and Understanding the Benefits
https://vva.org/news/the-camp-lejeune-justice-act-evaluating-and-understanding-the-benefits/
VA to begin
processing PACT Act benefits claims immediately for terminally ill Veterans
https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5848
VA starting work
on terminally ill vets’ PACT Act claims immediately
https://www.militarytimes.com/veterans/2022/12/12/va-starting-work-on-terminally-ill-vets-pact-act-claims-immediately/
Porvenir
massacre: Did US army have larger role in 1918 killings?
https://www.newscientist.com/video/2350915-porvenir-massacre-did-us-army-have-larger-role-in-1918-killings/
VA OIG Monthly
Highlights
https://www.va.gov/oig/publications/monthly-highlights.asp
VVA
APPLICATION-FOR-MEMBERSHIP
https://www.vva-pa.org/_files/ugd/ed5675_a63d272d1037483f8b143938565ede22.pdf
Pennsylvania VVA
Chapters
https://www.vva-pa.org/pa-chapters
Pennsylvania
Wounded Warriors Inc. Charity Navigator Rating.
https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/743225326
Kansas Veteran
Sentenced for Defrauding the VA
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ks/pr/kansas-veteran-sentenced-defrauding-va
Veteran Lied About Having a Disorder to Scam the VA Out
of Over $500,000, Feds Say
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/12/15/veteran-lied-about-having-disorder-scam-va-out-of-over-500000-feds-say.html
Former Director
of Operations for New England Compounding Center Sentenced
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/pr/former-director-operations-new-england-compounding-center-sentenced
MVP INSIDER: A
newsletter for our Veteran participants, Issue 10 | Fall 2022
https://www.mvp.va.gov/pwa/sites/default/files/2022-10/VA-MVP-Newsletter-2022-Small-508.pdf
Blind and
Disabled Veterans Can’t Access VA Websites, Report Says
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2022/12/14/va-website-accessibility-disabled-veterans/
Wreaths across
America honor the fallen heroes
https://www.wgal.com/article/wreaths-across-america-honor-fallen-heroes/42274483
Four Individuals
Charged With Fraudulently Obtaining Government Contracts Intended For
Disadvantaged Small Business Owners
https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdpa/pr/four-individuals-charged-fraudulently-obtaining-government-contracts-intended
United States
Sues Michigan-Based NH Learning Solutions Corporation for Submitting False
Claims for Inflated Post 9/11 GI-Bill Tuition Benefits
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/united-states-sues-michigan-based-nh-learning-solutions-corporation-submitting-false-claims
Filipino
Stewards in the US Navy in World War II.
ZOOM EVENT: TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 7:00 PM
https://myemail.constantcontact.com/TOMORROW-Zoom--Filipino-Stewards-in-the-US-Navy-.html?soid=1139134335775&aid=MAqPHjxcCvc
The shameful
Vietnam War policy that recruited low-IQ men to die for their country: Louis H.
Pumphrey (Opinion)
https://www.cleveland.com/opinion/2019/05/the-shameful-vietnam-war-policy-that-recruited-low-iq-men-to-die-for-their-country-louis-h-pumphrey-opinion.html
The PACT Act and
your VA benefits
https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/
Spread the word
about PACT Act eligibility: Learn how expanded benefits could impact Veterans
you know
https://news.va.gov/109115/spread-word-pact-act-health-care-eligibility/
SBP-DIC Offset
Phased Elimination News
https://www.dfas.mil/RetiredMilitary/survivors/SBP-DIC-News/
Are you a Veteran
in crisis or concerned about one? Find
support anytime day or night
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/
The Defense
POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for burial with full
military honors is Army Air Forces Staff Sgt. Michael Uhrin, 21, of
Metuchen, New Jersey, was assigned to 369th Bombardment Squadron, 306th
Bombardment Group, 40th Combat Wing, 8th Air Force. On Oct. 14, 1943, the B-17F
Flying Fortress bomber on which Uhrin was serving as a radio operator was shot
down by enemy fighters. The surviving crew reported he was killed before the
plane crashed. Following the war, his remains could not be identified. He will
be buried in his hometown on a date yet to be determined. Read about Uhrin.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3040157/airman-accounted-for-from-world-war-ii-uhrin-m/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for
burial with full military honors is Army Pfc. James L. Miller, 21, was
assigned to Company K, 3rd Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry
Division. He was reported killed in action on July 30, 1950, when his unit took
part in the unsuccessful defense against North Korean forces near the town of
Sangju, South Korea. Following the war, his remains could not be recovered and
there was no evidence that he was a prisoner of war. Interment services are
pending. Read about
Miller.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3243599/soldier-accounted-for-from-korean-war-miller-j/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that returning home for
burial with full military honors is Army Pfc. William L. Simon, 20, was
assigned to Company G, 2nd Battalion,109th Infantry Regiment, 28th Infantry
Division. He was reported killed in action on Nov. 5, 1944, when his unit was
engaged in battle with German forces near Hürtgen, Germany. Following the war,
his remains could not be recovered and there was no evidence that he was a
prisoner of war. Interment services are pending. Read about
Simon.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/News-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3243586/soldier-accounted-for-from-ww-ii-simon-w/
VA employee sues
department over new abortion policy: A Veterans Affairs health care employee
working in Texas sued the department Wednesday over its new abortion policy,
saying the change violates her religious beliefs as well as state law.
https://www.militarytimes.com/veterans/2022/12/14/va-employee-sues-department-over-new-abortion-policy/
Filipinos in the U.S. Navy - From
Stewards to Flag Officers – November 2022
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Up0kJw6FhQ
DMVA Digest: A
publication of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs,
December 14, 2022
https://maestro.pa.gov/list/k3hdw2n4/221208B/bpx3u1q0oaxc.vib?a0=9429
Former VA
Psychologist Charged With Submitting False Medical Documents to Employer,
Obstruction of Justice, Medicare Fraud
https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdil/pr/former-va-psychologist-charged-submitting-false-medical-documents-employer-obstruction
Architect of multi-million-dollar
education fraud involving scuba dive shops sentenced to years in federal
prison: Three additional defendants previously sentenced; two await court dates
https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdga/pr/architect-multi-million-dollar-education-fraud-involving-scuba-dive-shops-sentenced
Comprehensive
Healthcare Inspection of the Lexington VA Health Care System in Kentucky
https://www.va.gov/oig/publications/report-summary.asp?id=5228