Veterans and Active Military
YES, MY SON SERVED
Don’t make the mistake of viewing the Veteran’s Administration as a vast sea over which you must sail, but rather a deep, deep expedition into the very center and history of this country. No other organization exists with such deep roots; bring a pickax and prepare to chip away. If you feel you’re not getting the answers you want, make a return visit; simply say, as I did, “Sorry, I’ve been here before but I’ve forgotten most of what was said.” And you know, on the second visit, I received another form for some sort of certificate that wasn’t mentioned before. Deep.
Get involved with your benefits early, when you can. If you are family caregiver, get involved early. Although illness may not be service related, there is still outreach, support, help for spouses, minor children.
Please be respectful, those whom you encounter will have heard the plights of countless others before you. They may be worn out, exhausted; your problems are yours; they do their best. You will get forms, and more forms (below are helpful links), you might get a pamphlet or two.
BE PREPARED FOR YOUR VISIT:
Visit U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs online
Memory Care for Veterans
Substance Abuse -- Rehab for Veterans
Don’t make the mistake of viewing the Veteran’s Administration as a vast sea over which you must sail, but rather a deep, deep expedition into the very center and history of this country. No other organization exists with such deep roots; bring a pickax and prepare to chip away. If you feel you’re not getting the answers you want, make a return visit; simply say, as I did, “Sorry, I’ve been here before but I’ve forgotten most of what was said.” And you know, on the second visit, I received another form for some sort of certificate that wasn’t mentioned before. Deep.
Get involved with your benefits early, when you can. If you are family caregiver, get involved early. Although illness may not be service related, there is still outreach, support, help for spouses, minor children.
Please be respectful, those whom you encounter will have heard the plights of countless others before you. They may be worn out, exhausted; your problems are yours; they do their best. You will get forms, and more forms (below are helpful links), you might get a pamphlet or two.
BE PREPARED FOR YOUR VISIT:
- Leave your pocketknife, boxcutter in the car.
- You’ll go through a metal detector and any bag or purse or briefcase will be scanned.
- You’ll need your ID, and depending on status Form DD214.
- Don’t forget to bring your sense of humor and please treat those whom you meet with patience and respect.
Visit U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs online
Memory Care for Veterans
Substance Abuse -- Rehab for Veterans