V.A. Maze

I just started tuning in to your podcasts. They have been extremely interesting. I was shocked during one episode where you mentioned that seven Medal of Honor recipients were without their V.A. benefits. Shocking due to the nature of the Medal – but not all that surprising.

The services are not that sensitive to the individuals separating from the service. One V.A. counselor told me it was largely because the individuals processing the veteran out are themselves still in the service and just ignorant of the benefits and assistance available. I was discharged in 72 and I had no idea until 2008 that I could receive healthcare through the V.A. (I lived two miles from Ft. Miley, the S.F. V.A. hospital). I only found out when I interviewed for a job at the hospital. Since then, I have learned that there is much assistance to be had through the V.A.: medical; employment; housing; counseling; in some cases, money; upgrades of discharges; and more. The quality of care and accessibility can differ from state to state, and quality is an issue we vets have to address. And addressing V.A. care starts with becoming aware of what is actually there for us. The second step is not quitting.

Author: Jack