|
Mission #1: Get Your Benefits Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Program
Every year, thousands of troops separate from the military. As they do, VFW is there to ensure they get the entitlements from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) they have earned with their honorable service to the nation. The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Program was founded in 2001, a cooperative initiative of the VA and the Department of Defense. That year, the VFW placed its first service officer at Camp Lejeune, N.C. Today, the VFW has nine offices at some of the largest military installations across the nation, with plans to expand. “The goal is to reach out to service members prior to separation to help them navigate the claims process,” explains Larry Berman, Assistant Director, VFW National Veterans Service. VFW Pre-Discharge Claims Representatives meet with separating service personnel, including National Guard and Reservists, one-on-one to discuss their injuries and eligibility for benefits. They also hold informational sessions for larger groups and visit hospitalized service personnel at military and VA medical facilities.
According to Berman, the Global War on Terrorism has exponentially increased the need for VFW’s assistance. “We are working very hard to keep up with the flood of separating service men and women,” Berman reported. Recently, the office at Fort Hood, Texas, reached an important milestone: serving its 10,000th client. “[VFW representative] Tom Parker provides outstanding service!" said Craig Horvath, an Army veteran of 24 years. “The claims process is overwhelming, and figuring out your medical benefits is a challenge. But Tom gave me the confidence and help I needed.” Do you need help filing for your VFW benefits? Find the service officer nearest you.
|
|
|
Return to main VFW at Work! Page | |
|
| |
