The VFW has worked with congressional leadership in the House and Senate to reintroduce and work toward quick passage of the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019, which would restore benefits to Blue Water Navy veterans and expand benefits for Korean DMZ and Thailand veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange. Stay tuned to the Veterans Corner, for updates on this important bill. Now is the time to call your representatives in Washington and tell them to pass these bills that our veterans need so badly.
Space-A Travel Opens to 100% Disabled Vets
A new change contained in the 2019 defense bill now allows 100 percent disabled veterans to travel Space-Available aboard military and military-contract flights within the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii and U.S. territories. According to an article in Military.com the disabled veterans must possess a Defense Department ID Card (DD Form 2765) in order to not only fly Space-A but to access military installations. The rule change halfway accomplishes Resolution 419 from the 112th VFW National Convention; only halfway because dependents are not eligible to accompany them. The article also states disabled vets have limited destinations, whereas other Category 6 travelers (military retirees) have worldwide eligibility. That discrepancy will be addressed.
County Crisis Numbers
Here are county crisis numbers that are available for everyone to use. The numbers for the following counties are: Erie (814) 456-2014 or (800) 300-9558; Crawford (800) 315-5721; Mercer (724) 662-2227; Venango (814) 432-9111; Warren (814) 723-2800; Forest (800) 723-2800 or (800) 406-1255. Also, veterans and service members can use Erie VAMC Behavior Health. They provide a 24/7 on-call service at (814) 868-8661 or (800) 274-8387 and ask for a Behavior Health Crisis Representative. You can also call the Veterans Crisis line at (800) 273-8255 and press 1. Make the call if you are in need in any type crisis. Do your self a favor, copy this information and put it in your wallet or purse if you ever need it. If in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
POW/MIA Update
Navy Chief Pharmacist’s Mate James T. Cheshire was stationed aboard the USS Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when the ship was attacked by Japanese aircraft on Dec. 7, 1941. The battleship sustained multiple torpedo hits, which caused it to quickly capsize. The attack on the ship resulted in the deaths of 429 crewmen, including Cheshire. Interment services are pending.
Navy Chief Warrant Officer John A. Austin was stationed aboard the USS Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor. Interment services are pending.
Navy Buglemaster 2nd Class Lionel W. Lescault was stationed aboard the USS Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor. Interment services are pending.
Till next week, praying for all service members.
– Charles Castelluccio
