The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), DAV (Disabled American Veterans), and the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), have released two reports, which are The Independent Budget: Veteran’s Agenda for the 117th Congress, Critical issues and The Independent Budget: FY 2022- 2023 for the Department of Veterans Affairs. “For over 30 years, the VFW has partnered with its colleagues at PVA and DAV to produce The Independent Budget, which recommends proper funding and staffing for all programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs,” said VFW National Commander Hal Roesch. “Ensuring that veterans receive proper health care and benefits during this tumultuous time has never been more important.” The reports list toxic substance exposures, VA infrastructure, minority veterans, and employment among many critical issues facing today’s veterans. The reports also provide estimates for funding the VA will require in order to provide health care, benefits, and transition services to more than ten million veterans, their families, and survivors.
Veterans Rapid Retraining Bill Introduced in House
Last Monday, Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL) introduced VFW-supported H.R. 637. A few days prior, Sens. Tester (D-MT) and Moran (R-KS) introduced the Senate version of this legislation. This important legislation would provide 12 months of retraining benefits to certain veterans who became unemployed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Veterans between the ages of 22 and 66, who are not eligible for other VA education benefits, would qualify for retraining assistance in high-demand occupations. The VFW thanks its friends in Congress for this effort to address veteran unemployment arising from the global pandemic.
COVID-19 Vaccines Will Be Available Through TRICARE
The White House has announced that COVID-19 vaccines will be made available through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program. TRICARE beneficiaries should contact their local TRICARE network provider pharmacy to determine if they can schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine once the vaccines are delivered to their area.
POW/MIA Update
U.S. Navy Seaman 2nd Class Howard S. Magers, 18, was assigned to the battleship USS Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when the ship was attacked by Japanese aircraft. 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 Magers. Interment services are pending.
Till next week, praying for all service members.
– Charles Castelluccio
