The nearly year-long obstruction of hundreds of senior officer promotions has ended in large part to Sens. Dan Sullivan and Joni Ernst, both fellow VFW members. The hold on military promotions endangered our national security and that of our allies, further jeopardizing the sustainability of our all-volunteer force. VFW National Commander Duane Sarmiento commented, “Going forward, we urge Congress to work together to resolve political disputes within the halls of Congress and permanently abandon the dangerous practice of casting partisan politics on to those wearing the cloth of our nation. Let’s remember, veterans vote.”
VFW Op-Ed on Claim Sharks
In response to an article in Stars and Stripes by David Cook titled, “VSOs should back a PLUS Act that gives vets options,” VFW National Legislative Deputy Director Kristina Keenan wrote an article to clarify the VFW’s views on unaccredited claims consultants known as Claim Sharks. She wrote, “Bottom line: What these companies do is against the law. Veterans should be careful when considering working with an unaccredited consultant because they may be asked to share personal information, medical records and bank account details with companies that have no oversight, no accountability, and that are operating illegally. All of the companies that charge for initial claims are doing so illegally.”
Take Action To Stop Claim Sharks
A Claim Shark is an individual or company that charges hefty fees to “assist” or “consult” veterans and survivors with filing their VA benefits claims. This practice is illegal! In fact, none of these private companies is better than the others. They are all operating illegally. Claim Sharks are not VA-accredited, meaning they are not required to adhere to professional and ethical standards, so their advice can be misleading or even fraudulent. Please take a moment to send an important message to Congress and help the VFW stop Claim Sharks.
Holiday Rush Prescription Deliveries
The Department of Veterans Affairs wants veterans to know it intends for mail order prescriptions to be delivered in a timely manner throughout the holidays. VA works with the U.S. Postal Service to prioritize deliveries to veterans. However, if a veteran experiences an issue, pharmacies at VA medical centers can fill prescriptions. Staying in contact with your doctor and local VA health team is important for handling any gaps in medical needs.
Till next week, praying for all service members.
– Charles Castelluccio
