Time is running out for Pennsylvania service members that have served in the Persian Gulf War to apply for cash benefits. Anyone who served in the first Persian Gulf War in theater between Aug. 2, 1990, and Aug. 31, 1991, has until Aug. 31, 2018, to file for their bonus. The bonus amount is $75.00 of qualification of service for each month, with a maximum payment of $525.00. For more information, call (866) 458-9182. You can also talk with a credited Veterans Service Officer. Don’t delay. (Note this is for Pennsylvania service members.)
VA Updates Skin Conditions Disability Rating
VA is currently updating multiple categories of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities, including conditions related to the skin. No conditions have been removed from the skin rating, though several were restructured. Claims that were pending before Aug. 13 will be considered under both the new and old rating criteria. The more favorable criteria for the veteran will be used for claims pending before Aug. 13. Claims filed after Aug. 13 will be rated under the new schedule. For assistance with filing a claim, contact a professional, accredited, and highly-trained VFW service officer near you.
Army Credentialing Assistance Program
On Tuesday, the Army announced that it will begin piloting its Credentialing Assistance Program beginning this fall, with full implementation set for FY20. The program will provide soldiers up to $4,000 per year to pay for certifications and credentials that will help prepare them for gainful employment after their transition from the military. Upon full implementation, the program will give soldiers the ability to choose from more than 1,600 programs offered through the Army’s Credentialing Opportunities Online website, and better prepare them for jobs in industries such as health care, information technology, and aviation repair. This new pilot expands on the current Army Credentialing Program, but gives soldiers the ability to gain certifications that are outside their military occupational specialties.
POW/MIA Update
Navy Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Arthur Glenn, 43, a World War II veteran, of Fort Wayne, Ind., whose remains were previously accounted for, was buried Aug. 21 in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu.
Marine Corps Pfc. Robert K. Holmes, 19, a World War II veteran, of Wichita, Kan., whose remains were previously accounted for, was buried Aug. 20 in Salt Lake City.
Army Air Forces Capt. George Van Vleet, Jr., 35, a World War II veteran, of Fresno, Calif., whose remains were previously accounted for, was buried Aug. 18 in his hometown.
Marine Corps Reserve Pfc. Herman W. Mulligan, Jr., 21, a World War II veteran of West Greenville, S.C., whose remains were previously accounted for, will be buried Aug. 21 in Arlington National Cemetery.
Army Pfc. Joe S. Elmore, 20, a Korean War veteran, of Seminary, Ky., whose remains were previously accounted for, was buried Aug. 18 in Albany, Ky.
Navy Aviation Chief Ordnanceman Otis E. Ingram, a World War II veteran, was a turret gunner aboard a torpedo bomber from U.S. Navy Torpedo Squadron Fifty One (VT-51). Interment services are pending.
Army Pfc. Leo J. Duquette, a Korean War veteran, was a member of Company L, 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Interment services are pending.
Army Pfc. Mathis O. Ball, Jr., a Korean War veteran, was a member of Company M, 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Interment services are pending.
Army Pfc. George L. Spangenberg, a Korean War veteran, was a member of Company E, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. Interment services are pending.
Till next week, praying for all service members.
– Charles Castelluccio
