If your Monday is anything like mine, you are busy multitasking – responding to emails, answering phone calls, going to meetings. But this morning I came across some amazing facts that reminded me of the big picture here at VA. Let me share some of them with you:
- Nearly three-quarters of living Veterans served during a war or period of conflict
- Vietnam Veterans account for the largest group of all Veterans
- World War II Veterans make up the next largest group
- Currently, there are 1.7 million female Veterans, or seven percent of the Veteran population
- About one-quarter of the Nation’s population is potentially eligible for VA benefits
- The last Veteran of the Spanish-American War died in 1992, and 152 children and widows of the that war still receive VA compensation or pension benefits
- Five children of Civil War Veterans still receive VA benefits
Now, can you imagine the names and faces and stories behind those facts? It’s why I love coming to work every day. Not only do we help today’s heroes, but we’re also responsible for helping Veterans and their families from years – even ages – ago. Whether you are a registered nurse, pharmacist, physical therapist, or something else entirely, you can be a part of our legacy of excellence, innovation, cutting-edge research and achievements in health care delivery.If making a substantial contribution to our nation is as important you to as it is to me, consider joining VA. As the largest healthcare system in the nation, we have more opportunities for medical professionals than anyone. And you’ll find professional satisfaction while balancing work and home life. Learn more and Join VA.
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I do appreciate all you have done for veterans,that is great. But I must take the time to say that back in 1971-1973 when my husband was drafted we had been married for 3 1/2 years had a 15 month old, just starting out making our way, no savings, very little health insurance. Then bang, he was gone, and I alone was left with the care of everything. I had no family to help my parents still had 5 kids at home. His parents were retired and not much money in ss those days.
I was virtually left penny less for almost 4 months. Even went so far as asking social services for some temporary help till I got some money. Was told in a very firm and heartless way to go to work. My husband did what he could to send some money, but not enough to pay the bills. Finally came 120.00, rent 85.00 still no medical or food allowance or housing allowance like families today. Had to drive 10 miles to closest place to do laundry. Try to feed strapping male toddler and keep healthy with dr visits left nothing at all for us. Husband stationed at Persidio SF and I was told that there were certain qualifications that had to be met before a soldier could bring their family to base housing, and husband did not fit those requirements of years and rank. Now after saving and taking care of business he finds he now makes too much money to be able to take advantage of any veterans facilities. So fortunately we are doing ok in our retirement, but still have a hard time with those military years disappointment, sorry. But keep up the good work with today’s vets we do treasure them and what they have done.
Mrs. Stillway, I am sorry for your loss. Thank you for standing by our brother for all those years! He was a lucky man. I, too, hope you get your benefits in an expedotious timeframe. When I worked at the VETERANS Administration, many spouses came to me after their loved ones passed, & thanked me for caring for them. My answer was always the same: He (or) She was my family, & I loved him or her. When my father passed, I was actually “happy” bcuz he was no longer in pain & sad and a shell of the man I remembered.
Your pain, dedication, & name will be lifted in prayer to The One God, Creator of all things.
MANY BLESSINGS!!
I read your article on helping families of veterans and felt saddened by it. My husband was 100 percent diabled. Paralyzed from a stroke and many other medical issues, I cared for him for 14 years, doing everything and giving up my life for him. He passed away in January 2016, I applied for survivors pension (DIC) and the reply was there are many claims for this and we’ll work on getting you the benefits you are entitled to. All I get is a monthly letter saying they are working on it. Pretty sad way of helping families. It seems once a veteran is deceased the family is forgotten. The family still has bills to pay. I gave up my career to care for him and at my age it would be hard to resume. Once a veteran dies, the VA wants nothing to do with the family. It took 7 years to get him his benefits, I hope it won’t take 7 years for me to get my benefits.
Thanks Darren! That’s how I felt when I worked at the VETERANS Administration, too! The check & benefits were nice, but it was like helping FAMILY, & for a kid that grew up in foster homes, nothing means more to this veteran than family!