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Veteran's Voice — By Terry Lloyd
With the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act toxic exposure program of 2022 being one of the most expensive since Agent Orange, there are bound to be criminals out to further hurt vulnerable veterans and their families just seeking the help they are due.
To avoid being a victim of these schemes, here are some tips from Veterans Affairs (with a few side comments): Submit your application securely online via VA.Gov or in person at any regional office. The VA will help you gather the necessary evidence to support it (get as much info as you can gather on your own, especially the basics, DD-214, copies of travel orders or citations that put you in an exposure area, medical records, etc.). There are no costs or hidden fees to apply through the VA. Do not agree to pay an unaccredited individual or organization a percentage of your disability compensation payment or retroactive entitlement. If you need help filing a claim, there are accredited representatives to assist you.
Be cautious of aggressive law firms or companies. Firms may use frequent communications (phone, text, social media messages) to establish a sense of urgency.
Be cautious of for-profit companies that use the VA’s name. They may alter their name to create a false association with VA and establish legitimacy. Examples include a website such as “VAclaimsassistance.com” that incorporates VA into its name.
Review all legally binding documents thoroughly. Never sign a blank form someone else will fill out later or give them full discretion to act on your behalf. See the contents before you sign and keep a copy for yourself.
Be wary of media advertisements regarding legal representation for presumptive VA claims. Companies advertising legal services may be predatory and financially motivated to obtain your VA benefits.
If a company or individual is projecting misinformation or has questionable business practices regarding VA entitlements, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and the Better Business Bureau (you can also use the BBB to check the reputation of a firm).
To report suspected fraudulent activity, please contact the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) Hotline Iinfo@va.gov).
Veterans and survivors who think they might be eligible should apply for PACT Act benefits at this time. Go to va.gov/PACT or call 1-800-MY-VA-411 for more information.
Join Post 10 for Vietnam Veterans Day on March 29: Although unofficially marked by many Vietnam Veterans since 1974, exactly one year after the official departure of U.S. forces from Vietnam, National Vietnam War Veterans Day was officially designated in 2017. This year American Legion Post 10, located at the Kissimmee Lakefront, will be observing the holiday. A Wreath Laying ceremony with take place at 10 am. At 5 p.m. there will be a formal posting of the colors (flag ceremony) and 21-gun salute, followed by an Asian-themed dinner, 60s-70s music, and a period-era outfit contest. The event is open to Vietnam veterans, their families, and supporters. There is no charge, however I am sure any donations are appreciated and will make you a “Numba 1 GI.”
