Volume 43- No. 37
September 13, 2012
by lyle e davis Those of us who served our nation as a member of any of the military organizations may not be aware of what great benefits are still available to us through the Veteran’s Administration. I found out by accident. A neighbor of mine, Sy Okun, was active with the VFW and the American Legion. He also handled all types of veteran’s affairs through the VA. He told me what I was eligible for and, lo and behold! He was right! I checked with the VA and soon had a pair of $4400 hearing aids. My cost? $150! Not a bad deal. All you need do is, if you were a member of the military for more than 90 days, check with your local Veteran’s Administration office. They will soon be able to determine your eligibility. Obviously, service connected disabilities are top priority. That is as it should be. But most, if not all, of us are eligible for some degree of coverage. I have fallen in love with the Veteran’s Administration Clinic in Oceanside. Not only with the physical building and facilities, but even more, with its people. Seems like they are always smiling and eager to help. Top professionals in ever sense of the word. My first encounter there was with Big John Spain, the always smiling, always cordial and polite, receptionist at the Audiology Clinic. Originally from Richmond, Virginia, John exudes that Southern Charm. John served as a
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Marine and, following his military service, began a new career with the VA. He’s been with them for seven years. A colleague, Venus Madkins, has as big a smile as John Spain does. She, too, has been with the VA for seven years, serving as a Health Technician in the Audiology Department.
from her photo, she, too, has a beautiful smile. Smiles are on the loose at the VA Clinic in Oceanside!
We soon met Dr. Megan Paulk, who specialized in Audiology. As you can see
As I paid my periodic visits to the Oceanside VA Clinic, the though struck me . . .”the VA
Together, these folks served me warmly, gave me a hearing exam, prescribed and built custom hearing aids . . . and feel like part of my extended family.
has been getting a bad rap. Some bad press because of problems elsewhere in the nation . . . yet, here, everything runs smooth as can be, and every bit as professional as any of the finest medical facilities in the private sector.” I decided that you, our readers, need to know how wonderful these folks are, what great medical treatment is available to you, and how you can get in on the act. The
“Welcome Home, Veterans!” Continued on Page 2