VETERANS CHRONICLE APRIL 2022
Veterans Stand Down STORY ON PAGE 5
“I got some great cold weather gear,” said Rick Sharp, of Post Falls, as he left the Veterans Stand Down at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds in Coeur d’Alene on May 10, 2014. Army veteran Sharp served three tours of duty in Iraq. Stand Downs have become a traditional spring activity in the area. KATHY PLONKA/ THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
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The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
VETERANS BULLETIN – QUICK TAKES ON CURRENT ISSUES
Get your COVID-19 booster
Getting your COVID-19 booster is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community. VA provides vaccine and booster shots to veterans receiving VA health care, and as supply permits, additional veterans, spouses, and caregivers. Find the nearest VA facility to get your booster at www.va.gov/ find-locations/
tive conditions related to exposure to hazardous materials. It encourages veterans who were previously denied to file a claim. Visit www. va.gov/disability/ to learn more.
Explore a VA pension
Did you know VA's Veterans Pension program provides monthly payments to wartime veterans over the age of 65 with a limited income and net worth? If you are under 65 but have a permanent and total disability, you may also be eligible. Learn how to apply for a VA pension at www.va.gov/ pension
Lower mortgage payments
Do you have a VA-backed home loan and want lower monthly mortgage payments? An interest rate reduction refinance loan (IRRRL) lets you replace your current loan with a new one under different terms. Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply at www.va.gov/ housing-assistance/
File claim for military exposure
If you have an illness or condition related to in-service exposure, you may be eligible for disability compensation. VA is now processing service-connected disability claims for six new presump-
Guard or Reserve, VA can help you pay for books, supplies, and housing while training for a new career. Find out if you're eligible and how to apply at www.va.gov/education/
VR&E helps veterans excel in their careers
Explore your career options and address any training needs you may have with the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program. VR&E helps veterans with service-connected disabilities and employment handicaps prepare for and find exciting employment opportunities. Learn more about VR&E and how it can help. www.va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation/
GI Bill covers training programs
Did you know you can use your GI Bill benefits to receive on-the-job training or apprenticeships? If you are a veteran or currently in the
SOME VETERANS BENEFITS CAN EXPIRE
Most veterans aren’t aware of their benefits, let alone that many of them can expire. Although these deadlines are generally set in stone, the VA has provisions to waive them if you have a legitimate reason for not applying before the given deadlines. These may include health and disability issues. However, the VA will not waive a time limit for not knowing the deadline. Here are examples of common VA benefits and time limits:
VA Benefit
Time limit
Post-9/11 GI Bill: The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides 36 months of education, training and OJT benefits to eligible veterans. The in-state tuition and fees are covered at public schools. For private schools, there is an annual maximum amount that is inflation adjusted. The Post-9/11 GI Bill also pays a housing allowance based on the E-5 with dependents BAH rate for the location of the school, and an annual $1,000 for books and supplies.
15 years from date of last discharge or release from active duty if you were discharged before Jan. 1, 2013. If you were discharged after that date there is no expiration date.
Education benefits
Montgomery GI Bill for Active-Duty (MGIB): MGIB pro- 10 years from date of last vides 36 months of education, training, and OJT benefits discharge or release from to eligible veterans. Payment rates are determined by the active duty. number of classes taken.
Listen more, talk less
Effective communication starts with good listening. “Coaching into Care” often advises callers to listen more, talk less. Listening is more than hearing, it’s understanding not only what is being said but how, the emotions behind it. Some tips for becoming an engaged listener: • Focus fully on the speaker and minimize distractions • Avoid interrupting. You can’t concentrate on what someone is saying if you’re focused on what you are going to say next • Try to set aside judgment and withhold blame and criticism in order to fully understand them • Provide feedback, reflect what has been said by paraphrasing, e.g. “what I’m hearing is”, “Sounds like you are saying.” Find more tips for successful communication on the “Coaching into Care” site www.micrecc.gov/coaching/ tips-for-family-friends.asp Are you looking for help with any of these issues? You can find local help by going to the “How can I get help?” section on Page 5.
Montgomery GI Bill for Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR): Pro- 14 years from date of eligivides members of the Reserves, and National Guard with bility, or until released from up to 36 months of education, training, and OJT benefits. Selected Reserve or National Guard. Extensions available. Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VocRehab): An employment oriented program for veterans with service-connected disabilities that offers services and assistance to help prepare for, find and keep suitable employment.
12 years of separation from service or within 12 years of being awarded service-connected disability.
Veterans Health Administration Programs Veterans Health Care: VA provides a wide range of health No time limit care services to veterans including treatment for military sexual trauma, and for conditions possibly related to exposure to Agent Orange, ionizing radiation, and other environmental hazards in the Persian Gulf. Generally, veterans must be enrolled in VAA’s Health Care System to receive care. Combat Veterans Health Care: VA provides combat veter- 5 years from release from ans free health care for any illness associated with service active-duty against a force in a war since the Gulf War or during any period of hostility after Nov. 11, 1998. Dental Treatment: Veterans may receive one-time dental Within 180 days of separatreatment who were not provided dental examination or tion. treatment within 90 days of discharge or separation from service.
VA Pension and Compensation Disability Compensation: VA pays monthly compensation No time limit (tax-free) to veterans for disabilities incurred or aggravated during military service. Entitlement is established from the date of separation if the claim is filed within one year from separation. Disability Pension: This income-based benefit is paid to No time limit veterans with honorable war-time service who are permanently and totally disabled due to non-service connected disabilities or who are 65 or older.
VA Home Loan Guaranty Program VA Home Loan: The VA Home Loan Guarantee Program No time limit offers Veterans the chance to purchase a home at a low interest rate without the need of a down payment. Click here to get started using your VA Home Loan benefit.
Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
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Friday, April 15, 2022
VETERANS CHRONICLE A SUPPLEMENT TO THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW APRIL 15, 2022
VETERANS HELP NET Don Walker Bryan Bledsoe
the third Friday of every month to increase awareness about veteran issues and to help veterans find hope and help.
MANAGING EDITOR Joe Butler
To share a veteran story or information about resources for veterans, please contact info@ veteranshelpnet.com or visit www.VeteransHelpNet.com.
ART DIRECTOR Anne Potter DIRECTOR OF SALES Scott Baumbach COURTESY PHOTO
Read how Heroes Homestead is a safe place for veterans. PAGE 7
IN THIS ISSUE Veterans Bulletin................................................................................................2
Veterans Help Net partners with The Spokesman-Review to publish Veterans Chronicle on
For advertising information, please contact advertising@ spokesman.com or (509) 4595095. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent of the publisher.
WE BELIEVE IN
VA FINANCING
Veterans Benefits...............................................................................................2 Hey Veterans, Did You Know?.......................................................................4 Upcoming Stand Down....................................................................................5 How Can I Get Help?.........................................................................................5 Coping with Trauma.........................................................................................6 Heroes Walk........................................................................................................7 Pilots reflect on special flight........................................................................8 VA also provides women health care..........................................................9 Learning the value of VET Court..................................................................10 Supreme Court looking at disability dates................................................11 Veterans statistics.............................................................................................11
The United States S Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers home loans to active military members, reservists, and retirees, as a benefit of service in our nation’s Armed Forces. Many service members are not aware this earned benefit is available to them; many sellers are not aware of the advantages to VA loans in the transaction process. We encourage all Spokane realtors - to become familiar with this loan type so that we can all join in saying “We believe in VA financing!”
Visit www.spokanerealtor.com to view VA qualified homes in your preferred area
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The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
HEY VETERANS, DID YOU KNOW ...?
... Some student loans can be forgiven?
Veterans and active duty service members with student loans may be eligible for forgiveness through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. The Department of Education will allow months spent on active duty to count toward PSLF, even if the service member’s loans were on a deferment or forbearance rather than in active repayment. This change addresses a major challenge service members have faced in accessing PSLF. Service members on active duty can qualify for student loan deferments and forbearances that help them through periods in which service inhibits their ability to make payments. Sometimes, members of the military find out that those deferments or forbearances granted while they served did not count toward PSLF. By cancelling loans after 10 years of public service, PSLF removes the burden of student debt on public servants, makes it possible for many borrowers to stay in their jobs, and entices others to work in highneed fields. This change ensures that members of the mil-
itary will not need to focus on their student loans while serving. Federal Student Aid will develop and implement a process to address periods of student loan deferments and forbearance for active-duty service members and will update affected borrowers to let them know what they need to do to take advantage of this change. The Department of Education will begin automatically giving federal employees credit for PSLF by matching Department of Education data with information held by other federal agencies about service members and the federal workforce. These matches will help the Department of Education identify others who may be eligible but cannot benefit automatically, like those with FFEL loans. Any U.S. federal, state, local or tribal government agency is considered a government employer for the PSLF Program. This includes employers such as the U.S. military, public elementary and secondary schools, public colleges and universities, public child and family service agencies, and special governmental districts (including entities such as public transportation, water, bridge district, or housing authorities).
Government contractors aren’t considered government employers. Visit the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Help Tool at www. s t u d e n t a i d . g o v/ p s l f / , which helps determine if an employer is considered a qualifying employer under the PSLF Program. There is no income requirement to qualify for PSLF. However, since required monthly payment amount under most of the qualifying PSLF repayment plans is based on income, income level over the course of your public service employment might be a factor in determining whether there’s a remaining loan balance to be forgiven after making 120 qualifying payments. If you know that you have qualifying employment that you have not yet certified with the Department of Education, you can certify that employment with the PSLF Help Tool. Applications are due Oct. 31, 2022. You will need to submit a PSLF form so the Department of Education can review your loans under the simplified rules and determine whether your current or past employers qualify for PSLF. You can submit this form through the PSLF Help Tool at StudentAid.gov/PSLF. Because the Department of Education expects an influx of applicants, you may see some delays in having applications processed.
… how to get help for veterans in crisis?
Find out how to get support anytime, day or night
if you're concerned about a veteran in crisis, connect with caring, qualified Veterans Crisis Line responders for confidential help. Many of them are veterans themselves. This service is private, free and available 24/7. To connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder anytime: • Call (800) 273-8255, then press 1. • Start a confidential chat. www. veteranscrisisline.net/gethelp/chat • Text 838255. • If you have hearing loss, call TTY: (800) 7994889. If you're concerned about a veteran who's homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838 for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You or the veteran can talk privately with a trained VA counselor for free. Need local help? See the “How can I get help?” section on Page 5.
… how to talk to people about PTSD?
Your friends and neighbors may notice changes in your loved one due to their PTSD. They may have questions. And, like you, they’ll want to know how they can help. Try these steps: Talk with loved ones first: Before you share with friends, ask your loved one how they want you to handle those questions. They may not want you to share specific details about their trauma or they may have ideas for how their friends can support them. Show what you’ve learned. Your friends may also be struggling to connect with your loved one. Help by sharing tips about how to communicate — and how to be sensitive and patient as your loved one works through their symptoms. For instance, 60% of men and 50% of women experience at least one trauma in their lives. About 10% of women develop PTSD at some point in their lives, compared to 4% of men. As many as 7%-8% of the US population will have PTSD at some point in their lives and 5.2 million adults have PTSD during a given year. Here are ways friends can support you and your loved one: • Learning about PTSD and its symptoms • Inviting you and your loved one to do things • Listening, if you or your loved one want to talk • Helping with daily tasks, like babysitting or grocery shopping Symptoms can include: • Avoiding situations that remind the person of the traumatic event (memories may be triggered by sights, sounds, even smells), • Negative changes in beliefs and feelings, • Feeling jittery or always on alert and looking for danger, • Being startled by loud noises or surprises • Experiencing the need to have one’s back to the wall in public places. Does this sound like someone you know? Learn more at ptsd.va.gov.
Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
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VETERANS CHRONICLE
Standing up for a Stand Down
HOW CAN I GET HELP?
Every county and state has a Veteran Affairs office to answer questions about benefits and provide assistance. There are also other useful resources for veterans in the Inland Northwest.
Veteran groups provide safe environment By Ruth Aresvik VETERANS HELP NET CORRESPONDENT
According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of "standdown" is a relaxation of status ... or force from an alert or operational posture. It's something I tell my dog, Sailor, when someone walks by our house towards the bank of mailboxes as she launches into a barking rage. She is a chiweenie, so, naturally, it does no good. Stand-down means nothing to her. However, in the military world, a "Stand Down" for a veteran can be life changing. In times of war, combat units needed a place of safety in order to rest and recover from the exhaustion of the battlefields. At secure camp bases, troops could take care of personal needs, get clean uniforms, receive medical care and a warm meal ... they could receive mail and enjoy the camaraderie with their fellow veterans in a safe environment. Today, Stand Down refers to a grassroots, community-based program designed to help veterans, with specific focus on the homeless. The concept came from two Vietnam veterans, Robert Van Keuren and Dr. Jon Nachison. With the support of local veterans in the San Diego area, the first Stand Down was held during the summer of 1988. Due to its popularity, this event has steadily grown throughout the nation. It was estimated that in 2009, more than 42,000 veterans received assistance at Stand Downs from hundreds of volunteers and organizations. The success of a Stand Down lies with the philosophy of "a hand up – not a handout.” Many veterans suffer from chronic issues of PTSD, isolation and mistrust of the government. Veterans can come to a Stand Down where various agencies, resources and services provide the promise of addressing multiple problems at one time and place. Veterans are provided with food, clothing, medical, legal and mental health assistance, job counseling and referral. Some Stand Downs offer sleeping bags, veterinarian services, and military surplus gear. It can provide a safe environment to connect with people who have shared experiences. It can provide hope. This year the North Idaho Stand Down is sponsored by the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Elks Lodge, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It will be held on Saturday, May 7 at North Idaho College from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event is open to all veterans and family members at no cost. There will be Starbucks coffee, a pancake breakfast, and a Texas Roadhouse lunch. In addition, many vendors will be there to provide services and information to veterans. Call (208) 964-2819 with questions. Other upcoming area Stand Downs include July 16 in Newport, Sept. 17 in Wenatchee, Oct. 1-2 in Libby, Montana, and Oct. 15 in Spokane. For information, call Charlie Duranona, VA’s Veteran Stand Downs Coordinator, (509) 319-7067
GO ONLINE VA.gov
The Department of Veterans Affairs website has resources on every topic relevant to veterans.
VA.gov/welcome-kit
The VA Welcome Guide
covers all types of benefits and services available for veterans, new recruits, active service members and their families.
DAV9.com
Based in Post Falls, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 9 Fort Sherman shares links and information to both local and national help organizations for veterans.
Explore.VA.gov/benefitsnavigator Explore VA benefits and discover which ones you and your family may be eligible to receive.
IN PERSON
BY PHONE
1117 N. Evergreen Rd., Spokane Valley, WA (509) 477-3690 Apply for emergency services, or have any benefits or service questions answered by 5 Veteran Service Officers (VSO) and staff.
(509) 477-3690
Spokane County Regional Veteran Service
North Idaho Veteran Services and Benefits Office
120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092 Meet with a VSO or staff for help with VA benefits enrollment, claims or other veteran needs.
Goodwill Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
130 E. Third Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 828-2449 SSVF helps homeless veterans and their families find housing and connects veterans with other support organizations.
Healthcare for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) 504 E. Second Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 435-2019
Provides healthcare and outreach for housing, job opportunities and counseling.
Spokane County Regional Veteran Service North Idaho Veteran Services and Benefits Office 120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092
Veteran Crisis Line
1 (800) 273-8255, press 1
North Idaho Crisis Center (208) 625-4884
Washington or Idaho 2-1-1
Dial “2-1-1” for health and human resources referrals.
If you don’t know who to call, VA has a new “Single Access Point” phone number to all VA contact centers 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411)
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The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
How to cope when current events bring up past trauma VA Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention When armed conflict arises — no matter where in the world — veterans can experience a range of challenging emotions. This can be especially true for combat veterans who may be reminded of their own deployment experiences. Feeling distress is a normal response to negative events, especially those that feel personal. Veterans may experience the following reactions in response to current events in places such as Ukraine: • Feeling frustrated, sad, helpless, distressed (including moral distress), angry or betrayed. • Worrying about civilians, such as interpreters, who worked with the U.S. military in the region. • A spike in symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions. • Sleeping poorly. • Drinking more or using more drugs. • Trying to avoid reminders of disturbing events, including media coverage and social situations. • Having more memories of military experiences and homecoming. • Questioning the meaning and sacrifices of serving in the military. Veterans also may feel that they need to expect and/or prepare for the worst. They may: • Become overly protective, vigilant and guarded. • Become preoccupied with a sense of danger. • Feel a need to avoid being shocked by, or unprepared for, what may happen in the future. It can be helpful to let yourself experience those feelings rather than trying to avoid them. Often these emotions will run their course naturally. However, if they continue without easing up or if you feel overwhelmed by them, the suggestions below can help. When current events bring up traumatic memories, it is good to focus on the present and engage in activities that are meaningful and valuable to you. Is there some-
thing you can do today – as a family member, parent or community member – that is important to you? Can you put more energy into something meaningful in your work or your spirituality? These activities will not change the past or the things you can’t control, but they can help life feel meaningful and reduce distress, despite the things you cannot change. It can also help to ask yourself if your thoughts are helpful to you right now. Are there ways you can change your thinking to be more accurate and less distressing? For example, are you experiencing extreme thinking that views the situation as all bad or all good? If so, try and think in less extreme terms. Rather than thinking, “My military service was useless,” consider instead “I helped keep the world safe.” Consider more general coping
strategies: • Engage in positive, healthy activities that are rewarding, meaningful or enjoyable, even if you don’t feel like it, as they can lift your spirits. • Stay connected by spending time with people who give you a sense of security, calm or happiness, or those who best understand what you are going through. • Practice good self-care by engaging in soothing activities, such as listening to music, exercising, practicing breathing routines, spending time in nature or with animals, journaling or reading inspirational materials. • Stick to your routines and follow a schedule for when you sleep, eat, work and do other dayto-day activities. • Limit media exposure, especially if it’s increasing distress. • Use a VA mobile app by
visiting mobile.va.gov/appstore/ mental-health. • Try PTSD Coach Online at www.ptsd.va.gov/apps/ ptsdcoachonline/, a series of online videos that will guide you through 17 tools to help you manage stress. If your distress is prolonged or you are unable to function well, consider seeking support. At VA, veterans can connect with compassionate professionals who have the education and experience to help manage depression, anxiety, PTSD, moral injury, complicated grief and other conditions that may be aggravated by current events. Every VA facility has mental health specialists. Visit www. mentalhealth.va.gov/get-help/ local-care.asp to find a provider near you. Talk about your reactions
in community-based VA Vet Centers, where over 70% of staff are veterans themselves. Call (800) WAR-VETS or find a Vet Center near you. Go to maketheconnection.net, a resource designed to connect veterans, their family, friends and other supporters with resources and solutions to issues affecting their lives – including challenging life events and mental health. If you feel as if you might hurt yourself or someone else, reach out now. Through the Veterans Crisis Line, confidential support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call 800-273-8255 and Press 1, text to 838255 or chat online at veteranscrisisline.net/get-helpnow/chat For local help see “How can I get help?” on Page 5.
Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
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VETERANS CHRONICLE
HEROES HOMESTEAD A SANCTUARY FOR VETERANS Upcoming Silkies walk promotes awareness By Wes Anderson HEROES HOMESTEAD
As I serve on the board of directors of Heroes Homestead, I am often asked who they group is and what they do for veterans. I often share the story of a young couple with a vision of a place where a veteran and his or her family can come and become a family once more. The Holstine's story is one that is common to veterans and their families. It is this story that is the vision of Heroes Homestead and its mission: a mission of healing not only for the veteran but the family as well. The
mission is simple: honor our heroes, fortify the family, and celebrate freedom. Through connecting the community in a program called “Friend of Heroes” individuals can support monthly outreach and ongoing care of veterans and their families for as little as $22 a month. This is a focused effort to end the suicide of veterans through education and awareness of the extended family seeing how their hero has changed, grown and acclimated to a world and situations unlike civilian America. It is a project to help bring deeper connection and community than ever thought possible. It is an ongoing mission to Honor, Fortify and Celebrate the sacrifice of our service members. All of this takes place at a family-owned and family-operated
farm east of Deer Park. This 40acre farm has become an open place of calm and healing by giving the veteran and his family a place to reconnect and become a viable family unit once more. The farmland is open to connect the veteran family with all the services that are available to fill in the gaps with the family needs that the VA does not cover. It’s a wrap-around care model that veterans are an important part of the family unit and need the support of the family. The family, in return, needs support and tools to help support their veteran. One of the ways a family can support their veteran is by walking together in the Annual Silkies Walk. (Silkies are shorts worn by the Military for PT.) The Walk is to honor not only the veteran but the veteran’s family in an direct effort to end
veterans suicide. Twenty-two veterans commit suicide every day. We want to recognize the daily battle to chose life. Celebrating the impact in their families, to their kids, their spouse and the extended family. Every day they choose life -- they are a hero in our community and nation. This is a celebration of our heroes! They are winning the daily battle and with national and community support for them, they will win the war! Our nation, our state, our community will be stronger as we walk together on Saturday, April 23. The Walk starts at Spokane Vet Center and enters a portion of the Centennial Trail at Mirabeau Park and then returns to the Vet Center. Veterans and their families will be received with a reception of community support services
and a celebration of fortifying the family. A free t-shirt and celebration lunch will be provided to each registered participant. The walk is free. Commemorative silkies shorts (limited availability) are available for purchase through online registration, and proceeds support the outreach of Heroes Homestead. At the Vet Center will be a number of different entities to assist the veteran obtain the benefits they are due, as well as meet needs of their families. If you would like to be a part of the walk, registration is at www. HeroesHomestead.org. Please come out and support this mission of a whole community of care for veteran families. Wes Anderson is on the Board of Directors for Heroes Homestead. See a photo of Heroes Homestead on page 3.
La-Z-Boy Salutes Those Who Have Served
Thank You For Your Service
In appreciation for your service we provide an additional 5% off on every La-Z-Boy product 10205 N. Division St Spokane, WA 99218 (509) 465-4380 www.la-z-boy.com
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The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
AN AIRLINE CAPTAIN’S REPORT
THE ‘CAPTAINS LOG’ WORTH RE-READING (Editor’s note: You may have seen this story or versions of it online, on social media, or shared in a forwarded mass email. Because it’s missing specific details and some elements may change in the retelling, some may dismiss it as well-meaning fiction. However, Snopes, the online fact-checking site, investigated its origins and rates it as “True.” It even added a response from the actual captain.) ••• The American flag does not fly because the wind moves past it ... The American flag flies from the last breath of each military member who has died serving it." –Captains Log, sometime in 2008 ••• My lead flight attendant came to me and said, "We have an H.R. on this flight." (H.R. stands for Human Remains.) "Are they military?" I asked. 'Yes', she said. 'Is there an escort?' I asked. 'Yes, I've already assigned him a seat'. 'Would you please tell him to come to the flight deck? You can board him early," I said. A short while later a young Army sergeant entered the flight deck. He introduced himself and I asked him about his soldier. (Escorts of these fallen soldiers talk about them as if they are still alive and still with us.) “My soldier is on his way back to Virginia,” he said. I asked him if there was
anything I could do for him and he said no. I told him that he had the toughest job in the military, and that I appreciated the work that he does for the families of our fallen soldiers. The first officer and I shook his hand. We completed our preflight checks, pushed back and performed an uneventful departure. About 30 minutes into our flight, I received a call from the lead flight attendant. 'I just found out the family of the soldier we are carrying is also on board', she said. The father, mother, wife and 2-year old daughter were escorting their son, husband, and father home. The family was upset because they were unable to see the container that the soldier was in before we left. We were on our way to a major hub at which the family was going to wait four hours for the connecting flight home to Virginia. The soldier’s father told the flight attendant that knowing his son was below him in the cargo compartment and being unable to see him was too much for him and the family to bear. He had asked the flight attendant if there was anything to allow them to see him upon our arrival. The family wanted to be outside by the cargo door to watch the soldier being taken off the airplane. I could hear the des-
peration in the flight attendant’s voice when she asked if there was anything I could do. 'I'm on it', I said. ••• Airborne communication with my company normally occurs in the form of e-mail like messages. I decided to bypass this system and contact my flight dispatcher directly on a secondary radio. There is a radio operator in the operations control center who connects you to the telephone of the dispatcher. I explained the situation with the family and what they wanted. He said he understood and that he would get back to me. Two hours went by and I had not heard back. We were going to get busy soon and I needed to know what to tell the family. I sent a text message requesting an update. I saved the return message from the dispatcher which follows: “Captain, sorry it has taken so long to get back to you. There is policy on this now, and I had to check on a few things. Upon your arrival a dedicated escort team will meet the aircraft. The team will escort the family to the ramp and plane side. A van will be used to load the remains with a secondary van for the family. The family will be taken to their departure area and escorted into the terminal, where the remains can be seen on the ramp. It is a private area for the family only.
When the connecting aircraft arrives, the family will be escorted onto the ramp and plane side to watch the remains being loaded for the final leg home. Captain, most of us here in flight control are veterans. Please pass our condolences on to the family. Thanks.” I sent a message back, telling flight control thanks for a good job. I printed out the message and gave it to the lead flight attendant to pass on to the father. The lead flight attendant was thankful and told me, “You have no idea how much this will mean to them.” ••• Things started getting busy for the descent, approach and landing. After landing, we cleared the runway and taxied to the ramp area. The ramp is huge with 15 gates on either side of the alleyway. It is always a busy area with aircraft maneuvering every which way to enter and exit. When we entered the ramp and checked in with the ramp controller, we were told that all traffic was being held for us. “There is a team in place to meet the aircraft.,” we were told. It looked like it was all coming together, then I realized that once we turned the seat belt sign off, everyone would stand up at once and delay the family from getting off. As we approached our gate, I asked the copilot to tell the ramp controller that we were going to stop short of the gate
to make an announcement to the passengers. The ramp controller said, 'Take your time.' I stopped the aircraft and set the parking brake. I pushed the public address button and said “Ladies and gentleman, this is your captain speaking: I have stopped short of our gate to make a special announcement. We have a passenger on board who deserves our honor and respect. His name is Private XXXXXX, a soldier who recently lost his life. Private XXXXXX is under your feet in the cargo hold. Escorting him today is Army Sgt. XXXXXX. Also, on board are his father, mother, wife, and daughter. Your entire flight crew is asking for all passengers to remain in their seats to allow the family to exit the aircraft first. Thank you.” ••• We continued the turn to the gate, came to a stop and started our shutdown procedures. A couple of minutes later I opened the cockpit door. I found the two forward flight attendants crying, something you just do not see. I was told that after we came to a stop, every passenger on the aircraft stayed in their seats, waiting for the family to exit. When the family got up and gathered their things, a passenger slowly started to clap his hands. Moments later, more passengers joined in and soon the entire aircraft was clapping. Words of 'God Bless You,' I'm sorry, thank you, be proud, and other kind words were
said to the family as they made their way down the aisle and out of the airplane. They were escorted down to the ramp to finally be with their loved one. Many of the passengers disembarking thanked me for the announcement. They were just words, I told them, I could say them over and over, but nothing I say will bring back that brave soldier. ••• I respectfully ask that all of you reflect on this event and the sacrifices that millions of our men and women have made to ensure our freedom and safety in these United States of America. ••• Post-script response from the captain, according to Snopes: “I was the pilot and captain of the flight referenced here. Over the years since writing that story, many versions have surfaced, slightly changed to sound more patriotic or religious. My intent in all of my postings has always been to truthfully and simply explain to the general public, the day-to-day happenings in my job. On that day, the remains of a soldier were loaded into the cargo compartment of my aircraft. I consider the actions of my crew and I that day to be the same actions any aircrew would have done, faced with similar circumstances. Unfortunately, too many soldiers were brought home in this manner. We did what we could that day, that’s all.”
Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Page 9
Friday, April 15, 2022
VETERANS CHRONICLE
Why I get my health care at VA: Women share value of care By Bronwyn Emmet
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS ADMINISTRATION
Women veterans do not always come to VA for medical care, but we interviewed three women who do to see what they would say to those who don’t. We asked the same question as always: “Why do you get your health care at VA?”
Natasha
Women do not self-identify as veterans first. But in the women’s clinic, they are veterans, most of the staff are female veterans, and they understand what the female veterans are going through when they’re there. Knowing that you’re dealing with people who have been through the same things that you’ve been through on every level, not just as veterans and having been somewhere, but as female veterans, makes a big difference. I’m Natasha; I was in the Army. I chose the Army because they said a girl shouldn’t.
Karla
The fact that I can have care from some of the best doctors in the city – some of the exact same doctors at VA that I used to see out in the private sector – is phenomenal. So my suggestion to any veterans, or anyone on active duty right now, is to remember that you have that in your back pocket, and tap into it, because it’s a great resource. I’m Karla and I was in the Air Force from 1982 to 1986. I never realized I was eligible for VA services until some cousins
Karla, left, and Kimberly speak on why they choose the VA for their health care services. of mine and a friend encouraged me to look into it. I told them no, I’m not retired, I’m not severely disabled, I didn’t serve in war time. I was so stunned because I printed off the form and it took me two minutes to fill it out. I went to VA and they have taken excellent care of me.
Kimberly
I’m Kimberly. I was in the Army National Guard. Women just don’t really realize you can come to VA for health care and get your maternity care paid for and get a breast pump. These are all sorts of things that I was not aware of until I went there. Knowing that that’s available, I think we are just trying to get the word out and educate. (Services vary by location and eligibility.) VA
Natasha provides
almost
everything that a female veteran needs. I have had gyno visits there, and all my mammograms there. When I was pregnant with my daughter, I went through pre-natal visits at VA. For me, the difference is the comfort level. I know what to expect. I know I can go there and I know who I’m going to see. I know how to navigate around where I’m trying to go. So, it’s a one stop women’s’ shop.
Apply for VA health care
Enrolling for VA health care is easier than ever before. Explore your eligibility today at www. choose.va.gov/health. Looking for local help? See the “How can I get Help?” section on Page 5. Bronwyn Emmet is a public affairs specialist for VA's National Veterans Outreach Office.
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Support fellow Veterans and be a part of Operation Fly Together.
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Page 10
Friday, April 15, 2022
The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
IS ‘VET COURT’ MY BEST CHOICE? By Darrel Maddux VETERANS HELP NET CORRESPONDENT
There may come a time when a veteran is facing a very difficult decision after being arrested for a non-violent misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor crime. That decision is whether to hire an attorney and fight the charges or plea down to a lesser charge. It’s hard to know which is the best way to go, but did you know that there is a third option? A veteran can ask to be entered into the Veterans Enhanced Treatment (VET) Court program and can begin to work on the root causes of why they ended up in this situation. PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury and Military Sexual Trauma can cause alcohol and drug abuse, anger control issues, social isolation and suicidal thoughts. Veterans can become abusive to family members or be arrested for a DUI. Stealing to feed a drug addiction is common as well. PTSD is not limited to combat veterans and can result from other traumatic events and other mili-
tary assignments. Graves Registration or Drone Pilots would be examples. The Vet Court provides structure for the veteran as they begin a program to address the causes for their bad behavior and a rehabilitation program to end the downward spiral. The probation period can be reduced as well as the initial financial costs. Military veteran mentors from the Spokane Veterans Forum are assigned to the individuals and monthly meetings reinforce the rehabilitation process. The judges in the process are non-adversarial because they want to help the offender succeed in their recovery process. The judge awards a “Certificate of Completion” once the offender completes their required rehabilitation program. The percentage of this population that re-offends within 1 year is 5.9% vs. criminal court at 60-70%. There is a judge and a probation officer who monitor the process as required by the court system. The Spokane Veterans Forum, manned by veteran volunteers and structured to provide rehabilitation
COURTESY PHOTO
Representatives from VET Court presented information to the American Legion Post 9 Riders on March 19. From left, Jerry Gutman, Spokane Veterans Forum Mentor Advocate, and Daniel Dale, SVF President. services, backs up the court system and it is free to the veteran. The veteran mentors are a coach who reinforces positive effort and achievement. They are an essential element in the recovery as they help the mentee consider alternative decisions and actions. The mentors are available 24/7 to listen and they are non-judgmental. The Veteran Justice Officer at the city or county jail is the contact person to discuss using the “Vet Court” program. During the booking process a veteran status question is asked and that information is made available to the Veteran Justice Officer and the Probation Officer. Contact Jerry Gutman, Spokane Veterans Forum Mentor Advocate at (425) 785-5052 if you are inter-
ested in becoming a mentor or wish to learn more about their organization.
Please copy and save this article if you, your family member, your church
member or patient might want to have it available for future reference.
Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Page 11
Friday, April 15, 2022
VETERANS CHRONICLE
Veteran Statistics
Washington Washington United States
Veteran Population Percent female Unemployment rate for veterans Number of homeless veterans Median household income
( ! ( ! ( ! ( !
( ! ( !
( ! ( !
( !! (
(In 2014 inflation-adjusted dollars)
( !
( ! ( !
( !! (
( !
( ! ( !
( !
( !
( ! ( !
8.6 6.4 1,433 $67,912
7.3 5.3 49,865 $61,884
26 49,712
1,356 2,540,706
Number of VA* facilities Number of veteran-owned businesses
( !
( ! ! (
( !
582,265 21,369,602
! ( ( !
* VA = Department of Veterans Affairs
( ! ( ! ! (
PERIOD OF SERVICE
( ! ( ! ! (
State
U.S. and PR
( ! ! (
( !
Gulf War II
! ( ( !
Gulf War I
( !
1 Dot = 100 Veterans 1 Dot = 100 Veterans !( = Veterans Health Administration Facility ( = Veterans Health ! Administration Facility
Vietnam Era Korean War World War II Peacetime only 0
HEALTH CARE
State 00
U.S. and PR
Percent 20 20 30 30
10 10
40 40
20 30 Percent
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
50 50
Uses VA health care
00
10 10
40
State Percent 20 20 30 30
50
U.S. and PR 40 40
50 50
Bachelor's degree or higher
Has a service-connected disability rating
Enrolled in college
Uninsured
AGE DISTRIBUTION
State
U.S. and PR
18 to 29 years 30 to 44 years 45 to 54 years 55 to 64 years 65 years or older 0
10
10
20
30 Percent
40
50
HOUSEHOLD INCOME DISTRIBUTION
State
U.S. and PR
Less than $10k $10k to $14.9k $15k to $24.9k $25k to $34.9k $35k to $49.9k $50k to $74.9k $75k to $99.9k $100k to $149.9k $150k to $199.9k $200k or more 0
10
20
30 Percent
40
50
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, 2009–2013 American Community Survey and 2012 Survey of Business Owners; Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014 Current Population Survey; U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2014 Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress; and Department of Veteran Affairs. www.census.gov/library/infographics/veterans-statistics.html
Veteran Service Organizations, Veteran Service Officers can help By Ruth Aresvik
VETERAN HELP NET CORRESPONDENT
There are many organizations that have been established to help veterans. The Department of Veteran Affairs maintains a list that is broken down into five categories. If you or a veteran is looking for help this list could prove to be very useful. It gives contact phone numbers, websites, etc. To view the entire document, download www.va.gov/vso/VSO-Directory.pdf Some of the most commonly known veterans’ organizations are AMVETS, The American Legion, DAV (Disabled American Veterans), Marine Corps League, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), Military Order of the Purple Heart, National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), VVA (Vietnam Veterans of America), and Paralyzed Veterans of America. This is not a complete list as there are many more in the above link to the VA VSO Directory. Each of the above organization have accredited veteran service officers that can help prepare a medical or disability claim to submit to the VA. Before making an appointment it is a good idea to become familiar with the claims process so that you are aware of the documents and proof that they will ask you to provide www.va.gov/disability/how-tofile-claim/ While you may be able to file the claim yourself a veterans service officer works with claims daily and knows what needs to be included. This is all provided FREE by each of these organizations and you do not need to be a member to receive help. Local resources for VSOs can be found at “How can I get help” on Page 5.
Page 12
Friday, April 15, 2022
The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
High Court takes up case regarding disability deadlines By Patricia Kime MILITARY.COM
The U.S. Supreme Court has accepted the case of a Navy veteran who believes his Department of Veterans Affairs disability compensation should have been paid starting from the date he left the military rather than the day he submitted his paperwork. A decision in his favor could mean some veterans who waited years to file claims would be eligible for substantial back pay. The veteran, Adolfo Arellano, served from 1977 to 1981, during which he was assigned to an aircraft carrier that experienced a collision that "killed and
injured several of his shipmates and nearly swept him overboard," according to court documents. Arellano developed post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health conditions; 30 years later, he applied for disability benefits, which were approved as service-connected by the VA and backdated to his 2011 filing date. But Arellano appealed, saying he should have received payments retroactive to his discharge, since his service-connected mental health conditions prevented him from filing a claim sooner -- in particular, filing during the one-year grace period giv-
en to transitioning service members that expedites their cases. Arellano said the statute of limitations should have been waived since he wasn't mentally able to file a claim before the time limit expired – a legal concept known as "equitable tolling." When the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims denied Arellano's claim, he appealed. The Federal Circuit judges then split their decision on the case 6-6, with half saying the equitable tolling policy couldn't be changed, and the other half saying it should be eliminated. As a result of the split, Arellano's attorneys petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court. A ruling in Arellano's favor has the potential to affect "thousands of current and future veterans," according to his attorney,
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James Barney, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and partner in the D.C.-based firm Finnegan. Barney said that, as the equitable tolling doctrine stands now, veterans have no recourse for seeking a waiver to the one-year deadline, "no matter how compelling the individual circumstances." "It would apply a more flexible rule that would be to the benefit of potentially thousands of disabled veterans," Barney told Military.com. "The equitable tolling doctrine is only supposed to apply in extenuating circumstances, but when you are talking about disabled veterans, there often are extenuating circumstances." In Arellano's petition to the court, his attorneys noted that veterans fail to file claims within the oneyear period for reasons other than incapacitation,
including that they may be discouraged by others, may not be aware they are eligible for benefits, or they were injured during operations that involved secrecy and fear disclosing classified information. "This would at least give these veterans an opportunity to ask the court to toll these deadlines because, as of right now, the veteran has zero chance of asking for (a waiver)," Barney said. The Supreme Court is petitioned between 7,000 and 8,000 times a year with requests to review cases, but it hears only about 80. Barney said the justices likely decided to take Arellano's case because of the division on the issue in the Federal Circuit. "When you see that kind of split, it means they need to look into it. That's the role of the Supreme Court, to step in and try to de-
cide," Barney said. With the case, Arellano v. McDonough, now accepted, the federal government is required to file a response. Oral arguments have yet to be scheduled. "It's an unfortunate reality that many members of the armed forces face a difficult path once discharged from the service," Arellano's attorneys wrote in their petition to the court. "Indeed, the sad irony is that the very illnesses the veterans' benefits system is designed to address, such as PTSD, are often the ones that cause veterans to miss the one-year deadline." Want to know more or if you know a veteran that might need this information, visit VA.Gov for more details. Local help can be found in the “How can I get help?” section on Page 5.
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