VETERANS CHRONICLE Inside:
JULY 2022
Fascinating history of dog tags Hometown Heroes project comes to Liberty Lake 7 self-care goals
Finding value Many options for veterans who want to give back. PAGE 8
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Friday, July 15, 2022
The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
Family and caregiver guide to depression Warrior Transition Command MILITARY.COM
Life has its ups and downs. We all go through times when we may feel overwhelmed or stressed. These feelings may arise from multiple deployments, relocations or because of life’s everyday demands. Clinical depression, however, can potentially lead to more serious issues such as death or suicide; therefore, it is important to recognize the symptoms of depression and get the support and resources you need to get help for you or your soldier.
Symptoms of depression
These may include: • Persistent sadness or anxiety – may include feelings of irritability, panic or restlessness and episodes of crying or tearfulness. • Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism or helplessness – may include feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt. • Not wanting to leave the house – may include withdrawing from friends and family. • Loss of interest or pleasure in life – may include a loss of interest in sex or other activities that were once pleasurable. • Changes in sleep or eating patterns – may include difficulty falling or staying asleep or sleeping too much. It can also cause sudden weight loss or gain. • Decreased energy – may include a lack of motivation. • Difficulty concentrating – may include memory loss and difficulty making decisions. • Persistent physical symptoms – may include headaches, digestive disorders or back pain. • Alcohol or substance abuse – may include a significant increase in the amount of alcohol you consume on a regular basis. • Thoughts of death or suicide – contact a health care professional immediately if there are thoughts or talk of suicide. You can also contact the Military Crisis Line at veteranscrisisline.net or (800) 273-8255. Family members or caregivers who notice changes in their soldier that may indicate he/she may be suffering from depression should contact the Soldier’s WTB clinical staff such as the primary care manager, nurse case manager, and social worker or Chaplain. WTC Cadre can assist family members or caregivers in providing a healing experience.
Importance of self care
As a caretaker, many times one overlooks their own needs. It’s important that you take care of yourself. One way is to keep an inventory of your own depressive symptoms and share them with your health care provider. The list below contains helpful health tips in maintaining your mental health. • Manage your diet • Get adequate rest • Avoid alcohol • Participate in regular exercise • Surround yourself with people who are important to you • Communicate your feelings to someone you trust • Join a social support group in your military community or in your local area
Additional resources
For additional information on depression, please refer to: The Defense Centers of Excellence: (http://www.dcoe.health.mil/24-
7help.aspx) Provides 24/7 help for psychological health issues. Military One Source: (www.militaryonesource.mil) Provides non-medical counseling services online, via telephone, or in-person, as well as access to other mental health resources. Military Pathways: (afterdeployment.dcoe.mil) Provides free, anonymous mental health and alcohol self-assessments for family members and service personnel in all branches including the National Guard and Reserve, as well as referral information provided through the Department of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA).
Frequently asked questions
Is depression common? Yes, depressive disorders are common. They affect an estimated 9.5 percent of adult Americans in a given year, or about 20.9 million people. Is depression treatable? Yes, the majority of people who are
treated for depression will improve, even those with serious depression. Unfortunately, one-third of sufferers do not seek help, as they do not realize depression is a treatable illness. Are there any tips that can help me deal with mild depressive feelings? See tips above, under “Importance of self care” Is it normal to feel depressed around the holidays? Feeling down during or after the holiday season is not uncommon. Preparing for the holidays, the increased expectations of family and friends, the sadness of not having a loved one present, or having to say good-bye after a holiday reunion can contribute to a person feeling down. However, if these symptoms persist or if you suspect it might be more serious, contact someone for help. Need local help? See “How can I get help?” on page 5.
Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
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Friday, July 15, 2022
VETERANS CHRONICLE VETERANS CHRONICLE A SUPPLEMENT TO THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW JULY 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 COURTESY OF EASTERN WASHINGTON VETERANS TASK FORCE
The Eastern Washington Veterans Task Force, or EWVTF, was started over 40 years ago to provide a forum for the many veteran service organizations and veteran support groups to share ideas and find hope and help for veterans in Eastern Washington and North Idaho. Members meet on the second Wednesday of every month at different places in the community, usually at a restaurant setting so people can meet, greet and eat. For more information on this valuable resource tool, turn to page 4 of this publication.
IN THIS ISSUE Warning signs for depression........................................................................2
DIRECTOR OF SALES Scott Baumbach 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
Eastern Washington Task Force helps........................................................4 Hey veterans, did you know?.........................................................................5 Liberty Lake seeking hometown heroes....................................................6 Who is a caregiver?..........................................................................................7
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.
The value of volunteers...................................................................................8
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.
Changes in home loans....................................................................................9
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!”
Answers about VA home loans.....................................................................10
Visit www.spokanerealtor.com to view VA qualified homes in your preferred area
Veterans bulletin................................................................................................12
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The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
Eastern Washington Veterans Task Force marks 40 years of help
Care options include VA nursing homes, assisted living, home health care
Organization provides help, ideas The Eastern Washington Veteran Task Force, or EWVTF, was started over 40 years ago to provide a forum for the many veteran service organizations and veteran support groups to share ideas and find hope and help for veterans in Eastern Washington and North Idaho. They are all about people, programs and services that focus on serving veterans in our local community. Members meet on the second Wednesday of every month at different places in the community, usually at a restaurant setting so people can meet, greet and eat. At every meeting guests get updated on the latest program and benefit changes as well as sharing story of success or frustration, hoping to learn new paths to hope and help for veteran clients and customers. This is a valuable resource tool when you’re in the business of helping veterans. It seems you often come across those with that individualized “unique’ need and you’re not quite sure how to solve it. One can simply send out a group
IMAGES COURTESY OF THE EASTERN WASHINGTON VETERANS TASK FORCE
email to the listed members and then wait for a response since it starts this instant collaboration among the members about ways to help any veteran. If you would like to get involved all you have to do is check the group’s Facebook page for information on the next meeting or contact by email at ewveteranstaskforce@gmail. com. At the meeting you can introduce yourself and your agency, program, or service, and get signed up on the group email list so you can receive notifications. You can go on Facebook to sign up under “EWVTF” Group and get notices that way. Come join us! (Editor’s note: EWVTF was one of the lead organizations that helped get State Route 902 designated as the “Gold Star Memorial Highway.” Thanks for this and all you do!)
As a veteran, you may be able to get assisted living, residential (live-in), or home health care through VA. What kinds of long-term care services does VA offer for sick or disabled veterans? • 24/7 nursing and medical care • Physical therapy • Help with daily tasks (like bathing, dressing, making meals, and taking medicine) • Comfort care and help with managing pain • Support for caregivers who may need skilled help or a break so they can work, travel, or run errands You can get this care in many different settings – some run by VA and others run by state or community organizations that we inspect and approve. Care settings may include: • Nursing homes • Assisted-living centers • Private homes where a caregiver supports a small group of individuals • Adult day health centers • Veterans’ own homes How do I access these services? You may be able to use one
or more of these services if you meet all of the requirements listed below: • You’re signed up for VA health care, and • The VA concludes that you need a specific service to help with your ongoing treatment and personal care, and • The service (or space in the care setting) is available near you Other factors may be considered, like your service-connected disability status or insurance coverage. To find out how to access these services, contact your VA social worker. Or, call the tollfree hotline at 877-222-8387, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.8 p.m. ET. If you’re not currently in the VA health care program, you can apply for benefits now. Apply now www.va.gov/ health-care/how-to-apply/ Does VA pay for these services? It can cover some of these services under your standard health benefits if you’re signed up for VA health care. You may still need to pay a copay for some covered services. Apply for VA health care
www.va.gov/health-care/howto-apply/ Other services aren’t covered under VA health care benefits. For these services, you may be able to pay through Medicaid, Medicare, or your own private insurance. Learn more about paying for long-term care at www.va.gov/ GERIATRICS/pages/making_ decisions.asp Where can I get more information and support? Get help setting goals and priorities and making tough decisions about things like longterm care. Find services and resources to help with geriatric (elder) and long-term care. Find services www.va.gov/ geriatrics/guide/longtermcare/ Locate_Services.asp Get more information about geriatric and long-term care as well as how to deal with diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. Visit the geriatrics section of VA.gov www.va.gov/Geriatrics/ Have more questions? See the “How can I get help?” section on page 5 of this publication.
Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
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VETERANS CHRONICLE
HEY VETERANS, DID YOU KNOW ...?
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.
... vets can learn to be airline pilots for free?
Being a pilot is a challenging yet rewarding vocation. If you love the thrill of flight, travel, and working as a team, it can be a great job to pursue. There’s only one thing stopping you: money! Find out more about training at no charge by visiting by visiting www.rtag.org/about/ news-updates/vets-can-become-airlinepilots-for-free.
GO ONLINE VA.gov
The Department of Veterans Affairs website has resources on every topic relevant to veterans.
.... veteran designation is available on ID, WA licenses
As of Aug. 31, 2017, veterans can get a veteran designation on their Washington driver license or ID card. Doing so is free if someone is only adding their veteran status. To get started, bring one of the following to a state driver licensing office: • Your DD Form 214 or a separation document equivalent to a DD Form 214 that shows "honorable" or "general under honorable conditions" status.) Or ... • Your U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs ID Card If you don't have your DD Form 214 you can request one at www.archives. gov/veterans/military-service-records There's a fee if you're adding other endorsements at the same time; updating information on your card such as name or address; or renewing your license. You can renew up to a year in advance. In Idaho, sine Nov. 10, 2014, veterans with valid documentation showing proof of honorable discharge from military service will be provided veteran designation on their Idaho driver’s license or state-issued identification card. There is no charge to add the veteran designation to a new or renewed Idaho driver’s license or identification card. There is a $15 duplicate card fee to add a veteran designation at any other time. The designation is permanent and will not incur any additional cost.
... pandemic-related job training is offered
If you're a veteran who lost your job due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Veterans Administration may have a
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.
solution. The Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program (VRRAP) offers education and training for a variety of high-demand jobs so you people can get back to work. Qualifying veterans can receive up to 12 months of tuition and fees along with a monthly housing allowance. To be eligible for VRRAP, you must be between 22 and 66 years of age, unemployed due to COVID-19, able to work, and not eligible for education or unemployment benefits. If you do qualify, apply soon! The VA will stop accepting new VRRAP enrollments on Dec. 11, 2022, or when either the funding or participant limit is met, whichever comes first. For more info visit www.va.gov/education/other-va-education-benefits/veteran-rapid-retraining-assistance/ For local help see “How can I get help?” on this page.
Explore.VA.gov/benefitsnavigator Explore VA benefits and discover which ones you and your family may be eligible to receive.
IN PERSON
Spokane County Regional Veteran Service 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.
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.
BY PHONE
Spokane County Regional Veteran Service (509) 477-3690
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.
Healthcare for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) 504 E. Second Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 435-2019
Provides healthcare and outreach for housing, job opportunities and counseling.
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
HOMETOWN HEROES Liberty Lake follows Nebraska’s lead in recognizing veterans By Dan Webster
SPOKESMAN-REVIEW MARKETING CORRESPONDENT
Some people look at streetlights and see mere illumination. Liberty Lake resident Don Walker sees honor. And respect. Walker came to that realization not long ago when he was visiting his grandson, who lives near Gretna, Neb., a small city southwest of Omaha. “As we were driving down the main street,” Walker recalls, “I noticed the light poles on both sides of the street had these banners honoring Gretna veterans.” He was so impressed he took a picture of the banners. Then he had a thought: “That would be a spectacular thing for Liberty Lake.” He did his homework, contacting the Gretna Hometown Heroes group to get basic how-to information. Then he began gathering local support, contacting among others the local Rotary group, Liberty Lake Mayor Cris Kaminskas, the Liberty Lake City Council and Avista Utilities. The result? The Liberty Lake Hometown Heroes Banner Program is set to become a reality. The project involves a total of 50 banners, each measuring 60 inches by 30 inches and each honoring an individual Liberty Lake veteran. The banners will be attached to 50 light poles – 25 on each side – along Country Vista Road, west of the Liberty Lake Road intersection. Bob Wiese, president of the Liberty Lake Centennial Rotary, says the project fits right in with other veteran-themed activities the Rotary has supported. One is an annual Memorial Day pancake breakfast, while another involves raising money for the Inland Northwest Honor Flight group, which he explains “transports Inland Northwest war veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit those memorials dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices.”
“We’re thankful we live in a community with businesses that support it,” Wiese said of the banner project. Not just businesses, though, but also, he added, “a local government and community members who step up and have the ideas.” Melanie Rose, Avista’s Regional Business Manager, said Avista was only too happy to be involved. “I met with (Don Walker and Bob Wiese) of the Liberty Lake Rotary in late March to hear about the proposed Hometown Heroes project and shortly thereafter let them know that the project has Avista’s full support,” Rose said. “Avista is a long and strong supporter of veterans,” she added. Some 9 percent of Avista’s employees, she said, are veterans. In addition to working with Fairchild Air Force Base during hiring events
and career fairs, the utility company pays for Fairchild crew members and their families to attend Spokane Indians baseball games. “What a privilege it is to honor the brave men and women who will appear on the banners,” Rose said. “Avista is dedicated to supporting and enhancing community vitality, and this project is a perfect fit.” Veterans eligible to be honored can be nominated on the project website LibertyLakeHometownHeroes.com. Nominees should be a current or past resident of Liberty Lake or, Walker said, have a “reasonable connection” to the city. The application deadline is Aug. 1. Sponsorship for each Hometown Hero will fall on the respective veteran’s family, friends or organization. Sponsors will be asked to donate $150 toward the production of the banners and the hardware used to mount them on the streetlights. Walker stressed that no donations will be required of any Gold Star veteran, which means those killed in action. Plans are for the first 50 banners to be hung by Aug. 30. After they are hung for a certain amount of time, the banners will presented to family members and sponsors. Thereafter, banners will be displayed annually from Memorial Day through Veterans day, with each veteran being recognized for two straight years. Walker is thankful to all those who are contributing to the project, from Wiese to Rose, Mayor Kaminskas to Liberty Lake’s Interim City Administrator Jen Camp. But he gives special praise to Avista. “They thought, ‘How can we say no to this?’ ” Walker said, “So they said yes – and not only did they say yes, they agreed to supply all the hardware, put up the banners and take them all down, which is a big project.” A big project, yes. And, too, a big thanks to the veterans for their service.
How to nominate
Applications for Hometown Heroes are available at libertylakehometownheroes.com, libertylakerotary. org, through Facebook, or by calling (509) 998-6484. Nominations are accepted until Aug. 1.
Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
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VETERANS CHRONICLE
WHO IS A CAREGIVER?
A caregiver is a person who cares for a veteran who needs assistance with everyday activities such as bathing, dressing and eating. This may be a spouse, adult child, relative or close friend. Are there VA resources for caregivers of Veterans? Yes, you and your caregiver may be eligible for benefits and programs such as: • Caregiver education and training • Mental health services and counseling related to the Veteran’s treatment • Respite care Family Caregivers of eligible Veterans in the Program of Comprehensive As-
sistance for Family Caregivers may also be eligible for: • A monthly stipend • Certain travel expenses • Access to health care benefits through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) For more information: • Call the Caregiver Support Line at 855-260-3274 • Visit www.caregiver.va.gov • Find a Caregiver Support Coordinator in-person at a VA Medical Center Looking for local assistance? Be sure to see “How can I get help?” on page 5.
Friday, July 15, 2022
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The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
The value of volunteering Statistics
Plenty of local opportunities to share time, talents The average American volunteers about 48 hours per year, roughly four hours/month, to charitable causes. Volunteering not only helps the typically understaffed non-profit you are interested in, but it also connects you directly to the cause. You are able to see what you are giving your hard-earned dollars for, and see your efforts pay off. High levels of volunteerism and civic engagement can lead to lower unemployment rates, stronger economic benefits for individuals, and stronger economic communities. People who volunteer with an organization during the day are building up their skills, networking and meeting new people. Volunteering can lead to economic opportunity as volunteers gain new skills and meet new contacts, as well as experience the profound joy and satisfaction that comes from serving a larger cause. Volunteering can also provide a somewhat intangible benefit to people: Hope. Responding to disasters often brings out the best in Americans, who have a strong desire to help their neighbors in need. Faith-based organizations are “on the ground” identifying needs. They are working and serving in communities and neighborhoods, and
they hear from the public about the needs. The top volunteer activity in 2011 was raising funds for charities of faith-based organizations. Faith-based organizations often provide the most well-oiled mechanism. They are adept at finding specific needs in the community and working to address those needs. Faith-based organizations provide a well-organized vehicle for people to help through. Americans want to help others, but they need to be connected to both a need and an organized mechanism. They can't just show up. The civic health of communities is linked with unemployment rates. Volunteering, public meetings, voting, helping neighbors and a high density of nonprofits all contribute to communities with lower unemployment. This is something for public officials, such as mayors, to recognize. (“More Americans volunteering time, new report shows,” information from Wendy Spencer, CEO of Corporation for National & Community Service, Deseret News, Dec. 14, 2012)
What you can do
Nonprofits are facing an increasing demand for their services. Volunteers can step in and provide help that will benefit you and our community.
The No. 1 reason people volunteer is because they are asked! In 2011, more than 64 million Americans volunteered through an organization. It was a five-year high, the end result nearly 8 billion hours. In addition, most Americans helped their neighbors in some way, and more than a third actively participated in a civic, religious or school group. No one counted the acts of kindness and charity committed on an individual basis by those who simply knew someone with a need and tried to meet it: People who helped families that would otherwise do without at Christmas-time, who taught someone to read, manned a desk at the local homeless shelter, or gathered books for an informal rural library. No one has gathered statistics on how many people cleared their neighbor’s sidewalk, or picked up a few items at the store for a homebound elderly neighbor when they did their own shopping. One-third (34.4%) of those who volunteered in 2011 did so through religious organizations, the highest percentage in any sector. Religious organizations often provide the best structure for organized volunteering and the best insight into on-theground-needs.
Find a volunteer opportunity that works for you. Your service can make a difference. “I am fortunate God gave me a talent. I have a duty to share it. My point is not what I have done, but what I have done for someone else.” - Dick Carpenter, founder, Spokane's Inland Northwest PET Project “To turn caring into action, we need to see a problem, find a solution, and deliver impact.” - Bill Gates “Don't just go for the safe projects, take on the really tough problems.” - Warren Buffet “No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted.” - Aesop's Fables Other local veteran organizations that welcome volunteers will be published in future editions.
COLIN MULVANY/THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
The Mann-Grandstaff Veterans Administration Medical Center in Spokane.
Volunteers needed at Mann-Grandstaff Veterans Administration Medical Center The Voluntary Services at each VISN 20 Healthcare Network facility support the traditional use of volunteer resources. Many veterans have come to depend on volunteers for an improved quality of life while they are patients in a VAMC facility. The staff has also come to appreciate volunteer assistance which helps to make them more productive and attentive to the needs of our veterans. Volunteers provide many important functions throughout the Medical Centers and help make our patients' stay more enjoyable. Volunteers can perform a number of services and a volunteer's talents are closely matched with one of our many assignments. Volunteers provide a wide range of support and financial assistance to programs for veteran patients throughout the year. To volunteer, call or visit a VA Medical Center Voluntary Service Office. You can also complete an application to volunteer at www.volunteer.va.gov/apps/ VolunteerNow/ The VA will be happy to receive your application or discuss how you can help in its mission to provide comfort and care to America's veterans.
Volunteer assignments
Ways you can volunteer at the VAMC are below. Or, if you have special skills to offer, please contact the VA to discuss how you can best use your talents. Other organizations that can help find projects for volunteers include Veterans Service Center or Newby-ginnings of North Idaho. • Volunteer van drivers • Parking lot golf cart drivers • Volunteer office assistant • Pharmacy assistant • Patient escort volunteers • Amenity relief volunteer • Magazine/book cart • Mailroom assistant Other local veteran organizations that welcome volunteers will be published in future editions.
Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
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VETERANS CHRONICLE
VA HOME LOAN RULE CHANGES By Joe Wallace
MYMILITARYBENEFITS.COM
When was the last time you explored your VA loan options? If it’s been a while, some aspects of the program may be quite different for you. In 2020, there were alterations made to the VA home loan benefit thanks to legislation known as the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019. Some of these are major changes, others affect small-but-important groups of veterans. If you haven’t explored your VA home loan benefits in a while the following changes may be new to you.
VA loan funding fee changes
Some adjustments to the VA Loan Funding Fee were made to create parity between active duty, Guard, and Reserve fees. At one time the VA Loan Funding Fee varied depending on whether you were on active duty or in the Guard/Reserve. Under the current rules, the VA loan funding fee is charged based on the amount of any down payment you choose to make and that fee is currently the same for first-time use no matter if you are on active duty or not. Another change made to the VA Loan Funding Fee rules allows Purple Heart recipients to apply for a waiver of the VA loan funding fee. This must be done while the service member is on active duty.
VA loan funding fees aren’t charged across the board. Any VA borrower who received or is entitled to receive VA compensation for service-connected medical issues can apply to have the fee waived. However, this waiver is not automatic and if the VA has not made a final determination at the time you apply for the VA loan you may be required to pay the VA loan funding fee and apply for a refund once the VA has updated your files with its disability rating decision. This refund is not automatic and you will be required to submit supporting documentation to be approved.
No VA loan limit for those with 100% VA loan entitlement
If you looked at your VA loan options prior to 2020, your loan choices would have been informed by the VA loan limits in your county for that calendar year. If you look at your VA loan options now and have either never used your VA loan benefit or have had your entitlement restored to 100%, you have NO VA LOAN LIMIT. You will negotiate the loan amount with a participating VA lender. You can get a zero-down VA home loan even in highcost markets and technically you may qualify for a zero-down VA Jumbo Loan if you meet lender standards for that larger mortgage. The lack of a VA loan
limit does not mean there are no restrictions on the loan. As the Department of Veterans Affairs reminds us, “…borrowers seeking to use their VA home loan guaranty benefit still must qualify for a loan, based on credit and income requirements set forth by VA.” Your participating VA lender will review your credit scores, repayment history, income, and other criteria to see if you qualify for the loan and use your FICO scores to determine the interest rate.
No loan limit on VA Native American direct loans
In general, the Department of Veterans Affairs does not lend money directly to VA borrowers. Instead, the VA relies on a network of participating VA lenders who operate with the approval of the VA. The one exception is the VA Native American Direct Loan program which at one time featured a loan limit of $80,000 for those who were interested in and entitled to build or buy a home on Federal Trust lands. The Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act removes this loan limit. There are approximately 100 tribes that have a memorandum of understanding with the federal government that enables this program; contact the Department of Veterans Affairs directly to learn if you may apply.
Refueling Our Heroes
Support fellow Veterans and be a part of Operation Fly Together.
Buy your flight gear or donate today! A portion of all merchandise proceeds go into a Veterans Fund.
Operation FlyTogether.com
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Friday, July 15, 2022
The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
Dog Tag Tales: Military dog tags have an interesting history By Ruth Aresvik
VETERANS HELP NET CORRESPONDENT
My best friend recently got a new necklace and pendant. OK ... she's my dog ... and she got a new collar and dog tag. But it made me wonder: where are MY dog (identification) tags? We all received them during basic training. Do you still have your tags? Where are they? And why are they called "dog tags"? The Army Historical Foundation says the term "dog tag" was first coined by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. In 1936, Hearst wanted to undermine support for President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. He had heard the newly formed Social Security Administration was considering giving out nameplates for personal identification. According to the SSA, Hearst referred to them as "dog tags," similar to the identification tags used in the military. Other rumored origins of the nickname include World War II draftees calling them dog tags because they claimed they were treated like dogs, and the metal tag looked similar to those on a dog's collar. Military identification tags date back to the Civil War. Soldiers were afraid no one would be able to identify them if they died – they were terrified of being buried in unmarked graves. Some marked their clothing with stencils or pinned on paper tags. According to the Marine Corps, some men carved their names into chunks of wood strung around their necks. Others bought engraved metal tags from non-government vendors who followed the armies
during the war. Historical records show that in 1862, a New Yorker named John Kennedy offered to make thousands of engraved disks for soldiers, but the War Department declined. At the end of the Civil War, more than 40% of the Union Army's dead were unidentified. This outcome validated the concern about identification. The first official request to issue ID tags to service members came in 1899 at the end of the Spanish-American War. Army Chaplain Charles C. Pierce was in charge of the Army Morgue and Office of Identification in the Philippines. He recommended the Army outfit all soldiers with circular disks to identify those who were severely injured or killed in action. By December 1906, the Army put out a general order that aluminum discshaped ID tags be worn by all soldiers. The half-dollar size tags were stamped with a soldier's name, rank, company and regiment or corps, and were attached to a cord or chain
that went around the neck. Tags were worn under the field uniform. The order was modified in July 1916 when a second disc was required to be suspended from the first by a short string or chain. The first tag would remain with the body, while the second tag was for service record keeping. Tags were given to enlisted men, but officers had to buy them. Eventually, all United States combat troops were required to wear tags, which then included each man's Army-issued serial number. Towards the end of World War I, religious symbols were added to the tag - C for Catholic, H for Hebrew and P for Protestant – but those markings didn't remain after the war. The Navy didn't require ID tags until May 1917 and were made from nickel alloys with the letters U.S.N. etched on them. Enlisted member tags included date of birth and enlistment, while officers' included their date of appointment. The Navy also had an etched print of each sail-
or's right index finger on the back, which was meant to safeguard against fraud, accident, or misuse. According to the Naval History and Heritage Command, the ID tags weren't used between World War I and World War II but were reinstated in May 1941 with the
etching process replaced with mechanical stamping. Meanwhile, the Marines had been required to wear ID tags since late 1916 and theirs were a mix of Army and Navy styles. By World War II, military ID tags were considered an official part of the uniform and had evolved into the size and shape they are today – a rounded rectangle of nickel-copper alloy. Each was mechanically stamped with name, rank, service number, blood type and religion, if desired. An emergency notification name and address were initially included, but were removed by the end of the war, as was the "T" which indicated a tetanus vaccination. At one point for Marines, the person's gas mask size was included on the tags. During World War II, Navy tags no longer included the fingerprint. Present day military identification tag information includes name, blood type, Social Security Num-
ber and religious preference. It may also show the wearer's specific branch of service. There may also be tags for Special Forces like the Army Rangers, Green Berets, Delta Force, Navy Seals and so on. When a service member requires special medical attention, they may be issued an additional red tag with information much like a medical "bracelet" which alerts doctors and responders. For hundreds of years, American warfighters desired to be properly identified should they fall in battle. This ensured dignified processing of our fallen warriors. So, despite technological advancements including the ability to use DNA to identify remains, dog tags are still issued to service members today. What is etched onto a dog tag seems less important than the symbol it represents. Their sacrifice and service are etched into our military culture and the hearts of grateful Americans.
Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
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Friday, July 15, 2022
VETERANS CHRONICLE
Lawmakers warn that VA home loans leave veterans outbid in hot housing market By Rebecca Kheel MILITARY.COM
Dozens of House lawmakers are concerned the Department of Veterans Affairs home loan program isn’t keeping pace with an increasingly competitive housing market and leaving veterans at a disadvantage against buyers with commercial loans. In a recent letter to VA Secretary Denis McDonough, 65 lawmakers warned that only a tiny fraction of home sellers now prefer VA loans and that veterans are turning to other options in reaction. The department should “explore how VA mortgage loans can compete in today’s marketplace and ensure veterans have negotiating power throughout the home-buying process,” the lawmakers, afrom both parties, wrote. “Historically, VA mortgage loans were appealing and competitive to sellers,” the lawmakers said in the letter. “Unfortunately, the current housing market and the rise in cash and conventional loans with waived contingencies can leave veterans unable to compete with other buyers.” The letter was organized by Reps. Guy Reschenthaler, R-Pa., and Derek Kilmer, D-Wash. Under the VA home loan program, the loans are provided by private lenders, but the VA guarantees a portion of the loan against the possibility of default. That allows borrowers to get more favorable terms than they might otherwise be able to, including no down payments, lower interest rates and limited closing costs. But the program also requires a VA appraisal of the home and other qualifying steps that can lengthen the time to close a sale and frustrate buyers and sellers. “VA borrowers are less successful than borrowers using conventional loan products,
with 11% of VA borrowers changing loan products during their housing search, compared to only 1% of conventional borrowers who change financing method,” the lawmakers wrote in the letter, citing the National Association of Realtors’ 2021 survey on home loans at cdn. nar.realtor/sites/default/files/ documents/2021-loan-typesurvey-06-08-2021.pdf In that same survey, 94% of sellers said they were most likely to accept an offer with conventional financing, compared to 1% who said they were most likely to accept an offer with a VA loan. The VA appraisals can take an average of 14.8 business days to complete, compared to a couple days for a non-VA loan, John
Bell, the acting executive director of VA’s Loan Guaranty Service, told a House committee in December. Under those conditions, veterans are competing to buy homes in a historically hot housing market with increasing prices and decreasing inventory. In February, the median home sale price was $357,300, an increase of 15% over last year, and there was about 1.7 months of inventory, a decrease of 0.3 month from last year, according to National Association of Realtors statistics cited in the lawmakers’ letter. The lawmakers pressed McDonough for answers on how the VA can improve the appraisal process and public perception of
the home loan program, as well as what the department thinks Congress can do to enhance it. “We call on your department to improve the VA mortgage loan process and ask for a report on the steps the VA is taking to increase loan competitiveness,” the lawmakers wrote. “It is imperative veterans receive a competitive loan that provides them the opportunity to purchase a home.” At the December hearing, Bell faulted “misperceptions” among sellers that “VA financing is less … desirable than conventional” loans and said more education is needed to “break the stigma” about the program. In March, the VA and the National Association of Realtors launched a video
series aimed at dispelling misconceptions about the program. Still, Bell also said the department is “consistently looking” for ways to speed up the appraisal process. “Factors such as reduced housing stock, rising home prices, coupled with cash-only or sight-unseen purchase offers have led to conditions where all buyers with financing are facing difficulty having their offers entertained,” Bell said. “While VA is confident its policies will continue to support veterans, we stand alongside them and share their frustration by the lack of transparency in the sale offer process, the loan application process and how veteran borrowers may be perceived and dismissed.”
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Friday, July 15, 2022
The Spokesman-Review
VETERANS CHRONICLE
VETERANS BULLETIN VetSuccess a useful benefit
The Veterans Administration assists veterans with service-connected disabilities to prepare for, obtain, and maintain suitable employment through the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment VetSuccess program. VA officials start by conducting a comprehensive evaluation to help veterans determine a future career path. Based on this evaluation, VetSuccess provides vocational counseling, job-search assistance, and other education and training services. VetSuccess career
counseling benefits are also available to veterans if they have recently separated from the military or are using VA education benefits, even if they do not have a service-connected disability. Do you have more questions or need local help? See “How can I get help?” on page 5 of this publication or check VA.gov.
Help available for dependents and survivors
The sacrifices of servicemembers and veterans are honored by benefit programs especially for dependents and survivors:
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a monthly benefit paid to a surviving spouse, including additional payments for dependent children. It is available to an eligible spouse of a servicemember who died during active military service or from a service-connected disability, or of a veteran who was rated totally disabled at the time of death. Parents’ DIC is paid to surviving parents based on financial need. The surviving spouse and child(ren) eligible for DIC are also eligible for the following:
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The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) provides reimbursement for most medical expenses. The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (Chapter 35) provides assistance in obtaining a degree and pursuing other eligible education and training. A Survivors’ Pension is a monthly benefit payable to a low-income surviving spouse and child(ren) of a deceased veteran with wartime service.
GI Bill covers training programs
Did you know you can use your GI Bill benefits to receive onthe-job training or apprenticeships? If you are a veteran or currently in the Guard or Reserve, these benefits
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/aboutgi-bill-benefits/how-touse-benefits/on-the-jobtraining-apprenticeships/
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