Veterans' Healthy Living, Spring 2013
Overcoming Misconceptions
Do you know Veterans who are hesitant about seeking VA services because they feel it may take away from those more deserving or in greater need? Do you know former members of the military who are not seeking VA services simply because they did not see combat and therefore assume they don't qualify?
To address these questions, let us start by defining the term Veteran. According to Section 101(2) of title 38, United States Code, for purposes of benefits under laws administered by VA: "The term ‘Veteran' means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released there from under conditions other than dishonorable."
Nowhere in this definition does it state a person must see active combat to qualify for benefits. Cindy Williams, LICSW, CDP, VISN 1 Women Veterans and OEF/OIF/OND Program Manager stated, "If you were in the military and were willing to you put your life on the line, your job was just as important as those on the front line."
Williams has heard Veterans from different eras say they didn't want to take up time or take away from those who may be disabled. But she reiterated that all Veterans who served and sacrificed for our country are entitled to and deserve every benefit the VA has to offer.
One Vietnam Veteran who waited to go to the VA for care was Kenneth Purdy. Once he became active in health care treatment, Mr. Purdy learned of other services that were provided to Veterans and said, "I only wish I would have gone to the VA sooner."
Veterans—regardless of gender or age—should know that there is a place for them at the VA. "Those that have DD-214 discharge papers need to come in, call an eligibility officer, or inquire online to see if they are eligible for benefits," Williams said.
Alfred Pouliot | Misconceptions | Native American Veterans | Women's Health | News
