Veterans, Military Community, and Families, You’re Going to Want to Hear This!
26 August 2024 Veteran News: VA Budget Shortfall, VA Rual Area Improvement, COLA Increase and Marco Garett Transition Journey
This past week has been packed with critical updates that directly impact veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. From warnings about claims predators to new legislation addressing veteran homelessness and ongoing investigations into VA leadership, these are the stories that matter most right now. Let’s dive into the top trending news and what it means for you.
Never Forget!
Please join us in taking a moment to remember and honor these heroes:
- HM3 Max SoviakL
- Cpl. Kareem NikouiL
- Cpl. Rylee McCollum
- Cpl. Hunter LopezL
- Cpl. Jared SchmitzL
- Cpl. David Lee Espinoza
- Cpl. Humberto Sanchez
- Sgt. Johanny Rosario
- Cpl. Daegan William-Tyeler Page
- SSgt. Taylor Hoover
- SSG. Ryan Knauss
- Sgt. Nicole GeeL
- Cpl. Dylan Merola
Their sacrifices will never be forgotten. Let us continue to share their stories, honor their memory, and support one another through these difficult times.
Today marks three years since the tragic events of August 26, 2021, when these 13 brave service members lost their lives during the chaotic evacuation at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan.
The pain of that day lingers, not just for those who served, but for their families, and for all of us who hold their memories close.
To those who are currently serving and those who have served, we want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your dedication and sacrifice. To the families of the fallen, my words can never fully convey the depth of our sadness and gratitude for what your loved ones gave.
Beware of Claims Predators
The VA has issued a warning about “claims predators” who are targeting veterans and attempting to exploit them for financial gain. These predators often pose as legitimate representatives or organizations offering to help veterans file claims for benefits but charge exorbitant fees or provide misleading information. Veterans should remember that they are ultimately responsible for their VA claims, and while lawyers may assist, they won’t be held accountable for repaying the VA in cases of overpayment.
The VA provides access to accredited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs), attorneys, and claims agents at no cost to veterans. It’s crucial to use these accredited representatives to avoid scams and ensure that claims are handled correctly.
Many veterans remain unaware of their responsibility in the claims process. The VA accredits individuals and organizations to help veterans navigate this process without falling prey to scams. According to the VA, using unaccredited representatives could lead to improper claims, potential overpayments, and financial loss.
Sources:
VA budget history: Department of Veterans Affairs
HUD Exchange: Veterans Homelessness
Veteran Homelessness
New legislation, the “Veterans Housing Stability Act of 2024,” has been introduced to address the ongoing issue of veteran homelessness. This act aims to expand the HUD-VASH (Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing) program, which provides housing vouchers and supportive services to homeless veterans. The bill seeks to close the gap between the nearly 30,000 unused HUD-VASH vouchers and the veterans who still need housing.
Veteran Homelessness Trends: Over the last 10 years, veteran homelessness has decreased by 50%. In 2010, there were approximately 76,000 homeless veterans; by 2023, that number had dropped to about 33,129.
HUD-VASH Voucher Usage: Of the 104,000 HUD-VASH vouchers issued since the program’s inception, nearly 30,000 remain unused due to barriers such as the lack of affordable housing and administrative delays.
Approximately 33,129 veterans are homeless on any given night in the U.S., a number that has decreased by 50% since 2010. However, barriers such as lack of affordable housing and administrative delays have left many HUD-VASH vouchers unused.
Sources:
Deluzio, Moylan Introduce the Veterans Housing Stability Act of 2024,
HUD Exchange: Veterans Homelessness
Investigation into VA Leadership
The House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs is investigating allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct within the VA’s Office of Resolution Management, Diversity, and Inclusion (ORMDI). The committee is focused on holding VA leadership accountable and ensuring a safe and respectful workplace for all employees. Recent reports indicate that this investigation is part of a broader effort to address systemic issues within the VA.
A 2023 VA Employee Engagement Survey revealed that 22% of VA employees reported experiencing harassment or discrimination, with many cases involving senior leadership. This toxic environment has led to high turnover rates, particularly among women and minority groups.
This investigation is not just about holding individuals accountable, but about creating a safer, more inclusive environment for all VA employees,” said a spokesperson for the House Committee.
The investigation ties into broader concerns about leadership within the VA, including recent criticisms about the allocation of bonuses during a time of budget constraints, as reported in various press releases.
Sources:
House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Press Releases
Episode 82: Darin Gaub | Mil2Vet Veteran Podcast | US ARMY VET
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Darin Gaub, a retired Army National Guard officer who transitioned from a distinguished military career to the political arena. Darin shares his journey from enrolling in the Army National Guard, earning his commission, and piloting Black Hawk helicopters, to his retirement in 2019 and his subsequent decision to engage in politics. As the co-founder of Restore Liberty, Darin continues to serve his country by advocating for American freedoms. He’s also a frequent commentator on military matters across various network news channels.
Join us as Darin discusses the challenges he faced during his transition, the motivations behind his political ambitions, and his ongoing efforts to impact the veteran community and beyond. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in military service, politics, or the power of a purpose-driven life after service.
Connect with Darin Gaub:
Email: daringaub@protonmail.com
More About Darin: Darin Gaub Biography
For more information, visit the full episode on YouTube, Spotify, and Rumble.
Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for your continued support and service. For more details, subscribe to the Mil2Vet newsletter at mil2vet.com.
Veteran News Conclusion
Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for your continued support and service. For more details and to stay informed about the latest news impacting our veteran community, subscribe to the Mil2Vet newsletter at mil2vet.com.
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Veteran Events
The Executive Committee is hosting the General Meeting on September 12th.
This is Mil2Vet Veterans News signing off.
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