VFW Action Corps Weekly
Senate Committee Advances Veterans Legislation: The Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs held a markup business meeting on pending legislation and has advanced 24 bills for consideration, many of which the VFW has supported in testimony. These proposals span a wide range of issues, including establishing parity in education benefits for National Guard and Reserve service members, improving VA’s disability compensation claims and appeals processes, and studying the generational impacts of toxic exposures. If enacted, these bills would strengthen benefits and services for veterans, caregivers and survivors while advancing key VFW legislative priorities. Watch the meeting, which begins at the 23:19 mark.
VFW Launches New Tool for Faster Claim Benefits Assistance: The VFW has launched a new online tool to simplify and accelerate access to VA benefits assistance. It allows transitioning service members within 180 days of separation, veterans and survivors to complete a short form that creates a case record for a VFW Accredited Service Officer. Automating this intake process reduces paperwork, streamlines communication and more quickly connects users with free, accredited representation. Read more.
VFW Leader Receives LeValley Award: VFW Washington Office Executive Director Ryan Gallucci has been honored with the prestigious LeValley Award from the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, a valued VFW partner. He received the award to recognize his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to the veteran community. Throughout his career, Gallucci has been a steadfast advocate for policies that expand access to earned benefits and strengthen support systems for veterans and their families. His collaborative approach and dedication to meaningful reform have made lasting impacts at both the national and local levels. Gallucci’s receipt of the LeValley Award reflects not only his professional achievements but also his enduring commitment to ensuring all veterans receive the care, respect and opportunities they deserve.
TRICARE Guidance for Displaced Families: The Defense Health Agency is reminding service members and families displaced from overseas duty stations that they remain covered by TRICARE and should review updated guidance to maintain uninterrupted care. Displacement to the United States is treated as a Qualifying Life Event, providing a 90-day window to update enrollment or change regions, while those remaining overseas continue coverage through International SOS. A displaced beneficiary is defined as an active duty service member or family member forced to relocate from an overseas duty station or home abroad due to circumstances like natural disasters, political unrest, or mandatory evacuations. Those who permanently move should follow standard Qualifying Life Event rules. Beneficiaries should check their information in DEERS and review all care options. Read more.