VFW DISPATCH – September 2013

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and this is an issue the VFW takes very seriously.

A staggering 22 veterans commit suicide every day.

Long and multiple deployments have taken an immeasurable toll on our newest generation of veterans. And we know veterans of other generations experience post-war challenges as well. In fact, suicide rates are especially high for veterans over 50. Too many veterans simply do not seek help.

These are the facts, and we have an obligation to ensure every veteran receives the help he or she needs.

The VFW will continue working to ensure Congress properly funds VA and DOD awareness programs and suicide prevention initiatives, and we urge you to help us remove the stigma associated with seeking help.

Respectfully,

Your VFW Membership Team

VFW and Sport Clips Announce New Scholarship Program

New scholarship will ease the cost of education for veterans

This year, Sport Clips is expanding its “Help A Hero” campaign in support of the VFW by raising funds to provide a new scholarship program for veterans who wish to further their education after military service. Learn more.

VA Focuses National Attention on Suicide Prevention Month 2013

VA collaborates with communities to help veterans access mental health support

In recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Month, the Department of Veterans Affairs is mobilizing people and organizations nationwide to support veterans in crisis and spread the word about VA mental health services. Read more.

A Brief History of PTSD: The Evolution of Our Understanding

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a relatively new label for a condition as old as combat itself

PTSD is a relatively new label for a condition that has plagued combat veterans throughout history. Looking at the evolution of our understanding of PTSD helps us learn how we can better support individuals who are affected by it. Learn more.

Official: DoD Will 'Aggressively' Target Military Pay, Troop Levels

Officials are advocating for the lower pay raise as a way to slow growth of personnel costs

As the Defense Department maps out plans to absorb long-term budget cuts, military compensation and troop levels are among the primary targets, the Pentagon’s top financial officer said. Learn more.

Unemployment Rate for Post-9/11 Vets Jumps in August

Post 9/11 vets continue to struggle to find jobs after leaving the service

The unemployment rate for post-9/11-era veterans jumped noticeably in August, as employment for the nation and for veterans as a whole held steady, Labor Department data show. Read more.

THIS EDITION’S VIDEO FEATURE:

VA PSA: Talking About It Matters

THIS MONTH'S STORE FEATURE:

Black Zippo Lighter
Honor our POW-MIAs with this collectable Zippo Lighter designed specifically for VFW members. Order today to receive in time for POW-MIA Recognition Day. click here to order!

MEMBER BENEFIT SPOTLIGHT:

TRICARE Supplement Fills the Gaps
The TRICARE Supplement plan is designed to fill the gaps not covered by TRICARE. While TRICARE covers most inpatient and outpatient care, you can still be left with thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses. Request a free TRICARE Information Kit & Enrollment form online or call 1 (877) 850-0183.