Posted on May 6, 2020
Veterans Experience Live (VetXL): Survivors Together - Memorial Day Q&A with Community Partners answering questions about benefits
533K
844
461
The Department of Veterans Affairs and our community partners TAPS, American Gold Star Mothers, AAFMAA, Wounded Warrior Project, Travis Manion Foundation, American Red Cross, and Gold Star Wives of America will be here on May 20th at 3PM EST to answer questions.
You can ask questions to the following people:
RDML Ann Duff- Director of the Office of Survivors Assistance
SSgt Danny Devine - Executive Director of Engagement and Memorial Innovations, NCA
Maj Bonnie Carroll - President and Founder, TAPS
Mona Gunn - National President, American Gold Star Mothers
BG Michael Meese - President, AAFMAA
LTG Michael Linnington - CEO, Wounded Warrior Project
Amy Looney - Vice President, Travis Manion Foundation
Melissa Comeau - Director, American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network
Nancy Menagh - President of Gold Star Wives of America
VA Office of Survivor Assistance-
The Office of Survivors Assistance serves as an expert resource regarding all benefits and services furnished by the VA to Survivors and Dependents of deceased Veterans and members of the Armed Forces. We can help you navigate the myriad of benefits and services available, and direct you to your best options. Additionally, we work closely with veteran service organizations, other departments, state and local veteran groups and community leaders to educate everyone about available services and benefits.
National Cemetery Administration-
NCA will commemorate Memorial Day this year with solemn wreath-laying ceremonies. All VA national cemeteries will be open Memorial Day weekend from dawn to dusk for public visitation.
Starting May 14, Veterans Legacy Memorial will permit online visitors to leave a “tribute” text at http://www.va.gov/remember
Effective, Wednesday, April 15, 2020, to ensure social distancing at the cemetery, witnessing family members have been asked to view the interment from their cars or the road very near their cars. Families may visit the gravesite in the days following the interment consistent with CDC guidelines and local travel restrictions. Click here to learn more about burial benefits and the Veterans Legacy Memorial: https://www.cem.va.gov/
TAPS-
The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) provides compassionate care and survivor support services for the families of America’s fallen military heroes. Since 1994, TAPS has offered support to more than 95,000 survivors of fallen military in the form of peer-based emotional support, grief and trauma resources, grief seminars and retreats for adults, Good Grief Camps for children, casework assistance, connections to community-based care, online and in-person support groups and a 24/7 resource and information helpline for all who have been profoundly affected by a death of a military loved one. For more information go to taps.org or call the TAPS National Military Survivor Helpline at 800.959.TAPS (8277).
American Gold Star Mothers-
American Gold Star Mothers, Inc was founded and incorporated in Washington, D.C. 92 years ago. We are a nonprofit membership organization of mothers whose children died while on active duty, died as a result of their service, or are missing in action. We have members in chapters around the country who keep alive the memory of their sons and daughters by helping veterans, active-duty military, and their families. As a service organization, we continue the service of our sons and daughters, who would have been veterans, by volunteering at VA Medical Centers in our local communities.
AAFMAA-
Established in 1879, the American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association (AAFMAA) is the longest-standing, not-for-profit financial solutions provider supporting military and veteran families. At the heart of AAFMAA is a unique and unsurpassed level of care for our Members’ survivors. When a Member dies, an AAFMAA Survivor Assistance Services counselor assists the surviving spouse and family to get all of the benefits earned through military service and continues to assist them for the rest of their lives. Just since 9/11, AAFMAA has provided over $900 million to military families—not as a charity, but as a mutual Association—with Members helping other Members at the passing of a loved one.
Wounded Warrior Project-
Wounded Warrior Project is transforming the way America’s injured veterans are empowered, employed, and engaged in our communities. Since 2003, we’ve been tireless advocates for our nation’s finest, improving the lives of millions of warriors and their families. Warriors never pay a penny for our programs – because they paid their dues on the battlefield. Our free services in mental health, career counseling, and long-term rehabilitative care change lives. We’re committed to helping injured veterans achieve their highest ambitions. When they’re ready to start their next mission, we stand ready to serve.
Travis Manion Foundation-
Travis Manion Foundation strives to unite and strengthen communities by training, developing, and highlighting the role models that lead them. We develop programs, training opportunities, and events designed to empower veterans and families of the fallen, and then inspire them to pass on their values to the next generation and the community at large.
American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network-
The Military and Veteran Caregiver Network (MVCN) offers peer-based support and services to connect those providing care to service members and veterans living with wounds, illnesses, injuries and/or aging. The mission of the MVCN is to provide our nation’s military and veteran caregivers of all eras with peer support to reduce isolation and increase connection, engagement, knowledge, skills and hope.
The MVCN helps caregivers of all eras and at all stages of caregiving by providing access to three peer support programs:
· Online Peer Support Community
· Peer Mentor Support Program
· Peer Support Groups (Online & Community-Based)
New Integrated Condolence Care Program - https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/press-release/2020/red-cross-offers-virtual-care-for-families-who-have-lost-loved-o.html
Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. is a Congressionally Chartered non-profit service organization made up of Gold Star spouses of both men and women.
Formed in 1945, our membership spans all eras from WWII to current. Our spouses died while serving on active duty in the Armed Forces or from their service connected disability as a result of that service, including PTSD/suicide. Our mission is to preserve and enhance benefits for surviving US Military spouses and children;
to help or members and their children face the future with courage and determination; and to honor the memory of our military spouses who made the ultimate sacrifice.
You can ask questions to the following people:
RDML Ann Duff- Director of the Office of Survivors Assistance
SSgt Danny Devine - Executive Director of Engagement and Memorial Innovations, NCA
Maj Bonnie Carroll - President and Founder, TAPS
Mona Gunn - National President, American Gold Star Mothers
BG Michael Meese - President, AAFMAA
LTG Michael Linnington - CEO, Wounded Warrior Project
Amy Looney - Vice President, Travis Manion Foundation
Melissa Comeau - Director, American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network
Nancy Menagh - President of Gold Star Wives of America
VA Office of Survivor Assistance-
The Office of Survivors Assistance serves as an expert resource regarding all benefits and services furnished by the VA to Survivors and Dependents of deceased Veterans and members of the Armed Forces. We can help you navigate the myriad of benefits and services available, and direct you to your best options. Additionally, we work closely with veteran service organizations, other departments, state and local veteran groups and community leaders to educate everyone about available services and benefits.
National Cemetery Administration-
NCA will commemorate Memorial Day this year with solemn wreath-laying ceremonies. All VA national cemeteries will be open Memorial Day weekend from dawn to dusk for public visitation.
Starting May 14, Veterans Legacy Memorial will permit online visitors to leave a “tribute” text at http://www.va.gov/remember
Effective, Wednesday, April 15, 2020, to ensure social distancing at the cemetery, witnessing family members have been asked to view the interment from their cars or the road very near their cars. Families may visit the gravesite in the days following the interment consistent with CDC guidelines and local travel restrictions. Click here to learn more about burial benefits and the Veterans Legacy Memorial: https://www.cem.va.gov/
TAPS-
The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) provides compassionate care and survivor support services for the families of America’s fallen military heroes. Since 1994, TAPS has offered support to more than 95,000 survivors of fallen military in the form of peer-based emotional support, grief and trauma resources, grief seminars and retreats for adults, Good Grief Camps for children, casework assistance, connections to community-based care, online and in-person support groups and a 24/7 resource and information helpline for all who have been profoundly affected by a death of a military loved one. For more information go to taps.org or call the TAPS National Military Survivor Helpline at 800.959.TAPS (8277).
American Gold Star Mothers-
American Gold Star Mothers, Inc was founded and incorporated in Washington, D.C. 92 years ago. We are a nonprofit membership organization of mothers whose children died while on active duty, died as a result of their service, or are missing in action. We have members in chapters around the country who keep alive the memory of their sons and daughters by helping veterans, active-duty military, and their families. As a service organization, we continue the service of our sons and daughters, who would have been veterans, by volunteering at VA Medical Centers in our local communities.
AAFMAA-
Established in 1879, the American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association (AAFMAA) is the longest-standing, not-for-profit financial solutions provider supporting military and veteran families. At the heart of AAFMAA is a unique and unsurpassed level of care for our Members’ survivors. When a Member dies, an AAFMAA Survivor Assistance Services counselor assists the surviving spouse and family to get all of the benefits earned through military service and continues to assist them for the rest of their lives. Just since 9/11, AAFMAA has provided over $900 million to military families—not as a charity, but as a mutual Association—with Members helping other Members at the passing of a loved one.
Wounded Warrior Project-
Wounded Warrior Project is transforming the way America’s injured veterans are empowered, employed, and engaged in our communities. Since 2003, we’ve been tireless advocates for our nation’s finest, improving the lives of millions of warriors and their families. Warriors never pay a penny for our programs – because they paid their dues on the battlefield. Our free services in mental health, career counseling, and long-term rehabilitative care change lives. We’re committed to helping injured veterans achieve their highest ambitions. When they’re ready to start their next mission, we stand ready to serve.
Travis Manion Foundation-
Travis Manion Foundation strives to unite and strengthen communities by training, developing, and highlighting the role models that lead them. We develop programs, training opportunities, and events designed to empower veterans and families of the fallen, and then inspire them to pass on their values to the next generation and the community at large.
American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network-
The Military and Veteran Caregiver Network (MVCN) offers peer-based support and services to connect those providing care to service members and veterans living with wounds, illnesses, injuries and/or aging. The mission of the MVCN is to provide our nation’s military and veteran caregivers of all eras with peer support to reduce isolation and increase connection, engagement, knowledge, skills and hope.
The MVCN helps caregivers of all eras and at all stages of caregiving by providing access to three peer support programs:
· Online Peer Support Community
· Peer Mentor Support Program
· Peer Support Groups (Online & Community-Based)
New Integrated Condolence Care Program - https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/press-release/2020/red-cross-offers-virtual-care-for-families-who-have-lost-loved-o.html
Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. is a Congressionally Chartered non-profit service organization made up of Gold Star spouses of both men and women.
Formed in 1945, our membership spans all eras from WWII to current. Our spouses died while serving on active duty in the Armed Forces or from their service connected disability as a result of that service, including PTSD/suicide. Our mission is to preserve and enhance benefits for surviving US Military spouses and children;
to help or members and their children face the future with courage and determination; and to honor the memory of our military spouses who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Posted 4 y ago
Responses: 106
RDML Ann Duff
Please feel free to reach out to us directly at [login to see] and we will explore what may be available for your children based upon your individual circumstances.
SGT Hans Schoenborn
I AMA 100%DISABLED VET AND NEED HOME INPROVEMENTS LIKE ROOFING AND PAINTING. IS THERE ANY FINANJCIAL HELP OUT THERE. I LIVE IN PAYSON ARIZONA. MY E-MAIL IS [login to see]
My husband died 4 years ago do I receive any kind of benefits. He was a navy veteran and served during the Vietnam war but didn't step in country
My question is why was my stimulus payment taken for child support and they are taking money from my retirement benefits
I would like to know why I was turned down for my husband's benefits?! He passed away 1 February 2018
LTG Michael Linnington
Thank you for your question, and I am so sorry for your loss. We do understand obtaining benefits can be a complex process. If your spouse was a post-9/11 veteran, please reach out to the Wounded Warrior Project Resource Center so you can be connected with a Benefits Service Officer who can help with your claim. You can call our Resource Center at 888.WWP.ALUM (997.2586) or [login to see] or email them at [login to see] . They are open Monday - Friday, 9 am - 9 pm EST.
LTG Michael Linnington
Thank you for your question. Preparation is essential to take care of our loved ones. When a veteran passes away, the VA compensation payments to the veterans will stop. The surviving spouse can file a claim for Dependency Indemnity Compensation, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits by completing VA Form 21-534 to determine entitlement to benefits. Here is the link to the VA benefits for spouses, dependents, survivors, and family caregivers, which can provide information for you and your spouse as you prepare. https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits/
VA benefits for spouses, dependents, survivors, and family caregivers | Veterans Affairs
Learn about VA benefits for spouses, dependents, survivors, and family caregivers of Veterans and service members.
I contacted the office. I sent in all paperwork required. I was told they had a year to review and make a decision. I was also told not to expect a benefit as my husband passed from Alzheimer's a non service related ilness. He was WWII, DAV, rated 90% and paid at 100%.
LTG Michael Linnington
Thank you for your question. Audrey, so sorry for your loss. I'd recommend contacting the VA or a service officer and provide more information. If you have questions or are seeking assistance from a representative, you can contact the VA at [login to see] , and they can provide a listing of VSOs available to assist with your claim and help you navigate through the claims process.
I’m a retired and 100% disable, my wife is my care giver. My question is if I pass would she receive any of the VA benefits that I was receiving? And if yes how does she apply and what those benefits would be?... thank you for your response.
LTG Michael Linnington
Thank you for your question. Preparation is essential to take care of our loved ones. When a veteran passes away, the VA compensation payments to the veterans will stop. The surviving spouse can file a claim for Dependency Indemnity Compensation, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits by completing VA Form 21-534 to determine entitlement to benefits. Here is the link to the VA benefits for spouses, dependents, survivors, and family caregivers, which can provide information for you and your spouse as you prepare. https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits/.
VA benefits for spouses, dependents, survivors, and family caregivers | Veterans Affairs
Learn about VA benefits for spouses, dependents, survivors, and family caregivers of Veterans and service members.
HELLO WHILE I WAS IN THE ARMY RESERVE MY HUSBAND DIED AND KNOW ONE TOLD ME HOW TO GET THE INSURANCE, IS IT TO LATE TO GET IT NOW THAT I AM RETIRED OUT? AND I WAS THE MILITARY PERSON!
LTG Michael Linnington
Thank you for your question. We do understand obtaining benefits can be a complex process. If you are a post-9/11 veteran, please reach out to the Wounded Warrior Project Resource Center so you can be connected with a Benefits Service Officer who can help you with your claim. You can call our Resource Center at 888.WWP.ALUM (997.2586) or [login to see] or email them at [login to see] . They are open Monday - Friday, 9 am - 9 pm EST.
Read This Next