Helping Tomorrow’s Veterans Today

Cpl Jim Marszalek — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 12:38:26 -0500

When a service member’s time in uniform ends, they can be thrown into a world defined by challenging questions. How do I find a job? Should I go to school? Where do I want to live? With seemingly endless uncertainties emerging at every turn, it’s easy to let the complexity of applying for VA benefits fall to the side.

However, just as DAV (Disabled American Veterans) national service officers are experts in securing benefits for veterans, our transition service officers (TSOs) help future veterans navigate the murky waters of VA disability claims.

While we meet with veterans in the community, at events or online, there is no replacement for being able to get in front of separating service members to tell them what DAV does and how we can help.

The TSO program began in 2001 when DAV had to foster close relationships on military installations. DAV built it from the ground up, and since then, we’ve worked to find ways to become a stop for transitioning service members. DAV TSOs are covering nearly 100 military bases nationwide, ready to help.

The Department of Veterans Affairs recently expanded access to accredited representatives from organizations like DAV to participate in service members’ out-processing. Having that opportunity is a significant change, one DAV does not take lightly. Working so closely with those who sacrificed so much for our nation is a privilege.

I cannot overstate the advantage our separating service members have by filing disability compensation claims while still in service. Seamless access to the medical records and examination offices available on base is worth its weight in gold regarding VA benefits. DAV is known for the first-rate service we offer the men and women who serve, but the true benefit of working with a TSO is that DAV can provide better, more prompt service.

Like everything we do for veterans, their families and their survivors, any help any service member receives from any TSO is always free of charge. That principle has never been more apparent than when considering “claim sharks,” entities that illegally charge exorbitant fees for little work that often results in what was free all along.

For many, hearing from a prepared TSO about their benefits will be the first time they learn about or interact with DAV. That first positive experience is vital and serves us well as those transitioning service members sing the praises of the help they’ve received, thanks to DAV.

DAV is ready to assist all veterans wherever they are on their transition journey. To find a DAV service officer, including TSOs, visit https://rly.pt/DAVServiceOfficer.

DAV Local Offices - Veterans Service Officers - NSOs - DAV.org

All services provided by DAV NSOs are free of charge. Your Local DAV National Service Officer (NSO) will help you file a claim. - DAV.org

Response by SSG Benton Miller made Dec 16 at 2024 12:57 PM

SSG Benton Miller — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 12:57:10 -0500

Great article! DAV helped me fill out the paperwork when I was getting out and helped me get my initial disability rating.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 16 at 2024 6:35 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 18:35:54 -0500

Thanks for the plug. I want to tell what happened to me. I should have gotten free life insurance with the VA, but it's not a lot of coverage. However, I did not know I was entitled to that life insurance and missed the window to register.