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87,000 Vietnam Veterans To Qualify for Retroactive Compensation
Plus, how BattleGround Farm has served over 58,000 service members through premium small-batch beef jerky
Nick Kellermeyer
September 03, 2024
The Homefront Report brings you the best news and resources that U.S. military veterans need to know.
This week we cover:
Legal News: Vietnam Veterans Could Qualify for $844 Million
Health & Wellness: Dog Tag Bakery’s Entrepreneurship Program
Product Of The Week: BattleGround Farm
Finance: Tips On Crafting The Perfect Post-Military Resume
LEGAL NEWS
A recent report from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' Office of Inspector General has revealed that up to 87,000 Vietnam veterans and their survivors may be eligible for retroactive compensation benefits due to exposure to toxic herbicides like Agent Orange.
The report estimates that these veterans and their families could be entitled to more than $844 million in benefits. This situation stems from the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, which expanded the list of presumptive conditions for Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange.
Despite the VA's announcement that it would notify all previously denied veterans about their potential new eligibility, the Inspector General's analysis found that tens of thousands may have been missed.
“There are millions of dollars at stake that Vietnam veterans and their survivors should be receiving.”
Marc McCabe, a pro bono veterans advocate, has been traveling nationwide to inform veterans and their families about their potential eligibility. "They’re leaving them behind," McCabe says.
This oversight highlights ongoing challenges in the VA's ability to effectively communicate benefit changes to veterans. For the affected veterans, many of whom are now in their 70s and 80s, this could mean missing out on an average of $372 per month in disability compensation.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Dog Tag Bakery in Washington D.C. offers a unique entrepreneurship program for veterans, helping them transition to civilian life. Through courses in business, storytelling, and mindfulness, veterans like Peter Scott have turned their passions into successful ventures, finding community and purpose along the way.
Recreational therapist Kim Kobayashi-Elliott is transforming lives at the San Diego VA Medical Center through adaptive sports. Her work with Navy Veteran Juan Sandoval has shown how events like the National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic can boost confidence and improve the quality of life for Veterans with spinal cord injuries.
The American Legion conducted its largest-ever suicide prevention training session, educating an estimated 5,000 people at once. This initiative, part of the "Be the One" mission, aims to reduce veteran suicide rates by equipping Legion members with the tools to identify at-risk veterans and intervene effectively.
PRODUCT OF THE WEEK
The Product: BattleGround Farm produces premium small-batch beef jerky, apparel, and the innovative BARREL.338 bourbon finishing bullet.
The Story: Founded by U.S. Marine Corps veteran Sgt. Tex Morris, BattleGround Farm is rooted in Hart County, Kentucky, near the bourbon capital of the world. Morris, who served in Operation Enduring Freedom - Afghanistan, established the farm as a tribute to warriors who fought bravely for God, Family, and Freedom.
Sgt. Morris started BattleGround Farm as a way to honor both historical and modern-day warriors. The farm's products, including their renowned beef jerky and bourbon finishers, are crafted with the utmost care and dedication.
Beyond their exceptional products, BattleGround Farm is committed to giving back to the veteran community. They support Military Missions in Action (MMIA), an organization that has helped over 58,000 service members by providing care packages, assisting military families, and supporting veterans with disabilities or sub-standard living conditions.
“We hope you'll reach deep down, Feed the Warrior in you, and enjoy a nice slice of BattleGround Jerky and a sip or two of Coca Cola or ultra smooth Bourbon Whiskey."
FINANCE
As a veteran transitioning to civilian life, crafting a resume that effectively communicates your skills can be challenging. This article offers valuable insights on why employers struggle to understand military resumes and how you can overcome these obstacles. Learn how to translate your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) into civilian terms, highlight your achievements without compromising military values, and navigate the fine line between discretion and transparency. These tips will help you create a resume that showcases your unique skills and experiences to potential civilian employers.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“Heroism doesn’t always happen in a burst of glory. Sometimes small triumphs and large hearts change the course of history.”
Disclaimer: The Homefront Report, in association with HomefrontLaw.com, is an informational newsletter. The content of this email does not constitute legal, health, or financial advice.