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- Senate Passes $3B VA Supplemental Funding Bill
Senate Passes $3B VA Supplemental Funding Bill
Plus, how GORUCK's journey from war zones to city streets is redefining toughness.
Nick Kellermeyer
September 26, 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: Senate Passes $3B VA Supplemental Funding Bill
Health & Wellness: Veterans Find Community Through Fishing
Product Of The Week: GORUCK
Finance: 5 Military Benefits You Might Not Know About
LEGAL NEWS
Senate Passes $3B VA Supplemental Funding Bill
The Senate has unanimously passed a $3 billion supplemental funding bill for the Department of Veterans Affairs, averting a potential delay in benefits payments to millions of veterans.
This legislation, approved on September 19, 2024, ensures that approximately 7 million veterans and their families will continue to receive their compensation and pension benefits without interruption.
The bill, passed unanimously in a voice vote, now awaits President Joe Biden's signature. VA Secretary Denis McDonough emphasized the importance of this funding, stating it "will go directly to earned benefits" for veterans and their families.
The shortfall arose due to the increased number of veterans receiving benefits under the PACT Act, which expanded eligibility for those exposed to toxic substances during their service."
"The PACT Act is working for toxic-exposed veterans and survivors in Montana and across the country, and as a result, more veterans and their loved ones are receiving benefits than ever before.”
The passage of this bill is a significant win for veterans, as it ensures that they will receive their earned benefits without interruption.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Fisheries for Veterans Project (F4V), a community-based, nationwide effort partnered with the Bureau of Land Management, provides regular, accessible fishing opportunities, offering veterans a therapeutic outlet and a chance to connect with nature and each other.
Peter O'Cain, a Marine Corps veteran and news editor, has been named one of the top military veterans in journalism for his investigative work on veterans' mental health. His story highlights the critical importance of mental health services for veterans and brings attention to the challenges they face.
Mike Clark, a Vietnam War veteran who lost both legs to a landmine, has found renewed independence on his family farm thanks to the Ohio AgrAbility program. The program, which provides adaptive equipment, has empowered disabled veterans to continue pursuing their passions, even after service-related injuries.
PRODUCT OF THE WEEK
GORUCK - Building Better Americans
The Product: GORUCK crafts military-grade rucksacks and gear that thrive in both war zones and urban jungles, built to last a lifetime.
The Story: Founded in 2008 by former Green Beret Jason McCarthy, GORUCK was born from a simple idea: create a rucksack tough enough for Special Forces yet stylish enough for city streets. Inspired by his wife's need for a "go-bag" while working as a diplomat in West Africa, McCarthy combined his military experience with a vision for durable, versatile gear.
GORUCK's journey has been one of resilience and community. The company faced numerous challenges, from a lack of business and manufacturing knowledge to personal hardships. Yet, it was the support of the Special Forces community and the Green Beret Foundation that helped GORUCK thrive. Today, GORUCK is not just a gear company but an international fitness movement, organizing over 1,000 veteran-led rucking events annually.
The company donates 1% of its annual revenue to various non-profit organizations that support veterans, first responders, and their families. This initiative, known as "1% for Those Who Serve," reflects McCarthy's belief that those who have been given much have a responsibility to give back.
"When you’ve survived the things that we have, and your inspiration in life becomes normal people doing extraordinary things, what you realize is that you don’t owe less — you owe more."
FINANCE
5 Military Benefits You Might Not Know You've Earned
Did you know you might be eligible for up to $109,986 in housing grants or $22,036 for home adaptations? Or that you could receive financial assistance for vehicle modifications to improve your mobility? As a veteran, you may be missing out on crucial benefits that could significantly improve your quality of life. Taking advantage of these programs can make a huge difference in helping veterans live comfortably and independently after their service.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“We, too, born to freedom, and believing in freedom, are willing to fight to maintain freedom. We, and all others who believe as deeply as we do, would rather die on our feet than live on our knees.”
Disclaimer: The Homefront Report, in association with HomefrontGroup.com, is an informational newsletter. The content of this email does not constitute legal, health, or financial advice.