VA Unveils Plan to Fund Legal Aid for Veterans

Plus, how RECON Rings' veteran-founded mission is protecting heroes long after their tours end.

Author

Nick Kellermeyer
October 15, 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: VA Unveils Plan to Fund Legal Aid for Veterans

  • Health & Wellness: Equine Therapy Brings Healing for PTSD

  • Product Of The Week: RECON Rings

  • Finance: Veterans' Emergency Fund Essentials

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has proposed a new pilot program to provide grants for legal assistance to veterans seeking VA benefits.

This initiative, announced on October 2, 2024, aims to support former service members who were discharged under other than honorable conditions but may still be eligible for VA benefits. This move comes as part of the VA's ongoing efforts to expand eligibility and support for veterans with less-than-honorable discharges.

Over the past decade, the VA has extended benefits eligibility to over 57,000 veterans, representing 75% of those with an other-than-honorable discharge status. However, navigating the process to request a discharge status review or determination can be challenging.

"We encourage former service members with other than honorable discharges to apply for VA care and benefits today. Although VA cannot change your discharge status, we want to provide you with any health care or benefits we can — and we will work with you every step of the way to do exactly that."

VA Secretary Denis McDonough

This grant program could significantly impact veterans by providing crucial legal support to those who might otherwise struggle to access VA benefits. The proposal is open for public comment until December 2, 2024, and if implemented, could help many more veterans receive the care and benefits they've earned through their service.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Combat veterans with PTSD found healing through a unique equine therapy program in the Tetons. The partnership between Warrior Counseling Works and Jackson Hole Therapeutic Riding offered participants a chance to connect with horses and nature, fostering trust and opening new paths to recovery.

Dog Tag Buddies, a Montana non-profit, is transforming the lives of veterans by pairing them with specially trained service dogs that help manage PTSD symptoms, reduce isolation, and restore a sense of purpose.

The Veterans Urban Farm in Columbia, Missouri, is proving that "employment is intervention" in the fight against veteran suicide. By providing a structured environment, camaraderie, and meaningful work, the farm is helping veterans rebuild their lives and find a new sense of purpose after military service.

PRODUCT OF THE WEEK

RECON Rings - Silicone Bands for Every Mission

The Product: RECON Rings offers durable, military-inspired silicone wedding bands designed for active individuals and service members, providing a safe alternative to traditional metal rings.

The Story: RECON Rings was born from a harrowing experience and a friendship forged through fitness. Tom Tartaglia, a Marine Corps veteran, and Stephen, a civilian brand builder, met through CrossFit and bonded over a shared vision to create safer alternatives to traditional wedding bands.

The catalyst for RECON Rings came from Tom's deployment in Iraq. While on patrol, Tom witnessed a fellow Marine suffer a severe ring avulsion injury when his wedding band caught on a vehicle door. The team's quick action - knocking out their injured comrade, retrieving the ring, and rushing to the nearest base - couldn't save the Marine's finger but planted the seed for what would become RECON Rings.

Years later, as Tom prepared to marry, he knew he needed a safer alternative to profess his love while protecting his fingers. The memory of that fateful day in Iraq, initially described as being "on patrol" but later evolving to "on recon," became the inspiration for the company's name.

Driven by a mission to prevent similar injuries, Tom and Stephen set out to create a line of silicone rings that cater specifically to the needs of those in the military and other high-intensity professions. RECON Rings prides itself on producing high-quality silicone rings that are thicker and more robust than other brands, making them ideal for military personnel, first responders, and outdoor enthusiasts.

RECON Rings is deeply committed to giving back to the veteran community. A portion of every sale is donated to military-affiliated non-profit organizations, including the Silent Warrior Foundation, which supports veterans and their families with emergency assistance, mental health services, and scholarships.

“I know the struggles of a transitioning veteran, because I was one. It's not about what you've done yesterday. It's about what you're going to do tomorrow.”

Tom Tartaglia, Co-Founder of RECON Rings

FINANCE

Why Every Veteran Needs an Emergency Fund (and Where to Keep It)

Establishing an emergency fund is a necessity for veterans transitioning to civilian life. Even a modest savings of $500 to $1,000 can be a lifeline during unexpected challenges. This article outlines practical strategies for veterans to start saving, including setting up automatic transfers, allocating a portion of VA backpay or tax refunds, and cutting back on unnecessary expenses like frequent takeout meals. By implementing these tips, you can create a financial safety net that helps you weather unforeseen circumstances without sinking into debt.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“The patriot’s blood is the seed of freedom’s tree.”

Thomas Campbell

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.