Welcome to the Veteran’s Newsletter!

In today's edition:

• Military.com has provided a handy guide for 2025 veteran pay increases.

• The VA is granting presumptive benefits for Gulf War and Post 9/11 veterans with toxic exposure.

• A settlement has been reached granting benefits to over 35,000 LGBT+ who were discharged during “don’t ask, don’t tell”.

• The VA is expanding GI Bill benefits for veterans with multiple periods of service.

• The VA’s new life insurance program reaches a critical milestone.

• The story of a WW1 veteran.

• And more…

News of the Week

📰 Top Veteran Stories

What to Know About Military and Veteran Pay Increases for 2025

U.S. service members and veterans can anticipate several pay and benefit increases in 2025. Junior enlisted troops (E-1 to E-4) will receive a 14.5% pay raise, while other active-duty personnel will see a 4.5% increase in basic pay. Senior officers at capped pay rates will receive more minor adjustments. The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) averages a 5.4% increase, although rates vary by location and rank. Additionally, more service members in high-cost areas, specifically California, Massachusetts, and New York, will benefit from the Continental United States Cost-of-Living Allowance (CONUS COLA).

The Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) covers meal costs and will increase modestly to $465.77 per month for enlisted members and $320.78 for officers. Veterans and survivors will receive a 2.5% increase in benefits tied to the Social Security Administration’s Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This applies to VA Disability Pay, Special Monthly Compensation, Veterans Pension, Survivors Pension, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).

For example, a 100% disabled veteran with dependents may receive up to $4,544.23 per month in disability payments, while a surviving spouse qualifying for DIC could receive $1,653.07 or more based on specific circumstances.

Visit resources like Military.com and the VA's official website to explore detailed pay charts, benefits, and schedules. Military.com updates can help subscribers stay informed about military benefits and financial planning.

VA Grants Presumptive Benefits for Gulf War and Post-9/11 Veterans with Toxic Exposure

The VA has announced presumptive benefits status for Gulf War and Post-9/11 veterans suffering from illnesses such as leukemia, bladder cancer, and related conditions. This decision includes veterans who served at Karshi-Khanabad (K2) Air Base in Uzbekistan, a group long advocating for recognition of health issues linked to toxic exposure at the site.

Presumptive status simplifies the disability benefits process by removing the burden of proving a direct service connection for conditions caused by toxic exposure. This significantly reduces wait times and eases frustration for veterans and their families. Veterans granted this status are also eligible for free VA health care for those conditions.

The new presumptive conditions include acute and chronic leukemias, multiple myelomas, myelodysplastic syndromes, myelofibrosis, and various genitourinary cancers. Eligible veterans served in the Middle East during the Gulf War or in Afghanistan, Iraq, Djibouti, and Uzbekistan after Sep.r 11, 2001.

The decision stems from the 2022 PACT Act, which has expanded benefits for veterans with toxic exposure injuries. Since its enactment, nearly 900,000 veterans have enrolled in VA health care, marking a 40% increase from previous periods. Veterans and families are encouraged to apply for benefits through the VA website.

Settlement Offers Relief to Veterans Discharged Under LGBTQ-Related Policies

The Department of Defense has reached a settlement benefiting over 35,000 veterans discharged under policies targeting sexual orientation, including "don't ask, don't tell." Veterans discharged with less than honorable status due to their sexual orientation can now apply for an upgrade, and those with honorable discharges can have discriminatory notations removed from their DD-214 forms.

This settlement addresses barriers to benefits like VA health care and pensions while reducing stigma for affected veterans. It expands on previous Pentagon reviews and includes those discharged before the "don't ask, don't tell" era (1994-2011).

Navy veteran Lilly Steffanides, discharged in 1988, shared their journey of hardship and eventual advocacy, highlighting the settlement's significance in restoring dignity. Judicial approval is pending, with changes expected as early as summer 2025.

📜 VBA Updates

VA Expands G.I. Bill Benefits for Veterans with Multiple Periods of Service

The VA has updated its policy on awarding G.I. Bill benefits, potentially offering additional benefits to veterans who served multiple periods of military service, such as those who reenlisted. Previously, eligible veterans had to choose between the Montgomery G.I. Bill and the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, limiting them to 36 months of benefits. Under the new policy, veterans can qualify for up to 48 months of combined G.I. Bill benefits.

This policy change also includes retroactive benefits for veterans with two qualifying periods of service—one for the Montgomery G.I. Bill and another for the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill. These veterans may receive an additional 12 months of G.I. Bill benefits, even if their benefits had previously expired.

The VA plans to notify eligible veterans directly. Approximately 660,000 claims will be automatically adjudicated, while other veterans must file a claim. Applications for benefits extensions must be submitted by Oct. 1, 2030.

For more information and application details, visit the Rudisill section on the VBA’s education service webpage.

⚕️ Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Updates

VA’s New Life Insurance Program Reaches Milestone

In January 2025, the VA’s VALife program celebrates its second anniversary, reaching a significant milestone with full coverage now provided to over 5,400 veterans enrolled in January 2023. An additional 24,000 veterans are set to receive full coverage this year. VALife offers guaranteed acceptance of whole-life insurance to veterans aged 80 or under with any level of service-connected disability, while those aged 81 or older may qualify under certain conditions.

The program provides up to $40,000 in coverage, with premiums determined by the veteran’s age at enrollment. These rates remain fixed for the policy's life, are competitive with private sector options, and are unaffected by health conditions. VALife does not require medical exams or health questionnaires and eliminates time limits for enrollment for veterans aged 80 or under. Coverage begins two years after enrollment, provided premiums are paid during this period. Beneficiaries receive the total premiums paid plus interest if a policyholder passes away within the two-year waiting period.

Veterans can apply, receive instant decisions, and manage their policies online at va.gov, ensuring protection for their loved ones with ease and accessibility.

Veteran App of the Week

Fitbod

The Fitbod app is a fitness training tool that offers personalized workout plans tailored to individual goals, fitness levels, and available equipment. Using advanced algorithms, it generates workouts based on user preferences, past performance, and muscle recovery, ensuring balanced and practical training. The app includes detailed exercise instructions, progress tracking, and integration with fitness devices, helping users stay motivated and consistent.

For veterans, Fitbod can be a valuable resource in maintaining physical health and building strength, especially for those adjusting to new routines or recovering from service-related injuries. Its customizable plans provide structure and support, empowering veterans to achieve fitness goals at their own pace and in their preferred environment.

Military Deals of the Week

*We do not explicitly endorse any of these companies as we have not personally purchased from many of them. We are simply sharing online deals that we have found for your convenience.

• 21% Off: Forever 21

• 15% Off: Carhartt

• 10% Off: Pandora

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week: Frank Luke Jr.

Born on May 19, 1897, in Phoenix, Arizona, Frank Luke Jr. was raised in a frontier environment that fostered independence, resilience, and a daring spirit. The son of German immigrants, Luke was known for his athletic prowess and competitive nature, excelling in sports such as track and football. His fiery personality often set him apart from his peers, a trait that would later define his fearless approach to combat. Inspired by the sense of adventure and service during World War I, Luke enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Service in 1917, determined to make his mark.

In July 1918, Luke was assigned to the 27th Aero Squadron in France after completing flight training. His tenure in the military was marked by his rebellious streak and a penchant for risk-taking, traits that initially caused friction with his superiors but eventually earned him respect as an exceptional combat pilot. Luke quickly distinguished himself by targeting heavily defended enemy observation balloons, which were critical for directing artillery fire. They are often surrounded by intense anti-aircraft defenses and patrolling enemy fighters.

Luke’s most heroic actions occurred during Sep. 1918, a period that saw him execute a string of daring missions. On Sep.r 12, he earned his first victories by destroying two enemy balloons and an aircraft in a single day, a feat that began his meteoric rise. Over the next two weeks, Luke displayed unparalleled bravery, often flying solo into heavily defended areas to attack enemy balloons and aircraft. His relentless determination earned him the nickname "Arizona Balloon Buster."

On Sep. 29, 1918, Luke embarked on his final mission. Operating near the town of Murvaux, France, he took off alone with the intent to destroy three enemy balloons critical to German operations. Despite severe anti-aircraft fire and enemy patrols, Luke pressed forward. He successfully shot down all three balloons with extraordinary skill and courage. However, during the engagement, his aircraft sustained heavy damage, and he was critically wounded.

Forced to land behind enemy lines, Luke was confronted by German ground forces. Refusing to surrender, he reportedly drew his pistol and continued to fight until succumbing to his injuries. That day, His actions eliminated key enemy assets and exemplified an indomitable spirit of self-sacrifice and dedication to mission success.

Frank Luke Jr.’s legacy as a fearless aviator and national hero was cemented with his posthumous awarding of the Medal of Honor. His exploits inspired future generations of pilots and earned him enduring recognition, including the naming of Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. Luke’s short but impactful life remains a testament to courage, innovation, and the unyielding pursuit of excellence in the face of overwhelming odds.

Businesses That Support Veterans

The Independence Fund

The Independence Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping catastrophically wounded veterans regain their independence and improve their quality of life. By providing mobility devices like all-terrain track chairs, the organization enables veterans with severe physical disabilities to achieve greater freedom and engage in activities they love. Additionally, The Independence Fund offers programs focused on caregiver support, family assistance, and mental health resources, ensuring holistic care for veterans and their loved ones.

Founded in 2007, The Independence Fund strives to bridge gaps in veteran care through innovative solutions and personalized support. Its programs also include adaptive sports and wellness retreats, which foster resilience and camaraderie among veterans and their families. Addressing physical, emotional, and social challenges, The Independence Fund empowers veterans to reclaim their lives and strengthens the community of those who have served. Through their comprehensive support, the organization ensures that veterans and their families receive the resources and opportunities they deserve.

Thank You For Your Service!

To every veteran reading this—your service, dedication, and sacrifices for this nation are immeasurable. You’ve taken on responsibilities that many will never truly understand, ensuring that communities enjoy the freedoms and security that are too often taken for granted.

Whether you stood on the front lines, served in the skies or seas, or provided critical support behind the scenes, you are the backbone of this nation’s strength. Your resilience, courage, and unwavering dedication are inspiring, and your contributions will never be forgotten.

Your service has improved this country, and your sacrifices have left a lasting impact. You deserve all the gratitude in the world for the incredible difference you’ve made.

Thank you for all you have done and continue to do!

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Until Next Time!

Stay tuned for next week’s edition, where we’ll cover more stories and policy updates and find tools & deals for the veteran community.

Thanks,

The Veterans Newsletter