Welcome to the Veteran’s Newsletter!

In today's edition:

• Veterans affected by combat-related burn pit illness sue the Army.

• Booz Allen Hamilton leads support programs for veterans and families.

• Forgotten civil war veterans receive belated honors and burial decades after storage.

• A VA conference highlights the link between intimate partner violence and suicide.

• A guide to renew your VHIC for more efficient VA appointment check-ins.

News of the Week

📰 Top Veteran Stories

Veterans Sue Army for Combat-Related Burn Pit Illness Recognition in Medical Retirements

Two veterans, Retired Sgt. 1st Class Kyle Smoke and Retired Lt. Col. Jennifer McIntyre, have filed a class-action lawsuit against the U.S. Army, alleging that the Army has systematically refused to classify illnesses linked to burn pit exposure as combat-related, which would make their medical retirement pay tax-free. Both veterans, diagnosed with serious health conditions after exposure to burn pits in combat zones, argue that these conditions meet the criteria for combat-related injuries under the PACT Act. 

Despite the Department of Veterans Affairs recognizing their illnesses as related to burn pit exposure, the Army’s Physical Disability Agency has declined to classify them as combat-related for tax purposes.

The lawsuit, citing Defense Department guidelines and the PACT Act, seeks to vacate past decisions denying combat-related classification to soldiers with burn pit-linked conditions and aim for a tax-free designation. The Army has not commented on the ongoing litigation, and the case underscores the continuing debate over how burn pit exposure injuries should be classified within military retirement systems.

Booz Allen Hamilton Leads Military Recruitment and Support Programs for Veterans and Families

Booz Allen Hamilton has prioritized recruiting veterans and military family members, maintaining robust virtual outreach to reach military-connected individuals worldwide. About one-third of the firm’s annual hires are veterans or military dependents, with a team of dedicated recruiters and programs like the Defense Department's Skillbridge, which offers transitioning service members internships and apprenticeships. This focus earned Booz Allen Hamilton the top position on the 2024 Military Times Best for Vets Employers list.

Booz Allen Hamilton's commitment extends to fostering a supportive environment for military-connected employees through dedicated communities and mentorship, helping them transition and thrive post-service. Similar companies on the Best for Vets list, such as Comcast NBCUniversal, also emphasize veteran engagement, support programs, and community involvement, creating a veteran-friendly workplace culture.

Forgotten Civil War Veterans Receive Belated Honors and Burial After Decades in Storage

The cremated remains of 28 Civil War veterans, left unclaimed for decades in Seattle storage facilities, were recently laid to rest with military honors thanks to efforts by the Missing In America Project. Volunteers identified the remains through genealogical research, confirming their service as Union soldiers. Most were reburied in Washington’s Tahoma National Cemetery in a ceremony featuring traditional honors by the historical 4th U.S. Infantry Regiment.

Among these veterans was Byron Johnson, whose remains were returned to Pawtucket, Rhode Island, for burial. This reburial serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the Civil War, honoring those who fought to preserve the Union. Local officials and volunteers noted the importance of ensuring these veterans were not lost to history and were finally given the dignity of a proper burial.

📜 VBA Updates

VA Conference Highlights Critical Link Between Intimate Partner Violence and Suicide Prevention for Veterans

Intimate partner violence (IPV) and suicide, two major public health concerns, often intersect, particularly among Veterans facing isolation, fear, and despair due to abuse. The Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (VHSO) hosted its annual Partner Violence & Suicide Prevention conference in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to raise awareness and promote a multidisciplinary approach to addressing this connection. The event emphasized early intervention through routine screenings for IPV and suicidal ideation during healthcare visits.

Participants discussed safety planning for those leaving abusive situations and explored VA programs offering trauma-informed support, counseling, and specialized resources for Veterans. The conference underscored the importance of community partnerships with law enforcement, shelters, and suicide prevention hotlines, fostering a robust support network to assist Veterans in crisis. By engaging the community and educating providers, the VA aims to ensure that Veterans facing such challenges receive comprehensive, timely support.

⚕️ Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Updates

How to Renew Your Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) for Efficient Check-In at VA Appointments

While the Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) isn’t required to access VA health care, it streamlines appointment check-ins. The National Health Eligibility Center (HEC) alerts 1.5 million Veterans that their VHICs are nearing expiration. Online renewal is recommended and accessible through a QR code or website link. After submitting the renewal request, it enters a review queue before approval for printing and mailing.

Renewals generally take 7–14 days for domestic addresses and up to 30 days for international ones. In-person renewals require a valid photo ID and a photo update but won’t expedite processing. Veterans are reminded that travel pay isn’t covered for VHIC renewal-only visits, but renewal can be done around other scheduled appointments.

Veteran App of the Week

VA Health Chat

The VA Health Chat app is a mobile tool designed to streamline communication between veterans and VA healthcare providers. It allows veterans to connect with VA nurses and other healthcare team members in real-time through a secure chat platform, making accessing medical advice, prescription information, and answers to health-related questions easier. The app is handy for veterans needing quick, non-emergency assistance, as it reduces the need for phone calls or in-person visits. Available on iOS and Android devices, the app provides a convenient way to manage minor health concerns from anywhere.

Beyond quick medical assistance, the VA Health Chat app also helps veterans schedule appointments, request refills, and learn more about their healthcare options within the VA system. The app is part of the VA’s broader commitment to making healthcare more accessible and efficient for veterans, especially for those with mobility challenges or living in remote areas. By offering this digital option, the VA ensures veterans receive timely care and support, enhancing their overall healthcare experience.

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.

• 30% Off: YETI

• 5% Off: Sportsman’s Military Discount

• Veterans Day Discount 30% Off: MEATER

Top 20 Veterans Day Free Meals and Deals

This Veterans Day, restaurants nationwide are stepping up to honor Veterans and active-duty service members with free meals and special offers on or around Nov. 11. 

Here’s a quick rundown of some standout deals to help you feel celebrated and appreciated. Remember to bring your military ID or proof of service, as requirements and availability may vary by location.

• Applebee's - Free meal from a select menu for Veterans and active duty on Nov 11. Dine-in only.

• Buffalo Wild Wings - 10 free boneless wings and fries for Veterans on Nov 11. Dine-in or walk-in counter orders.

• Denny's - Free Original Grand Slam for Veterans, 5 a.m.–12 p.m. on Nov 11. Dine-in only.

• Golden Corral - Military Appreciation Night with a free meal for Veterans on Nov 11, 5pm–close.

• IHOP - Free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo for Veterans, 7am–7pm on Nov 11. Dine-in only.

• Outback Steakhouse - Free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage with an entrée purchase on Nov 11.

• Starbucks - Free tall hot or iced brewed coffee for Veterans and military spouses on Nov 11.

• Red Robin - Complimentary Red's Big Tavern Burger and Bottomless Side on Nov 11. Dine-in only.

• Texas Roadhouse - Free meal voucher for Veterans on Nov 11, 11am–2pm, good for a future meal.

• Little Caesars - Free Lunch Combo (Detroit-style pizza) for Veterans, 11am–2pm on Nov 11.

• Bonefish Grill - Complimentary Bang Bang Shrimp and soft drink on Nov 11.

• Krispy Kreme - Free donut and coffee for Veterans and military on Nov 11.

• Village Inn - Free 2-2-2 Breakfast for Veterans. Dine-in, To Go, and online ordering options available.

• BJ’s Restaurant - Free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie on Nov 11, with a bonus appetizer coupon for later.

• Bob Evans - Free meal from a select menu for Veterans on Nov 11. Dine-in only.

• Hooters - Free meal from the Veterans Day Menu with a beverage purchase on Nov 11. Dine-in only.

• California Pizza Kitchen - Complimentary meal from a select menu and a future BOGO offer (Nov 12–25).

• Mission BBQ - Free sandwich for Veterans on Nov 11.

• MOD Pizza - Buy one, get one free for Veterans on Nov 11. In-store only.

• Olive Garden - Free entrée from a special menu for Veterans on Nov 11. Dine-in only.

Take a moment to enjoy these offers—they are a small way to recognize all that you do and have done.

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week:  Bradley Allan Kasal

Born on May 1, 1966, in Marengo, IA, Sergeant Major Bradley Allan Kasal grew up with a deep sense of duty and patriotism. This commitment led him to enlist in the United States Marine Corps at 18, beginning a distinguished 34-year career characterized by bravery, leadership, and sacrifice.

Kasal’s dedication to the Marine Corps took him through various roles, including deployments in the Persian Gulf War and Iraq War, where his leadership and loyalty to his Marines were unwavering. Known for his determination and resilience, he consistently led by example, earning respect from all ranks.

His defining moment came during the Second Battle of Fallujah in November 2004. As First Sergeant, Kasal’s unit faced relentless urban combat, with Marines trapped under intense enemy fire in a house known to be occupied by insurgents. Upon hearing that his comrades were pinned down, Kasal did not hesitate—he entered the hostile building to lead a daring rescue. 

Inside, he encountered heavy gunfire and fought through multiple rooms to reach the wounded Marines, shielding one of them from a grenade blast with his own body. Despite suffering multiple gunshot wounds and shrapnel injuries, Kasal remained focused, continuing to engage the enemy even as his blood loss threatened his life.

The aftermath of this act of heroism was immortalized in a photo that captured Kasal, severely injured and blood-soaked but still clutching his M9 pistol and KA-BAR knife as he was helped out of the building. The image became a powerful symbol of Marine courage, resonating across the military and with civilians alike.

For his exceptional bravery and selflessness, Kasal was awarded the Navy Cross in 2006, the second-highest military decoration for valor, and two Purple Hearts for his combat injuries. His commitment did not end with his recovery; despite the long road of rehabilitation, he continued serving in the Marine Corps, exemplifying the resilience and dedication that marked his entire career.

Sergeant Major Kasal retired in May 2018, leaving a legacy of courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to the Marine Corps and his fellow Marines. His story remains an enduring source of inspiration, a testament to the strength and spirit that define military service at its finest.

Businesses That Support Veterans

Dog Tag Inc.

Dog Tag Inc. is a nonprofit that empowers veterans, military spouses, and caregivers through a five-month fellowship that combines education with hands-on experience in a bakery and business setting. Founded by Father Rick Curry, SJ, and Constance Milstein, Dog Tag provides fellows with a tailored curriculum covering business, entrepreneurship, and personal development through Georgetown University.

Participants work at the Dog Tag Bakery in Washington, D.C., gaining practical business experience. This immersive environment helps fellows transition into civilian careers by building confidence, skills, and networks. The program’s unique approach equips veterans with entrepreneurial skills and fosters a community where fellows find purpose and support.

Thank You For Your Service, and Happy Veterans Day!

To every veteran reading this—your service, dedication, and sacrifice have left a lasting impact on this nation. While you may not always be in the spotlight, your commitment to protecting our freedoms is deeply respected and appreciated. You’ve shouldered responsibilities that few can fully understand, and because of you, our communities can live with peace and security.

Everyone, from the battlefield to the bases that support our troops, has been a pillar upholding our nation's values. 

This Veterans Day, we honor your service and the countless ways you've strengthened this country through your actions, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do—your contributions will never go unnoticed.

Whether you fought on the front lines or provided crucial support behind the scenes, thank you!

Happy Veterans Day!

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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