The Veteran Newsletter 5/2

Welcome to the Veteran’s Newsletter!

In today's edition:

• The lesser-known story of Agent Orange at Fort Ord.

• George W. Bush set to tribute veterans at Disney World with his portraits.

• The VA celebrates five years of appeals modernization.

• The VA is set to expand healthcare services to veteran family members and caregivers.

• The story of the second woman since World War II to be awarded the Silver Star

News of the Week

📰 Top Veteran Story

Hidden Hazards: The Legacy of Agent Orange at Fort Ord

In the serene yet deceptive woodlands of Fort Ord in Monterey County, California, Dean Osborn's experiences as a young GI in the late 1970s underscore a disturbing legacy of environmental and health risks. Tasked with rigorous training amid the lush, oceanside terrain, Osborn, like many others, unwittingly ingested water tainted with pollutants from streams and aquifers and battled severe reactions to pervasive poison oak.

Documents reveal that from as early as the 1950s, the military used a potent herbicide, colloquially known as Agent Orange, to combat the rampant growth of poison oak and other vegetation at Fort Ord. This same chemical, notorious for its use in defoliating the dense jungles of Vietnam, was silently afflicting the lands of coastal California.

Despite its recognition for other locations, the Defense Department has not included Fort Ord in its official list of sites affected by Agent Orange, a list criticized by the Government Accountability Office for being outdated and lacking detail. Environmental activist Pat Elder and other sources provide evidence contradicting this omission, pointing to a significant, yet unacknowledged, chemical impact on the site.

The health repercussions of Agent Orange exposure are grave, with active ingredients linked to cancers, chronic diseases, and congenital anomalies. Although the use of one of its components, 2,4,5-T, was banned in 1979 due to its toxic effects, its legacy persists, reminding us of the profound and lasting consequences of chemical warfare, even on home soil.

George W. Bush's Tribute to Veterans at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, will soon showcase an inspiring collection of artwork that captures the essence of American valor. Starting next month, the resort's Epcot American Adventure pavilion will feature 60 color portraits of service members and veterans painted by former U.S. President George W. Bush. 

This special exhibit, loaned by the George W. Bush Institute, not only highlights these heroes' unique stories through art and accompanying biographies written by Bush himself but also includes resources aimed at supporting veterans and their families. Ken Hersh, president and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, expressed his hope that visitors will gain a deeper appreciation for the service and sacrifice of military personnel and the challenges they face after military life.

📜 VBA Updates

VA Celebrates Five Years of Appeals Modernization

February 2024 marked the fifth anniversary of the Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act (AMA) implementation by the VA. This act, which became law on February 19, 2019, is one of the most significant reforms in decades, restructuring how the VA processes appeals for disability compensation claims.

The AMA introduced three decision review options, providing veterans with flexibility and streamlined solutions for appealing benefits decisions:

1. Higher-Level Review - A fresh review of the existing claim by a higher-level reviewer, utilizing the previously gathered evidence.

2. Supplemental Claim - Allows the submission of new and relevant evidence for a new decision.

3. Appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals - Offers a review by a Veterans Law Judge (VLJ), with three pathways: direct review (no new evidence or hearing), evidence submission (submit new evidence without a hearing), or a hearing (includes a session with a VLJ and an option to present additional evidence).

These changes have significantly expedited the resolution of claims. Before AMA, resolving an appeal could take between 16 to 35 months. In contrast, the VA has processed over 2.1 million AMA decisions over the past five years, averaging just 102 days per decision.

Timothy Sirhal, the Executive Director of the VA’s Office of Administrative Review, emphasized the positive impact of AMA, stating, “The Appeals Modernization Act provides our Veterans with options when they disagree with a VA benefits decision. It gives them choice and control.” This shift aims to deliver quality decisions swiftly, enhancing the service experience for veterans and their beneficiaries.

⚕️ VHA Updates

VA to Expand Healthcare Coverage to Veteran Family Members and Caregivers Through CHAMPVA

The VA will expand coverage for medical services, including mental health care, for family members and primary family caregivers enrolled in the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). 

Effective from the end of May, these changes include new coverage for audio-only telehealth, extended mental health care, and contraceptive services. The VA Under Secretary for Health, Shereef Elnahal, stated that this expansion aims to ensure CHAMPVA beneficiaries receive high-value care. The changes mean beneficiaries will have access to audio-only telehealth, no limits on mental health and substance abuse visits, and no deductibles or cost-sharing for certain contraceptive services. 

There are over 737,500 CHAMPVA beneficiaries, and the program covers various healthcare services, including mental health, outpatient and inpatient care, prescription medications, and more. To learn more or apply for CHAMPVA care, visit the CHAMPVA website.

Most Useful Mobile App of the Month

PTSD Coach

The PTSD Coach app is a thoughtful tool designed by the VA to aid individuals grappling with the symptoms of PTSD. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by those with PTSD, this app provides a supportive pocket companion that offers both information and practical tools. It helps users understand and manage their symptoms and navigate the complexities of daily life with PTSD.

Key features include:

• Self-Assessment: This allows users to gauge the intensity of their symptoms and monitor their progress over time, giving them a sense of control and insight into their personal journey.

• Managing Symptoms: The app comes packed with a variety of coping strategies and mindfulness exercises tailored to help lessen the impact of PTSD in daily situations.

• Immediate Support: For moments when immediate help is needed, the app provides direct links to crisis resources and support.

• Learning Resources: It offers educational content to help users and their loved ones understand PTSD, fostering a deeper understanding and more effective communication.

Whether it's for individuals directly affected by PTSD or their supporters, the PTSD Coach app serves as a confidential and accessible resource, bringing guidance and reassurance right to the user’s fingertips. This initiative is part of the VA’s ongoing commitment to harness technology in extending support and improving the lives of veterans and others experiencing PTSD.

Deals of the Week

• Vivint: $200 off a system and free professional installation.

• 50% Off: Reebok Military Discount.

• 48% Off: Chefman 5-in-1 Air Fryer + Indoor Grill w/ Thermometer.

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week: Monica Lin Brown   

Monica Lin Brown, born on May 24, 1988, in Lake Jackson, TX, enjoyed a childhood marked by typical joys such as outdoor play and cherished moments with loved ones. However, even in her formative years, her innate compassion and resilience distinguished her as an individual of remarkable character.

At 17, she enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, quickly rising the rank of sergeant due to her leadership qualities and determination. While deployed in Afghanistan as a part of the 4th Squadron, 73d Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, a vehicle in her convoy was struck by an IED while on patrol on Aril 25, 2007, causing it to become engulfed in flames. 

After the detonation, the convoy came under intense fire from enemy combatants, and Brown moved quickly, moving quickly on foot, to evaluate the potential casualties of the explosion.

The enemy fighters continued their assault, and Brown assessed injured troops under intense enemy fire. Soon after, the enemy fighters began attacking the convoy with mortar fire. While continuing to assess and assist injured troops, Brown used her own body to shield the injured troops from large chunks of shrapnel. 

While wounded, she continued to defend her position and the wounded soldiers and casualties. The platoon sergeant, using the convoy’s ANA Ranger, moved Brown and the casualties to a safer location, and not long after, a mortar round struck the exact position that Brown had been treating casualties from. 

However, after being moved a short distance, Brown and the casualties came under small arms fire in the new position. She continued to treat the wounded casualties and protected them using her body as a shield. She made sure to help her fellow soldiers, stabilize and prepare them for MEDEVAC.

It was nothing short of incredible that Brown, although wounded herself, continued to treat the wounded amidst the intense enemy small arms and mortar fire. She refused to leave her position but was pulled from the field a few days later because her presence had been noticed by the enemy and had attracted attention due to women not being allowed to participate in combat roles at the time.

For her actions that day, she was resented with the Silver Star by Vice President Dick Cheney on March 21, 2008; Brown became only the second woman since World War II to receive this esteemed award. However, beyond the recognition bestowed upon her, many advocates passionately argue that her unparalleled bravery and sacrifice merit consideration for the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration in the United States.

Monica Lin Brown's exemplary service and unwavering commitment to her fellow soldiers stand as a testament to the highest ideals of selflessness and courage, inspiring generations to come with her extraordinary example of valor in the face of adversity.

Veteran Business of the Week

Nine Line Apparel

Nine Line Apparel isn't just your average clothing company – it's a beacon of patriotism and support for those who've served. Founded by Army veteran Tyler Merritt and his wife Angela in 2012, the name "Nine Line" itself echoes the urgent call for help on the battlefield, a symbol of camaraderie and sacrifice.

What sets Nine Line apart? It's not just the stylish tees, cozy hoodies, and trendy hats they offer; it's the heart and soul behind each design. From celebrating American pride to honoring our military heroes and first responders, their apparel tells a story of resilience and unity.

Nine Line Apparel isn't just about fashion – it's a movement. With a mission to support veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, they're more than just a brand; they're a force for good. Through charitable initiatives such as the Nine Line Foundation and meaningful partnerships, they're making a real difference in the lives of those who've sacrificed so much for our freedom.

So, whether you're a proud patriot, a supporter of our troops, or just someone who loves stylish, high-quality clothing with a purpose, Nine Line Apparel has something for you. Every purchase is a salute to those who serve.

Thank You For Your Service!

Not every service member may receive the Medal of Honor or garner widespread recognition, but that doesn't diminish the invaluable contributions each one has made to the sanctity and security of our great nation. 

The saying "freedom isn't free" holds profound truth – it resonates because every individual in the United States relies on the dedication of its military to safeguard the freedoms they enjoy. Each veteran has consciously defended these liberties, symbolizing a collective commitment to the nation's well-being. 

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

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