February 2022 Veterans Chronicle

VETERANS CHRONICLE

FEBRUARY 2022

WHO ARE AMERICA’S VETERANS?

American Community Survey Report gives insight into the demographics of veteran population STORY ON PAGE 6

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The Spokesman-Review

VETERANS CHRONICLE

The high cost of not applying for veteran disability benefits

By Seth Maier

A motorcade of veterans stops outside the VA Medical Center on May 25, 2020, as wreaths are lain beside memorial stones on the premises outside the VA medical center in the Brooklyn borough of New York.

UNITED STATES MILITARY VETERAN

When we service members solemnly swore our oath in supporting and defending the Constitution of the United States, we didn’t think that we might potentially leave military service with fewer abilities than we had at the start.

Imagine that a carbon copy of yourself was created right when you signed those enlistment papers. Fast forward to your military exit. Compare your post-military self to the carbon copy that had not experienced military service. What are the differences?

Perhaps there is a physical difference, such as a paratrooper with a bum knee and back spasms from all the voluntary airplane leaps. Perhaps there is something invisible, such as witnessing the hell of combat and the ongoing trauma of reliving those experiences and painful memories. We might not see the physical difference from our carbon copy, but internally there is certainly something changed.

It is these differences that the VA disability compensation system was designed for. It’s in the VA motto, a quote from President Lincoln: “To care for him (her) who shall have borne the battle and for his (her) widow (widower), and his (her) orphan.” (Emphasis rightly added for my Women Warriors!)

It breaks my heart to hear a brother or sister in arms tell me that they won’t apply for a service connection because they feel like they are taking something away from another veteran, believing that “They deserve it more than I do.”

No vet is getting anything taken away from them when another vet applies. It simply doesn’t work that way!

I bugged a veteran buddy for three years to apply for service connection from his exposure to Operation Iraqi Freedom burn pits. He could hardly breathe – the burn pits had a major impact

ASSOCIATED PRESS

on his health – but he always said, “Some other vet needed it more.” He finally applied and, three months later, he was 100% service-connected disabled.

Here is a metaphor that helped change his perspective: If you leased a car from a dealership, you made an agreement on the maximum number of miles driven and if you get a ding in the car, you’ll have to fix it before it’s returned. If you return it with unrepaired damages and/or more miles than agreed upon, you are going to have to pay extra.

Our enlistment contract is like a lease with the government.

Uncle Sam leased our minds and our bodies in exchange for a signed blank check, payable for up to our mortal life. If we left military service with dings, cracked headlights, or more miles used – guess what? Our

Uncle will compensate for that!

The problem is our Uncle won’t just pay it – we have to apply to obtain service-connected disability.

We calculated that because my buddy waited those three years, he lost over $70,000 in compensation. It will never be paid back to him. Every month a member waits from filing is a month of compensation they’ll never get!

Don’t wait, apply now!

It further breaks my heart when I encounter a veteran whose home is being foreclosed on because of the cost of their medical treatments, such as cancer. If they had a cancer that has been directly connected to exposure to Agent Orange and they had applied for a service connection, those medical bills would have been covered and they would have kept their home.

Additionally, if that service member clocks out in life because of that cancer, I can sleep at night because I know their spouse and their dependents will be taken care of, as they’ll continue to receive survivor benefits. That part is important to me – if my death is related to an injury or disease associated with my service, I need my family to be able to sustain themselves after I’m gone. The service-connection disability I applied for and was awarded benefits all for my family.

VA disability compensation is a tax-free benefit paid to a veteran because of injuries or diseases that happened while on active duty or were made worse by active military service. All recognized service-connected disabilities will all be fully covered medically for the rest of the vet’s life, followed by a plethora of ad-

ditional benefits that can’t even be enacted until a service claim is made.

I urge veteran readers (and their support systems) to meditate for a moment on the idea of that carbon copy made at military enlistment. What is different? Does it still impact you today? Has it gotten worse?

Meet with a Veteran Service Officer to discuss these differences at no cost; you don’t have to be a member of their organization, nor is there pressure for you to join their organization.

VSOs took the exact same oath as you did upon entering service.

They will understand and recognize if your experiences qualify.

It is incredibly valuable to have that talk!

To connect with a local VSO, see “How Can I Get Help?” on page 5 for contact information.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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VETERANS CHRONICLE A SUPPLEMENT TO THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW FEB. 18, 2022

VETERANS HELP NET Don Walker Bryan Bledsoe MANAGING EDITOR Theresa Tanner ART DIRECTOR Anne Potter DIRECTOR OF SALES Scott Baumbach

Read “Coaching into Care” on page 10.

IN THIS ISSUE

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent of the publisher.

Veterans Help Net partners with The Spokesman-Review to publish Veterans Chronicle on the third Friday of every month to increase awareness about veteran issues and to help veterans find hope and help.

To share a veteran story or information about resources for veterans, please contact info@veteranshelpnet.com or visit www.VeteransHelpNet. com.

For advertising information, please contact advertising@ spokesman.com or (509) 459-5095.

The high cost of not applying for disability..............................................2 Hey Veterans, Did You Know?.......................................................................4 Supportive Services for Veteran Families..................................................5 How Can I Get Help?.........................................................................................5

WE BELIEVE IN

VA FINANCING

The shrinking veteran population.................................................................6 How VA served veterans in 2021...................................................................7 VA Trust report...................................................................................................8 How do I start getting my veteran benefits?............................................8 What is intent to file?.......................................................................................9 Veteran service organizations and officers...............................................9 Coaching into Care............................................................................................10 Listen more, talk less........................................................................................10 How to recognize PTSD in your spouse.....................................................11 Washington state veteran license plates....................................................12

The United States S Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers home loans to active military members, reservists, and retirees, as a benefit of service in our nation’s Armed Forces.

Many service members are not aware this earned benefit is available to them; many sellers are not aware of the advantages to VA loans in the transaction process.

We encourage all Spokane realtors - to become familiar with this loan type so that we can all join in saying “We believe in VA financing!”

Visit www.spokanerealtor.com to view VA qualified homes in your preferred area

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The Spokesman-Review

VETERANS CHRONICLE

HEY VETERANS, DID YOU KNOW ... ? … you don’t need to sign into My HealtheVet to see if you have a Secure Message response?

When you have a question that isn’t an emergency, you can send a Secure Message, but you don’t have to sign in to My HealtheVet to see if you’ve received an answer.

You can update your My HealtheVet profile to get an email notification when you receive a new Secure Message. You’ll get a response to your Secure Messages within at least 3 working days (usually less). You can also sign up to get notifications about upcoming appointments, Rx shipments, and new medical images.

To learn how to activate this option, visit www.myhealth. va.gov/mhv-portal-web/web/ myhealthevet/ss20211015don-t-miss-a-new-message.

… disabled veterans living in Idaho may qualify for a $1,500 property tax benefit?

Before April 15, disabled veterans with a rating of 100% service-connected disability may apply for a $1,500 property tax benefit. Income is not a factor for qualification. The veteran must provide a VA letter each year, stating the 100% rating and must have this determination prior to the first day of the year. Contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000 to acquire a current letter.

This benefit can be combined with the Property Tax Reduction (Circuit Breaker) if applicable; however, the combined benefit cannot be more than the actual bill.

For more information, visit www.kcgov.us/838/ VeteransProperty-Tax-Benefit or call

(208) 446-1500.

… there are specific symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder?

Veterans experiencing PTSD may exhibit the following symptoms or behaviors: • Avoiding situations that remind the person of the traumatic event (memories may be triggered by sights, sounds, or even smells) • Negative changes in beliefs and feelings • Feeling jittery or always on alert and looking out for danger • Being startled by loud noises or surprises • Experiencing the need to have one’s back to the wall in a public place

Does this sound like someone you know? Find hope and help.

See “How Can I Get Help?” on page 5 of this publication for local resources.

… More than 5 million adults have PTSD?

Sixty percent of men and 50% of women experience at least one trauma in their lives.

Ten percent of women develop PTSD at some point in their lives, compared to 4% of men.

Between 7%-8% of the US population will have PTSD at some point in their lives.

Over 5 million adults have PTSD during a given year.

Treatment is available. If you or a veteran you know needs help, visit ptsd.va.gov/ or call 1-800-273-8255 (press 1).

… Spokane-area vets make up more than 10% of the population?

Over 2.8 million service members have deployed to Afghanistan or Iraq since 9/11.

Ninety percent of injured service members survive their injuries. One in 50 sustained physical combat injury. One in five veterans experiences from PTSD, TBI or depression.

Eighty-eight percent of veteran caregivers report increased stress or anxiety. Seventy-seven percent are sleep deprived.

Thirty percent provide care for 10 years or more. (Family Caregiver Alliance 2016) Between 50,000 to 60,000 veterans live in Spokane County, which equates to between 10-12% of the estimated 2012 population. (Spokane County Veteran Services)

Over 25% of homeless men are war veterans, including those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan and debilitating injuries, and now have no place to go.

The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan led to physical injuries for more than 50,000 service members. In addition, an estimated 400,000 battle combat-related stress, major depression, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). The greatest casualty is being forgotten. There is a heavy cost for freedom – and the service men and women are freedom providers. (Wounded Warrior Project, 2013) Over 18 million veterans live in the U.S., including 1.6 million women veterans, 9.2 million over the age of 65 and 1.6 under the age of 25. (Census Bureau)

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

Supportive Services for Veteran Families: A helping hand up for military veterans Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) is a housing stability program serving veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Goodwill partners with Volunteers of America to provide these intensive services to veterans and their families in Spokane, Stevens, Pend Orielle, Kootenai, Ferry, Lincoln, Whitman, and Bonner counties. SSVF assists over 400 veterans each year.

SSVF uses a “housing first” approach to assisting veterans. The focus is on housing stability, not treatment, with an emphasis on crisis intervention and client self-determination.

What services does SSVF provide?

SSVF provides eligible veterans and their families’ financial housing assistance and comprehensive case management.

Services include rent payments, deposit payments, application payments, STA passes, referrals for VA healthcare, VA disability, VA Pension, SSI/SSDI payments, substance abuse counseling, career/employment programs and more. SSVF is a federally funded program.

Who is eligible for SSVF programs and services?

SSVF’s outreach staff conduct screenings with veterans to determine eligibility.

To request an eligibility screening, phone (509) 828-2449.

Can SSVF help veterans with barriers that could affect tenant eligibility to be a tenant?

Yes, if a veteran meets the program eligibility criteria, they work with barriers such as mental or physical trauma, rental arrears, felonies, bankruptcy and evictions.

SSVF does not provide legal or health services but can help participants connect with those services.

Are only homeless veterans eligible to receive SSVF funds?

No, SSVF can help veterans who are at risk of losing their home as well as veterans who are literally homeless (sleeping on the street or in a car, for example).

Are there other services or items SSVF provides to veterans and their families?

SSVF can also assist participants to obtain VA benefits and assist participants to

HOW CAN I GET HELP?

Every county and state has a Veteran Affairs office to answer questions about benefits and provide assistance. There are also other useful resources for veterans in the Inland Northwest.

GO ONLINE VA.gov

“

It was like we had our life back. The help from SSVF opened up opportunity, which helped me be able to get my job. Without Goodwill, we would still be living on the streets, and I don’t think my wife would have made it.”

-Travis coordinate and obtain other public benefits in the community. SSVF staff also provide Case Management to support veterans as they stabilize their housing and increase their income.

The Homes for Veterans program is operated by SSVF at Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest at 130 E. Third Ave. in Spokane (weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

For more information, visit homesforveterans.discovergoodwill.org/ or call (509) 828-2449 (veterans) or (509) 321-3348 (landlords).

IN PERSON

Spokane County Regional

The Department of Veterans Veteran Service Affairs website has resources on 1117 N. Evergreen Rd., every topic relevant to veterans. Spokane Valley, WA (509) 477-3690 Apply for emergency services, VA.gov/welcome-kit or have any benefits or service The VA Welcome Guide covers all types of benefits and questions answered by 5 Veteran Service Officers services available for veterans, (VSO) and staff. new recruits, active service members and their families.

North Idaho Veteran

DAV9.com

Based in Post Falls, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 9 Fort Sherman shares links and information to both local and national help organizations for veterans.

Explore.VA.gov/benefitsnavigator Explore VA benefits and discover which ones you and your family may be eligible to receive.

Services and Benefits Office

120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092 Meet with a VSO or staff for help with VA benefits enrollment, claims or other veteran needs.

Goodwill Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)

130 E. Third Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 828-2449 SSVF helps homeless veterans and their families find housing and connects veterans with other support organizations.

Healthcare for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) 504 E. Second Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 435-2019

Provides healthcare and outreach for housing, job opportunities and counseling.

BY PHONE

Spokane County Regional Veteran Service (509) 477-3690

North Idaho Veteran Services and Benefits Office 120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092

Veteran Crisis Line

1 (800) 273-8255, press 1

North Idaho Crisis Center (208) 625-4884

Washington or Idaho 2-1-1

Dial “2-1-1” for health and human resources referrals.

If you don’t know who to call, VA has a new “Single Access Point” phone number to all VA contact centers 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411)

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The Spokesman-Review

VETERANS CHRONICLE

The shrinking veteran population: America’s veterans from World War II to the War on Terror

By Jonathan E. Vespa

AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY REPORT, U.S. CENSUS BUREAU

The first veterans of the United States served during the American Revolution in the Continental Army, created in 1775 when colonial militias formed a common army under command of George Washington. Since then, the United States has declared war 11 times and fought in conflicts around the world. More than 41 million Americans have served over the course of the nation’s history.

More than 16 million did so in World War II alone.

Who are America’s veterans? Throughout history, they have included the Green Mountain Boys, Buffalo Soldiers, Tuskegee Airmen, Women Airforce Service Pilots, Screaming Eagles, and Green Berets. They are the men and women who served their country at home and abroad, on land, sea, and air – and since 1973, have served as an all-volunteer force.

This report looks at the roughly 18 million Americans, or about 7 percent of the adult population, who were veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces in 2018 (U.S. Census Bureau).

Ranging from 18 to over 100 years old, they served in conflicts as diverse as the Korean War and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. This report provides an overview of these men and women, such as how many veterans alive today served in World War II, the characteristics of Vietnam veterans, and how many Gulf War veterans are disabled.

The report primarily uses data from the 2018 American Community Survey to describe the demographic, socioeconomic, and health characteristics of veterans by their period of service in the armed forces. Importantly, the report focuses on veterans who were alive in 2018. It does not describe all veterans who served during a specific period in the military or the characteristics of veterans at the time that they left service.

The declining size of the United States veteran population

Roughly 18.0 million veterans are living in the United States today. They served during times of war (such as during the Gulf War and Vietnam Era) and times of peace (from 1955 to 1964 and 1975 to 1990).

The largest single group of veterans (6.4 million) is from the Vietnam Era. The fastest declining group of veterans is from World War II. Between 2000 and 2018, the number of living World War II veterans in the United States declined from 5.7 million to fewer than 500,000. By 2030, it is projected there will be fewer than 8,000 World War II veterans.

Indeed, the veteran population has been declining for decades. Between 2000 and 2018 alone, the veteran population declined by one-third, from 26.4 million to 18.0 million.

The population of veterans is projected to continue declining by 2.5 million over the next decade. By 2040, it is projected there will be about 12.9 million veterans living in the United States, down from a high of 28.6 million in 1980.

Highlights • The number of veterans in the United States declined by a third, from 26.4 million to 18.0 million between 2000 and 2018.

• There are fewer than 500,000 World War II veterans alive today, down from 5.7 million in 2000.

• Women make up a growing share of veterans. Today, about 9% of veterans – or 1.7 million – are women. By 2040, that number is projected to rise to 17%.

• The largest cohort of veterans alive today served

during the Vietnam Era (6.4 million), which lasted from 1964 to 1975. The second largest cohort of veterans served during peacetime only (4.0 million).

• The median age of veterans today is 65 years. By service period, post-9/11 veterans are the youngest with a median age of about 37, Vietnam era veterans have a median age of about 71, and World War II veterans are the oldest with a median age of about 93.

• Veterans from more recent service periods have the highest levels of education.

More than three-quarters of

post-9/11 and Gulf War veterans have at least some college experience, and more than onethird of Gulf War veterans have a college degree.

• Post-9/11 veterans had a 43% chance of having a service-connected disability, after accounting

for differences in demographic and social characteristics among veterans – significantly higher than veterans from other periods.

• Among veterans who had a service-connected disability, post-9/11 veterans had a 39% chance of having a disability rating of 70%.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

How the VA served veterans in 2021 From staff reports

VANTAGE POINT BLOG

Many people would like to forget 2021. It was a tough year, but a lot of good happened, too, especially at VA. The department is committed to making 2022 even better, and to do that, we’re taking a quick look back at what it accomplished and how it served veterans in 2021.

Keeping veterans healthy

The COVID-19 pandemic entered year two. As the largest integrated health care system in the world, VA administered 8.9 million vaccine doses (including boosters) to more than 4.1 million people; administered 3.6 million COVID-19 tests; and conducted 12.7 million COVID-19 virtual screenings.

But it wasn’t just the pandemic. VA conducted over 112 million

clinical encounters, including 6.1 million in-person appointments, while also submitting 2.3 million community care referrals.

How did we do? VA received over 1.9 million survey responses and 450,000+ text responses, and the verdict is clear: a 90.1% trust score in VA health care and an overall 76% trust score means that veterans overwhelmingly support and use VA.

Delivering the goods

On the non-health benefits side, VA delivered. Dedicated employees (many of whom are veterans themselves, or are related to veterans) worked through pandemic restrictions to complete 1.4 million compensation and pension claims; the Board of Veterans Appeals held over 27,000 hearings and made nearly 93,000 decisions.

Veterans didn’t stop buying homes in 2021, and they didn’t

let the pandemic stop them from using their hard-earned education benefits. VA guaranteed more than 1.2 million home loans, processed 3.3 million education claims, 73,000 insurance claims, and over 16,000 VR&E packets.

And when it came time for the final honor, VA interred more than 146,000 veterans and family members.

Digital access

Veterans increasingly know where and how to find VA news and information. In 2021, there were 110 million email opens, and over 105 million visits to www.va.gov; 15 million visitors read daily news and stories and updates published on VAntage Point, the official VA blog for Veterans, dependents and survivors.

And the mission to provide even more benefits and care and

ASSOCIATED PRESS

President Joe Biden, standing left, visits a COVID-19 vaccination site and watches as Dr. Navjit Goraya gives a vaccine to Air Force Col. Margaret Cope, as from left, Pharmacist Deepika Duggineni, White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator Jeff Zients and Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough, right, look on March 8 at the VA Medical Center in Washington, D.C. services never ends. VA is the second largest federal employer of veterans (behind DoD), and 2021 saw 115,000 new VA employees, among them many veterans and their dependents.

Learn more about how the VA is supporting veterans at blogs. va.gov/ VAntage/wp-content/ uploads/2021/12/2021-Yearin-Review-Serving-AmericasVeterans-v2.pdf.

La-Z-Boy Salutes Those Who Have Served

Thank You For Your Service

In appreciation for your service we provide an additional 5% off on every La-Z-Boy product 10205 N. Division St Spokane, WA 99218 (509) 465-4380 www.la-z-boy.com

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The Spokesman-Review

VETERANS CHRONICLE

How do I start getting my veteran benefits or VA medical help?

Many deserving veterans or their families believe they may qualify for some earned veteran benefits or medical help but don’t know where or how to start the process.

Just follow these three steps to get started on the path to hope and help.

Step 1: Find your DD 214 (discharge papers)

This document certifies your service, your service time and your status. You will need it before you can file any claim or get any benefits.

If you can’t find your DD 214, contact a veteran service provider, listed in “How Can I Get Help?” on page 5, to begin the process of requesting this document.

Step 2: Make an appointment with a Veteran Service Officer (VSO)

These experts can walk you through most VA processes and will help you find out what you need to

make a claim or start receiving your earned benefits. This is a free service.

You will never be charged when a VSO helps with your VA applications.

VSOs work with many different veteran service organizations.

Contact information for local veteran service organizations in “How Can I Get Help?” on page 5.

Tip: While many VA applications can be submitted online, speak with a VSO before you try to apply online. Starting with a VSO will save you some time and reduce your frustration.

Step 3: Start today

Don’t wait any longer.

It’s your life, health and money. You’ve earned it, for yourself and your family.

In Eastern Washington, contact Spokane Regional Veterans Service Center at 1-509-477-3690. In North Idaho, contact the Veterans Service Benefits Office at 1-208-446-1092.

New report shows majority of veterans trust the VA

By Kenny Kimbrell

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

A recent Trust Report from the Department of Veterans Affairs shows a majority of veterans continue to trust the VA. The report for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2021 indicates that more than 75% of veterans have this level of trust.

The current VA-wide Trust score stands at 76%, which is 2% lower than the previous quarter. However, there was a notable increase in overall trust among two age groups: veterans younger than 30 and veterans aged 30-39.

Both categories increased by 3% over last quarter.

The report is compiled quarterly by directly asking veterans,

their families, plus caregivers and survivors about their experiences with the department. This empowers VA’s public servants to provide better access to needed resources.

Many of these results can be seen in a recent video at www. youtube.com/watch?v=BrBNqJnFCEs

Why does trust matter?

The more than 7 million digital surveys returned by veterans are enabling enhancements to the way VA provides care, benefits and services. Improving access to VA’s resources starts with listening to the voice of the veteran community, then using that feedback to design VA customer experiences that are easy, effec-

tive and delivered with empathy.

The VA relies on your feedback to make improvements.

If you are an existing VA customer, please take the survey e-mailed after an appointment.

If you don’t have any appointments in the near future, the department still want to hear from you! You can find current surveys at To see current and past results and more regarding the VA Trust Report, visit blogs. va.gov/VAntage/wp-content/ uploads/2021/ 11/va_trust_ report_FY21_Q4_1115_508_ Compliantv4.pdf Kenny Kimbrell is a public affairs specialist for VA's Veterans Experience Office.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

WHAT IS ‘INTENT TO FILE’ AND WHY IT MATTERS

If you want to file a claim but need some time or additional information you can file an “intent to file” with the VA. Veterans and survivors can use the intent to file process if they need additional time to gather support for their claim.

The intent to file process can be used for VA compensation and pension benefits. This includes Survivors Pension and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).

What is the intent to file process?

This process allows you more

time to collect information to support your claim. It also protects the earliest possible effective date for any benefits resulting from your claim. The date VA receives your intent to file will be protected as your effective date. However, the correct application form must be submitted within one year.

What does an intent to file claim contain?

An intent to file claim must contain: • Enough personal information to identify the veteran or claimant

• The general benefit you are seeking • Your or your representative’s signature

How do veterans or survivors notify VA of their intent to file?

There are three ways you can notify VA of your intent to file a claim.

1. APPLY ONLINE AT WWW. EBENEFITS.VA.GOV/EBENEFITS/APPLY

• If applying for benefits online, follow this process: • Initiate a claim.

Veteran service organization, officers There are many organizations that have been established to help veterans.

The Department of Veteran Affairs publishes a directory of veteran service organizations, although inclusion does not constitute approval or endorsement by VA. This document can be found at www.va.gov/vso/.

Some of the most known veterans’ organizations are AMVETS, The American Legion, DAV (Disabled American Veterans), Marine Corps League, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), Military Order of the Purple Heart, National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), VVA (Vietnam Veterans of America), and Paralyzed Veterans of America.

The above organizations have accredited service officers who can help prepare a medical or disability claim

• Complete the personal information page.

Save to establish your effective date. This allows one year to complete the application.

If you are applying for disability benefits online, the VA will automatically be notified of your intent to file. This does not apply to online pension or DIC applications; intent to file pension or DIC claims must be submitted by mail or in person.

2. SUBMIT BY MAIL

To submit an intent to file a pension or DIC claim, complete and submit VA Form 21-

0966 (Intent to File a Claim for Compensation and/or Pension, or Survivors Pension and/ or DIC). You can access this form at www.vba.va.gov/pubs/ forms/VBA-21-0966-ARE.pdf.

3. MAIL THE COMPLETED FORM TO:

Department of Veterans Affairs Claims Intake Center PO Box 4444 Janesville, WI 53547-4444 4. SUBMIT IN PERSON

Complete your VA Form 21-0966 and bring it to a VA regional office www.va.gov/ find-locations/) or connect with a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) to help you navigate the application and submission process. See “How Can I Get Help?” on page 5 for a list of local resources.

For more information, call (800) 827-1000 or visit www. explore.va.gov/intent-to-file.

Refueling Our Heroes

Support fellow Veterans and be a part of Operation Fly Together.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Chaplain Charles Andriolo, of VFW Post 1617, salutes during a Veterans Day ceremony, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020, in Derry, N.H. to submit to the VA. Before making an appointment, it is a good idea to become familiar with the claims process so that you are aware of the documents and proof that they will ask you to provide. Visit www.va.gov/ disability/ how-to -fileclaim/ for details.

While you may be able

to file the claim yourself, a VSO works with claims daily and knows what needs to be included. This is all provided free of charge by each of these organizations, and you do not need to be a member to receive help.

To find local resources, see “How Can I Get Help?” on page 5.

Buy your flight gear or donate today!

A portion of all merchandise proceeds go into a Veterans Fund.

Operation FlyTogether.com

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The Spokesman-Review

VETERANS CHRONICLE

Finding a path: Communicating with veterans by understanding military culture LISTEN MORE, TALK LESS Effective communication starts with good listening. “Coaching into Care” often advises callers to listen more, talk less. Listening is more than hearing, it’s understanding not only what is being said but how, the emotions behind it.

Some tips for becoming an engaged listener: • Focus fully on the speaker and minimize distractions.

• Avoid interrupting. You can’t concentrate on what someone is

Military culture is internalized by most service members and veterans, but it can sometimes be a mystery to their family members and friends.

Military values such as sacrifice, honor, humility, collective effort, and a desire to limit risk or harm to others are important to understand. Veterans share a special camaraderie and bond between one another because they go through challenging situations both in training and during deployments. They also share a sense of duty to country.

When a veteran is reluctant to get help, these values can become your talking points to getting the veteran in your life to consider mental health treatment.

Make it the family mission. But first and

foremost, validate their feelings and just listen. Don’t bombard them with questions.

“Coaching into Care” can help start the conversation. This is a free service for families and friends of veterans. Responders will briefly assess concerns and provide appropriate resources and referrals. Through 10-to-30-minute calls, licensed psychologists and social workers offer guidance and help for starting conversations with a veteran about their mental health or substance use, and motivating them to seek treatment if it’s needed.

For more information, call 888823-7458 or visit www.mirecc.va.gov/ coaching/tips-for-family-friends.asp.

saying if you’re focused on what you are going to say next.

• Try to set aside judgment and withhold blame and criticism in order to fully understand them.

• Provide feedback, reflect what has been said by paraphrasing, e.g. “what I’m hearing is”, “Sounds like you are saying.”

Find more tips for successful communication on the “Coaching into Care” at www.mirecc.va.gov/ coaching/tips-for-family-friends.asp.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Page 11

Friday, February 18, 2022

VETERANS CHRONICLE

How to recognize PTSD in your spouse

By Ingrid Herrera-Yee, LMHC, PhD MILITARY.COM

This time of year we see lots of ads for red roses and romantic dinners. While those are certainly important components of romance, lasting love involves two people taking care of each other. In some marriages, that may include being alert for signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in your spouse.

With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be hard to know when your partner is struggling. In our daily interactions as couples, we sometimes misunderstand each other, tensions arise, and we fight.

Then, we withdraw from each other. This is a normal interaction between spouses, right? Not always. Perhaps the tension you feel is because your partner is feeling the effects of PTSD. It is not always easy to figure out if someone has PTSD, but there are some signs that can clue you in. In some cases, it can be very obvious. For instance, if your service member returns from a deployment and is still having difficulty falling asleep, wakes up in a cold sweat and punches at an imaginary foe, months after he or she returns, PTSD may be the culprit.

In other cases, the signs might not be as obvious. Your partner could gradually withdraw from activities and people he otherwise enjoyed. You might notice him having nightmares and difficulty falling asleep. He might feel emotionally numb and could appear anxious, worried, angry or moody. When the symptoms are milder it can be difficult to tell the difference between everyday stress and PTSD. Here’s the main difference: everyday stress doesn’t last long. Your partner may feel out of sorts, anxious and have trouble sleeping because of stress in his or her life, problems at work, or in a relationship. The stress is temporary. The stress resolves and doesn’t affect everyday life in a significant way. It also may not follow a particularly traumatic event. This is not the case with PTSD. PTSD symptoms continue for longer than the average stress episode.

Signs to watch

In most cases, PTSD sets in after a traumatic event has taken place, such as the violent death of a friend or family member, combat experience, or a natural disaster.

It also lasts. It doesn’t just go away, and it affects their everyday life. You may notice

your partner has recurring nightmares or thoughts about a traumatic event. You may see trouble sleeping and eating or have a marked increase in anxiety and fear.

Your partner may be on edge, easily startled and overly alert. At other times he could appear depressed, with a low energy level, memory loss and a lack of focus.

He may have difficulty making decisions, and avoid people, places or activities that would normally make your spouse happy.

You may suddenly feel like you are walking on eggshells, afraid you might "set him off."

You begin to worry that your partner is no longer himself. He may be experiencing PTSD, and it is not his fault, nor is it your fault, but he does need help.

Here is a list of symptoms to look for in your spouse or partner which may indicate they have PTSD: • Intrusive memories • Flashbacks • Re-occurring nightmares • Intense distress or irritability

• Physical reactions such as rapid breathing, sweating, or nausea, when remembering or being reminded of a trauma • Avoidance • Feeling emotionally detached from others • Emotional numbness • Experiencing hopelessness about the future • Inability to remember important aspects of the traumatic event • Arousal or anxiety symptoms • Bouts of moodiness or anger • Insomnia or difficulty staying asleep • A sense of being "on alert" or "on guard" – Hypervigilance • Developing a destructive addiction • Suicidal thoughts If you suspect that a loved one has PTSD, it’s important to seek help right away. The sooner PTSD is treated, the easier it is to overcome. PTSD can interfere with your partner’s entire life, health, relationships, and work.

If your partner is reluctant to seek treatment, you can find support for yourself in how to help your partner too.

In this month where relationships are the focus, take an inventory of your relationship. Is your spouse experiencing any of the above symptoms? If so, contact a mental health provider in your area for an assessment, diagnosis and plan. If your spouse is actively suicidal, get help right away. And remember, you are not alone.

Help is out there for you and your spouse so that you can have a happier and healthier relationship.

If you feel you or your partner are currently experiencing PTSD, contact a mental health professional or, if you need someone to talk to, call the Military Crisis Line at (800) 273-8255, and press 1. For local help, see “How Can I Get Help?” on page 5.

Ingrid Herrera-Yee is a military researcher, clinical psychologist, educator, advocate, writer, speaker, and military spouse.

Page 12

Friday, February 18, 2022

The Spokesman-Review

VETERANS CHRONICLE

WASHINGTON STATE VETERANS LICENSE PLATES

Washington State offers several license plates for veterans, active military personnel and their families.

Armed Forces plates

Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard or National Guard? You are eligible to purchase a plate at any vehicle licensing office if you: • Served at any time in the U.S. Military • Are currently on active duty • Served in the Guard or Reserves • Currently in the Guard or Reserves • Are a family member of those listed above.

A portion of fees go to support the Veterans Stewardship Account at the Department of Veterans Affairs, which helps maintain the state veteran’s cemetery in eastern Washington and pro-

vides programs and services for homeless veterans.

Download an application at www.dol.wa.gov/forms/420500. pdf.

Veteran/Military Service Award Emblem

Available for the legal or registered owner of the vehicle who is a veteran or active duty military.

Bring proof of eligibility (such as a DD 214) with completed application (www.dol.wa.gov/ forms/420075.pdf ) and $18 fee to a vehicle licensing office.

Disabled American Veteran Military License Plate

Available to veterans who have lost the use of both hands or one foot; have become blind in both eyes as the result of military service; or are rated by the veterans administration or the military

service from which the veteran was discharged and receiving service-connected compensation at the 100% rate that is expected to exist for more than one year.

Download an application atdol.wa.gov/forms/420500.pdf.

Other military license plate options include Gold Star, Medal of Honor, Former Prisoner of War, Purple Heart, Military Affiliate Radio System, and Pearl Harbor Survivor.

Widows(ers) do not pay any registration or plate fees for one Gold Star license plate or regular license plate. For all other individuals eligible for Gold Star license plates, there is no additional fee for the Gold Star background design, but you must still pay all required vehicle registration and tab renewal fees.

To learn more, visit www.dva. wa.gov/veterans-their-families/ veterans-benefits/license-plates.

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