Bedfordtimesregister.com - Veteran's Beat: New GI Bill offers cash for college, books and boarding

by Ron Seman

The Department of Veterans Affairs announced in a May 1 news release that Veterans can begin submitting applications online for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Veterans, service members, reservists and National Guard members with active duty since Sept. 10, 2001, may be eligible for this benefit for up to the next 15 years. Eligible applicants must have served at least 30 days since Sept. 10, 2001, and received a discharge for disability.

Prospective beneficiaries may apply online through the GI Bill Web site at www.GIBILL.VA.gov.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill, which will become effective on Aug. 1, was passed by Congress last year. It is the most extensive educational assistance program authorized since the original GI Bill was signed into law in 1944. It provides eligible applicants with tuition payments to assist them in getting a college education and possibly a housing allowance and a stipend for books and supplies.

Information about the new program and VA's other educational benefits can be viewed at www.GIBILL.VA.gov or by calling 1-888-GIBILL (1-888- 442-4551).

Here's a reminder to all veterans' posts to make members aware of this important educational benefit. Often the VA announces a program, and because some veterans are busy with other life activities, they may miss this information.

Thanks!

MEMORIAL DAY '09: May is here and Memorial Day is fast approaching. Because the actual or traditional date of May 30 falls on a Saturday, the U.S. Government has declared that Memorial Day will be observed nationally on Monday, May 25. In order that we can publish the most accurate and timely information about Memorial Day observances in your area, please make a special effort to mail information to Ron Seman, 5811 Renwood Drive, Parma, OH 44129, or e-mail SemanRJ@aol.com.

Since this is my first coverage of Memorial Day in this newspaper's circulation areas, it would be especially helpful to me to be notified of the individual's name and phone number who I can contact for more details. Thank you!

ARMED FORCES DAY: Saturday, May 16 will be observed as Armed Forces Day in the U.S. The observance in past years included parades, speeches and salutes to members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Reserves and National Guard. With the ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the dedication and sacrifice of these unselfish members of the Armed Forces is ever-present in our daily thoughts, and hopefully, prayers. Take a moment to remember our special troops. Fly Old Glory in their honor. Remember to write a letter, send a package of goodies, and tell your favorite serviceman and woman that you truly appreciate their service to America. Thanks!

HONOR FLIGHTS: Organizers of the Honor Flight program that flies World War II veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit their WWII Memorial continues to expand. The program is free. Most of the WWII veterans are in their 80s or older and many suffer with a variety of illnesses.

Here are a few examples of what you can do to assist our WWII buddies: Be at the airport in the morning to send off the vets; welcome them home on their return to the airport with a cheering reception; answer office phones and enter application information into the data system; mail requested material and purchased merchandise; and contact veterans and guardians to make the necessary arrangements for flight schedules. Interested?

Call 937-521-2400 or e- mail volunteer-application@honorflight.org.