Shows
VSO Talk RadioVA Ancillary benefitsAncillary benefits are secondary benefits that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may provide to veterans, dependents, and survivors: benefits2024-11-0255 minVSO Talk RadioChapter 35 VA BenefitChapter 35 of the VA benefits program, also known as the Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) program, provides education and training opportunities for dependents of veterans2024-10-1955 minVSO Talk RadioHow to become a VSOWhat it takes to be a VSO2024-10-1255 minVSO Talk RadioChampVA: What is it and who’s EligibleThis week on #𝗩𝗦𝗢𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 #𝘃𝘀𝗼𝘁𝗿 we talk all things ChampVA.ChampVA is a health care program that helps eligible family members of veterans pay for certain health care services and supplies: spouses, widowers, and children. 2024-10-0555 minVSO Talk RadioFree Tickets & Admissions to Parks BenefitInterested in free tickets to concerts, and sporting events, or admissions to Parks? This is the show for you. 2024-09-2855 minVSO Talk RadioVSO Highlight: Jason Burgener & Hailee FullenThis week on #𝗩𝗦𝗢𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 #𝘃𝘀𝗼𝘁𝗿 we talk With Jason Burgener, the Director of Veterans Services for Eastern Hampden County Veterans’ Service District and Hailee Fullen, Director of Veterans Services for the Town of Auburn. 2024-09-2155 minVSO Talk RadioVA Budget Shortfall: Could delay Payments for October 1The Veterans Benefits Continuity and Accountability Supplemental Appropriations Act would ensure the VA has enough funding to keep paying veterans’ compensation, pension and readjustment benefits for the rest of fiscal 2024.Without a solution on the funding gap by Sept. 20, some benefits checks to veterans and dependents could be delayed in October.2024-09-1455 minVSO Talk RadioSpecial Guest: Andrew TangenThis week we talk with Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County SuperintendentAndrew Tangen, JD, MBA, MS. Andrew served in the US Navy, where he deployed eight times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and the Global War on Terrorism, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Commander during his service. He has led the VACLC since May 17, 2017. 2024-09-0755 minVSO Talk RadioA Salute to Soldiers and America’s VetDogsThis episodes’ special guest is—Jack Chamberland, Event Coordinator for "A Salute to Soldiers." Jack is deeply involved with an organization that has made a tremendous impact on our veteran community, America’s VetDogs (AVD). We’re excited to hear about his journey and the incredible work being done by AVD. 2024-08-3155 minVSO Talk RadioCaregiver SupportOn today's episode, we’ll be discussing the critical role that caregivers play in supporting our veterans. We'll explore VA programs available to caregivers and talk about the challenges they face, from mental health struggles to financial pressures.2024-08-1755 minVSO Talk RadioHero Act signed into LawThis week we discussed the Hero Act, signed into Law by Governor Healey on this week. It is the most comprehensive veterans’ legislation in over 20 years, which includes more than 30 provisions designed to benefit veterans – including VFW-supported legislation that targets the predatory practices of Claim Sharks.2024-08-1055 minVSO Talk RadioCamp Lejeune Justice Act: Deadline ApproachingThe deadline to file a Camp Lejeune claim is August 10, 2024. This deadline was established by the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, providing families with a 2-year statute of limitations to file their legal claims. 2024-08-0355 minVSO Talk RadioDisability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs).Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs). DBQs help collect necessary medical information to process your disability claims. You can use these forms to submit medical evidence from your health care providers. This information helps to support your claims for disability benefits. 2024-07-2755 minVSO Talk RadioVSO Highlight: Karen Smietanski, Kankakee County, ILKaren Smietanski, Assistant Superintendent Veterans Assistance Commission of Kankakee County, IL2024-07-2055 minVSO Talk RadioVA Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound allowanceVA Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits provide monthly payments added to the amount of a monthly VA pension for qualified Veterans and survivors. If you need help with daily activities, or you’re housebound, find out if you qualify.2024-07-1355 minVSO Talk RadioUnemployability and BDD ClaimsWe will discuss a couple of topics that came to us from you, our listeners. The first topic is Individual Unemployability, a program that allows veterans to receive 100% compensation even if their service-connected disabilities are not rated at that level and BDD Claims also known as Pre-Discharge Claims.2024-07-0655 minVSO Talk RadioMassachusetts Hero Act passes House and SenateThe Massachusetts Senate passed the Hero Act and added a few amendments to enhance the house passed bill. We discuss the content of the bill and the amendments. This is one of the largest Veterans enhancement bills in decades. 2024-06-2955 minVSO Talk Radio(New) Cancer Presumptive added to PACT ACT & Proposed Rating ChangesThe VA is including three new cancer types in the list of presumed service-connected disabilities due to military environmental exposure under the PACT Act. We also discuss the proposed changes coming to the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities, specifically pertaining to the respiratory, auditory, and mental disorders body systems. 2024-06-2255 minVSO Talk RadioVA Debit: When or How you can owe the VA moneyYou could owe the VA money for different reasons. These are 2 of the most common reasons:Copayments. You received care at a VA health facility and you're in a priority group that requires you to pay copayments.Benefit overpayments. The VA paid you, or your school, more than you were eligible to receive for a VA benefit payment. The VA often refer to this type of debt as an overpayment.2024-06-0955 minVSO Talk RadioVA's Fiduciary ProgramVA's Fiduciary Program was established to protect Veterans and other beneficiaries who, due to injury, disease, or due to age, are unable to manage their financial affairs. VA will only determine an individual to be unable to manage his or her financial affairs after receipt of medical documentation or if a court of competent jurisdiction has already made the determination.2024-06-0155 minVSO Talk RadioGold Star Mother Tracy TaylorThis week as we prepare to honor those lost in war in Memorial Day Observances, We talked with Gold Star Mother Tracy Taylor who lost her son Spc Kenneth J. Iwasinski KIA 10.14.2007. 2024-05-2555 minVSO Talk RadioVA’s My HealthVetMy HealtheVet is a web-based personal health record that gives Veterans information and tools to improve their health. Registration is required to have full access to all features like, Secure messaging, Prescription refills and tracking, and more.2024-05-1855 minVSO Talk RadioVA Urgent Care & Getting emergency Care at Non-VA facilitiesDid you know…..If you’re an eligible Veteran, you can get urgent care at VA medical centers and in‑network urgent care providers near you.This week on #VSOTR #VSOTalkRadio we discuss VA Urgent Care Coverage and Getting emergency care at non-VA facilities2024-05-1055 minVSO Talk RadioVA Help to Avoid ForeclosureVASP is a new, last-resort tool in VA’s comprehensive suite of home retention options for eligible Veterans, active-duty Service members, and surviving spouses with VA-guaranteed home loans who are experiencing severe financial hardship.2024-05-0454 minVSO Talk RadioVA updates Disability Rating Schedule for digestive systemVA updates Disability Rating Schedule for digestive system2024-04-2754 minVSO Talk RadioVA Burial BenefitsThis week we talk all things VA Burial Benefits ▪️who is eligible ▪️what is covered▪️Monetary Benefits eligibility ▪️Markers, Medallions and more 2024-04-2055 minVSO Talk RadioDavid West, VSO: Nevada County, CaliforniaDavid West is the Veterans Services Officer for Nevada County, CA and he served honorably for five years in the United States Marine Corps. David is familiar with the struggles that veterans face when transitioning from the military service back to civilian life and uses his own life experiences to connect with the veterans.2024-04-1355 minVSO Talk RadioVR&E : Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31)If you have a service-connected disability that limits your ability to work or prevents you from working, Veteran Readiness and Employment (formerly called Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment) can help. This program—also known as Chapter 31 or VR&E—helps you explore employment options and address education or training needs2024-04-0655 minVSO Talk RadioBenefits for Veterans Living OverseasIf you’re a Veteran who lives overseas, you remain entitled to the benefits and services you earned through your military service. Most VA benefits are payable regardless of your place of residence or nationality. 2024-03-3055 minVSO Talk RadioHonoring our Vietnam VeteransMarch 29 is National Vietnam War Veterans Day, a day meant to pay tribute to veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were prisoners of war or who were listed as missing in action. We dedicate this show to all our Vietnam Veterans. 2024-03-2355 minVSO Talk RadioExpansion of Health Care Eligibility for Toxic-exposed VeteransWe discussed the recently announced by the VA that all Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving in the military – at home or abroad – are now eligible to enroll directly in VA health care. 2024-03-1655 minVSO Talk RadioBill Moore: Project New Hope Inc.We talk with Bill Moore, President and CEO of Project New Hope, Inc. . Project New Hope was founded on providing wellness resources for Veterans and their Families. Our no cost retreats have been offering safe and supportive places for our Veterans to begin rebuilding with honor.2024-03-0955 minVSO Talk RadioVA Disability Part 5: Filing for an increaseVeterans who wish to increase their VA disability benefits can take several different approaches, including filing a claim for an increase in benefits, adding additional service-connected conditions, appealing a rating decision, (which we discussed in Part 4) or seeking individual unemployability benefits.2024-03-0155 minVSO Talk RadioVA Disability Part 4: Claim decided, what’s Next?Wwe previously discussed in part 1: type of disability claims, How to file a claim, and in part 2 we discussed evidence, types of evidence needed for your claim. Part 3: Your claim is filed, your evidence is submitted, what happens next? Now we going into part 4: your claim has been decided, in your favor or not. What are your options. 2024-02-2455 minVSO Talk RadioVA Disability Part 3: claim filed, what happens next?Your claim is filed, the evidence is submitted, now what? What happens next? we previously discussed in part 1: type of disability claims, How to file a claim, and in part 2 we discussed evidence, types of evidence, what is needed for your claim. Today we are going to talk about what happens next. Your claim is filed, your evidence is submitted, what happens next? 2024-02-1755 minVSO Talk RadioMarc Massey: The Salvation ArmyThis week we talk with Marc D. Massey, Field Representative, Massachusetts Division of The Salvation Army. Tell us about programs and services available to assist Veterans and their families. 2024-02-1055 minVSO Talk RadioDisability Claims Part 2: EvidenceThis week we continue with Part 2 of Disability Claims: Evidence needed when submitting your claim. 2024-02-0255 minVSO Talk RadioPart 1: Filing a VA Disability ClaimThis week we talk about filing a VA disability Claim, what the process is, what you need to do before you file, and what evidence you should submit with your claim. 2024-01-2755 min
VSO Talk RadioPublic aid for VeteransThis week we talk about Public Aid/Assistance for Veterans. Separate from the VA, many states have programs to assist veterans and their families with financial assistance. 2024-01-2055 minVSO Talk RadioInterview with Troy Henke, VFW Massachusetts Jr Vice CommanderThis week on #vsotalkradio we talked with Troy Henke, Veterans of Foreign Wars Massachusetts, State Jr Vice Commander about his military service, his service in the VFW and his current chairmanship of the #VFWMA Special Project: Medic Now Foundation Inc.. If you missed the show, you can listen to us on ITunes Podcast, Spotify and Google Podcasts or on our website www.ludlowveterans.us🎧𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚, 𝘿𝙤𝙬𝙣𝙡𝙤𝙖𝙙 𝙖𝙩:Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1E3dVgBZapQVtREKVneMQzApple:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vso-talk-radio/id1655456808Google:https://podcasts.google.com/search/Western%20mass%20veterans#𝚟𝚜𝚘𝚝𝚛 #𝚟𝚜𝚘𝚝𝚊𝚕𝚔𝚛𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚘#𝚕𝚞2024-01-1355 minVSO Talk RadioVA Benefits for Vietnam VeteransThis week we discuss VA Benefits specifically for our Vietnam Veterans and added benefits from the PACT Act. 2024-01-0655 minVSO Talk Radio2023 Year in Review: Highlights of Guest and OrganizationsAs we close out 2023 we wanted to recap some of our highlighted shows and some great guest from many organizations that came on air to tell us about there programs and services. 2023-12-3055 minVSO Talk RadioVeterans In Crisis, Crisis Line, Services AvailableThis week we talk about Veterans In Crisis, Crisis Line, Services Available to Veterans and families to help you! 2023-12-2355 minVSO Talk RadioVA Million Veterans Program and Gulf War/Burn Pit RegistryThis week we recap the Army/Navy Game, Jered sings army! We touch on the VA’s Million Veterans Program, Gulf War And Burn Pit Registries and the importance. 2023-12-1655 minVSO Talk RadioVeterans Service Officers (VSOs) Compliance, Accreditation and more….This Week we discussed Veterans Service Officers (VSOs), complance, accredition and more. 2023-12-1355 minVSO Talk RadioClaim Sharks and the Legislation to stop them!Don't Feed the Sharks What is a “Claim Shark”? • A Claim Shark is an individual or company that charges hefty fees to “assist” or “consult” veterans with filing their VA benefit claims – this practice is illegal! • Claim Sharks are not VA accredited, meaning they aren’t required to adhere to the well-established professional and ethical standards of VA accreditation, so their advice can often be misleading or even fraudulent. • Like a “Loan Shark,” once you’re in, you can’t get out, and may be subject to new and hidden fees whenever you get a new rating, no matter who does t2023-12-0255 min
#Podcast365SE PREPARAR LEVA TEMPO! MAS VALE CADA SEGUNDOSE PREPARAR LEVA TEMPO! MAS VALE CADA SEGUNDO by Eric Pereira2023-11-2809 minVSO Talk RadioVeteran’s Bonus, New England Center, VFW and SARThis week with talk with a few organizations that are supporting Veterans. ▪️State Treasury-Welcome Home Bonuses▪️New England Center and Home for Veterans▪️Mike Raymond, Past State Commander for the VFW▪️SAR: Suicide Awareness Flag2023-11-2655 minVSO Talk RadioThe Hero Act IntroducedThis week on Western Mass Veterans Radio we discussed Governor Maura T. Healey’s filed legislation to increase benefits, modernize services and promote inclusivity for Massachusetts veterans. An Act Honoring, Empowering and Recognizing Our Servicemembers and Veterans (HERO Act) will have positive impacts for hundreds of thousands of veterans living in Massachusetts, including nearly 30,000 women veterans and thousands of LGBTQ+ veterans. This historic legislation marks the first time in 20 years that a Massachusetts Governor has specifically introduced a comprehensive and expansive legislative package dedicated to the welfare of veterans. 2023-11-1955 minVSO Talk RadioVeterans Day: Interviews with Fellow VSOs from Across the StateThis week we talked with Jason Berger, VSO of Eastern Hampden District, Ally Rodriquez, VSO Taunton MA, and Kim Emerling, VSO of Salem, MA. We get their propective as VSOs and learn what they do in their communities. 2023-11-1155 minVSO Talk RadioBUILDING BRIDGES VETERANS INITIATIVEBUILDING BRIDGES VETERANS INITIATIVEUniting Food, Friends, and VeteransHosting Veteran Communities Of Mutual Support, Camaraderie And Gratitude Around Complimentary Meals At Fifteen Sites In New EnglandBuilding Bridges has organically evolved from a single site experiment to gather a handful of veterans, to an organized network of fifteen sites in four New England states, all in pursuit of the same mission: to address veteran social isolation, depression and suicide ideation by building veteran communities of mutual support and healing.2023-11-0555 minVSO Talk RadioPatrick Geroge- President Massachusetts VSO AssociationThis week we talk with Patrick George, President of the Massachusetts Veterans Services Officers Association and Watertown, MA VSO. He talks about the association, its mission, and vision for the future. 2023-10-2855 minVSO Talk RadioVA Services for Elderly VeteransAs the Veterans needs change with age, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will provide benefits and services that address a variety of issues including the changing health risks they face, as well as financial challenges through VA benefits and health services. Elderly Veterans may be eligible for a wide-variety of benefits and we discuss these programs. 2023-10-2155 minVSO Talk RadioWreaths Across AmericaEach December on National Wreaths Across America Day, it is WAA mission to Remember, Honor and Teach and its carried out by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 4,000+ locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea and abroad. 2023-10-1455 minVSO Talk RadioMedic Now FoundationThe Medic Now Foundation broadens health care access for our military families, veterans, and active duty service membersby easing the burden of out-of-pocket expenses through our "Healthcare Cost Assistance Program (HCAP).2023-10-0753 minVSO Talk RadioPACT Act Special Health Care Enrollment DeadlineThe PACT Act is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances.Until 11:59 p.m. Sept. 30, 2023, Veterans who deployed to a combat zone, never enrolled in VA health care and left the military between Sept. 11, 2001, and Oct. 1, 2013, are eligible to enroll directly in VA health care through the PACT Act.This special enrollment period gives Veterans who served in Iraq, Afghanistan and other combat zones an opportunity to enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for disability compensation benefits. 2023-09-2355 minVSO Talk RadioPOW/MIA: Never-forgottenYou Are Not Forgotten -- that's the central phrase behind the POW/MIA remembrance movement that honors America's prisoners of war, those who are still missing in action and their families.Many of our service members suffered as prisoners of war during several decades of varying conflicts. While some of them made it home, tens of thousands more never did.2023-09-1655 minVSO Talk RadioSeptember 11th and the Wars that followedAs September 11th approaches , we look back on that faithful day and the wars that followed. 2023-09-0955 minVSO Talk RadioVA Travel ReimbursementsThe VA pays eligible Veterans and caregivers back for mileage and other travel expenses to and from approved health care appointments. We break down this benefit and let you know what your entitlements are. 2023-09-0355 minVSO Talk RadioLudlow’s 250th CelebrationLudlow will be Celebrating its 250th and we had Linda Collette and Bruce Durand to talk about the celebration and all the events coming up! 2023-08-2655 minVSO Talk RadioVeterans Home in HolyokeA momentous day this past week with the groundbreaking of the future soldiers home in holyoke.We discuss the past, present, and future of the home. 2023-08-1955 minVSO Talk RadioPACT ACT-What You Need to KnowThis week we talked about the PACT Act, as the deadline for retroactive payment come to an end, what you need to know. Note: PACT ACT intent to file was extended to Monday, August 14th. 2023-08-1255 minVSO Talk RadioVeterans Inc. Programs and ServicesThis week’s show we spoke with Christian Diluzio of Veterans Inc. He shares with us all the available programs and services. 2023-08-0555 minVSO Talk RadioVeterans Dragon Boat USA TeamThis week we interviewed Donna Salo, one of the co-founder of the Veterans Dragon Boat, USA Team & Stan Hilton who is currently a member of the Veterans dragon boat team2023-07-3055 minVSO Talk RadioIn studio guest: Amanda Winslow, Sexual Assault and Victim Advocate for Western MA, for the Department of Defense.Western Mass Veterans radio on Classic Hits 977 with Jesus Pereira, @Holyoke veterans services Jered Sasen, Wilbraham Veteran Services and Eric Segundo, Ludlow Veterans Services. This week’s in studio guest is Amanda Winslow, Sexual Assault and Victim Advocate for Western MA, for the Department of Defense.John Hurley’s Veteran history project, John interviewed Dick Brodeur, USMC Veteran.If you missed the show, you can listen to us on ITunes Podcast, Spotify and Google Podcasts or on our website www.ludlowveterans.us#WMVR Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1E...2023-07-2255 minVSO Talk RadioProperty Tax Exemptions (New Year)This week on Western Mass Veterans Radio on Classic Hits 977:With the new fiscal year come with it the start of the new filing year. Property Tax Exemption applications are now available in your local city/town assessor’s office. New VA Benefits Verification Letter were sent out in late June, you should have received them already. John Hurley’s Veteran of the Week is Archie Archible, US Marine, Vietnam Purple Heart Veteran. 2023-07-1555 minVSO Talk RadioOperation Veteran VacationOperation Veteran Vacation is a non-profit charity dedicated to providing veterans and their families with a much-needed break from the everyday. We believe that the best way to help veterans come to terms with the physical and mental trauma of their service is to spend quality time with their loved ones. 2023-07-0855 minVSO Talk RadioCapTel Telephones for VeteransTina Marie from CapTel joins us to take about CapTel Telephones. Ideal for people with some degree of hearing loss, the Captioned Telephone, or CapTel, works like any other telephone with one important addition:It displays every word the caller says throughout the conversation. CapTel phone users can listen to the caller, and can also read the written captions in the CapTel’s bright display window.2023-07-0155 minVSO Talk RadioHomeFront StrongThe mission of HomeFront Strong, formerly known as the Brookfield Institute, is to build resilience in veterans and military families through targeted programs and resources.Their vision is to ensure every military and veteran family has the necessary support to achieve optimal social, spiritual, physical and mental health for joyful, meaningful lives.2023-06-2455 minVSO Talk RadioWestern Mass Veterans Treatment Court•BACKGROUND ON HOW THE TREATMENT COURT STARTED •WHAT IS THE PROGRAM ABOUT•WHO DOES IT BENEFITS•WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY FOR PARTICIPATION IN THE PROGRAM•HOW HAS THE PROGRAM DEVELOP OVER THE YEARSHOW YOU CAN HELP (MENTORSHIP PROGRAM) 2023-06-1755 minVSO Talk RadioVA Pensions: Non-Service Connected & Survivors PensionNon Service Connected Disability Pension is a benefit paid to wartime veterans with limited income who are no longer able to work.Survivors Pension is a tax-free benefit payable by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to a low-income, un-remarried surviving spouse and unmarried dependent child(ren) of a deceased wartime Veteran.2023-06-0355 minVSO Talk RadioESGR: Employer Support of the Guard and ReserveSpecial in studio Guest: Earl Bonett from Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR)Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve is the lead U.S. Defense Department program promoting cooperation and understanding between civilian employers and their National Guard and Reserve employees.2023-05-2755 minVSO Talk Radio(DIC) Dependency and Indemnity CompensationIf you’re the surviving spouse, child, or parent of a service member who died in the line of duty, or the survivor of a Veteran who died from a service-related injury or illness, you may be able to get a tax-free monetary benefit called VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (VA DIC). Find out if you can get VA benefits or compensation.2023-05-2055 minVSO Talk RadioVA Claims-From the BeginningVA Claim process from Start to Finish2023-05-1354 minVSO Talk RadioThe New PACT ActThis week we discuss the New Pact Act and the benefits associated with it. 2023-05-0755 minVSO Talk RadioAvailable Programs for Homeless Veterans and Those Facing Homelessness/EvictionSupportive services and programs available for homeless Veterans2023-04-3055 minVSO Talk RadioVA Services Available for Elderly VeteransTHIS WEEK WE CONTINUED THE DISCUSSION ON SERVICES Available FOR OUR ELDERLY VETERANS POPULATION, specifically provided by the VA. As Veterans needs change with age, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will provide benefits and services that address a variety of issues. Elderly Veterans may be eligible for a wide-variety of benefits available to all U.S. military Veterans. Elderly Veterans can receive geriatric and long term care programs at home, at VA medical centers, or in the community. Geriatrics Program includes:Homemaker and home health aid careSkille...2023-04-2255 minVSO Talk RadioPGA Hope with Troy BrinPGA HOPE—Helping Our Patriots Everywhere—is introducing and teaching golf to Veterans and active duty military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. PGA HOPE is the flagship military program of PGA REACH, the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the PGA of America.The program introduces the game of golf through a developmental 6-8 week curriculum, led by PGA Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. All programs are funded by PGA REACH and supplemented by PGA Section Foundations, so the cost of programming is free to all Veterans.PGA HOPE has...2023-04-1555 minVSO Talk RadioAid & Attendance Program: What is it and who eligible?This week we talked with our expert VSO, Rick Voutour, Director of Veterans Services for Leominster, Lancaster and Sterling and we are talking about the VA Aid & Attendance Program. What is A & A, Who is eligible, and how do you apply. Each Week we bring you the stories of Veterans in our community as a way to highlight their service to country and the community. This segment is called “Veterans History Project” By John Hurley, This week John interviewed Rob Chauvin, US Air Force Veteran. 2023-04-0855 minVSO Talk RadioVA Health Care: Priority Groups: What are they? : What benefits do they provideWhen you apply for VA Health Care, the VA assigns you (the Veteran) into priority groups between 1-8. This system helps to make sure that Veterans who need care right away can get signed up quickly. It also helps to make sure they can provide high quality care to all Veterans enrolled in the VA health care program. We break down the eligibility and benefits for each group. Each Week we bring you the stories of Veterans in our community as a way to highlight their service to country and the community. This segment is called “Veterans Histo...2023-04-0155 minVSO Talk RadioNewly Introduced Federal Legislation in Support of Veterans and their FamiliesWe discussed newly introduced federal legislation in support of veterans and their families. Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding VA Benefits Act, known as the GUARD VA Benefits ActMajor Richard Star ActDisabled Veterans Tax Termination ActCaring for Survivors Act of 2023Commitment to Veteran Support and Outreach Act2023-03-2555 minVSO Talk RadioBruce Stebbins, Mass Cannabis Control CommissionerGuest: Bruce Stebbins, Commissioner, Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission We discussed veterans from the cannabis industry perspective?What opportunities are there for veterans to participate in the legal cannabis industry?How else is the Commission and regulated cannabis industry supporting veterans in Massachusetts?We also discussed Federal Legislation recently introduced in regards to Cannabis and Veterans. 2023-03-1855 minVSO Talk RadioAvailable Programs for Homeless Veterans and Those Facing Homelessness/EvictionThis week we discuss homeless housing support options available for veterans 2023-03-1155 minVSO Talk RadioVA Education BenefitsVA education benefits help Veterans, service members, and their qualified family members with needs like paying college tuition, finding the right school or training program, and getting career counseling.2023-03-0455 min
VSO Talk RadioRick Bettencourt “The VA Guy” VA LoansWestern Mass Veterans Radio 🎙️ on Classic Hits 977 with Jered Scott of Wilbraham Veteran Services, our newest “Official” co-host, Jesus Pereira of Holyoke Veterans' Services and Eric Segundo, Ludlow Veterans Services. On this week’s show, we had Rick Bettencourt, also know as the the “VA Guy”. We discussed all everything you need to know about VA Mortgage Loans. John Hurley’s Veteran’s History Project: John talked with Jim Fiztell, 32 years of service in the Marines, Army and Air Force.2023-02-2555 min
VSO Talk RadioInterview: Medal of Honor Recipient Capt. Thomas G. KelleyOn this week’s show we are honored to have Tom Kelley, Medal of Honor Recipient and former Secretary of Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services We discuss: 🔹Military Service🔹Naming of Navy Destroyer DDG140🔹his time as Secretary of Veterans Services under 4 Governors 2023-02-1855 minVSO Talk RadioEverything you need to know about Veterans ID CardsVeterans ID cards: Different typesHow to Apply Benefits of each type of ID2023-02-1155 minVSO Talk RadioNew VA Expansion of Care for Veterans in Crisis, Veterans Crisis Line & VA Life Insurance*New Expanded Care for Veterans in Crisis *Veterans Crisis Line provides:· Access free, confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year.· Live Connection: Connect with a real person qualified to support Veterans.· The Veterans Crisis Line serves Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them.*The New VA Life Insurance, VALife2023-02-0455 min
VSO Talk RadioVA Basic 101, "What You Should Know" with Stephanie Shaw, Chicopee Veterans ServicesStephanie Shaw, Director of Veterans Services for the City if Chicopee breaks down the VA for us. VA Basic 101 and what to expect. 2023-01-2855 minVSO Talk RadioNon-Service Connected Pension and Survivor's Pension with Jesus PereiraNon Service Connected Disability Pension is a benefit paid to wartime veterans with limited income who are no longer able to work.Survivors Pension is a tax-free benefit payable by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to a low-income, un-remarried surviving spouse and unmarried dependent child(ren) of a deceased wartime Veteran.2023-01-2156 min
VSO Talk RadioSpringfield Vet Center-Bryan Doe: All Things Vet CenterBryan Doe from the Springfield Vet Center shares with us all the programs and services available to Veterans and their families. 2023-01-1455 min
VSO Talk Radiothe Newly Formed Veterans Advocacy Coalition with LTC (Ret) John ParadisThe Veterans Advocacy Coalition, composed of former leaders who had previously established the Holyoke coalition in May of 2020 in the immediate aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak at the Holyoke veterans’ home. The new coalition consists of leaders from local Veterans’ organizations, family members and concerned citizens. The Coalition’s mission is to champion the interests of military veterans and their family members.2023-01-0756 min
VSO Talk RadioBenefits for Veterans with VA Service-Connected DisabilityProperty AbatementState AnnuitySales Tax Exemption for Disabled VeteransOther benefits for Service-Connected Veterans2022-12-3156 min
VSO Talk RadioFiling A VA Claim from Start to FinishThis week we bring back our good friend Jesus Pereira of Holyoke Veterans' Services as we discuss Filing a VA Claim, what’s the process, and what to expect from start to finish! 2022-12-2456 min
VSO Talk RadioVeterans Homelessness & VA Housing Services for VeteransWestern Mass Veterans Radio #WMVR on Classic Hits 977/1250AM with Jered Sasen, Wilbraham Veteran Services & Eric Segundo, Ludlow Veterans ServicesIn Studio Guest this week : Steve Connor, Director Central Hampshire Veteran ServicesOn this weeks show we will talk about Veterans Homelessness and VA Housing Program and services available for Veterans. Our Veteran of the week: David Mendoza, US Air Force. If you miss the show, you can always listen to us on iTunes, Spotify and Google Podcast or on our website www.ludlowveterans.usSpotify:https://open.sp...2022-12-1756 min
VSO Talk RadioFederal Burial Benefits and Massachusetts Veterans BurialsWestern Mass Veterans Radio #WMVR on Classic Hits 977/1250AM with Jered Sasen & myself Special in Studio Guest this week week : Michael Slater, Director of Veterans Services for the Town of South Hadley and Easthampton Veterans' Services On this show we will talk about Federal Burial Benefits as well as Massachusetts Burials and services. Veteran of the week we highlighted: Scott F. Hiorns, Navy, Ludlow Veteran of the Year. If you missed the show, you can listen to us on Apple Podcast, Spotify and Google Podcast or on our website www.ludlowveterans.us2022-12-1056 min
VSO Talk RadioDependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)Western Mass Veterans Radio #WMVR on Classic Hits 977 FM/1250AM This weeks’ show we talked about VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (Known as DIC). A tax -free monthly benefit for surviving spouses, children, or parents of Veterans who died in service or from service connected disabilities. Special in Studio Guest: Charly Nicole, Director of Veterans Services for the Town of Belchertown Veterans' ServicesVeteran of the week highlighted: Michael Slater, Army -GWOT Combat Veteran.If you missed the show, you can listen to us on Apple Podcast, Spotify and Google Podcasts or o...2022-12-0356 min
VSO Talk RadioPACT ACT & Camp LejeuneThis weeks show we talk about the newly passed #PACTAct and Camp Lejeune Justice Act. Special in Studio Guest: Jesus Pereira, Director of Veterans Services for the City of Holyoke.Veterans of the week highlight: John Hurley, Marine -Vietnam Combat Veteran who received the Purple Heart for injuries sustained. 2022-11-2656 minVSO Talk RadioMass Chapter 115 Veterans BenefitsWestern Mass Veterans Radio Inaugural Show! Special Guest VSO, Stephanie Shaw, Director of Veterans Services for the City of Chicopee. We will interview Stephanie on her military service and her role as Director. This weeks topic is Massachusetts General Law Chapter 115 Veterans Benefits🔹what is chapter 115?🔹Veteran eligibility 🔹benefits & service available under 115🔹what’s needed to apply2022-11-1956 minVSO Talk RadioWestern Mass Veterans Radio IntroWestern Mass Veterans Radio Is a Show That Connects Veterans, Active-Duty Military, National Guard, Family Members, and Spouses with Information and Services Available to them on The State and Federal Level. Each Show Will Provide Information Related To Military Service, VA Benefits, State Benefits, Housing and Education, As Well As In depth Interviews, Special Guests Appearances, and One Of A Kind Prospective On Veterans Issues.2022-11-1500 min