By Terry Howell
Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) introduced S. 3447, a bill to improve the Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits program. The bill includes six major changes that will be welcomed by veteran students, school officials, and veterans service organizations.
“With ten months of experience under the new program, I believe it is time to look at what improvements and modifications need to be made in order for the program to reach its potential,” said Akaka.
Akaka’s proposed Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010 is designed to make a number of modifications to the new program of educational assistance which became effective on August 1, 2009.
The following are the six provisions that will likely have the greatest impact on current and future student veterans, many of which are considered long overdue:
- Members of the National Guard and Reserve who were inadvertently omitted from inclusion would be fully eligible for benefits.
- Include all vocational programs, OJT and apprenticeship training, flight, all types of non-college degree training and more. Effectively eliminating the need to make an irreversible decision as to whether or not to receive benefits under the old Montgomery GI Bill or under the new program.
- Eliminate the complicated, confusing and, in some cases, inequitable calculation of State-by-State tuition and fee caps to determine benefits for individuals enrolled in degree programs. Effectively ensuring that individuals enrolled in degree granting programs of study at public colleges and universities in the U.S. would pay little, if any, out of pocket. Those enrolled in private colleges and universities would receive the national average cost of education.
- Provide a modified living stipend to students who are enrolled in distance learning (online education) programs.
- Make active duty and their spouses eligible for the $1,000 annual book allowance.
- Eliminate the need for veterans to choose between Voc-Rehab and the Post-9/11 GI Bill enabling service-connected disabled OEF/OIF veterans to elect the program from which to receive their subsistence allowance. Ensuring that veterans would not be forced to pass on valuable counseling and support services to access the more generous Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.
Let your elected officials know how you feel about this bill. Send a letter to today!
In his statement on the Senate floor, Akaka noted that “this will not be a simple process. Nor will it be quickly and easily accomplished. There are issues that we can readily see need to be addressed.” He added, “There are others, however, that are only just now coming to our attention as the program is implemented and veterans, servicemembers, and their families begin to receive benefits under the program.”
According to Senator Akaka, the measure is intended to serve as a starting point to move and that he believes the actions taken to improve the Post-9/11 GI Bill need to be “full and deliberative.”
Let Congress know how you feel about this bill. Send a letter to today!
Does anyone have any current information regarding changes to the Title 32 entitlement?
As far as i know is that in Pa National Guard and Reserve soldiers get to go to college for free as long as you are a resident.
they well never honor the nam vets. only thing they want is to forget us. when it comes down to it the military today could never of made the mark as the nam vets did but than again those serving in the war today has a whole new set of rules to follow
What the mark for dying, have we quickly forgot there are folks dying overseas as we speak. Its there hard work that making this happen. Older vets rise holy hell you remember how to do that? Instead of whining, lead from the front and put some fire under someone butt or ( @#$ ) which ever you prefer. I love all veteran and I will keep you and the warriors oversea in my prays. God bless you all.
Semper Fi
question they said the had a vietnam era progam for us but when i try they said i could not get it because of the date i got out of the service, because i was out april 30 i need to stay in till dec 30 1976 what can't the government help us school wasn't as good as they are to day. why only 10 year to use it maybe you hd alot on your mind and you had to clear it first. is their any information that can help. is so johnsona48@yahoo.com
I am sorry that you had it rough as all most all Vietnam Veterans did !! But don't jam on what progress has done for the vets today, as we vets need to insure that the treatment from here on out continues to be better today and tomarow than yesterday!
It may seem that the VA and the Gov't may want to forget the Viet Nam Vets… but as for present day vets… we appreciate your sacrifice and service. You gentlemen are the reason i chose to serve, and proudly served an 18month combat tour in Iraq. My father and my uncle served in vietnam (uncle went to serve 3 tours, and had a 26 year career). I sincerely hope that the country can make up to the viet nam vets for the harsh treatment they recieved upon thier return. We (as in the whole country) owe a lot more to you guys than can ever be put into words. I think this is our governments efforts to say that they didn't leave thier veterans to sink or swim like back in the vietnam era… i think it sucks that it is looked at this way… it's just how it is though…
Despite being a Viet Nam veteran, unless you are serving in today's military, and in today's ongoing Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, you are not qualified to judge whether today's soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen would have "made the mark" in Viet Nam. I am a 28 year veteran of both the Gulf War and today's OIF and OEF. I have seen our military waging this war in the mideast and they are good and strong and capable and no one who has not served in these conflicts should disrespect them. Just as no one who didn't serve in Viet Nam should disrespect those veterans.
You probably shouldn't start with the garbage about trying to compare soldiers of the Vietnam era to today's soldiers. I am a retired warrant officer and never once worried through 2 difficult tours in Iraq that one of my men would "frag" me and I was a tough leader.
I never once worried that my CO or soldiers were smoking dope or doing any number of crazy irresponsible things. We performed our combat mission with dignity and professionalism. You sir do not know what anyone is capable of until they are put in a position to find out.
Stick to the discussion and don't take to blabbering about your fellow soldiers.
Actually, they have honered Nam Vets. I'm friends with many of them who have received multiple types of benefits. They may not of back in the day, but you seem old and stuck in your ways and still pissy. And soldiers like myself, from the Iraq War made a huge mark, so i'd be cautious as to how you present yourself. I have nothing but respect for Nam Vets…They went thru hell, but dont you dare, for one second take away what our OIF/OEF vets accomplished and went thru in this war. My brothers did not die in vein for your comments like that.
Well this is pretty sad! No matter how anything is done everyone will not be happy. That is just the truth when it comes to anything. I am a VET but I refuse to throw it around like a free pass. A lot of ignorant comments come from those who truly don't know how it feels to serve or have family that has! All you can really do is make the best out of what you can get. Remember there are still plenty of people who can't get even the little bit we receive. I am just thankful for what I can get and know my family can be proud!
Nice comment Marcus, when I read through these posts, all I see is the where's mine, where's more attitude. It was the same way in the service. It's such a sad me me culture that has evolved. I would think that getting anything at all would be enough to make anyone happy, especially since it is a volunteer service now.
Well said Marcus!
No one could have said it better!
I would like to say thank you to all the Vietman Vets. I have a huge amount of respect for each of you and your service..I would also like to say thank you to the Senetors that recognize those that serve are not second class citizens. I have been in the Military for nearly 24 years now and I have seen many things change for the better. Grant it, its not ideal or perfect by any account but way better than it used to be. I am sure that those after me will have a few more benifits than I have. I say good on them…without our politicians working on our behalf we wouldnt have what we do today.
I agree.Well said.
Do you really think they are working on your behalf? Check your history.Most of OUR politicians are only out for reelection!
Since this is suppose to be the 9/11 GI Bill it leaves out retires who retired before this bill was pass who want to pass the college benefits to there children
i think its wonderful something is being improved. Its better than nothing at all. retirees need to stop crying!
MM3
It's not crying to want what is earned! Why shouldn't all veterans be treated equally?
Who are you to judge the retirees, you might not even retire!!!
Mac, I addressed that issue in my letter to my legislatures and I ask that all of you do the same. Being it is not in the Post 9/11 GI Bill Fixes proposal, I'm not convinced they even know about it – so I made them aware of it. Here is the verbage I used. I'm hoping we can get a grassroots movement going on this. In my next commnet I'll include the verbage I used.
I write blog posts that provide answers to questions from veterans about
the different GI Bills, and this topic (not being able to transfer Post
9/11 GI Bill benefits) generates the most questions (and frustration) of
any GI Bill topic.
Sincerely,
CSM(Ret.) Ronald D. Kness
Here is the verbage I used in my response back in regard to the Post 9/11 GI Bill Fixes. All you have to do is copy and paste it into your letter to your congressmen and congresswomen:
—————————————————-
This letter is in regard S. 3447, the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010, which was recently introduced by Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii). I'm very pleased to see this bill introduced and I ask that you wholeheartily support and pass this needed change.
However, one important change I would like to see added, that isn't in the proposal, is allowing veterans, who retired between September 11, 2004 and the start date of the Post 9/11 GI Bill (August 1, 2010), to be allowed the same transfer of benefits option currently offered only to those on active duty. These veterans put in their three years of service after September 10, 2001 on active duty before retiring, but because they retired before the Post 9/11 GI Bill was enacted, they never had an opportunity to transfer their Post 9/11 GI Bill benefit to a spouse or dependent child.
Thanks for sharing you letter info CSM Ret) Ron Kness. May I ask a couple questions regarding it?
(1) Why September 11, 2004, and
(2) To whom did you send it; the committee chairman, a member of the committee, or to your congressional representative?
Thank you for your service to our nation!
I was active duty during 9/11 and served my eight years. Yet, it is as if I am only counted as 80 percent loyal since I only served 2 years active after 9/11. If retirees are included, then I should get my full 100% tuition.
My husband served 30 years and retired in 2006. It is not right that we are left out of this benefit that would provide a tremendous relief on our family. We are very disappointed.
Your not left out the Post 9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) goes back to 2001. All he has to do is submit to the VA and he should get it.
I agree, I joined during the VEAP era and we all know what a great program that was. I retired 30 Sep 2004 and have completed all the schooling I needed while in the Navy and now wish to pass this on to my Daughter. Unfortunately I do not qualify to pass this on. For the first time in my career I finally qualify for a GI bill but am still unable to take advantage of it. Can we please back the date up to at least match the dates for eligibility. Thanks you and God Bless all of our Troops.
You are able to take advantage of this program. If you have three years of active duty service after 9-11, you qualify. Go back to school and take an associate's level degree program in something that interests you. Have your tuition paid for, collect the book stipend, have fun, and collect the housing allowance. Set the housing allowance aside every month you are in school and you can earn up to 36K of tax free money to give to your daughter while you pursue another degree. Sorry you have to work for it…but what an example to set for your daughter.
This is a benefit for the military person, not the children. I have kids and didn't transfer the benefit. That was earned by me and my kids are all joining to get their benefits.
That works fine for you but, don't be narrow minded. I earned the benefit but due to injury choose not to use it. At the same time I have no intention of allowing my daughter to join for any reason. But if I choose to provide education benefit to my wife or daughter I "earned" the right to do so.
What burns my biscuts is while trying to get "reliable" info about the 911 GI bill so I could make an educated decision on whether to switch or not. I was never informed that I had to make the decision before I was forced to disability retirement. Now I'm told I no longer have the option. The information was so screwed up until recently even VA reps didn't know what was what. But we all know it always been screwed up so why really expect anything different.
Mac,
I strongly agree with you that if you served during 911 and retire before the bill was pass you should be able to pass it on to your kids. For those who are on active duty it is a good benifit tool for the Department of Defense to use forreenlistment.
With a 0.5% disability or more documented! The retired memeber can have their children receive tuition paid in any state or community college in California! This I am sure of I have done alot of research and I currently and have been using this benifits from my father who is a Vietnam Vet!
Does this apply for my step daughter going to a community college? I have 10% retired military disability documented in CA. Her bio dad is still in still in the military and will not use his GI Bill for her?
Yes – if you have documented disability, step children are eligible for CA tuition and fees – no books or housing allowance, but it is around $10K a year for a UC.
This is true and as has always been said. "Its better than nothing",but only slightly. I want to transferr to the 911 GI bill so my wife can use the benefit. But I'm told that Ididn't make the selection before forced to retire this past January. I qualify for her to receive education assistance thru retirement but it provides no BAH or cost of living for full time or otherwise. Living on retirement alone is not possible and to expect her to work and try to manage a full time enrollment is rediculous. With the 911 GI bill she would be able to focus on school and we could manage with the retirement and BAH. I realize that offering these education benefits to so many is astronomical in cost and they have to draw the line somewhere. But being excluded because I couldn't get full and reliable info from the very ones that were paid to know is infuriating to say the least.
So five years of my active duty service, before I retired in 2007 was spent during and post 9/11 but I am not eligible to transfer my Montgomery GI Bill? Something is wrong with this. My first year of service as an Airman Basic, $100.00 was taken from my check for a year for the MGIB…that's when there were no 'sign-up windows'…you either signed up in basic training or you didn't get it. TA was 75%…now its 100%, just give us retirees a break.
Heatjackl: Please send an email to your congressional representatives using the link below regarding your inability to transfer your educational benefits. Since you were on duty and earned the Post 9/11 GI Bill benefit you should be able to take FULL advantage of it, including transferability. Thank you for your service to our nation!
http://www.capwiz.com/military/issues/alert/?aler…
Read more: http://military-education.military.com/2009/03/vi…
please contact your elected officials in support of House resolution HR3577 which will allow retirees to transfer benifits
Thanks SMKM, I'll do just that today.
I was reading one of the replies that you got. The person that said the retirees need to stop crying will he or she needs to thank the retirees that have given there blood for them to have a right to GI Bill use because we did not do what we did in world war I and II, korea and vietnam he or she may like so many people the live in country like China, Russia and so that do have a right to higher education because there status in that country will not allow them to get a higher education…… Viet Nam Vet
HUH??? Try as I might, I just can't find enough places to place commas, making your comment readable. I think I understand you, but calm down and separate your points. Agreed, we older (Korea, Vietnam ) Vets are, as usual, getting deeply shafted . We have been shelved so long, and Ignored, that most of us are too old for meaningful benefits. Not even COLA increases. I'm not trying to rag on ya', but, as most Vietnam Vets well know, the anger and frustration of all the getting slapped down by the VA and other Gov't agencies for the last 50 ( yes, 50 ) years just tends to crash out like a flood, whenever we think, speak, or write about it. We, Vietnam Vets, won't give up, but, neither will the Gov't, because they know more and more of us die each day.
Peace in your footsteps,
Ray Rogers
RVN Class '70-'71
100% CRD, after the 30 year fight!!!
My Husband went on terminal leave in July 2009 right before the 9/11 GI bill went into affect. We were on the road traveling to a different state and had no idea that you had to transfer the Bill while still on active duty. That information was not discussed during the retirement class.
I contacted the Education Program Analyst for the Marine Corps in Quantico, VA and this is what she told me "No, a retired Marine is not eligible to transfer his benefits after separation from the Armed Forces.
They must be either on active duty or in the active drilling reserves.
If your husband feels that he was misinformed as to this entitlement, he may have the opportunity to get this decision reversed by doing a DD149, BCNR.
This form can be googled online. He would have to fill it out and send it in to the Board for Corrections of Naval Records."
We sent the dd149 BCNR in 2 weeks ago and are awaiting an answer (she said that it could take up to 2 months)
I believe that if the 9/11 bill is back dated to 200? then everyone who is already retired during that time period should have a dog in this fight.
MAC and Others,
I understand your fustration but the bill that was pass has the following rules.
In order to transfer your benifits, The Department of Defense (DoD) is authorized to allow individuals who, on or after August 1, 2009, have served at least 6 years in the Armed Forces and who agree to serve at least another 4 years in the Armed Forces to transfer unused entitlement to their Spouse. Once the member has reached their 10 year anniversary they may choose to transfer the benefit to any dependent(s) (spouse, children). The Department of Defense may, by regulation, impose additional eligibility requirements and limit the number of months transferable to not less than 18 months.
I deal with alot of this same questions day to day from those who want to separated or retired and want to transfer thier benifits to thier children or spouse. Until they change the law this is what we have to go by.
Yes I retired in 2004 and found because I retired before 2009 I could not pass along my benefits
I retired the day before 01 August 2009. Missed by 1 day. Would have liked to transfer some college benefits to my kids. Why do you have to be active? What happens if you get out of the military and your kid is in the middle of the semester? I used some of my GI Bill when I was active and it only covered 75% of my monthly cost, I paid $300 a month for a technical school.
It's great that the GI Bill is on the Congressional Agenda. It shows that all the donations that Soldiers make to Congrssional Lobbyists are really paying off. I know that the next time someone passes me a form and asks for a donation I'll pay up. Thanks Lobbyists.
it leaves out retires? wow I retired in 2007 and Im useing my benifits and I was told I could pass them to my daughter, except she has her own.
I support this request a 100%.
I am a retiree who is authorized 100% of Post 9/11. It would benefit eligible retirees if could have the option to pass the Post 9/11 to our children. For retirees, most of our children are in college or about to attend. I retired in December 2006.
Mac , I feel you and all other who commented, Im a military retired wife and would love to go to college, but people like me, dont get the reward or the benefit, that my husband so deserve especially ,since serving 24 years in service, No thanks to Bill Clinton, all service member that had 20yrs in, had and force to retire with no warning. My husband had many more years he could had served , loosing his GI Bill and Iwas not able to use it, when he was told to retire because of the years he had in., UNFAIR. Thanks Bill Clinton and now President Oboma
I am also one of the retired vets that have NO educational benifits. I enlisted during the VEAP program and it was optional… At the time, why would I want to give up 1/2 my paycheck for a benifit I had no preceived need for college educational benifits. Now that I am retired, I also want the benifits…. but noooo Not unless you served during 9/11 do you get any benifits. Ask any vet that retired before 9/11 what they get for educational benifits and I bet less than 20% have anything availible to them. The worst part about this is that The Vietnam Vets get shafted again.
do a search for H.R. 3577 it's stuck in congress and my sources tell me it probally won't go any furthur because they don't have the money to pay for it. This was used as an retention tool and not intended for us, or our dependents. I would recommend that you send off for the post 9/11 GI Bill and if something changes you will have already it. That's what I did
I'm with you to , I believe that this is so unfair to me and my children . I served for 8yrs. 4months a Desert Storm vet. I lost my GI Bill and could not pass any of the benefit to my 17 yr old daughter now and I live in a state where she does not qualify for any free college since moving to Fl. 2yrs ago. can you give me advice Please!!!! Email: csibrina@yahoo.com
this is just another example as to how our government officals feel about the Vietnam veteran. They keep spitting in our face. They never made changes for us so that we could afford to go to school without working full time. I came home disabled from Vietnam and had to beg, borrow, and steal to go to college.
Exactly what rich said it is a retention tool to get people to reenlist/enlist. No one is spitting on your face you just get what you get and need to be satisfied (not necessarily happy) with the outcome and be happy that the people continuing to fight for your freedom are getting better benefits instead of the same/worse.
Also I guess you should complain to the medical system for not having some pills that extend life before your elders died. I guess you should also guess you should hate on people fighting for the cure for cancer because they were not doing that back then. I guess you should also hate that schools improve to provide a more higher education for your children/grand children because it was not offered to you. No one is spitting in your face they are just providing a better opportunity for those who continue to fight, even they wanted to spit in your face they would of taken your benefits away and gave them to the Post 9/11 candidates. I'm happy with what I got and I hope it gets better for those after me.
In a sum of it all. Quit your complaining like a red headed step child (Unless you are one) just because you dont get something that someone else gets.
Sorry for the typos/double sentences I should of read before I hit "Submit" but im sure you still get what im saying.
Maybe you should THINK before you hit submit. All veterans deserve to be treated equally. The Vietnam vets where treated like red headed step children when they returned. You should quit being a jerk.
Then Vietnam Veterans should build a time machine to go back in time! Complaining about a situation that is 30 years past is just that… complaining. The country has progressed in it's understanding of the pressures of war and has made strides to show it. Vietnam vet's aren't the only ones that got a raw deal… I know a few WWII vets that probably believe that Vietnam vets had it made in the shade.
I don't think he ever once said, or even implied that we should get less. That's just how you misinerpreted the what was said. This man fought for his country, bled for his country and was forced to do so? He has every right to vent, and he's right. The Vietnam vets were treated like crap, granted that entire war was a mess, a damned mess. When his country called, he answered, when his country had foresaken him, he had not foresaken her. We choose to do this, thus, we cannot quite understand what it feels like to have to fight a war even against our own will. I've seen many posts here that are fine examples of what's wrong with our Military today. Because I know damn sure you wouldn't say that to these things to this man's face, if you would, you deserve a good old ass whoopin' and i'd be happy to hand it out to your candy ass. I can't believe that you have the nerve to say these kind of things to a man who served. Isn't he your battle brother?!
OK stop the name calling !!!!!!!
3rdherd This is a rediculous post. The Military is supposed to evolve for the good of the soldiers. Don't think someone is spitting in your face because they are trying to right a wrong and do something good for esprit de corps. Suck it up and drive on!
I Concur with Guest. You may have been shunned when you returned. However, do all the post 911 vets have to suffer because you did? I would expect someone like you who sacrificed so much would be happy for them. You fought so they could have these benefits.
Quit your crying jerkoff
My father is a combat wounded vietnam veteran. he lost his right leg over there. i am now an iraq war veteran. i was much luckier then he. i came home whole. my dad holds no grudge against me for getting better benefits then what he got. he’s just happy that the country is finally learning how to take care of it’s veterans. i am so sorry that the country **** on all the vietnam veterans, and am thankful that they have fought as hard as they have so that i could get the benefits i’m getting. i know that i wouldn’t get them if it wasn’t for that generation. sadly, we can’t go back in time and change it. please don’t make me feel like **** because of something that happened long before i was born
So you would like the same treatment for the injured veterans of this generation as the injured Vets from Vietnam received? What you are essentially saying is that though the way you were treated was terribly wrong, everyone should be treated in that same awful way.
Instead of insisting that what was good enough for the past is good enough for the present, shouldn't we instead try to make improvements that benefit all veterans? Can't we come together and share the similar experiences that we have had and support each other instead of being jaded and creating stagnancy (in an already overburdened system) that hurts others? Wouldn't it benefit you if younger veterans received an education and chose to pursue careers in the Department of Veteran's Affairs and in government that could help change the system in ways that benefit your life and your family?
This is one reason that many younger veterans avoid VFW membership. There is a lack of acceptance that young veterans' experiences are as valid as those with war experiences of the past.
yeah…..and what about bosnia war vet.s who did not use their enter benifit ?
As a Vietnam Vet I am a little set back at your comments. We as a group (Nam Vets) have fought hard to get rights for Veterans that we did not have and to assure future Veterans would ever be treated the way we were. I perceive your comments to be spit in the face to everything we as Vietnam Vets have accomplished for current and future Vets. I am 100% S/C and when I returned from the "Nam" I went to school. I used my GI Bill and worked no biggie.
As an Individual I will continue to do what I can for our current and future Vets. I am proud that I have actually accomplished somethings to assure it never happen again and that our Vets are treated with the Best Education, Healthcare and Equipment available. For me that also applies to their Spouses and Dependents.
Our Vets deserve the BEST and as a Combat Veteran who served all his time North of Hue to the DMZ "I-Corp" I will not lie down and have them passed over for what they need and deserve.
I work with Vets everyday and the OEF/OIF Vets as a majority are the humblest group I have ever had the honor to meet. They do not have a sense of self-entitlement. Some have been in the sandbox 5 tours, I thank them and tell them how much I appreciate their sacrifices. 99.9 % look at me and say "No, We thank you if it wasn't for you Vietnam Vets fighting for our rights we would have nothing".
Our current Military is the Best, all volunteer and have very strong convictions.
I am very greatfull for all who have served and we Veterans as a group must ensure our "Brothers" and "Sisters" are taken care of.
"HOOAH!".
The way the government and the people of the United States treated the veitnam veterans was absolutely appalling. I believe that is exactly why things have changed so much for the better for current service members. I don't think anyone is trying to spit in your face by doing the right thing now. What was done in the past is exactly that in the past. The fact that the government is actually taking care of its service members now should give you a sense of accomplishment because it was the veterans of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam that opened the eyes of the government.
Presently I am a retired vet. Veitnam era. 1967. Since my retirement 1987. I been awarded at first disability @ 40%, then dropped to 30%, then 20% and finally to 10%. During my twenty years of service with the United States Air Force. I had experience Stress Anxiety,miscommunication efforts of intel. and numerous accounts of letters I have written to the VA. regarding the disability benefits due me, over years.
when my dad went to school in the 70s and 80s, it was d@mn near free, tuition has skyrocketed. vietnam vets were treated unfairly, but it wasnt impossible to go to school.
im glad there are changes being made now, so this issue doesnt keep continuing
I would like to see the 10-year expiration date eliminated. I am not a post 9-11 vet. I was in the original Gulf War and qualified for the Montgomery GI Bill. Unfortunately, I was too busy making a living full-time. Was not able to go to school working and providing for a family. When matters were finally settled and time allowed me to attend school, my benefits had expired!
Had online schools been available in the 90's I would have been all set. I would have had the opportunity to go. Modern vets have this option available to them. I did not. So I'm penalised – as are many who lost their benefits.
Did not stop me from going to school. Sadly, had to take student loans like every other damn civilian. I'm a Marine damn it. Once a Marine – always a Marine. Why should education benefits expire? I earned them.
I couldn't have said it better myself! The government needs to delete the 10 year rule and reinstate benefits to those of us who lost out because we had to work to support our families and couldn't afford the time it would have taken to go to college.
I also would like to see the ten year time limit removed…I am at a point in my life where I could really use my M. G. I. Bill, but my benifits expired in 2007.
Jim Benedict USAF
you're right, and you should appeal it!
you are not the only person that had to fight so being a marine mean nothing we should be trying to find out how to get the help we need. wow you where thier by your self stop it please every body don't get their education benefits to expire beacuse of new bills. 9/11 stand
i would hope that the government finally puts forth a bill that would treat all veterans the same who have given their all for this country over the last 60 years. It is a crying shame that our political leaders use veterans as some kind political football each time a veterans issue comes up for consideration. Our armed forces serve in a nonpolitical manner and they should be treated in a fair and nonpolitical manner when it comes to providing benefits for them.
This bill as it stands now is actually much better than the Vietnam Era bill and the refind bill that was adopted later in the 80's. This bill does more and is a testament to finally taking care of our vets.
I served in Iraq, in 1998, and in 2001, and was discharged before 9/11. This bill does not cover any of my education benefits. Its amazing that the new generation of Vets are recoginized and are offered better benefits, than those of us who have served before them, as my father did before me, a 21 yr vietnam veteran. What does this say about our history of the treatment of vets. As a younger generation is born onto the battefields, the older generation is put to the side.
so post 9/11 vets shouldnt deserve anything better because you got screwed? good line of thinking. hooah
Yes,it is a crying shame, that we older Vets,got nothing but DISRESPECT during the NAM war, and nothing now, I know we all want to be treated fairly,and why don't Congress pass a Bill that will take care of us all, even the Marines, messed up like me from Camp LeJeune,N.C.
My husband is 87 years old, a WW 11 Veteran, was not wounded in the three years he spent during the Normandy Invasion and other Invasions. He has been an independent business man since that time, but now, with recent knee replacements, and other age related problems, is not able to work. He has been refused any type of government help. He refuses to lie about any disableing situations during the war which might have qualified him for a disability pension. Because I, being his wife, get a small retirement check coming in monthly, it disqualifies him for what he deserves as a World 11 veteran.
Where are our law makers? With all the money that is used and misued, it seems that our veterans, all of them who ever left their homes and families to fight and defend our dear country, need to be remembered and helped during their time of need.
Miserable spelling and grammar indeed!
You get the point! There is always an idiot in the group trying to stir things up because things are not grammatically correct for them. Get a life professor or look at the big picture and start helping and stop criticizing.
REALLY!!! That's all you have to say?
I think, if you truely wanted to help! One would be part of the solution NOT the problem!!!! Hmmm, yep u got it !
All, I actually got off of active duty just prior to this becoming law and I snuck in under the wire to get at least 90%. While I am still serving in the reserves, I canno transfer my benefits on to my dependants. This is kind of disturbing, but I am making sure that I take full advantage of the Post 9/11 GI Bill and going after my MBA. I will say that due to the fact that this benefit does not grant the living stipend to active duty, I would actually view it as a retention killer and not a retention benefit. What would the benefit be of staying in when they can move in with a couple of buddies and make a killing by going to school?
I am in veteran of the current conflict in iraq, and have service connected disabilities totalling 50%. As far as using the post-911 g.i.bill while on active duty, or any g.i. bill on active duty is just rediculous. The unit commander can sign paperwork waiving education fees and it will not effect your G.I. Bill… so staying in, and finishing up educationwithout touching your G.I. Bill is an excellent choice… that could be equated to earning your bachelors while on active duty, and then using post 9/11 to achieve a masters when you ETS/ Retire. If i could go back in time, this is the route i would have taken.
The only part of the Post 9/11 GI Bill that is designed to be a Retention Tool is the option to transfer the benefits to the spouse or children. Has nothing to do with the living stipend. The Montgomery GI Bill and Post 9/11 GI Bill were designed to assist Veterans not Active Duty (except the transfer to dependents part). Those still on Active Duty need to be using Tuition Assistance not their GI Bill as they are just wasting their benefits by using them while still on Active Duty
the BAH(living Stipend) is already enjoyed by the AD that's why it doesn't apply!!?
Wagsl: Please send an email to your congressional representatives using the link below regarding your inability to transfer your educational benefits to your dependants. Since you on duty and earned 90% of the Post 911 GI Bill benefit you should be able to take full advantage of it, including transferability. Thank you for your service to our nation!
http://www.capwiz.com/military/issues/alert/?aler…
yep-the children of the previous timesare left out in the cold! We have a son who was disabled at 16 on SSI but got married & had a son-got divoreced in about a year-received SSI until about 22-got tired of all the bull about going to see a doc he had never seen before to be redetermined-so he tried working-job to job.My husband worked-then finally-thru the doctor determined he had PTSD(and he was exposed to agent orange and was at Lejeune where they had contaminated water).So, my husband is 100 % disabled-will be 10 yrs totally as of next yr)my son reapp'd for SSA and got approved back to 3 yrs and he is 32 now-left out in the cold as far as VA.
I am a disabled veteran from a firefight in central America that the gov. says never happen back in 1984. Like the vam, vet I too came home to being called names and spit upon. It took me 24 years to get my disability approved. will this bill include me or my family? hmmm
You and I both know that it comes with the job. Those who spit and call us names are pussies who has never and would never pick up and rifle and stand a post so his fellow man can sleep and live.
I'm glad you finally got your benefits. As a pre 9/11 vet you do realize you are an inconvient truth. I hope you get benefits.
Spit on returning from a secret mission in….1984, I call BS.
The government may want to forget the Vietnam Vets, but those of us currently serving the military will never forget the men and women who served before us.
By the way i am from Vietnam, came over when i was 7.5 years old, joined USMC in 2005, and served two tours in Iraq in 2007 and 2008-2009.
I will never forget the men who gave their lives for my country and those who fought to secure its freedom. My father fought along side these men and was put in a concentration camp for 6 years after the war ended. The communists took everything from my family, our land, our lives, our country
We were allowed to come to America but we were not handed everything on a silver platter. My parents worked long hard factory jobs so my siblings and I could go to school. What we were given in America was a chance at life, a chance to live our dreams, an opportunity. Like every American though, we had to work to earn it.
Like we say in the military, nothing is free in this world, freedom is not free.
Maybe we are not the same type of soldiers, but my brothers and I have proved time and time again, in Fallujah, in Ramadi, Afghanistan, that we can decimate any fighting force in the world.
I served in Vietnam (69-70) in Chu Lai (I Corps). I take my hat off to you for your dedication to duty and to this nation. I only wish the other 12 million immigrants (illegal) would have your heart and character. I say Thank You and God Bless
Rick
No you are the same soldier, able to do what is asked for you of your new found home. Take a look at what now gets added to the bill to get it passed. Nothing that ever has to do with veterans or active duty. I served my country and as my son said long ago…"My daddy fights for that flag." It was better getting letters and then trying to figure out which of the 4 or 7 came first. At least I can say that (and I don't know you) you are an example of the reason that we (the marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen of these United States continue to press the world for the freedom that is everyone's right. I thank you for your service as well, and I thank all of my friends that are still here today and some that have passed, for my being able to say this to you. Thank you.
You are full of sh@# zipper head. There is no way your dad fought in Nam. You think we are so stupid that we cannot do the math.
You ignorant ass, if you are a vet i'll bet you're a pogue. That kid Nguyen's dad fought with the South Vietnamese Army. Ever heard of the ARVN? One of my fellow team leaders' dad was a CO for an ARVN ranger outfit in Vietnam and they had a very good reputation unlike some of the other units. Read a ******* book before you shoot your mouth off.
Thank you for your service and the thank you to those of us who served there. Do not forget your past or the price your father paid and embrace your future in the U.S.
Vietnam 1970 – 1972
QUY YOUR DID A GOOD JOB RASING YOU TO MANHOOD. YOUR WHAT THE USE IS ALL ABOUT GOOD LUCK TO YOU ,AND YOURS.
As a VN vet, you and your family honor me with your past and continuing service. Thank you from the bottom of my heart as we say in our culture!
Your wrong about that. I see emails from company executives all the time with grammer issues. It is the computer will corrrect it for me and the texting shortcuts ( usually by college educated people) that are causing the dumbing down of our communications in America.
AMEN BROTHER!!!
You can still go to military insallation for free medical ?
It is only when you want / need to go private medical care that you have to use the other?
No, once you are termed "Service Connected," the military says "to the VA you go." I have 21 yrs active duty and am a 'Nam Vet. I drive 2 hrs each way to the nearest VA facility which treats my illnesses, many of which are Agent Orange related and will affect me the rest of my life (i.e. Diabetes.) This alone prevents me from obtaining life insurance. (cont)
(cont) My GI Education Bill got me a Bachelor's degree after combining the many courses taken while active duty and my military experience. Let's say, with two years at a Community College, it paid for three years. Yes, I also hade to work because the money I received did not cover books or lab fees. I am also 100% total and permanently disabled. I am also considered unemployable due to physical limitations. I need a Graduate degree to get any kind of job, since the aren't many openings for Intelligence-types in the civilian world. I'm having to short sell my home because, without COLA raises, I can either pay my mortgage or my ever raising utilitiy bills. I've already sold everything of value I owned just to get this far in hopes of the economy turning around or the Government steeping in with a program to assist dissabled vets whom became that way in the service of their country. YES, once again, the forgotten Viet Nam Vet!!!
perfect point!
I would like to see the eligibility period of 10 years eliminated. Many veterans were too busy earning a living after their service to attend a university. Now that I am making enough money to be able to attend a university part-time, my benefits have expired. 30 years service should be worth a little education?
Same here, took fifteen years of scrimping and saving working 70 hours a week to be in a position where I could use the G.I. bill and it was too late. At the very least they could give me back what I paid in.
agreed, all vets should get something or at least what they put into it…..With the time frame and earning a living, left little time for college. Now would be a great time for congress to address a serious issue for all vets but we are still viewed as a political issue and are constantly put on the back burner when it comes to revenue to enforce the issue to provide for all veterans.
I, too, had to work to try to make a living and support my family. Now that I have the time to finish my education, the 10 years is up! Now, again, I cannot afford to go back to school!
Well said Suppo… I was starting a family and didn't go back to school until my 10 yrs was up… Whether you paid into VEAP or the Montgomery GI BILL they should at least give us back or let our kids use it… Let us invest it or whatever…Fair is fair…
Now I am almost done my Masters and am about 100k in debt
My pre 9/11 GI Bill expired last month. You are correct, I got out and worked on changing careers and establishing myself. I could barely afford the time to go to school. I took me about 7 years til I was stable enough financially to start. I loaded on tons of classes and will be graduating early, it was the only way to afford it. I left a ton of GI Bill benefits unclaimed and would love to pursue my Masters with my GI Bill, but I can't. It seems that the only GI Bill which matters is the 9/11 GI Bill. Good for them, but why not adjust all and just improve the GI Bill all together?
I agree my service was from 1971 to 1973 with an honorable discharge. I like to take a course in computer so I can find a job however with the ten years eligibility there is nothing I can do. I hope someone change that.
Amen to that, I also am facing this delima, I have recently been furloughed from my job and so far, have been denied two loans to complete my education. I hate to waste my education, but if I do not get a loan for continuing, I will be faced with an uncomplete degree. I wrote a letter to the VA education department, explaining my situation and they denied my 1 year extension because I do not have anything medically that denied my school attendance. So much for education assistance when I need it.
There are a couple things that need to be cleared up. First off, this is not a bitch fest about who did what. Forty years later and your still crying over Nam. Move on. Second off, America has always been about bettering the quality of life. Yes, back then it did suck to be a vet, but like everything else, it is the new and improved.
Hey crap4brains, I served from1976-2000. I don't receive the new and improved benefits either. A Veteran is a Veteran. How is it our government can spend trillions of dollars overseas repairing the countries we just fought but can't come up with funding for Veterans college costs? nuff said
Amen
hey dumb dumb, There are enough civilians living in ignorance ******** down our throats that we have no need to be attacking each other.
I am glad you are getting something that will help you out . But even as a desert era vet, I was spat on when I got back and then told that I had to pay for college before the GI bill would reimburse me. As a service connected disabled vet myself. You can likely see why it was that I had not finished my degree and never saw a dime of the GI bill I payed into. SO GET OFF YOUR STUPID LITTLE PANSY WHINY ASS AND JUST LISTEN because as it is the old guys have a right to speak up (and you and I helped pay the price for it as much as they did) and when were 65 and getting shit on by nearly everyone were going to want to be heard as well.
I also think the 10 year limit needs to be removed. Like many others when I got out had a hard enough time making ends meet. We had just come back to the states and had to start from scratch. I worked two low wage jobs and husband worked another. There was no time for school. Now that I have the time the benefits have expired.
I remember all during my 20 years of active duty, we were told that even up to a month prior to the 10 year anniversary of our leaving active duty, if we started using the GI Bill and kept using it, we could keep it until exhausted. I started using it a year before the 10 year mark. When my 10 year mark hit, I was immediately cut off leaving 3 unused years remaining. Now I am partially disabled and have no access to it.
This is common among those that trust "professionals" in the US Army who are explaining benefits. I have discovered from my time in that the only way to ACTUALLY find out facts is through regulation digging. Given, regulations were not as available back then, but in 20 years I am sure you could have gotten ahold of it sir.
Actually like many things they changed the regs partway though. Then true to form they buried it and forgot to promlagate it to those it would effect. IE the retirees and prior service. Just like the promise of health benifits congress changed the rules ( broke your contract ) and we have no recourse. Think on this and realize they will do it to YOU as soon as it's convient for them.
Hi David. You don't have to be classified as a full-time student to get the housing allowance. You just have to be classified as more than half-time which is usually 7 credits or more, but it really depends on what your school classifies as full time. Some students carry 6 credits and still get the housing allowance.
CSM(Ret.) Kness
Army Reserve Staff Sgt in Supply
did my 6yrs ending 1967; the last year served we were on immediate notice to go to Germany and to go home and make the arrangements for departure in one week. Later it cancelled. Point being we were well aware of being committed to active time anytime. Yet no benefits.
HAHAHA EXACTLY!!!! Quit your bitching, educate yourselves, and shut up. Everyone wants a damn hand out. If you don’t rate, you don’t ******* rate. Period.
I'm trying to find a way to have another small part to the Bill.
I feel that Viet Nam Vets should be able to finish schooling.
GI Bill Reform for Viet Nam era.
* 58,236+ killed, 153,452+ wounded and 1,740 + missing
* Numbers are not including Cambodia and Laos.
Call your Congressmen & Senators. Let's get up and fight again in unity.
Dino USMC 69- Once—— Always. Semper Fi.
Sorry "Mr. Nixon" you can't comment on older veterans—you don't qualify. Your dislike for old people as you call them will come to haunt you sooner than you expect. (You'll always be 19? sure Peter Pan) Your age is obvious and your respect for elders is indictive of your parents knowledge on how to raise a child. You are a mothers pashon accident Mr. Nixon and have not a clue as to why "older vets" participate in these discussions. It has taken us several years and a lot of action to the legislators of each administration to get the benefits we have now. We wrote the letters and made the phone calls to Congress critters so that vets following us didn't have as rough a road. But that does not pertain to you because you are NOT a vet. You have never been in uniform and called your buddy "Brother"
ACTIONWRITER THANK YOU FOR RESPONDING TO NIXON. HOW VERY SAD TO BE HATEFUL. LIKE NIXON SHOWS THIS COMMENT HE MADE :It sucks that all of you Vietnam guys got the shaft with that war but lets face it we fought "The War on Terror" you guys just fought a bunch of chinese people in the jungle. LOL. that was kinda funny NIXON THAT IS FAR FROM FUNNY, THIS IS BY FAR THE MOST SICKENING COMMENT I HAVE SEEN. VIETNAM VETS FOUGHT VERY HARD THEY LOST ALOT OF BUDDIES THEY SAW ALOT OF DEATH, THEY CAME HOME TO BE SPIT ON. NO THESE BENEFITS ARE NOT FOR THEM, DO I WISH THEY WERE? YES BUT THEY ARE NOT: TO BE CONTINUED
I THANK EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU VIETNAM VETS FOR YOUR SERVICE AND YOUR SACRIFICE I WISH THINGS HAD BEEN DIFFERENT, I WATCHED THE PAIN OF A VIETNAM VET, MY HUSBAND. THESE MEN OR WOMEN ARE NOT WHINING THEY ARE ASKING FOR THE SAME RESPECT AS ALL RETURNING VETS AND WILL GO ON FIGHTING FOR WHAT THEY CAN GET. THEY HAVE FOUGHT SO IT WOULD BE BETTER FOR THOSE VETS COMING HOME NOW, SO IT WOULD NOT BE LIKE IT WAS THEN, ANYONE THAT THINKS THE WAR ON TERROR WAS ANY MORE PAINFUL THAN WHAT THEY WENT THROUGH I DO NOT BELIEVE IS A VET AT ALL. REAL VETS CARE ABOUT OTHER VETS THEY DO NOT NAME CALL AND SAY HATEFUL THINGS. NIXON PLEASE YOUR COMMENTS ARE SAD ,IMMATURE, UNCALLED FOR AND I FOR ONE SAY THANK YOU TO EVERY VET, MAYBE THAT IS TO HARD FOR YOU TO DO.
DITTO — I do thank the Vietnam Vet generation. It does (and has for a long time) break my heart that you all were not welcomed back as the heroes you are. Your love and dedication to our country is nonquestionable – especially since you were called to duty, didn't run away, fought well, watched out for your buddy, came back, and reinvented your lives from scatch —-WITHOUT LASHING OUT OR RETALIATING AGAINST ARROGANT OXYGEN THIEVES. I know it takes a lot out of me when I hear people talking bad about us. But I haven't been called or assaulted as your generation.
My generation does owe our Vietnam Brothers & Sister for your service.
Thank you and hang in there!!!!! The war never ends inside us……
Well said brother! As for Mr. Nixon..well enough said! I served in the Gulf and a few other places before that, that you will not find on any documents. I have nothing but respect for my brothers that fought and died for our great country. The OLD Timers paved the way and are all heroes in my book! And deserve all of our respect. Honor them and all vets. If it wasn't or them this world would be a very different place.Give them what they need and deserve! Brothers in arms till the end!
To ACTIONWRITER. Sir I just want to apologize if you took any part of what I posted to heart. You are right, I am just a kid and I'm sure I say alot of things that are immature and out of line at times. But as serious as I can say this I will tell you that I have nothing but sincere appreciation for all veterans of any branch or war or generation. I apologize to you and to all readers who I may have offended, especially thto those who were injured in combat. I hope you all can understand that I honestly never meant any of my comments to be taken serious and I initially meant it to be amusing.
Thank you Mr. Nixon. Your willingness to admit you error and appologize shows hope for you and your future. Many of us would have carried hurt and anger from your comments for a long time. You have gained my respect. And gave me hope that you may someday take an honorable stand for the life and values you hold dear.
It is so sad to see vets of different wars divide amongst themselves and do just what our enemies (foreign and domestic) want us to and split and bicker. It is the reason why the VFW doesn't interest me. I got sick of vets bitching about the fact that they got shafted and mine has it made. The best was when a few ignorant( POGS mostly) would act is if we didn't see "Combat" like they had! Fallujah, Ramadi, Baquba, hasebo, Herat, Khost, skhin, Kandahr etc. A BULLET is a BULLET!! The art of war stated clearly that dividing your enemy is the best way to conquer it and if any of you who got shafted think that the same rat bastards who screwed you wouldn't do it to us if they could get away with it you are delusional! It seems political Correctness has helped get one thing right and it is taking care of our veterans. Rangers Lead the Way!!!
Good one Pete. I attend online, and stated I would NEVER go to college, but here I am thanks to the Post 9/11 bil (spelled wrong for effect!).
I am very thankful that i have been receiving this GI bill after coming back from Iraq as a National Guard(also been in dessert storm)and going into the Academy for Homeland Security. If it was not for this $ while being in training for Border Patrol..it would have been impossible to move my family to the area where i was hired to continue training and pay the bills and child support to the ex. I just wish they did have this type of support for our Vietnam vets..its just awful..they certainly deserve it!
Wait a minute…so why should distance learning be any different than going to the actual school? It takes just as much work if not more to maintain online schooling as it does 'traditional.' Why do they have to take a reduced payment? Let's look at the big picture for everyone on this, really. Can we start using common sense and facts? How about talking the veterans instead of making assumptions. Everything else is campaigned for, this should be no different and the veterans future shouldn't be determined for them.
OK guys, enough of the "I didn't get a da__ thing after I came home whine". The WW 2 guys got even less than you. A progressive country takes time to realize the needs of it's people. I'm sure LBJ and Nixon didn't give a rat's butt about educating a retuning veteran. Now that it's happening, let's be grateful some of us veterans get a piece of the pie for a change.
How stupid are you? WWII vets got the greatest G.I. Bill ever given to Americans.
4 words – you – are – a – dumbass
I am sorry to the NAM vets out there and the shaft that you all received but in all fairness you have no right being bitter about the benefits new vets are receiving because we have no control over the atmosphere and attitude that this country had toward you that was your generation and apparently you did a good job in making them realize how wrong they were. but why would you want the same wrongs to be visited upon this generation
Regardless of disability, we are all veterans…it would still be nice to get a little respect somewhere without getting drug through the mud. I can tell you that from working with our P&T vets everday, the things that have happened aren't fair and hindsight is always 20/20. Coming back from OEF/OIF, no one wanted to hire me regardless of my quals and I had some. I was a liability. An education will get you farther, that is for sure, but I'm starting to find that the way of thinking back then is the same way of thinking now. We haven't evolved. Good luck to everyone on this. I do suppose every little bit is a small step in the right direction.
Evidently you have never been to war. Vietnam wasn't 40 years ago. It was last night!!
I am very grateful fot the nine 11 bill otherwise there would be no college aspirations for me. Its sad that many vets including Nam vets do not get to enjoy this. We should work for them but we all need to be proactive including Nam Vets and any vets all together. Thank you for your service it allowed me to serve when i was able to. Lets remember to take care of one another after our active service ,reserve or what ever the case may be. We are a group of Leaders although some shit backs do get through. Now that im getting older only 27 i still plan on helping those who will serve after me and before. Its up to us to create opportunities and help ourselves and others. I am a combat vet disabled and im going to take advantage of every benifit. We should also remember what we signed and why we did it. Some benifits were not even in existence then. Yet i do agree that any one who served comabat vet or not deserves the best benifits for there serves and remember we volunteerd. It takes balls to do that so if you dont get everything you want dont act like you were forced to do it. Except for the drafted vets…
Once again, the Dems want to take money they do not have and give it to those who make their choice (knowing what is at stake) at the time, then want additional $ afterwards.
Maybe they should just make it easy and put zero limitations (pay for school, book, housing, eats and entertainment) and pass the bills to our childrens childrens children!
You, sir are a typical jerk who never served in any army, yet you want to deny coverage to those who have laid their life on the line in order for you to watch Fox news and listen to the ones who never served a day. If you were so intelligent you would know it was the two Bushes who ran up an 8 trillion dolllar debt for two useless wars. It was Reagan who ran up a four trillion debt to invade two small Carribean countrie and remodel a battleship he used to sail around New York Harbor, then scrap..
I'm no fan of the Democrats Gary, but I think your logic is a little flawed… Remember that the only ones eligible for the GI Bill are those who have it in their contract, not just any vet under the sun. It's not a handout, its not welfare, and its not unearned. It is payment for services rendered. I might not of joined the Army if it wasn't included in my contract. I might have just worked through college… instead I chose to put my personal aspirations on hold, knowing that after my time was served, my expenses would be taken care of. I never expected, nor will use, more than what was explicitly stated in my enlistment contract. My state even offers free tuition for vets, but I won't be using that, because I don't feel like I earned it.
I may or may not be a typical GI-Bill user, but you should know that there ARE those of us out there who are not out to take advantage of the taxpayers just because we served in the military.
Hey VETS,
Do not get overly excited on anything that the
VA Adm. official will say or do, its only smoke.
I been trying for an increase to my combat related
service injuries for, at least, 10 years and there is no end in sight. They asked for my medical records, they lost them, then, tried to blamed me when I have proof, that it were received. Also, it doesn’t matter who in charge, Democrat or an Republican Presidents, they are nothing but job protecting Government parasite. I am an Vietnam Vet. and I talked to many Vets about theirs problems with the VA Adm., and I heard more horror stories than good ones. These people are not interested in helping the Vets., because theirs policies are to deny your claim first and to fight you for every cent that they might be force to give to you. Good luck vets!
I think the Post 911 Bill is a joke and a ploy for votes. Where is all this money coming from???? I am still active and use my TA for education. I will pay for my children's college so we as a whole won't be footed the bill later. Ask your congressman where the funding comes from…
There are probably a lot of Retiree's who, for a variety of reasons, didn't have the opportunity to use their G. I. Bill benefits in the ten year window allowed. In my case, having to work full time and a divorce pretty much screwed up my post career life. Now, other then perhaps some VA programs, the chance to go to college, or other technical/vocational higher educational institution, is gone.
And with a 100% disabled spouse, even the chance for 'distant learning' is something that will have to come out of my pocket. A severely limited pocket. Wife's disability isn't bad, but with the divorce and "Former Spouse Protection Act" thievery, we can only hope that the cost of living doesn't increase to much!
OK, the above is my problem, whining done.
I STILL wouldn't trade a day of my career for ANYTHING. (Tho I might very well have avoided that marriage thing!!)
I retired October 31st 2001, 50 days after 9/11. Guess what? I'm SOL for this GI BILL because you need 90 days after 9/11. So I'm still playing with the Montgomery GI Bill. It's done OK by me so far but no family benefits and the benefits are much less than Post 9/11 GI Bill.
Have been a military spouse for almost 30 years. we paid for our kids tuition . Just want to know where is the money coming from. It is great that they are doing something for us, but i honestly feel blessed that we never had to worry about medical and dental.
These are much needed changes, I am currently a dependent studying at a University of California school and there have been more issues with my benefits this year, including but not limited to: late payments, lack of communication from VA between both the School and myself, late living stipend. These have caused me to have to take out loans in order to pay for my schooling on time and not have a hold put on my account, which would drop me from classes. This was supposed to help me save money and avoid loans until grad school and all it has done is made things more complicated. I am glad the Senate is finally taking an interest in this.
It is apperant that you had a very short time to
defend our country. you may feel that the world
owes you more than yopu get… I for one was in
three major conformations, WW11, Korea, Vietnam
I flew 16000 hrs. Spent many days away from home.
Got sprayed with AGENT ORANGE over 20 differant
times, and am now paying for that. Cancer three times and almost fearing the next physical. So Mr.
Nixon BACK OFF.
Thank you for your service. I am a post-9/11 vet. I came in as soon as i turned 18, namely because of what i saw on TV in my senior year of high school (9/11) I am thankful for all the benefits I am afforded.
Yet, I do NOT forget the sacrafices made by soooo many before me. I am obsessed with history and try to learn all that I can about our country. I know that does not compare to those that were there to experience first hand what occured, but you are not forgotten.
I work for the VA (please don't shoot-I work in a clinic, not compensation and pension or for vet benefits) but I do it because I work with vets every day. I feel like every day is an opportunity to meet another amazing individual. Veterans are the only group of individuals I respect this much.
I cannot express to you how much appreciation I have towards all the vets that have come before myself. My grandfather is WWII Vet and I am very sadened that we are losing a whole generation of heroes. Their stories cannot be told except by them.
Any post 9/11 vet that came in to serve His/her country would not be speaking this way to the men that PAVED the way for us younger vets. I believe Mr. Nixon is one who joined for what HE could get from his country, not because he has any patriotism or sense of loyalty and service to his country. He is a horrible representation of our generation. Please don't lump us all in with him.
I am very sorry for all those who are not afforded these benefits. I know I am frustrated with even the smallest benefits that newer vets receive, which i am unable to, so I can only imagine that a lack of GI bill and civilians spitting in your face upon your return would upset nearly everyone.
I was welcomed home by old men dressed in their uniforms, and with their VFW hats on- Heroes and their families- thanking us. It was the most humbling experience of my life.
I know it seems that you have been overlooked and It can cause resentment, but you can also look at it as your children and grandchildren getting the opportunties YOU allowed them to have because YOU fought for the freedom of OUR country. While it is certanly irritating that newer vets get better and better benefits as time passes by, I do not wish to take anything away from the future generations that serve our country because I did not receive the same.
I thank ALL vets from the bottom of my heart and just want you all to know, we are not all ungrateful, ignorant, self-serving jerks. There are many in our generation that have laid down their lives for this country, that have called their buddy brother, and are honorable troops.
Thank you all once again for your Service, sacrafice and commitment to providing the liberties that we all enjoy every day. Anyone who doesn't recognize the sacrafice that came before us, I believe is an idiot.
what the hell i still dnt like the fact that last year they gave us a 3000 dollar payment for college and then we had to pay it back they were taking 800 dollars out my housing allowance its always a catch with the government
Larry, they didn't give you a payment. They gave you an Advance on your Payments. If you are working and receive an Advance on your next paycheck, they withhold that money out of your next paycheck. Same thing here.
I hope this bill takes into account Active Guard Reserve (AGR) time. The current 911 only counts deployment time and all active duty time should count even AGR.
CW2(Ret) Green
I retired in 2007 as a AGR (27 Years) and I am getting full 9/11 G.I. Bill benefits. You need to go to the VA and check it out.
Mike SMSgt. (RET)
Were you deployed with a unit overseas at any time after 9/11? If so that is the basis for your post 9/11. Section 2 of the proposed change supposedily amends it for all AGRs (approximately 66K between NG and USAR).
If you didn't get deployed – what was the basis of your VA allowing for it while others weren't?
Never could finish college because of that sorry pre-9/11, post vietnam's 10K miserable excuse of a GI bill which payments never get their on time and you're forced to drop out…Appeals to VA regional office yielded disapproval after disapproval for a "non-credit professional program"…what a joke! I guess the Gulf War veteran did not count, huh? PISS OFF!!!!
Elwood,
You know that's heck of thing to say.I'm not a Nam Vet, but I do know what they're talking about.I've received some benefits out of being in, but they were'nt the greatest, and all some of these vets are probably saying is, that it's great that all of these programs etc. are out for vets, but what about the ones that are not eligible for them.I mean, I don't have a solution for it, but just because we receive/(d) a paycheck is that it.you know how many other people receive benefits/grants/scholarships,etc. and they haven't done a damn thing, or they're not even citizens, and BTW I'm hispanic myself just in case someone wants to accuse me of anything.
What about the NAM VETS?
Non-Citizen students under law in the United States cannot receive benefits…so please exclude that idea from this comment, that students who aren't citizens are receiving any state or government funding.
For all the vets,from the Revolution up till now, If you feel you are getting the shaft, take the time to go to your locale VFW, most of you haven't, reguardless of what era you served there is a program for you. the unemployed, re-education programs (Free to all). The injured or disabled, right to work program(easy to qualify). The programs are out there, but no one is going to beg you to use them. I am a vet, I was injured in combat, I get disability. I got layed off I went to the locale employment office asked to speak to a vet. rep he got me into a program that cost more than I would have got if I used my GI bill, I'll have my A&P in a month. All you have to do is ask someone for the information to help yourself
Remenber the VFW is for veterans of war, since Vietnam was not a declared or backed war, but a conflict, the VFW did not accept Nam vets, as I was told in 1973, they do now and can put it where the sun does not shine.
1958-1968 is a span of 10 years, not 20. Just thought I'd point that out.
Since you mentioned you served for twenty + years. But whose counting anyways, huh?! How about this job market? Sucks, don't it?
your not alone. Some of us modern vets were given the post 9/11 GI Bill and then after I was honorably discharged the Gov't decides 6 years wasn't enough either. They gave it out, then take it back away from a lot of people. Just goes to show how stupid and arrogant most of today's US politicians are. Sorry man. We youngin's are being left out just the same. Amen to ya soldier.
Your buddy, SSgt Craig, USAF 6 yr vet.
I'M A KOREA VET # LIKED TO TO COMPUTER CLASSES
i would like to know why a retired national guard that serve in iraq can,t give his benifiets to his child just because he retired before 09 he can,t be egible for the transfer of benifiets young
First and foremost, I would like to know just exactly who the idiot or idiots are that put a time limit on our EARNED GI Bill. That is really stupid- YES I AM TALKING TO YOU WASDHINGTON D.C. I would also really like to know just exactly what is so special about post 911. So forget the rest of us, lets just give the soldiers what they earn after 911 but to heck with the ones before. If I could still recieve my GI Bill- cannot because of the ignorant 10 year limit, which is NOT what we were told, we were told you had to start using before 10 years but it would continue past the 10 year mark if you were in school- it would be a very significant help. So my question is- WHAT ABOUT THE REST OF US?
NO ONE TO MY KNOWLEDGE IS SUBJECTED TO MEDICARE/MEDICAID. THESE PROGRAMS ARE EITHER FEDERAL/STATE REGULATED. EITHER YOU APPLY FOR THEM OR YOU DONT. I AM BOTH A KOREAN/NAM VETERAN -ACTIVE DUTY FROM NOV 52 THRU DEC.78. I TOO GET MOST OF MY MEDICAL TREATMENTS/RX'S FROM THE VA. THE VA DESERVES SO MUCH CREDIT FOR ALL THEIR UNDERTAKINGS.
I'm very excited about the new changes to the Post 9/11 GI Bill. I think it's unfortunate that our older vets are not paid the respect they are deserved by the government and fellow members of the military. We are all brothers in arms. This program is no where near perfect or fair but we are moving in a forward direction. Our country and our legislators are beginning to see that they must take care of those who work, fight, sweat, and die for this country. Every one of us who has served deserves this benefit.
That was profoundly put Sir. Thank you for serving our country!! I can't complain that I don't get the same benefits as retirees and don't have access to MOAA events that help get Retirees and Vets jobs, and disablity ratings that push me down the list when applying for ferderal jobs. My father was a Marine and got nothing for his service either. But never complained even with his injuries. He tought me its hard work and determination along with a positive attitude and prayer that will get you ahead in this life. God is in control.I have worked around many obstacles as I am sure we all have. Faith opens doors. We have so many freedoms and liberties that we take for granted. They may not always be there. I landed a great federal job with what i have to offer and hard work. I did 10yrs and am struggling just the same. We all are.
good job vn vetxzs witout our involvement there would be no va as u know it today
100%dav
Medicare is through SSA and has nothing to do with the VA. You are entitled to free medicare if you have worked and earned enough credits. They have programs to help you with paying your co-pays.. Contact Social Security and ask them. These rules apply to everyone. Did you apply for Va Disability Compensation? You have to do some digging in your state but there is help. There are Veteran organizations (Purple Hearts,etc) that can help you. Thank you for serving!!
You might try giving some of those "liberal college idiots" a chance….you might be surprised what you can learn if you open yourself up to change. There's a lot to learn on a college campus besides what happens in the classroom….and don't forget that being in the opposing opinion allows you to either adjust or strengthen your position….just try to be open versus closed and judgemental. Otherwise, as the wife of an AD Marine who has now served for nearly 29 years, I thank you and especially those who support you for your service……enjoy your benefits….you certainly have earned them and more.
liberal college idiots- that's a pretty dumb statement
It is under the Post 9-11 not seperate just more VA forms to fill out..
I checked. no transferring to our kids is not available to vets not on active duty at the time the bill was passed.
Why is it that when a bill is past for benefits to Veterans they are all classed by the conflict? Are we all veterans and shouldn’t benefits be just as it is veterans benefits. This might be a step backward but who decided that a veteran of the United States of America that served in the past was not eligible for benefits the same United States of America veteran receive now. Like others in the discussion have said these things are a work in progress so let’s progress if you are a veteran and are still alive you should be eligible period. A veteran is a veteran is a veteran saying this do you think that our senators will still give us the same benefits we enjoy today? Legislating for one group of vets divides us lets see eye to eye and pass bills that apply to every vet still alive. A life is a life a soldier is a soldier. I do see how it can be a PR thing and we are being used for there own personal gain. Divide and conquer very old trick. Some of us young guy need the wisdom of those that have gone before us and some of the older guys need our strength and vitality to continue the fight come on we are in the trenches and it does us no go to have a ME mentality lets plant a tree so our children enjoy the shade.
What Congress did with the stop-loss bill was a joke. In the Maryland Army National Guard we was told we had to sign an extension where thay type in a specific box for stop-loss for mobilization. I was told by a DFAS Stop-loss Rep. that I was denied because my extension was on the wrong form. I never in my life BEGGED for anything. I am a disable vetern with a 60% VA rating, Forced from my state gov. job. Financially in the RED trying to take care of my familiy. Depress and suffering.
Right On! I'm a Vietnam Vet, but my 88 years young Father-in-Law still only has Veterans Medical coverage, and only the Social Security Checks that he gets as his late wife's survivor. He usually leaves the heat off in Winter, etc. rather than be Comfortable, but be starving to death. He served from 1940 thru 1947, as a Coast Guard Gunner's Mate on Troopships, LSTs, Attack Cargo ships, and subchasers. Six years of constant sea duty, let alone invasion duty for N.Africa, Sicily, the Phillippines, Okinawa and support duties for Guadalcanal, New Guinea, & others. Who says he's too old to benefit from some appropriate form of Government assistance? How about these 'Senators' and Representatives, who work For Us, getting still needed aid to our Oldest of Veterans, many still living alone, at home. He has applied for aid, but always was turned down. Is that we want for Vets, no matter their era?
Yes,,, it is..
I still believe that the one major flaw with the GI Bill is the time limit imposed on elegiblity for use. It is inconceivable that a veterans benefits would have a time limit to use them or forfeit them. I believe that if GI Bill is elected by the servicemember they should be able to use those benefits whenever they choose. If it takes a disabled veteran 15yrs to be "able" to return to school, they should be able to utilize the resources that they "chose" to enroll in, while in service….Just my two cents!
YOU ARE SO RIGHT. I could not agree more. That ignorant rule/law has really put the hurt on me. I had to drop out in 05 because they just cut off my GI Bill due to the 10 crap.
I'm a Vietnam vet. I appreciate military service, but when I read, "While I am still serving in the reserves, I cannot transfer my benefits on to my dependents"… holy cow! Not only do you want government support for yourself for life, but now you want your kids in on the freebies too? Are you kidding me? No wonder this country is going broke. That money is coming from the pockets of wage earners. There is a limit. Don't be ridiculous.
I am with you there. I get irritated by the dependants bitching and moaning about the GI bill inperfections and when are they going to get it fixed. I think the weekend warriors only get a portion of what active duty vets get (I hope that is still the case) But i believe the only dependants that should be allowed to use the GI bill are widows/widowers and children of those that died in combat, or service connected.
It is irritating because the dependant has no clue what sacrafice was put forth to give them free college, when there are so many vets themselves that do not even get a GI Bill or any money for college. It is BS. I think if wives and kids want a GI bill they should have gone to boot camp and served and earned it. This may sound resentful, but they will never appreciate the benefit as it should be appreciated. I'm sorry.
Your both wrong.
Its not asking to educate me and my family. It is X benefit for X number of yrs. If I don't or can't use it then I should be allowed to offer it to my family. It is a valuable part of what was offered in my contract. I honored my contract above and beyond what was required. Your saying I'm asking for something free. Its owed to me and I should decide how and when its used. What kinda noise would you make if I said pay me the education value in cash if I so choose?
I doubt that you'll see this, but anyway:
Yes, we "weekend warriors" get a portion of Chapter 33 depending on how long they've been on Title 10 orders (possibly AGR Title 32 soon). For example, during my initial six year ARNG tour, I served for three years on Active Duty, with most of that being in a war zone – so I am entitled to 100% of chapter 33.
You could compare this with a soldier who spent a three year tour in the States after 9/11 who also is entitled to 100% of Chapter 33.
As far as your opinions of the dependent issue, you are advocating for the removal of the only retention tool that the GI BILL offers. Without that bit about retention, Chapter 33 would not have been signed into law.
You must be an English teacher. Some of the mistakes probably came from trying to type with small keys- or did ya bother considering that avenue. If you have a problem with vets little boy, I can very easily and quickly fix all your problems. Pathetic people make comments like yours. Vets are the reason pitiful people like you are still somewhat free.
AMEN Kevin M… Rock On!!!
This is good for the Veterans .Im GLAD they are getting something good for a change….but they should make GI Bill same for all Veterans..I served from 1979-1992 and all I received was " VEAP" it SUCKED..(Veterans educational assistance program) where they match 2 to 1 dollars I submit up to 7600 dollars total…what can I get for 7600 dollars…not even books!!!
These guys are sitting FAT… YES Take care of ALL VETS I am disabled and under Vocational Rehab Program….I only get $500 a month..Total.
HOW CAN I LIVE ON 500 DOLLARS A MONTH !!!!!
We should BOND TOGETHER and kick these politicians out of Office that collect life pension for serving only 1 Term..crocked Bast–ds
No S**T 1982-1992 and a D.V. too I feel your pain. Good Luck!!!
I did not serve ion Nam, I did serve from 91-94 and yes I visited the giant sand box. I have the UTMOST RESPECT for our nam vets. I go out of my way to shake their hand and tell them THANKS. So I tell you- THANKS, you and your brothers have all my respect.
Hey Kevin, how about "brothers and sisters" deserving respect? We are not going to sit back and be ignored. Another Vet.
Pokets of the wage earners that recive the benifits of my battle buddys life. Do I have to go on please vets arn’t bankrupting our nation there fighting to hold on to it.
Okay everyone let's take note the gibill and being services conected are 2 diffrent thing
1. The gi bill is a program were the enlisted member has about 100$ a month taken out of their check in order to recive the gi bill benifet. You get this benifet when you opt to pay into it. Regardless of weather you are service connected or not.
2. Now if you are service conected and meet the requirement for post 911 you get the option to use voc rehab or post 911 but with voch rehab you get to take a test that can help you figuer out what direction in life you should take as far as a career path. Plus you get to meet with a counsler who explains the results of the test and talks to you about what you want to do in life and ask about what obstical there in your life.
So with that being said i did not use the voc rehab I choose to use my post 911 gi bill entitelment. It is hard as heck to get a job and make it when you get out. All that hard work and knowldege we gain in the military does not amount to a hil of beans for a lot of us. With that being said I feel blessed and fourtionate to have the post 911 gi bill and am happy to use it to get my life on track. I understand how hard it is to go back into civilian life and sit in class full of people who have no clue of what real hard work is (except for the forigen students) there really needs to be a program to help us vets to re-adjust to civilan life. For those who say it's not fair that the "new" vet gets this benifit should check the selfs and stop being selfish and let the new vets lead the way so we can reach back and give the "old" vets a helping hand.
Everybody loves a troll
I have chosen to attend a private institution. As it stands now, I will be able to cover the higher tuition cost using the Post 9/11 GI Bill in conjunction with the Yellow Ribbon program. I'm concerned that any adjustments being made may be a disadvantage to those attending private universities, and if that is the case might there be some sort of grandfather clause for those already enrolled. I'm curious if they will base the national average cost of education on public schools alone or will private schools be included? I have just honorably completed my 5 year enlistment today and will be staring school this September.
The stipend fpr distance learning needs to be included for vets that live in large rural states like Wyoming that have just one four year university. In this case it happens to be in a corner of the state and not even centraly located making the problem even worse.
This is not only an issue for rural vets but also for vets with certian kinds of brain injuries as well that may have travel and educational considerations that change on a daily basis that make ditance learning the only viable option avialable. The current situation in reality discriminates againsts these and other like disabilities as well as rural veterans.
I was told that if I go for Voc Rehab it would lower my VA rating. SO I’m pretty sure that if I got an education the samething would happen. Due to my illnesses work is out of the question. Considering I just spent seven days in the hospital it would be hard to go to school also.
Using VocRehab will never lower or change your VA Disability Rating. Who ever told you that is stupid. I used VocRehab for 3 years. My Disability rating is still 60%. You need to apply for VocRehab, see a counselor and get all the facts instead of talking to whomever gave you this bad information. http://www.vetsuccess.gov
How about no exp date on all GI BILLS. We should be able to use it when we have no more entitlements left to receive.
I don’t get it! Just like everything in life, we signed up under a contract with rules. If you didn’t like the offer you shouldn’t have signed up.
For those of you that didn’t use your benefits, or worse yet, didn’t know the rules, I say TDB!
Good point. except they changed the rules after many of us had already gotten out. There is no such thing as a "contract" with the government. Just wait to see what happens when this conflict is over, and it will be.
It’s good the newest veterans get benefits. I only spent 10 years in and would have willingly went into combat in a second. But I got hit by a truck, messed up my leg and I had to get out. I did claim benefits and the VEAP that I paid into for 3 years “wasn’t available”. I checked 4-5 times and it never was explained where it went. No schooling. Sorry I didn’t serve during war so I guess my 10 years in the Corps was just for show with no commitment on my part. My son wants to go into the Corps to prove himself but a few have said to him to go into maybe the Navy so he will have a career when he gets out. i worked 12-16 hours a day and don’t enough money for school or more training of any kind. I am GLAD they give these guys a lot. It’s a hard world and you need all the darn help you can get to make it.
Sorry, meant to say I DID NOT CLAIM disability benefits and tried to get my VEAP I paid into.
I guess me and Jay were thinking the same thing at the same time. This issue should be on the minds of every veteran. There are a lot of us, and we need to start sending letters. I had these people do it for me at http://www.rallycongress.com/2/2848/veteran-gi-bi…
Can you believe only 19 veterans so far used there service. It's only $9.00 and since I live in NY they sent letters to:
Dear Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D NY),
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D NY),
Rep. Yvette Clarke (D NY-11),
Here's what the letter look like below(and if you don't want to spend $9.00 at least sign the petition. We Are Many.
Dear Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D NY),
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D NY),
Rep. Yvette Clarke (D NY-11),
UN-USED VETERAN’S GI -BILL EDUCATION BENEFITS SHOULD NOT EXPIRE!
In the spring of 2009 Travis entered college for the first time. He was laid off from his job of nearly 9 years as an Aviation Mechanic "due to changing global economic conditions."
Travis had served active duty with the US Marine Corps from August 1995 thru August 1999 and received several awards and accommodations for his service. While in the Marines he paid a portion of his earning into the GI bill program in order to maximize his benefits for college.
After active duty Travis was obligated to remain on reserve status until April 21, 2003. Travis received an Honorable Discharge on June 27, 2003.
Despite having never used his Montgomery GI Bill Education Benefits Travis was told by the school education officer his benefits would expire 10 years from his last date of active military service.
This rule gave Travis only 2 semesters of benefits when he was entitled to 36 months of benefits.
Many US military veterans have life circumstances that prevent them from using their benefits immediately out of military service. Therefore it is important that:
GI BILL EDUCATION benefits should NOT expire until after the 36 months of benefit entitlement has been used by the veteran.
You can write letters to your Congressional Representatives for Free. Why would you pay some one to write a letter for you? Doesn't make sense to me or others, which is why only 19 people have paid their $9.00.
You can even copy and paste the letter above your self and send it to your own senators and representatives. Come on vets, we have to take action if we want to see it happen.
Rules, what are you? a nun, free your mind!!!
Isn't this sad? We all need to stick together and write our congressmen. I speak from the heart when I say that a real combat vet will always watch your six you nam grunts aswell as any surviving Korean vet grunt. It is only those that have been out side the wire that truly have respect for thr GRUNT. So as a OIF and OEF grunt we need not to forget our brothers who have fought Congress before on all the important issues that are now better for all new returning vets, we new vets that have come home need to carry on the torch of our brothers they did there time and the war for us in the sand box is over but there is a new war at home.
Just want to get this off my chest, you YOUNG vets, which I am one, need to realize that these old vets(Mr.Nixon pay attention) paved a way for us to have such benefits which you so desreve and slander at this point, if you would realize that they have went through the same things we go through, they just didn't call them terrorist then and realize we should ALL get the same treatment because we served. SO youngsters thank an old vet for your benefits.
You know I don't really like any of this either… I had no choice at first, but to go to a "TECH SCHOOL"! Now that I have remarried and still enrolled I cant claim any of the Post 9/11 G.I.Bill; nor can I pass what is left to my spouse or kids. I believe that everyone that is owed should receive what was promised. Quit beating around the bush with our "hard earned money" and let us get on with the lives that we've chosen before the "NEW BILL"!
My true wish is to return to Active Duty and start all over… Because I feel I could have done alot more for my country!!!
What was promised??? No one who left the military prior to 1 Jul 08 (when the law was signed) was promised that they could transfer their benefits to their children or spouse.
I'm totally against this bill. Leave it alone. In state tuition is too complicated. Are you kidding me??? All you have to do is read. This would completely mess with the aid I'm currently receiving. A national average would never work. A college in Montana is obviously going to be cheaper. I live in NYC where the cost of living is extremely high. It would lower my aid considerably and I might have to choose another institution because of it. Leave the GI Bill ALONE!!!
I feel for the vets of the past that were not awarded the education benefits they deserve. Government should rectify this. The veterans that recently retired should be able to pass on their benefits to their children. It's only right they served 20 plus years. They've earned it.
I have a feeling private institutions will fight this bill tooth and nail. We as veterans finally get the opportunity to go to private universities and compete and with this proposal they are taking it away. This bill is not in the best interest of the veteran at all. Just my 2 cents.
I'm going to have to agree with Gordo. First off, I honestly don't know why people are having so much trouble understanding the Post 9/11 GI bill, it's pretty clear cut. That said, I feel that replacing the current In state tuition system with a plan to average total U.S. education costs will hurt those choosing private institutions as well as those with higher in state tuition. I just finished my enlistment yesterday and will be starting school at a private university in Boston this fall. I have already enacted my post 9/11 GI bill under the original terms of the bill and now fear that I will no longer be able to afford the higher tuition of my school because of a senator from Hawaii. If the changes are made, I wonder if those that have already enrolled could be grandfathered into the bill under the original terms. I urge anyone with similar concerns to write their elected officials.
The time limit for the Post 9 11 GI Bill is 15 years not 10 years. The 10 year limit applies to VEAP, Montgomery GI Bill, and the primal GI Bill.
sorry for the typo. It should have read "original GI Bill"
This is the same attitude congress/senate have taken for many years not just towards nam vets but all the way back to WWl shame on you all veterans (note) I said ALL veterans should be treated with respect and taken care of and should not matter if they joined or was drafted they (Served their Country) and it should not matter where they served.
Every time I hear about all these new benefits and how do we help the younger vets, Bad memories come back.I have pain throughout my whole body. I have tried to get disability since 1984. I did not want the disability because I felt guilty about it. Now I am on so many meds,will anyway Semper Fi. I wish the government would take the same oath. I am not angry with the new vets just the government who still thinks us Viet Nam Vet are just a forgotten bad memory.
Viet Nam Vet
Just WOW!! How many of these "great" veterans are going to keep complaining?? You talk about "service" but youre crying because you didnt get the benifiets of those serving now. You join to serve, so stop whining about these new benifits that are offered and act like a honorable veteran. Not like a child who feels entitled to have everything everyone else does.
I totally agree brother. its the "post 911 g.i. bill" not the post nam bill. veterans you are but not veterans of the global war on terror. and if you were a non commissioned officer or 11b and your complaining, your wrong. we don't serve for money and benefits, we serve for honer, glory, and the defense of our great nation.
yea exactly, it is expected for the benefits to get better in time especially with the cost of college on the rise. It is not like the benefits are going to stay the same for all those years.Everyone just needs to stop complaining and just realize that the changes are a lot better.Veterans of older wars just realize how it’ll help your grandkids or kids out. Just stop complaining and leave the newer veterans alone!
The original GI Bill gave some outstanding benefits to the WWII and Korean Conflict vets. Then congress, to pay for all those Social Programs created post JFK had to find the $$ somewhere. The easiest was changing the GI Bill and Med. Benefits of Vets. I (20+ yr vet) came in under the VEAP program (the worst one created by them in my opinion, which gave a 2 for 1 payout, but u could only contribute for one year at the max of $100 per mth (total = $3600)) and THAT was to help me get an education!!! Congress is trying (though not very hard) to correct the oversight. Of course they will NOT do anything that will jeopardize their getting re-elected, or take away from ANY of those social programs created. Also I will bet that neither they or their families are suffering in obtaining ANY of the same bennies that we Vets keep having to fight for!!
I am a Gulf War Vet who used part of my G.I.Bill but time ran out and the remaining money went back to the GOVT. My husband never used his and as his spouse I should have able to use his but the time limit!! My opinion, there should NOT be a time limit on when you use this benifit. I have been waiting on my disability hearing for a while now and just about ready to throw in the towel with the military rules and regs. Gulf War Vets are still fighting trying to prove things happened over there that’s being kept quiet. ANTHRAX INJECTIONS REALLY DID A NUMBER ON SOME SOLDIERS. Best wishes to all that are fighting for what’s rightfully yours. Fight for yourself now you fought for your country, now you have to fight your country to get what you deserve.
I been having all types of medical problems since I was given the Anthrax shots. My blood work has been eratic whith many other health problems.
I hope they come forth with the trueth about the Anthrax shots before I die.
To those who quietly did the right thing, go to school- learn a trade, profession, perhaps meet your spouse too.
And as a Vet mentioned here, quit your damn whining. Most of us from late 60s, early 70s never once felt the government owed us a free ride for the rest of our lives.
I have seen more complaining in modern servicemen, Vets- you are a far cry from those who preceded you, and again, to those who did their jobs and did it without seeking acclaim and have not been constantly whining, stay that way. It is the here and now and future that counts- we are faced with a land that worships money more than peoples' souls- ridiculous prices for medical care and homes. Your generation needs to change all this and make life worth living because right now living is a game- is intolerable: no factories/jobs, affordable homes, affordable medical care.
Good luck- I am just getting older. I first joined 68 and then as Reservist later went to baghdad area.
Maybe US citizens will also get their farms and factory jobs BACK- some day.
active duty soldiers that have student loan repayment are they eligible for the post 9/11 gi bill
I am currently getting Voc Rehab benefits. I am attending the same University as others that are getting 9/11 GI Bill. There is one major difference….They are getting over $1,100.oo more per month than I am. Same University, same classes. Go Figure that one out.
"Only the dead remain silent" I am a vet and the only way you can change any thing is step forward and take up the flag again and put your ass on the line.
I do not like the way security clearances are dropped when you leave the service i had a several clearances so when i applying to the federal government for a Job i am very qualified, "You must have an active clearance" i was quoted by some dumb pencil pusher.
Hmm i got very pissed and went to my favorite senator in Alaska Begich and suggested why we have MILLIONS of veterans that had very thorough background checks from OUR government just setting there and not being used for the jobs they are qualified for since who has $20,000.00 for a security clearance and two frigging years to wait for the item!!!!
He thought it was a very good idea since all it takes is about a week to check state and federal data bases and see if you have been good LOL and reactivate them.
I am hoping it will pass so some of us can get work and take the money out of some fat cat's pocket .
The point is bitching never gets you any thing only action if we vets do not like it we can change it since we have millions of us and a *******ballot has all ways beat a lot a feel good *******.
The senator from Hawaii wants to help we should stand up behind him and make it happen and then hold him to it or Mr ballot will boot him.
Oh and i am still fighting the VA after being denied medical seems they do not like vets that have been exposed to radiation it is kind of hard to prove after 20 years.
Up over or around an obstacle whether an enemy or our own government
I feel that ALL veteran's are entitled to benefits, especially educational benefits. But I imagine it's a cost/value analysis on behalf of the government that stops things like this from happening. The vietnam era generation is at LEAST 50 years old. In the 70's and largely 80's a college degree was not as required and thus many of these people have gone on to lead and excell in career fields and are near retirement. Some have gone on to use the previous, albeit poor, benefits of the MGIB. Unfortunatley, as it was stated in earlier posts, some people take classes simply to get the housing stipend. As there is no GPA minimum to receive the Post 9/11 GI bill, there is absolutely no checks or balances to stop anyone from utilizing this to supplement an income. Now I am NOT saying that veterans are dishonest, or that this would be the standard, or even near it.
But, as I said, it's a cost/value. How many Vietnam veterans will significantly contribute to the job market in 4 years if this was passed this year and they started college immediately? In a worsening economy and job market, they [congress] are looking for the means to prevent new veterans returning from war from facing the SAME difficulties finding employment as the Vietnam Veterans did by providing transitioning Vets the means to attend college, now often a required part of education to get a job that will support a family. The Vietnam Vets have not been passed over as a sleight against them nor was this intended as a "spit in the face". The government is using the difficulties the Vietnam Vets faced to ensure the country supports and honors returning veterans now.
I want to know about the middle road guys that came in during VEAP. When I early retired I was told that I could not buy into the Montgomery GI Bill. The thing that pissed me off is when I went to outprocess they let three people in front of me at the finance outprocessing buy in to the GI Bill. 1 was a rifted Maj who must have been screwed up because he was getting out be cause he was passed over too many times and was forced out. And as an officer he already had a college degree. The other two were being chaptered out. I don;t see the justice when you serve honorably you get the shaft and if you screwed up you get the prize. Some system.
If you have served in the US military with honor at anytime, you deserve all you can get. We all sacrificed something doing our time. The government is taking from us all the time. If you do not take care of thre people who take care of you, soon you will not be taken care of. It bothers me to see some of the comments made here about Nam vets. Is this what the military has come to, Brotherhood means nothing, glad I am retired.
WHY THE VETNIAM VETERAN NOT GET THE PROPER TREATMENT OF THERE BENIFITS LIKE OTHER CONFLICTS THAT WE ARE IN NOW .PLEASE
DO WE NEED TO DIE FIRST TO GET ANYTHING AT ALL. I SERVE THIRTY YEARS IN THE US NAVY I AM PROUD OF IT YET LOTS OF PEOPLE DIDNT EVEN GO TO VETIAM AND THE GET THERE BENIFITS.
All you shameless vets with your "what about me" mentality, if you didn't use your benefits when they were valid thats your issue. And congress really wants to make this bill even better, news flash we cannot afford it. So many dumb as heck veterans are at my school, they really have no business in college, but are there because of the pay check. This bogs down the classes, and depeletes the budget. If improvements are going to be made then the VA should mandate a higher grade than pass. If you can't hack getting B's then the gov shouldnt pay for your school, and that should be applied to the leeches on pell grants as well. This is America, no free rides.
Hey Jay,
There's an idea that the more educated a people are, the more productive they'll be. So, it's in our nation's interest to educate its citizenry, and perhaps starting with those who were willing to defend it is a good thought. Besides perhaps generic leadership, what post military job skills does an infantryman have?
Regarding free rides and B's. Whatever the GI BILL is, it is part of a compensation package. So, not a free ride. As for B's, if a C average is good enough to graduate from a university, why should a vet be set to higher standards? Perhaps the better idea would be to have schools raise THEIR standards… Of course, if a B average is mandated for Undergrad, would GRad passing be moved up to an A?
I think the problem is that it should be for all vets and not post 9/11 sure you have done a wonderful job, but so did we i made a whoppering 311.00 a month as viet nam vet and you say we cry to much yeah well how of your freinds died of agent orange by the time the govment finally acknowledge it most were dead well now how convientent . military teaches comarredship take of your buddy no one left behind ,.its ironic that were left behind again and the policticans were angry when millon strong went to washigton to stop it, things have change is sounds good but when get right down if i was dieng i crawl to phone and call 911 and go to real hospital not the vet hospital theat cut wrong legs off and use antinque health equipment thanks but no thanks, i have empzemia and they tell me there nothing wrong but they send meds for the problem i dont have trust me they will screw it up there the va and cant help it cause they been doing it for so long they dont know any other way.
You talk like some right wing, pissed off, whinning *******. I, too, am a 100% disabled veteran who served twice in Vietnam in the Infantry who would never refer to the youth of America as ingrateful, liberal slugs. Your mindset is dangerous for the future of America and I emplore you to consider what has made this country great from the beginning and this is openmindedness.
Do any of you realize that since you are veterans the VA will pay and take care of you no matter what. Even if you don't have insurance. If you served and are Honorable Discharged, you can go for care at any VA Medical center. They can't say no, if they do, you should call first the Director of the Medical Center, and if he can't help your Congressman. You are entitled. Go get it.
I and many others are still upset about not receiving an increase in our disability conpensation last year and yet countries in asia and other parts of the world are using are tax dollars for their own benefit(s),
I say take care of the VETS first and whatever is left the government can throw away to other countries and banks.
The VETS in the states need to survive on a daily basis,
This does nothing for the personnel who served between 1977 thru pre 9/11. They have no free educational benifits if they had not paid in. Now they are offering $49,000 for post 9/11. Whats up with that?
There are many Soldiers that I serve with that benefit from serving their country post 9/11; many that joined for the benefits. Soldiers that joined at age 18 or 19 and have deployed at least once and some twice in 6 years. These soldiers receive a myriad of pay and allowances. They earn additioanl leave, receive stoploss stipends, and partake in many Veteran benefits too many to list. In many cases they are far better off financially then their peers that did not serve; some of which are still attending college. These soldiers are now 24 or 25 and now must chose to manage free college, housing allowance, grants, and unemployment. Most have have minimal bills, substantial savings, and many are able to afford a first home in todays market. I argue that each and every one of them are entitled to what they volunteered for and are simply taking advantage of what was and is being offered. My biggest complaint is the Soldier that has nothing good to say about our military or our government but still brags about how much better off he is because of his/her service. My message to them; be grateful for what you have earned, and take your experience and benefits and put them to good use. As for me, my choice is to continue to serve our country for many reasons that are more important than the educational benefits.
I'd like it if they clarified disabled vets because apperantly your disability has to come from your branch of service, and if it comes from the VA you get shafted, I found this out when trying to go to school and being told that even though I'm at a 50% disability I didn't get the whole GI Bill, very frustrating
Not everyone can be helped. It is unfair to say that you are getting screwed. We served because we wanted to do something that no one else wanted to do, and if you were drafted it was a need from our nation. I served 21 years and it hurts me to hear that our country owes us something. There is no amount of money that our men and women could be given to cover the pain and suffering they have endured during a time of war. We are the best military in the world and we need to aways stand up when we are called no matter what. No one owes us anything but just due recognition for service given.
Well put, I too am glad to be part of the "Not looking for anything from anybody" group. They give me my 80% each month. I am an Afghanistan VET. Sorry about you NAM boys and how you were treated. I wish it was different. Just be happy that our boys do not have to go through the same crap. As far as this new proposal. I am all for it. I sent a letter already. The men deserve everything they get. They just have to take it.
Hey Brian, how about the men and women? Tired of being ignore, Another Proud Vet
It's a figure of speak dumb a**
I served from 1991-1999. I believe all veterans during whatever era should be allowed and / or given at least 5yrs of education assistance. There should not be a time limit on when you have to use it. You should also have the option if your not going to use it to pass it to your children or grandchildren. I paid $1100.00 into the program and I have not used it and I believe I'm out of the 10yr time frame to use it, but that's BS. Honor our vets by truly taking care of the men and women who sacrifice their lives for the freedom of others. I stand on this statement. Everyday we served, we let the world know good, bad or indifferent, we were ready and willing to give up our lives so that other lives could be that much better. We didn't do it for glory, fame, profit or recognition. We did it because we love this country. Mr. Nixon you are a very disrespectful individual and I question if you served because if you really did you would never discredit the service of any fellow soldier from any era. YOU ARE NOT ONE OF US AND IF YOU WERE IN THE PRESENCE OF ONE OF US YOU GET YOU A@# HANDED TO YOU…NUFF SAID TO YOUR DUMB A@#!!!!!!
The GI Bill in any form and its like is a double-edge sword. All such entitlement programs just breed more entitlement thought that builds to unsustainable capacities each generation. How far back do we go to make all those still alive from past conflicts eligible for new programs today?
Each generation learns the hard way how to make it better for the next. Each person makes their own choices that affect outcomes in their lives: love; children; vehicles; alcohol; cigarettes; club …etc, be honest with yourselves. Did you really do everything possible to achieve your goals of schooling when you were young or did you push it off to enjoy your youth?
Thank you for that effort. Just do not spoil it with the 'It's not fair' argument. That argument is childish and demeans your service. Matthew 20:1-15
I fully expect benefits to change after my retirement in 209 days, hopefully for the better of those still serving. Either way, I do not expect inclusion but welcome it if it comes.
GOD Bless.
In case all of you forgot it was 9-11-01. thats a little under nine years ago. if you served prior to that then your GI bill benefits probably would have expired! To all the Vietnam Vets, Yea you guys got boned bad, but if you didn't use your GI bill then why should they let you use it now. thats you screwing yourself, not the government or politicians screwing you. If they did pay for your schooling you would probably turn all your assignments in late any way. You had your chance now let me have mine!!
Just for clarify – my comment " DITTO" was a reply to Actionwriter.
That was my first posted comment.
Now that I know how this works:
Mr. Nixon – I hope you learn from all these replies to your comment and feel the shame you brought to the table. It is time to mature.
To everyone complaining about the spelling on these posts — you're kidding right!!! If you have so much time on your hands and are so concerned —- get off your buts and do –yes I said do——something. Volunteer and reach out to help our brother and sisters that need it.
Enough ranting on my part. Apologize to those these comments did not pertain to and keep fight the good fight.
I am confused when it comes to applying or filing for something like education benifits don’t know if I should file under retired reservist or Army,I have a retirement certificate from both. retired Army Reserve in 1979 and retired Army in 1993.
I am a two-tour Viet Nam Vet-'66-'67 and '70-'71. Retired at 21.5 years of service in '82. Went to GWU for my Masters full time and with full pay and allowances while on active duty. The Department of the Army, DoD, and the US Dept. of Veterans Affairs are outstanding, great, super! My combat related disability (Agent Orange) is medically treated and my compensation is in addition to my retired pay. Medicare and TriCare for Life are not free, but what is? Do I want more—Hell yes. Life is still good, however. In God I trust, not man.
I believe that all Government works in slow motion. People make mistakes and some do not care if you live or die. Study your rights and entitlements. Seek them and seek help in getting your due. I have met a few good men and women. Be patient, yet tenacious. Some government people are knowledgeable, caring and helpful. You must find them.
May the Lord bless..
To quickly address a recurring theme amongst many comments here, I would like to say that yes, it is sad that Vietnam Veterans have been screwed over. However, just because the system was “wrong” doesn’t mean that changes shouldn’t be made now, does it? I have seen a number of posts here that decry this attempt at fixing certain issues as being a waste, simply because they don’t fix everything. While I agree that there are still issues, this is a government entity we are speaking of, and as such it will never be perfect, nor will all the “kinks” ever be worked out.
I thank every Veteran of every war/conflict for their service. However, as pointed out in one post I read above, I will never complain and say it is “unfair” when the next generation gets more than I do/did. That is the nature of life — it extends beyond government and what is provided to us by them.
And always remember, the “them” in that last sentence refers to you and I, and every citizen. “We” need to stop relying on “them” because, in essence we *are* them, and should treat matters such as this accordingly.
I think Vets should get every possible benefit and it should be equal regardless of when you served. A lot of times when you join you don't know what your country will ask of you. Wars and 9/11 happen unexpectedly. So why shouldn't all Vets have the exact same benefits. They all served with honor.They have never fixed the VEAP gap either. Helping Vets is the best use of money for the country.
nobodys getting screwed…. nothing changes for you…. you cant miss out on something that was never expected.
Well those of you under the Old GI bill had a pretty good program, when I joined they made the "New" GI bill in an effort to save government money. We each had about 10 seconds to decide if we wanted to give up 30% of our pay for a year to have college later. At 18, who wants to give up a big chunk of money. If I was that into school then, I would have stayed in school rather than join up. I would love to see ALL vets from the beggining of the US be given a LIFETIME education benefit. At worst case, phase it out after retirement age. Post 9/11 changes were just a wakeup to get the newest group in the military, not to fix our broken systems.
The GI Bill after exit/retirement goes away after 10 years. Well, after retirement from the armed services, most people would like to feed and house their families. Next, to try to pay bills, one would think you would need to get a job. Some veterans make reduced salaries when starting a new job. Some, not all, cannot afford to attend college immediately after getting out of the service in order to just survive. Why can’t the 10 year limit be changed for veterans to use the GI Bill?
It appears you need the education 'liberal idiot'…you might try forethought as well…this bill is sponsored by one of those idiots you appear to detest. As a vet you've earned your benefits and as an American you are allowed your opinion…seems a shame though that as a human you don't use your brain.
Why do 'conservatives' or 'other than liberal' right leaning 'Americans' seem rooted and intent upon stirring adversity for no reason?…you certainly are entitled to attend brick and motar or not, for what ever your personal reasons, but you should at least expose yourself to tolerance, before uttering openly uninformed, poorly – if at all, thought out perspectives…I'd suppose there are a lot of independent and right wingers teaching and participating in the higher learning program/process, how else do you explain FOX news, Hannity, Beck, Culter and the King of Spin, Rush? Aside from my obvious disdain for the right, I at least listen, because they occassionaly have good positions…
you shouldn't take a position purely because you're opposed to another side or perspective,…it's idiotic to me that some folks object to policies that benefit them directly, at their own expense, just for the sake of opposing something they often don't understand themselves but blindlessly follow folks with monetary motives and don't have you or the interests of the country at heart…as a service member of over twenty years, I apparently naively thought the military instilled in us the 'enhanced' ability to think on our own…and as an American, I thought we always put the flag first…liberal or conservative…appparently not.
What is the difference between a retiree who committed, dedicated, and honorably completed 20 plus years of service before 9/11 and one who did the same Post 9/11. ALL retirees with REMAINING educational benefits should be eligible to transfer them to their dependents.
What so many of you are forgeting is that the Vietnam Era Vet is the one who changed the total outlook of the Military. We are the ones that got rid of the draft, got the vote to 18 and made the Military start to think of its members as people not numbers. I am the wife of a 100% Vietnam Era Vet an remember very well being treated as a second class citizen. So those of you who think the Vietnam Vet is whinning ought to step up and return the favor they did for you and support them recieveing equal treatment, afterall they did it for you before many of you were ever born.
Good God quit crying! I retired almost 2 years ago and I am back in college, and yes it is not fun at the tender age of 47. I had a hard time finding a job with an A.S. degree, so I jumped back in to school. We live with what we get and make the best of it anyway we can. I signed up for the Mont. GI bill when I started, but it improved while I was in, as does everything in this country. It is hard for everyone and if you didn’t take advantage of your benefits when you had the opportunity, then that is on you. If you want something you have to make it happen on your own and stop looking for hand-outs. Note to the Nam Vets, if you spent more time working on what you have or had instead of working on what someone else has we would all be better off. We should always work to make sure that those who come after us have it better than what we had, just like raising your kids. Don’t we all what our kids to have it better than what we had.
Today is the last easy day, because we don’t know what tomorrow will bring. NSDQ
Vietnam vets or concerns for them do not offer anyone any recognition.
To all veterens. Why are we snipping each other? I think and feel that we all are mad the veterens are always getting the wrong end of the stick.
We all have different problems and at some point and time our paths cross each other.
What we need to do is pool our joint strengths and go after the politican, no matter who they are. Just think how the politician whould react to their loosing
Their self appointed pay raises, paying s/s and medical plans as we must . That's just the tip of the politician iceberg, when they finally figure out they do not have a free pass for the rest of their life, they will think twice before passing any laws good or bad toward the armed forces veterens.
We that are veterens and have served in time of war, stateside or in the war (s) should always stand together and not play the politicians game of internal snipping united we stand divided we snip at each other and the politican smiles and says they were easy. In my eyes we are all brothers and sisters no matter what branch or reserve, coast guard etc. We served in the United States
Armed Forces. God bless us all and God bless the United States of America.
"What is the difference between a retiree who committed, dedicated, and honorably completed 20 plus years of service before 9/11 and one who did the same Post 9/11. ALL retirees with REMAINING educational benefits should be eligible to transfer them to their dependents."
Thank you WHenry. As a Gulf War veteran, retired with 25 years, that has always been my question also. The death of my husband 2 years ago made me the full-time breadwinner in my household, and I am ineligible for the money because of this little clause.
that's great but it would be nice for retired veterans to get some help with their college books, our books are very expensive.
This is very good for the military and vocational schools. not every one is bound for a degree program.
Why can't you NAM vets that are complaining about everything just be happy that the governmet is trying to help the new vets out. Quit whining!!!!!
I have been on the pre-post 9/11 for 2 years (ROYALLLY SUCKED), and I am now on the Post 9/11 for last 5 months, and I MUST say that it kicks A$$!!! For one, you HAVE to enroll in the yellow ribbon program or it's a complete waste!!! Second, now that you have grown some brains, (pick the best college you can that provides the yellow ribbon REGARDLESS of the state, ya I said MOVE away from home!!) and… Boo-YA!!! No out-of-state tuition for you solider, and LIVE like a KING!!! Heard it here first from the Happiest Global War on Terrorism Veteran on the PLANET!! ;-)
I am a OIF service disabled veteran. I understand the issues that previous veterans may have with this decision. But lets look at it this way, atleast they have done something that helps veterans. It may not apply to all of us, but atleast someone is getting additional help. I myself use the post 9-11, and recieve my disability compensation on top of it. It is a decent program, and with out it there is no way I could even dream of affording college. I hate to say it, but it is my generation that are the leaders for tomorrow, and my generation that seems to suffer from poor education. Lets just be happy they are doing something!!! So, as another veteran said up there, I am paraphrasing, stop whining!
I would like to propose that under this new post 911/GI bill that under the housing stipend that we should get the full month payment for the last month of the semester even if we go to the 15th of the month as I do not feel you could find full time work the day after all your finals are done… This would be a big help as It has taken me some time to find full time work after I finished both in the fall semester and the spring semester and fell short paying all my bills that month. So far I have completed 28 credits this year for my degree and getting the full monthly stipend for the last month of the semester would have a great finical effect on my ability to pay off my monthly obligations on time…
I would also like to say that I need thank all vets for where we are today with this new GI Bill and what they have fought to gain for all VETS… I for one would like to some come from our government for all those who have severed this country.
That was suppose to say see more come from our Government.
Twenty year retired vet 3 wars, I never got to use the GI Bill at all I didnt know there was a time limit , I dont think there should be one for any one that has served in our arm forces should be ok to received thisback in the forty they didnt have to worry about i for the vet to get what they applied for, Our country always rebuilds the countries that we invaid, I don t get it, we can take care of the world but not the USA..I pray that all of you will get what you apply for..And Washington will get off their —.USN retired
So you'd be one of the knuckle heads the military is using these benefits to retain? God help us.
The biggest change I’d like to see in the GI Bill is no time limit on when a vet can use their benefits after discharge if they didn’t need to use them, and served honorably.
AMEN AMEN AND AMEN CARL That s the way it should be…
Retired just after 9/11 with 22 years active, unbroken service. Not eligible for old GI Bill or the new Post 9/11 GI Bill. Thanks for nothing.
Then you did something wrong if you are not eligible!!! You must not have signed up for it and given your $1200.00 when you first signed up. That is your fault! Don't blame anyone but yourself.
When are they going to include the VEAP era veterans, the people left out of both GI Bills
Sorry for the 1st part repeat.
If the economy sours, you are liable for ever-increasing interest and lucky if you will ever be able to pay it off in you lifetime. Unless you have a rich relative, the loan will continue to grow while making the payments they assign you. The new education bill basically pays for your degree with change to spare. After working more than 50 years of my life, I will never be able to consider retiring. I currently work in a capacity to assist the veteran every day and know that Nam vets have been stiffed in many ways. They deserved much better, but you don't hear them ask for much. What do the lawmakers know? Most of them never had to serve in the military. Many of them did so in an executive capacity on the bankrolls from parents. There are a few that served honorably. Some of the comments I have read here are great, but there are always a few that act like they are the best thing on the market since the invention of the hammer. Forget sliced bread!
One of the hallmarks of our system of govt. is equal treatment under the law. Veterans of every era should receive equal treatment. Korean war vets were not treated equally to WWII vets, and post-Korea and Viet Nam-era vets (perhaps because of the huge number of draftees) even worse. Politicians in govt. and the vets orgs play one group against the others: shame on them. I’m glad to see that more recent vets get a better deal — but in America, it’s supposed to be equal treatment under the law. I hope that Korean, post-Korean and Viet Nam vets file a class action suit regarding this unjust situation.
Hello idiot, they are services connected, and yes we deserve it……
Right on Brother! I am right there with you
Thank You for your consideration of Vetrans. I am a Vetran of Desert Shield/Desert Storm and Iraq. Thank You!!!
I'll never be able to truely understand the feelings of some of the Vietnam era veterans. I was not there I was not subject to the protest or the animosity. I did join soon after that and was not treated well for the first few years. The country changed over a couple of decades and it was more due to the middle aged people who realized the injustice. We cannot go back and fix everything. Earlier vets made things better for today's military in general. I can only thank you for your service and continue to recognize those who were drafted and volunteered to fight or serve elsewhere in the world.
Older vets must recognize today's vet. ALL volunteered for service. Sure some had underlying reasons but nonetheless they volunteered. Give the respect they deserve. War is not fun no matter what era you served.
I am concerned with some proposed changes to the Post 9/11 GI bill recently introduced by Senator Akaka of Hawaii. Provision 3 of these changes aims to replace the current state by state tuition cap system with a plan to use the average U.S. public education costs. My concern is that these adjustments may be a disadvantage to those attending private universities as well as those with higher tuition at public institutions. I personally have already enacted my Post 9/11 GI bill under it's original terms. As it stands now, I will be able to cover the majority of my educational costs at a private university in Boston MA using the the Post 9/11 GI bill in conjunction with the Yellow Ribbon program. However, I don't believe this will be possible with a new system averaging U.S. education costs. I ask that if the provision is passed, may those already enrolled under the original terms of the Post 9/11 GI bill be grandfathered in so as not to disrupt any current educational endeavors.
True, which is garbage! I served 25 years, in 4 war zones and because congress could not make up their mind about the MGIB rules before I retired, 6 months earlier, I cannot transfer my earned benefits to my family members.
Gotta love the slow, indecisive leaders we send to the hill. Funny how they get ALL THE BENEFITS!
Bud, know where you are coming from. I'm in the same situation. Unfortunately, I think it was our own DOD that was allowed to make the implementation of the program a retention tool. I'm not sure why or how a Veteran's program (read: a BENEFIT you and I earned) was allowed to be so heavily manipulated by our DOD as a retention tool. Not to "blow my own horn", or to take anything away from those who earned, and were allowed to transfer their benefits to their children; but there were many in that category who served a faction of the time I did in Afghanistan and Iraq; not to mention Panama, Desert Shield/Storm, Balkans, and Somalia. Seems to me someone that served the better part of 2003-2007 in the OEF/OIF AOR should eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill; and be eligible to transfer that benefit to their children as others have been able to do. Bud, thanks for 25 years of dedication and service to our country. But more importantly, thank your children and spouse for their years of sacrifice, since they seem to have been forgotten.
There would be plenty of money to KEEP PROMISES to the Vets who serve this Country., that is if the Liberal CONGRESS wasn't always giving free money to people who want to sit around on a front porch watching others work. Giving free money to women who have baby after baby because they get MORE for each child, giving free money to liberal collegiate buddies for millions to study yellow billed snow birds in Alaska. VETS are used and abused! But I am still proud as hell to be one! My reward is keeping America FREE!
WOW, Mr. Nixon learned nothing about Camaraderie and devotion to duty and fellow members of the uniformed service! I served 25 years and in 4 war Zones, however, if I had the choice between the conditions my fellow Veterans (NAM vets) served in for 4 or 6 years, I would serve the 25 or even 30 I did, again before ever volunteering to switch. They had worse equipment, worse conditions, and zero public support– the complete opposite of everything I had over 25 years. Vietnam VETS, YOU ROCK! And because of your service and sacrifice, then protest, America treated us better because of YOU! Thank you for what you did for ME / US.
here they go again putting the screws to dessert storm vets they never gave us anything most are still not getting there benefits due them and have to fight to get compensation
Mr. Nixon,
Did you have an uncle or other male relative named Richard M. Nixon who was once a U.S. President? That is the only reason I can think of why you dislike "old people" so much.
I am a Vietnam Veteran and like all those veterans before me and after me, we fought for others freedom; yours included. That is why you have the right to say what you think. However our fight apparently did not provide you the right to be intelligent, but maybe you can benefit from the changes to the Post 9/11 bill and use it to improve your education and intelligence level.
I appreciate every benefit that I have ever received for serving my country. I am 40% disabled and due to Agent Orange exposure I will suffer the rest of my life with diabetes, high blood pressure and the continuous threat of cancer.
I believe the U.S. government has a responsibility to take care of all veterans and at the least they are entitled to the same benefits that are congressional & executive branch leaders are provided. Why does congress leaders & executive & judicial branch leaders entitled to free health care from the time they are elected until they die? Why do they receive over 85% of their salaries as retirement benefits for life for only serving a minimum of two terms? Why do should their spouses be entitled to 65% of the congressman's salary as a retirement benefit for the rest of their life? Why should the spouse be entitled to free health care for the rest of their life? Why is it they don't have to pay taxes on these benefits, but yet President Obama would like to start taxing disability, education and health care benefits of all veterans. If not for the veterans organizations stepping in, we would begin paying these taxes July 1.
So, Mr. Nixon you are entitled to your opinion and to speak your mind, no matter how stupid your comments! But remember if it wasn't for us "old" veterans that might not be the case. So you keep on whining (WAH! WAH! WAH!). We fought for you to have that right.
Michael S. Derry
101st Airborne
Vietnam 1970 – 1971
Indiana Air Guard
Ft. Wayne, IN
1974 – 1981
AMEN!
I feel that the new Post 9/11 Veterans education benefits are outstanding. The only issue that I see with it is, myself and many others who enlisted before 9/11 and served in Operation Enduring Freedom( I myself was there from October 12, 2001 to April 21, 2002), are not entitled to the full benefits under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. This is due to the fact many of us got out before serving 3 years after 9/11. I find it a shame that those of us who served during the first wave of this war, when our country called upon us to do so, are not entitled to the same benefits as those who enlisted after us. I myself am a full time college student with a 3.71 GPA and see it as unjust that we do not receive the full benefits of this great new education program. We served with honor and pride during the first wave of this war but are unfortunately not awarded the same benefits as others. Much of my expenses for school come out of my own pocket, and I find it hard to raise a family and further my education during these tough economic times.
Bravo to Suppo! Mr. Nixon is really not in touch. My career spanned 1970-1990 and contained a variety of everything from Nam to Dessert Storm. When I returned to the civil sector, the only benefit received was the little pocket change from the Montgomery GI Bill. That's barely enough to get started on any kind of educational program. I was actually unemployed without any benefit for a year and just managed to live on bare naked necessities. Permanent spinal damage from my time in the desserts and forrests of the world have left me little choice but to seek a career in administration. If you are like the thousands who have sought improvement in your hirability, you also know that the Stafford Loan programs are a trap made by close cooperation of the government and SallieMae.
I'm an OEF/OIF/HOA 2003/2004/2005 combat vet. I'm 70% SC disabled. I would like to thank all NAM vets for what they have done for our country. I want you to know I have seen my dad who is a NAM vet start to cry telling me a story about being called a baby killer and being treated like S**T. I thought that I could put myself in his place and feel what he was telling me, but I didnt truly understand it tell 2003 at the start of the take over. I found out first hand how it felt to be called a baby killer. I tore me apart inside to know that there were Americans that still treat Vets that way. For the ones that are "kids" in this war they dont speck for all the younger Vets. I find that I have a family that supports me and most of that family are NAM Vets. I look up to everyone of them, but yet they came to me to thank me. That was out of this world. They understand how it is to go to bed at night and still be at war. They know how it is to try to get through the day min. to min. So thank you my friends who help me today because the walked this road yesturday. GOD bless every NAM Vet and my other TRUE brothers in arms.
damn all you people crying about stupid **** if you want your kids to have the new changes or the new gi bill it's easy tell them to get off there ass and enlist bam they'll have it and you can go find something else to cry about!
Let me make this clear for all you post 1986 vet's bitching about not being eligible for education benefits. It sounds like most of you didn't sign-up for the Mont. GI bill and paid your $1200.00 for some reason or the other. There was another program back then were you didn't pay the money and got education benefits, but the money was not as good as the Mont. GI bill. If you are one of them then you are out of luck and the ones that went without the $100.00 a month for a year are the ones who made the better choice. Quit freakin' crying because you were to cheap and man up admit you made the mistake and not the government. So, move out smartly and draw fire and your case just draw fire.
It does not matter who we fought in any of the war's, skirmishes or battles! One is just the same as the other! We just used newer weapons each time. What we, the Vets did, was fight legislation at the same time so you "newer" Vet's could have something better than us older Vets did. We are all one country! We are all one Nation! We may have been given and/or fought to have the right to free speech. Each of us is entitled to it. BUT…. part of the gift of intelligence we were given is to know who, where and how to use that intelligence or lack there of! Us "older" Vets that "Mr Nixon" is gripping about fought so he could have that right to call us names. Our right is to ignore him and his lack of proper education that clearly shows. Perhaps he is the one left out because he didn't get his GI Bill! He should use it for english classes and anger management! And anyone that wants to knock down us Nam Vets, really should take a closer look at their own life and how they got to where they are now with the equipment they have. We didn't have the ability in Nam to have selective bombing calculated by computers. When we were told to drop one, we knew there would be collateral damage and we had to live with it.Today we can drop them on a dime and have room left over! So see! we made progress since Nam! But while we made that progress, let's not forget the ones who caused that progress to evolve and grow! One war is just the same as the next! Why should any one vet be ignored because of the newer fad in battle?
I have read several comments. The bottom line reality isn't about who did what while they were in. The bottom line reality is simply the majority of lawmakers never served in Vietnam, Iraq, Afganistan, or in the military for that matter. If you truly feel so strongly, the same applies from your military experience, you need to make it happen. Contact your representitive. It is rediculous that we must make a choice between government benifits for your service. Or, that our education benefits are time sensitive. I'm a very open person to critisim. Comment if you like, or make something happen.
Mr. Nixon, you are a disgrace to the military and ALL veterans! How dare you now complain about something or somebody – because someone else was complaining about something or somebody? You are obviously very young & VERY immature.
Actionwriter is absolutely right, if it was not for those before us…we newer Vets wouldn't have all the rights we do and continue to receive now! I have family from almost every war and I am compassionate about every soldier (war/peacetime) because they ALL encounter difficulties! Just because the government does not declare a "fight" a war, doesn't mean it’s not a battle!
You think because you fought the "War on Terror" that you're some hot $h!t? What were you…a cook? As sure as day turns to night, you too will be an "oldtimer" and I hope someone is compassionate enough to put up with you and your attitude. I'm not an oldtimer and I too, was not only apart of the War on Terror, but also the beginning…Gulf War. I am an Air Force & Army Vet and Combat Medic…you are not a "Brother"
Learn some respect for your elders and fellow soldiers!
I also want to just state one more interesting fact here. It is really a crying shame that it takes me "Mr. Nixon" to make a few derrogatory remarks regarding your duty and service to this country for all of you to stand up and in one voice shout what you should have been shouting 30 years ago. Which would be to shout out "we demand the respect and honor we deserve". It may seem like it is too late or nothing can be done but to all the Nam Vets reading this, "IT IS NOT TOO LATE". Write your congressmen and representatives and tell them in one voice "we demand the respect that ALL veterans from any war or generation deserve".
Good job in motivating people to get involved and work for what we have. Life is pain and we will appreciate what we have if we work for it instead of asking for a free hand out.
I was in the service before vietman started and still in when it ended. However, I am sick and tired of hearing vietman vets cry about not getting something. It is time they grow up and shut up and act like the men and women they should be.____ Jim
ACTIONWRITER.. Right On!!! and what a disservice to the name Nixon. The simplicity of the Nam situation could be easily corrected if Congress wished to correct the inequities. The things that the Nam vet gets were hard fought for politically confronting Congress. All though I am not satisfied with a few things, one should never lose respect for elders and our leaders. It was crazy there and wish never to repeat the experience in Nam. I am retired, I am Nam era, served in desert storm and other campaigns before retiring in 93. The other observation is the Iraq and Afghanistan wars have political issues and I feel for you all serving this date. My sons have made 2 tours and the instructions they have been given are setting our service men up for failure. One of the reasons I retired, conflicting directions to orders. Same thing in Nam, if I recall. ACTIONWRITER, I sense you know what is about placing your life in another mans hands and his in yours. Before i go on a tangent, the Navy had me for 10 years and then the Marines had me the last 12 years. Life has been an adventure. In conclusion, lets us speak not in greed, but fight the good fight for what is NEEDED.
BUD..I wish to respond to you. Your statement was well said and true. A few weeks ago I reflected on the simular uniforms, Greens, and the weaponry I started with. 45 cal-loved it -and the Thompson machine gun. really dating myself, but as messy and conflicting Nam was many of us grew very close. I seen much death and sacrifice. A Sr. Chief who came in the same time I did, we both looked at each other and realized we were the last two in the Reserves from Nam. That administration forced many to leave or retire. Experienced vets gone. As we look to Congress to be supportive of out military look at who is in charge of our country and has military experience. Sad. BUD, you have drawn attention to the sacrifice all vets make. Even those not in the theater of war, that make it a positive experience for future Vets.
My last post. I think these 6 points are politically friendly and don't do much other than cause more confusion. As i sad in a earlier reply, this solutions to the issues for all Vets are simple to address. Si I find it confounding what Congress just does not get down to business and do it right the 1st time. For those unhappy, please join the Associations that are representing us in Congress.
My Husband went on terminal leave in July 2009 right before the 9/11 GI bill went into affect. We were on the road traveling to a different state and had no idea that you had to transfer the Bill while still on active duty. That information was not discussed during the retirement class.
I contacted the Education Program Analyst for the Marine Corps in Quantico, VA and this is what she told me “No, a retired Marine is not eligible to transfer his benefits after separation from the Armed Forces.
They must be either on active duty or in the active drilling reserves.
If your husband feels that he was misinformed as to this entitlement, he may have the opportunity to get this decision reversed by doing a DD149, BCNR.
This form can be googled online. He would have to fill it out and send it in to the Board for Corrections of Naval Records.”
We sent the dd149 BCNR in 2 weeks ago and are awaiting an answer (she said that it could take up to 2 months)
I believe that if the 9/11 bill is back dated to 200? then everyone who is already retired during that time period should have a dog in this fight.
Read more: http://military-education.military.com/2010/06/senate-moves-to-fix-gi-bill/#ixzz0q2vY8rTw
My husband did everything we found on the DOD website. Had his approval letter last July. He retired in November when we went into to transfer the money for me to fix my last year of college – I am no longer eligible to receive his funds because he is retired.
How was I eligible on the 30th November and not eligible the 1st of December. Had this been anywhere but small print we certainly would have transferred the funds. When we contacted the VA and DOD for help no one could explain. I certainly hope this is something the government considers. I was not active duty but for 23 years I did take care of everything at home while he deployed. We both feel very cheated. A gift was given and then taken away.
Sandy, what branch of the service was your husband in?
I feel the same way you do, about a lifetime of welfare. Nobody owes me, but I want what is due, what is afforded other vets like me, what I have earned from my long service and the sacrifices of my family, over 26 years.
I am tired of the worn-out anger from some of my brethren, and refuse to be their whipping post. If they need a hand, I will give it … a hand-out, that is something else.
Thank you for your common sense and reason. And, thank you for your service.
BIG ROUND OF APPLAUSE FOR YOU!
I am a vet of the Montgomery GI Bill and still serving no 31 years and do qualify for the Post 911/GI Bill as well. But I could not understand why I could only pass on my Post 911 benefits and not my Montgomery GI Bill. As mentioned by the previous Viet Nam vet, those who fault before us have paved the roads that those of us that are serving today could reap the benefits of those that have served before us. Thanks to all that have served especially those long before me. Air Force 1980-Present….
Vietnam Blue Water Navy Vets…We deserve agent Orange Eligibility!! We were ther too! After 4 cancer ops….they won’t even consider since i am Blue Water!!
Mr Nixon…You don't sound like a vet brother.I doubt you are..and even if you are you certainly did NOT see combat…you could not have.
The more i read the less i feel sorry for my self and my fellow nam vets ,because we did what was expected but for the rest of you whom think you are more deserving here is something to think about, i spent 27 years serving from Danang to Ho-ChiMen from riud to bagdad to include asual de-gan in panama ;From 1973 to 2001 and was informed that i had lost all my benifits for school because i didnt use them , yes i feel that this country ows all of us no mater when or where we served and there shouldnt be a deadline as to when. so every one that feels us old guys dont deserve maby you need to rethink your values, we spent our time same as you and deserve the same respect as the newcomers and the johnny come latly"s. Have a great day gentlemen and ladies. jim
AMEN!!!!!!
This is susposed to be a veterans education benifit. Spouses or children should not be abel to gain this benifit.
If you don't want to use it, then why should it go to waste? I am grateful to have a Husband who would transfer it to me or one of our children. I was there for 22 yrs supporting him and holding our children while they where crying because they missed their father. Thanks MadVet for your response.
So what you are saying is even though your spouse sat at home and tended the house and your kids while you were off fighting the war, she deserves nothing?
Ok I have heard a couple of you say that Vets today could not have handled Vietnam, Let me tell you something I found just as hard as any one of you vietnam vets. I was shot at, I have been blown up, I have watched my friends die in front of me, suffered the long deployments and being away from my family, and truth be known alot of you guys only did 2 tours in nam. We do 3,4, heck some of us even 7 tours in and out of IRAQ. Our kids don't even really know us like they should. So don't tell me that we couldn't handle nam that is being down right dumb. I know this wan't about the post 9/11 bill but you guys are taking this way out of context. If you vietnam vets want to go to college the post 9/11 and MGI bill is ran through the VA not the Armed Forces they will help you go to school and help your family as well pick up the phone and call them you might be surprised at what you find out.
I served during the Viet Nam era. I knew exactly what GI Bill I was entitled to when I signed on the line and took Uncle Sam's dollar.
Went to school on the $300-odd the VA sent me each month while I was enrolled, paid back three months worth when I was "overpaid". Worked odd jobs evenings and weekends and full time during the summer. Never had to use a Pell Grant or take out a loan thankfully.
Wish I could get/transfer the unused months I had left over but, guess what? WE ALL KNEW THE TERMS WHEN WE SIGNED UP SO NO WHINING ALLOWED!
By the way, my Dad is a World War II vet and was entitled to the original GI Bill. He and his generation earned the benefit for all of us. He used only a very tiny potion of his GI Bill, if any, and HAS NEVER COMPLAINED ABOUT NOT BEING ABLE TO USE IT FOR THE LAST 65 YEARS OR TRANSFERRING IT TO HIS KIDS.
He seems to have come from that generation that didn't feel sorry for itself when it couldn't get everything it wanted. He got on with his life, worked hard and made do with what he had. Thank you Dad for showing me how to live life the right way.
HOW ABOUT EVERYTHING THAT WAS PROMISED BY ENLISTMENT CONTRACT …MANY VIETNAM VETS DRAFTED OR HAD THEIR DRAFT NOTICE WERE PROMISED THE GI BILL AND TEN YEARS TO USE THEM AND DO YOU KNOW WHAT THEY DID? THEY SCREWED US. WE THAT SERVED MORE THAN TWENTY YRS AND THEN STOLE IT FROM US. THEY DIDNT GIVE US TEN YRS OR TWO YRS..THEY JUST STOLE IT AND MADE US INELIGIBLE FOR THE MONTGOMERY..THE FACT OF THE MATTER IS THEY PROMISED IT AND AN ENLISTMENT PROMISE AND THEN TOOK IT.
My brothers and I and many of my cousins are Vietnam Vets. My older cousins are Korean War Vets. My Father and three of his brothers and many of their cousins were WWII Vets. My Aunt from Texas was in the Navy during WWII.
My oldest son is a Desert Storm Vet. My youngest son and my son-in-law talk about becoming "War on Terror" Veterans. What war will my grandchildren fight in when they are 19 years old? When will the last war be fought? Never!
There will always be "politicians" willing to send somebody else's children to war for some "really good" reason. The only thing "Older" Veterans can do is fight the "politicians" for more benefits for our "Younger Veterans".
There will always be "politicians" willing to send somebody else's children to war for some "really good" reason. The only thing "Older" Veterans can do is fight the "politicians" for more benefits for our "Younger Veterans".
My Father fought for $30 a month. My Brother and I fought for $300 a month. My oldest Son fought for $1,200 a month. My youngest son will be paid $1,600 a month to become Iraq/Afganistan/War on Terror Veteran. My son is young and does not fully realize that he will be risking his future to become a Veteran.
I ask that all Veterans and their Families get together to make the "politicians" pay more for creating Veterans. Our Children and Grandchildren deserve our "Best Efforts" on their behalf. Fight for more benefits for the future Veterans.
Would be great if the bill passes and my spouse would be eligible for the $1K book stipend on top of already going to law school for free. I have to say for my situation the Post-9/11 has added so much value to my military career.
“One Army – One Fight” – Hey leaders at the Pentagon GET OVER IT!!! That slogan is total ********. There never will be equality between the Guard, the Reserve and especially the Active Duty.
I hate to disagree with so many fine vets but the government that will pay this benefit is broke in a way that threatens our very existence as a soveriegn nation. There needs to be a massive cut in spending at all levels to save our economy. The Senator from HI knows this but is pandering for your votes.
I will tell you a trick so you both(the service member and spouse or child) can go to school for free" if you are going to school under the post/911 gi bill then you should also apply for the pell grant which you will get if you sign up for it" now the post/911 gi bill will pay 100% of the tuition for the service member and the school will cut you a check back to you for the full amount of the pell grant. then you can use that $1600 to $2800 dollars a semester to pay for your spouse to go to school and if you qualify for the full pell grant you will receive $2800 and that will more than cover tuition and books for most classes.
to mr nixon…i am open minded and have read almost every post on here and you my friend should be taken to a blanket party, then when you crawl out there should be a line to piss on ya…you would have never lasted in nam, and all we want is a some benifits to education, I think all viet nam vets should get a one time thank you of about 25 grand, in 69 we got as a pfc 97 bucks a month……but we fought in a police action with our hands tied , no money , no thanks and the public hated us, and we like you just doing what we were told for old glory and a prouder bunch of guys have never sinse lived
This new bill should include ALL VETS so this way NO ONE IS LEFT OUT that wants to go to school. I retired in May 2001 with 21 years of service. So what does that get me? I was able to take the 10 years but I wasn't ready to go to school raising 3 kids and taking care of a family member but now I would love to take some classes. You go through deseret storm, enduring freedom. But this doesn't count just like the vietnam vets. If you open this up to all vets not everyone will use it because a lot of the earlier vets have their degrees and or jobs and they have no desire to go to school. But for the ones that want to go to school this will help out so much. Now what is wrong with including all vets?
Instead of all this fighting about how did what and when. We as military men/women should stand together to get what is rightfully owed to us. Call your Senator and denand that all be heard. Across the the board benifits for everyone. There's power in united voices. Do your part and stop complaining. "TAKE ACTION" on a united front.
The six changes Senate recommends are very
Important. All military members & veterans
should be able to complete their education
if they risk their lives to protect our country,
its beliefs, and its freedom. Don’t you want
the Best and Smartest to protect the USA?!
The 9/11 Gi Bill should honor all who serve
so that he or she may serve better with
prideful recognition for volunteering to
defend our nation.
The Old GI-Bill for Vietnam Vets was extremely generous and required vets not to submit no monies. Some took advantage and some did not.
some of us nam vets got screwed too..they stole it from us while we were still on active duty..i retired in dec 1987 and the congress took the old gi bill away in dec 1989. i got to use it for a year and a half and they stole the rest..supposedly we had ten years after honorable discharge and then they lied and denied…..i was denied employment by the us postal service because of AO DISEASES AND THE VA HAS DENIED ME AO EXPOSURE FOR 24 YRS NOW.
I'm all for the changes. I joined in 2000 and served 5 years. I'm currently using the GI Bill.
The one thing I dislike about the current program is the fact that they don't give any money to the Veteran that studies online only. Trust me I wish I had the time to study at campus but I have to work long hours and my schedule changes from nights to days from week to week. The GI Bill alone wouldn't be enough to help me with my bills and that is why I work and bust my tail to do my online classes when I am home.
So I would like to see the change be made so that online students can receive some kind of allowance to help them as well with living costs.
I'm a 100% disabled veteran, After reading we were entitled to full care from the VA I dropped my Medicare coverage. After a recent illness I found the VA didn't have an immediate bed for me> I was sent to a local hospital to await a bed. I revceived a bill for over thirty thousand dollars which I can't pay. that on top of ambulance service. The VA full coverage didn't come through.'ll be in dewbt for the rest of my life.
I know this is a topic of another subject but, I'd like to know when are they going to stop excluding reservist from receiving their retired pay until they reach the ago of 60? With everything that has been going on in the world recently such as war on terror, Iraq and other battles against evil why make us wait so long before we're compensated for serving our country which a lot of us volunteered to do anyway. A lot of us have been on active duty for a long time since the events begin in the Middle East.
Just a clarification to some recent remarks about getting all tuition paid (usadrew and ScoutGO) and not getting any money for online courses (Trevor).
Tuition and fees may be certified for approved online courses that apply to approved programs of study. Check with the school certifying official (SCO) first to make sure the program and courses are approve by your State Approving Agency on behalf of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Not all programs of study nor courses available at a school are approvable for GI Bill benefits. Book allowance funds would be allowed for approved online courses as well.
Trevor may be referring to the requirement that a student taking online courses must be certified for at least one in-residence course to get the living stipend. The proposed legislation may do away with the in-residence requirement. Alternately, if your schedule doesn't allow taking a resident course at the school where your program is based, you should ask your advisor if there is another school nearby where you could take a resident course that applies to program and fits your schedule. If so, you could have your SCO write a "Primary School Letter" verifying the second school's course applies then take the letter second school's SCO and be certified there as a Guest Student which should allow for the living stipend.
Depending on the school attended, level of eligibility for the student and the cost of tuition for particular approved programs of study, a student may or may not get 100% percent of his/her tuition and fees paid. The maximum allowed tuition payment is set at the cost of the most expensive approved baccalaureate program at an approved public institution in the state the school you are attending is located. Graduate-level programs (such a law degree programs) are generally more expensive than baccalaureate programs (with a few exceptions). If the school participates in the Yellow Ribbon program that will help as well with higher cost programs.
I am in the same situation as Mac.
I am a retiree who is authorized 100% of Post 9/11. It would benefit eligible retirees if could have the option to pass the Post 9/11 to our children. For retirees, most of our children are in college or about to attend. I retired in December 2006.
There are times when active duty personnel dont get all the benefits offer to others… case and point… if you dont have to right about of time in service or just the right job qualification at time for re-enlistement, it could be the differences of a few 1000 dollars… its called timing…and timing has to do with everything…
Its mainly because of the NAM VETS that the VETS today get the benefits they receive. The government does not want a repeat on mistreating VETS
Personally I think this is appropriate but not just for everyone in after 9/11. I am one of the few that went from Viet Nam to the first Gulf War. I did more than 20 and am proud of what I did, where I did it and why I did it. I enlisted and accepted the promises of the Navy, Congress and the President that if I stayed more than 20 years that I could retire, that my family and I would have health care for the rest of my and my wifes life including vision and dental (and to 18 for the kids), that I would be able to shop in the commissary and exchange where the operating costs were actually subsidized by Congress. That I could use military recreation facilities for minor costs and that I could attend 4 years of college after before and after I retired.
Reality is that Tricare, while a great bargain is not free and vision and dental is non-exisistent. It actually costs less to shop at Target for many items and while on active duty bought most of my groceries off base. The Montgomery GI Bill said that I had to use all of my benfits within 10 years but with a family how could I. The lottery is not a lock.
Part 2
I'm happy that every deserving Vet – active or reserve is eligible because they have continued to keep us safe. But what about the promises that were made before. Shouldn't they be kept.
Seems to me that the only promises of benefits that Congress is good at keeping is their own. What entitles them to FREE health care for the rest of their lives and a retirement that makes my E8 over 22 look like pocket change. Where have they placed their lives on the line? Why are they entitled to stipends for education and have been for many years. By what right do they get to have their children enrolled in virtually any college for nickles on the dollar (sometimes without even meeting residency requirements). Just think Gary Condit and some of the other stellar characters that have helped with your entitlements.
Again, I'm personally glad to see someone get something out of our Congress without them getting a slice of the pie as well. Enjoy 9/11 Vets
First: I do not want anything other than what I was promised and given from my 22 years of military duty from Private to Major. I entered in 1949 from a share-crop family to earn eating money and to get an education. I served with wife and three kids but left for the tiny Korean GI Bill WHICH JUST PAID MY TUITION! Recalled in '63, I served two tours in Vietnam. Retiring in 1974, I went to grad school under the Vn GI Bill. I have been drawing retired pay ever since but then have had a 35 year career as a result of the older GI Bills. Advice: Do your job, plan your future, live within your means, accept what was promised at the time and for God's sake, when you get out – get a job and stop wishing for a lifetime filled with "gimmes".
No one is looking for a gimme.
There are a number though that were clearly unable to use what was made of what they were promised.
It would be helpful if someone up top realized that those who were unable to make us of the funds within the 10 year window lost the money they themselves had invested. Yes, the GI Montgomery was a payed in program and many simply lost the money they invested in their first year of service. I do not know about you but for this GI the investment was not a considerably small one to loose. I have found another means of finishing college and am using that but for others it will not work.
Rather than stand in your fellow veterans way perhaps you should use some of your good fortune or those blessings from your god to help them get what they need to be successful. Obviously from your post you have yet to think of doing so as of yet.
One cannot claim that some veterans, "gave more than others", simply because they were unfortunate enough to have been involved in a war while others weren't.
Those that were not in a war still made themselves available; willing to do so if the call ever came. Why minimize their sacrifices?
Do you want to also make a distinction between those who were in a war and wounded versus those who were in a war, but lucky enough not to have been wounded? What about those who died versus those who were just wounded?
One can make all kinds of distinctions, but as far as I am concerned, all veterans should be treated equally as far as educational benefits are concerned.
Oh, yeah! I am a Viet Nam era veteran of 22 years.
I value & appreciate all the sacrifices made by the Veterans & Active Duty members. Without each of your efforts, we would not be the country we are. Both of my grandfathers served proudly during WWII, Korea & Viet Nam & husband has served since 1993 I am extremely grateful for the benefits we will receive upon retirement, but I am also a realist & understand that those benefits are a supplement to the future, not the entire future.
While the Post 9/11 bill is a tremendous step in the right direction, I think it would be beneficial to review all aspects of Veteran benefits.
Personally, I feel if a person is retired from the military (That is 20+ years of honorable service) they should be grandfathered into any new program. I do not feel that a person who served for 2 years should be eligible for any of the programs that a career military member is eligible for.
In our current military, too many are only here to receive the benefits. They are not here because they have a desire to serve our country, they are only here to serve themselves. They should not be rewarded for such selfishness.
I would like to see a distinction. I would like to see no one receive education benefits if they served less than 2 contract terms. Of course exceptions made to those disabled due to service who are medically separated. We spend an enormous amount of money training these new recruits only to have them serve 2-4 years, split & celebrate on our money, leaving our branches to spend more money training only to repeat the cycle.
In the civilian world, you don't receive any retirement benefits or benefits at all unless you meet the minimum length of employment, most being 20 years. Why should our military be any different? Why should our Veterans suffer because of the lack of funding, funding that would be available if we would put stricter requirements on the benefit package?
If you retired after 20+ years of honorable service, you should be able to transfer your education benefits to your spouse or dependent children. I don't agree with it being transferred to anyone beyond those two categories.
The 10 year limitation should be extended to 20 years. It, however, should not be indefinite. It also should not remain the same benefit level. Within 10 years, you receive the full benefit. With each year beyond the 10 year mark, it would decrease slightly.
We need to continue to take care of our Veterans, while looking out for our future. But we need to do so smartly. Freedom is not free. It can not be traded or bartered, it must be earned. It is earned with our past, our present & our future military. Despite what Washington & this new generation thinks, you really do have to work for what you have. That is the true, the only American way.
You are correct, however that is because the folks were sent to different places by management, not because they were not willing to go. And as a result the benefits are different? The riffle range has one standard. The PT course has one standard. But what health care was promised has 8 standards! Even the uneducated can see this standard as wrong.
I am proud of all the people who served before me and with me we should be able to help all not some. I was not able to use my benefits because I had to earn a living after serving 20 years in the military. I would like that now since I am currently unemployed.
I was in a similar situation. I wrote my congressman and was granted the opportunity to transfer the benefit and did.
Lucky, can you explain to me how you were able to transfer your benefits AFTER you left the service or retired? I am in that position, I retired in 2006 after serving 24 years. If this benefit was available, I would have signed it over to my kids. As it is now, I am being told that I CAN NOT because you must be on active duty to sign them over.
How did you do it?
Maybe there should be some extension of the time to use the college benefits for retired service members. They spend 20 to 30 years maybe get lucky and get a job when they first get out. Then not have the time to continue there education. Or don't see a need then the job market falls apart and they have been out 10 or more years and can not utilize the education benefits when they are needed. I hope that maybe some one would address that issue.
I'm appalled by many of our fellow veterans. Those from VN era that had the VN era GI Bill, to those that whine about the Post 911 GI Bill, and a few that claim 100% disability.
Everyone of you earned benefits that exceeded the benefits of our WWII brethren. Yet there are more than a million that entered service after 1 Jan 1977 and before the Montgomery GI Bill that left military service with less than our WWII brethren. Many served in Operation Urgent Fury, Operation Restore Hope, Operation Desert Shield, Operation Deseret Storm and/or War in Afghanistan and separated or retired with benefits that still weigh less than the VN era vets.
To the whiners – you probably are getting more than you deserve, thanks to those veterans who cared enough to make sure we have benefits.
I don't think you got the clue; but then your post is very difficult to read at all.
We should figure out how to get our fellow vets a leg up and quit ******** on each other since the civvies are never going to give anyone what was earned or deserved for services rendered.
Yeah some vets are getting a better deal right now, so lets work together and see it through that all vets who served can enjoy the gifts of what is clearly an ungrateful nation full of ignorant protesters of the wars that keep them safe in their little worlds of ignorance.
If the Old vets think that they need something to make life just a bit better perhaps they are right as they are at that point and given the numbers of disabled vets beginning to start growing again… When I am that old I hope to have a few options to make it easier to earn a living. Here's hoping that I never get rated over 50%.
I am enlisting in the Navy soon, and I am thankful for anyone trying to help part, present, or future soldiers. We have to be thankful for the opportunities being given to us. Many people who have commented are focusing on what they aren’t getting or what went wrong. With these changes, it will be less likely for the same things to happen to others in the future. Don’t raise hell because we’re working to make military benefits better for the future. My uncle was in the USMC during Vietnam, suffers from numerous health problems, and he is thankful for the benefits he receives (not angry about the new ones he doesn’t or won’t). I think any benefits that will help the military keep enlistment up are just fine.
So thanks to everyone who stated similar ideas, and appreciates what is being done to make life better for soldiers!
To the people talking about grammar and such:
1) This is an article about military benefits, not causes of writing mistakes.
2) As long as people can write well enough to get their point across, they’ll be alright. Plus, when writing about a passionate issue, like this, people could care less about grammar, spelling, or punctuation.
3) Some people pointing out mistakes…MADE mistakes, too. I probably made mistakes (which makes me as hypocritical as the rest of you).
Enlisting soon huh. Talk to me after you have spent a few years in & have seen and heard the promises & so called benefits only to find these ENTITLEMENTS as promised have changed etc. Good luck! Remember be thankful for what you thought you had. You may question the entire pretences you enlisted on.
If you can't m,ake it into the classroom to face those people, I would like to hear what you plan on doing when you get done with school and have to be interviewed by "liberal college idiots" so sad. The point of a lot of college classes are to make you think….seems like you missed those.
We need to be mindful of unintended consequences. Please make sure those who are already enrolled in Private Colleges are not inadvertently penalized as a result of fee/tuition modification. If not, students may have to disenroll and shift over to state universities, which will create huge inconvenice and become detrimental to their educational goal.
I understand your bitter. Nam vets are owed more than could possibly be paid. But I hope sometime soon the Nation will demand you be awarded some tangible compensation. All of us who have served since the gulf war began are fully aware of how terrible you all have been treated. I and I think I speak for many, was determined to serve with honor and integrity in respect to you and all who have served before us. I would be the first to say take care of this man before you get to me but, our respect for you has fell on the same deaf ears that you have delt with for so long. I say all this in respect to you and at the same time ask you not to insult us with such comments. We are on your side and just like you. We know if we say or do nothing. Nothing is what we will get. Lets focus our frustration on the bureaucrats who drag their feet and punch a clock for no more than they have to do to get their paycheck and retirement. Having no regard or interest in how their arrogance hurts those who fought and died for freedom. Salute!
You must have been an Oifficer. Never really get whats going on do you.
Hey Sarg, your comment is no more compassionate than Pete's. I guess you were just an O hater huh?
I wish I could stand before you and salute you with all my being and respect. I am ashamed of those who disgraced you and those with you. I was born 1961 and my Dad served in Korea in the fifties. Many of his and my friends were Nam vets and because of you and the soldiers of WW1 & WW2 I was compelled to join your ranks. Because of you and how poorly you all were treated we now are receiving support for living and medical care. We owe all of you a debt of gratitude. Not only did you suffer misery and death in the battle field but, the same gov that sent you to war turned its back on you until the last few yrs. I am glad that you appreciate the VA even though it is still riddled with incompetience. It does appear to be comming of age.
Continued,
Continued
A few yrs. back I lost a friend to cancer from agent orange and other mysterious complications. He suffered most of his life and was only rated with 10% disability. He didn't make it to see proper treatment and compensation. This is to the VA's disgrace. I doubt the injury from the suffering he and others like him can ever be made right but I would encourage all Nam vets to really step up in appealing or up dating their claims now. Before the system falls into the same mess that social security is in today.
Stay strong Skip, There are many out here who appreciate you and want you to finally get the respect and care you have so long deserved.
I requested a increased in my service connected thru the VA Regional Office, Houston Texas. Result, no increased. Vietnam Vet. with a war skill as a Medical Specialist (handling Patients in time of war). My Hands and wrist were damage from carrying patients. Plus, during my twenty years in the Military (USAF). I have participated in other extrenous duties as directed. Other disabilities not considered: Agent Orange, Stress,and damage of wrist received as a Medical Specialist. I recieved a letter from VA Reg.Office to get a lawyer.
My husband and I are both Vietnam vets. I worked while he went to school and missed my 10 year limit to use my GI Bill. I would like to see the GI BIll limit extended to allow other vets like me to finish school. Those who did not see the war in Vietnam jungle firsthand, have no clue as to what went on over there. How very rude and ignorant to speak thus. War is hell-wherever you are.
YES THEY PISSED ON THE VIETNAM VETS ALRIGHT. 30,000 Military retirees had their GI Bill educational benefits stolen from them while they were still on active duty like me. I retired on 1 DEC 1987 AFTER MORE THAN TWENTY YRS ACTIVE DUTY AND WAS PROMISED IN 1967 FOUR YEARS OF COLLEGE…LIARS THEY STOLE IT AND STOPPED IT ON 1 DEC 1989. I DIDN'T GET TEN YEARS I DIDN'T GET CRAP. AND DENIED EMPLOYMENT BY THE POSTAL SERVICE IN BUFFALO NY BECAUSE I WAS TOO DISABLED AND THEN THE VA DENIES ME THE NEXT 24 YEARS AND STILL DENIED AO EXPOSURE AND I HAND SPRAYED IT
the VEAP WAS DONE IN 1986 UNDER THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL. MANY OF US CAREER MILITARY EARNED OUR GI BILL DURING THE VIETNAM WAR. THEY PROMISED 48 MONTHS OF ELIGIBILITY AND TEN YEARS TO USE IT AFTER HONORABLE DISCHARGE. THEN THEY STOLE IT.
When will the changes be made to the bill? How long will congress drag this out? I just retired this month from the US Army and want to attend a local vocational school (10 miles from my house) but under the current bill I can not. I am forced to travel 100 miles a day to attend a course at an institution of higher learning. This course is my second choice but is the only way that I can use the 9/11 GI BILL. And for those of you that are worried about the GRAMMER in the comments all I can say is stay focused on the problem! Don’t be a but head!
Sorry, but there was a GI BIll after vietnam. While you all deserve your med benefits, I think it's a little disingenous that as soon as a bill comes along and someone is getting some money that the "woow as me" starts. You had opportunities to use your GI BILL when tutiton was $50 for any class in like in 1970. Becasue now it's $3000.
wiki- 1967, a single veteran’s benefits were raised to $130 a month; in 1970 they rose to $175; under the Readjustment Assistance Act of 1972 the monthly allowance rose to $220; in 1974 it rose to $270, $292 in 1976, and then $311 a month in 1977..then you got VEAP then the MGIB
Stop acting like nothing was ever done to help you, if you didn't take advantage of it in a reasonable amount of time then it is your loss. The amount people are reciving is comensurate with the cost of school.
Get over it
What about vets that trying to go to school with other than dishorable discharges and have served some duty in the service of their country.
I have been trying to go to school,and cannot go because,I'm to old but in good shape.i have tryed under different bill's but unable to go to school.i was discharge with other than honorable discharge.so military service should be accepted,i'm sure their are some veterans out there,that agree with me.
The 3rd provision will lower the amount of funding veterans will receive for education. Please alert you elected officials.
Always have to make it complicated. Why not just make it $5,000 benefit for each year served on active duty and $1000 for each year served on Reserve Duty. You can start to draw after 1 years of service and just maintain an educational balance account.
You get $5000 education bonus, each time your reenlist if you are active duty and $1000 if reserve duty.
Everytime I read an article that talks about all these different proposed improvements for Veterans Benefits I also scan through the readers comments. It never fails that I find Vets who mostly served during the Vietnam Era who are bitter and fed up with the decades of lies they have been given by our government. I am a Iraq/Afghanistan Era Vet and I just want to say that I strongly agree with all of these bitter Vets who have conveniently been forgotten and left behind. Post 9/11 GI Bill? We should all be calling this the Post Vietnam GI Bill that has been used by Vets for over 40 years now. As good as the current improvements may seem to everyone it is an outright shame how our political system has treated soldiers who fought and died for this country. It is unacceptable that we are only now seeing improvements to the assistance they recieve when they return home. I think that a military coup and hostile takeover of our entire political system would solve alot of our countries problems, just line up all of those %$#@ to the firing squad and start over. The superpower this country has become was established and preserved by our military might. Not by politicians.
IM BAAACK!!! To all the Old Farts I so deeply offended, I am truly sorry. You are this countries hero's and I appreciate the hell outta ya… but let's face facts an old fart, is an old fart, is an old….
that is a little below the belt there. I am a service connected veteran and I would never get on welfare. For one I would never get it because I have some Education and I am not a low life drug adidct.
All your points in here have merit and are valid whether old or young, one thing though I don’t agree with in any way shape or form and am disgusted is how you are all ripping into each other on here…what the f!!k! We whether old are young have gone through things only we have any idea about. I joined the army in 2005 Im a medic assigned to the infantry I have done two tours to Iraq and leave this year to Afghanistan. I’ve seen the best and worst of soldiers and a good soldier will do… And make a change, and the shit bag…and oh yea they exist… Will sit and whine like a pussy like too many I see on here. We are brothers… Treat each other as such!
First off I’m amazed that they are even reviewing this to try to make it better, that shows progress and that’s all we can ask for.
To the nam vets and others, my father was also and it’s not right but he went and worked for the va to help others get what he could for them, what have you done? Ask yourself this. Have you done anything to help? Or have you just whined on pages like this? Hiding behind your computer screen isn’t going to change anything.
I want all my brothers in arms to get what they deserve, but I also believe you get what you put in. If you were a pogue that sat on the FOB typing papers in the a/c… You don’t deserve what I fought for!
If you lost any functionality of your body you deserve everything you can get regardless of when or what war you fought in.
And yes 10 years is ****… I know… So stand up and change it!
God bless to all my brothers old and young I salute you all and the flag on my shoulder
Yield to none, hooah
I am a Fellow Female Vet and I am proud of the Vets that served B4 me. I am still wondering when will they cont. to improve the bill's… However, I am grateful for what is provided but more could me done.
EHaving served the U.S. Army from 1986-1994 with the last three years in the Reserve. I paid into the GI Bill as with most other during said time frame. Served in Desert Shield / Storm 1991. I attended college for two years, later working in my current career today. Under the old GI Bill, members had 10 years to use or loss the benefit. I never fully got the full benefit of the service of the education funding. I left my “Uncle Sam” with eight years of funding not used.
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EI like to see Congress make some changes as well to “All service members” who fall under the old program (GI Bill) to get or better yet, receive the same and equal treatment as the current 9/11 GI Bill recipient’s.
At least allow those that have not completely used their GI Bill educational expanses to pickup from where they left off. Not asking for the housing payment but to use the money that was paid into the program to benefit me in further my education goals. I too have served and seek to have the same reciprocity treatment as the 9/11 GI Bill. I had paid into this program and only fair that I either get my return on the monies paid into or make changes to reflect the same fair treatment of military (vet’s) of days ago. This is no welfare cry nor looking for a handout. Just want that which have been paid for returned to me in full. Despite my not using the program in the time allotted. Only fair once again to make this available to those those having paid into the program; having not used up money which has been promised and making it eligibly for me to pass it on to my children as well.
nter text right here!nter text right here!
As a rated disabled vet you can go to the VA for everything that your service connected disability states on your approved claim. You can also choose to pay a very small amount for Tricare and use military facilities for the remainder of your life. I'd suggest doing a little research on the matter, your local VA rep and if you have a military hospital nearby can assist you and provide more information.
I have to go along with Skip.. We have been fighting the system to get my Hubbys a 30+ retiree Nam Vet .. agent orange and all.. All we ger is denials
Heart Problems, Anyuersm, Skin Cancer, Copd, Hip Replacement, Diabetic.
Foot Problems .. the whole Shebang and Nothing. But a Friend of outs only 2 yrs military service , broke his Leg in Service.. and is Now getting 100% .. Go Figure??
sorry I mispelled a couple of words.. do that when I am angry
I have wondered why they have put a limit on education also. When I retired I had the same issues as SUPPO. Too busy to go to school trying to earn a living and support a family. Is there any options for the few that have had therre benefits expire.
OH here we go again poor vietnam vets ( 90% of you ). Let it die it has been 40 years now and you still want and want. Trust me when I am done you bet I will not come back in 40 years crying because a new group of war vets are getting this or that.
yeah,going through the same mess here.
In 1970, the average mortgage was $350, a car note was about $100, and the cost of tuition was about $312 a semester. The average take home pay for a week was $250 and most other subsistence requirements were moch lower that today. . Today, the average tuition cost are $1200 per class, a mortgage is $1500; you have to pay a car note that is easily $200 a month, not counting insurance, unemployment is 12%. I served under Reagan through Bush. So, how is it that today's vet have it better than the Vietnam ear vet? We have both been abused by legislation, the difference is prior to 2009, we had to contribute to an education fund, Vietnam era vets were given that option freely.
I reading some of the comments here, I get a better understanding of some of the problems that I am experiencing in trying to obtain benefits through the VA. I have yet to receive assistance with what I would consider a lot of politeness. You see, the majority of the employees at the VA are of the Vietnam era, and judging from a lot of comments coming from vets of that era here, it would seem that the impression is that the belief is that younger vets are getting more than they deserve. I wasn't drafted, nor did I enlist to get money for school (already had my degree) , nor did I owe for loans. I enlisted because it gave me ownership of the freedoms that we all have(cheesey, I know But true) Promises of benefits deferred, not withstanding, ten years is a long time in which to use any benefit. Our choices are our own, but once made you live with them. Its one thng to be denied a benefit, but if we choose, who do we blame?
I think all vet and especially those that have served after Post 911 should be able to transfer their benefits to their dependents if they choose to. Is it possible this can be inclusive in the new changes?
My retired, service connected husband recently died and after paying into SBP since 1982 to protect a portion of his retirement pay I have been advised I do not qualify for the SBP because I'm eligible for DIC. However, if I remarry I can collect both SBP and DIC. Is there something wrong with this picture or is it me? My husband pays for this and his wife can't get it unless she remarries someone else. The whole thing is sick.
Older vets are not getting "screwed". That is just negative thinking. They are probably assuming you have finished school by now! If you got out in 1967…did you really just wait until now to decide to go back to school? Or do you just think I wish I could have free money? Now yes I realized you served and many are disabled… but the whole I am entitled to free college forever is insane. Change is good… change is not always retroactive. That is the way to world works. They dont go back and retroactively give you the pay people get now do they? It is unfortunate that these benefits were not available back then…. at least something is changeing. Is it you getting "screwed"? Or is it just PROGRESS for those now serving? Should you not be happy? Oh, and yes I am a veteran.
Hurtful and just a mean comment, you are clearly an idiot. Did I spell that correctly Pete?
yeah when they raise the copayment for anyone under 50 percentand then charge you for everything and make it not service connect so u have t pay
watch oput vets for 2010 procedures forva
Lets face it folks, our representatives are not out there to represent us, they are at it for themselves. Why would a millionaire want to make 100K to be a senator. It is not to represent you. All I can say is to keep trying, vote, protest for term limits and fight the Supreme Court's decision to make corporations "People" so they can use their 1st Amendment rights to back candidates. that is the only way representatives will represent the people and get some of you what you deserve!!! They don't hesitate sending you to war so they shouldn't hesitate compensating for a war. Thanks!!
This new law now also applies the PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE which is the 6th Uniform Service who takes care of the Medical and Dental Service of the Coast Guard, Native Americans, Prisons, Immigration and Home Land Security. Thank you Senators who were responsible! Public Health Service certainly never took responsibility to change the law and still have not notified anyone of the change.
I read all these comments and see there are really good people and then there are some who whine and cry cause the GOV is not paying 80-90% of their education. I retired with the Reserves in 2005, 22 years and would like to attend school to get a masters or even a certificate. Right now I get nothing for college because I did not use the benefit before retiring. No one in my unit could tell me a thing about the benefits at the time. I think reservist and guard should get 40-50% of their college paid because if this country gets into a major war all former military will be called right back into service up to 59 years of age. Of course if the country were truly in danger I and others would step up because we are among the 10% who would defend her> Write your Senators Pronto.
its going to be unfair no matter what. there are post 9/11 vets that never went to the middle east and never saw war but will get these benefits. And if they are service connected they will get even more. But if you are a vet from another time period tuff luck is what I see. I think the benefits should be offered to all vets equally. Apparently the government doesnt see all vets as equals
VRNE IN VA COULD BE ELIMINATED WITH ONE GIBILL THE VA BIG OFFICE OF EDUCATION BLOOD SUCKS VA DRY ONE GI BILL 48 MONTHS OF USE NOMORE VRNE/VAEDUCATIONAL CENTER SAVES VA/DOD/ TAXPAYERS 2OO BILLION IN FAKE NONVET VA EMPLOYS WATCHING AND CHEATING VETS WITH VA REGULATION LETS KEEP IT SIMPLE AND STOP VA/DOD BLOODSUCKING US ALL CL
What are you, 20? You're showing your age and disrespect for everything those men have died for. Remember that when you see the American Flag, those stripes run red because THOUSANDS have died so you had the opportunity to sit here and badmouth them. And the fact is, most will never say a word because they are men of dignity and won't stoop to this level. Shame on you…how can you even call yourself a vet. You've fought nothing but the image you see in the mirror every day.
First of all get an EDUCATION! We fought Vietnamese soldiers in Vietnam not Chinese you ignorant tool! Evidently, its people like you who need to use the GI Bill more than anybody else! Perhaps you won't look like a total ass when you try to look smart in front of real troops who respect all those who came before them! Get your facts straight you little infant!!!! You are a total disgrace to the uniform and to the flag… And one last thing, when you grow up you'll learn not using LOL in big boy conversations! ..So WAH WAH WAH on this!!!
You are a piece of crap soldier that should be shot. I have been to the desert and compared to viet man it is a cake walf you idiot.
mr nixon you are about the dummest wanntbe i have ever heard … shut up stupid.
You are being disrespectful. You must realize that if it wasn't for the ones who came before us and paved the way. WE may not be where we are today. You comment was unnecessary and out of line for all.
I am not sure I would have said it that way lol, kind of harsh, but I understand what you are saying. Post 9-11 is just that. Not Post Vietnam or Post WWII. Someone will always feel short handed and overlooked. That is human nature. With all that is going on in the Gulf we need to be praying because that is going to be going on for a long time. The honor of serving is just that. You serve for freedom and liberty to defend our families. GI Bill is a privialge for those who desire to further themselves beyond service. We are not the only ones who serve our country, the police, firedepartment, people who work in hospitals especially during 9-11. Countless others who defended, lost family, lost hope… vets should be there as an example for furture military to look up to. Are you?
This is the same attitude congress/senate have taken for many years not just towards nam vets but all the way back to WWl shame on you all veterans (note) I said ALL veterans should be treated with respect and taken care of and should not matter if they joined or was drafted they (Served their Country) and it should not matter where they served.
Who do you think got you the respect and benefits you currently enjoy? It was beacuse of the Vietnam Veterans who have talked, campaigned and fought for the respect of the soldier and "supporting our troops." The world does not revolve around YOU! If you are a soldier, and God I hope not, you should take a long look in the mirror and think about all those who are your brothers and sisters who wear and wore that uniform. Vietnam Vets have fought long and hard so YOU don't have to go through what they went through. Have some decencey and respect for fellow veterans!
WOW….. You ignorant, disrespectful, ungrateful little prick.
My Grandfather, three Uncles, and my Father served this nation during the Vietnam conflict. My Father and Grandfather were voluntary, my uncles were drafted but all of them upheld the oaths that they took to protect it against all enemies foreign and domestic. Each one came home with his own set of issues either medical or mental that they will take to their grave. Each one of them endured the abuses of a war that was politicized. But each one of them would do it again. It is because of them and all those who have served this nation since her inception that allow you the freedom to to make the assine comments you have made.
I can only humble state as Newton said "If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants." Those who have served before us are Giants, and worthy of our honor and respect.
You have no clue about life and those who served before you, and that's if you ever served. The reason we have the benefits today is because our brothers who served did not cry they help fight another war in the legislative system to help protect themselves and those who will come after them, so you may call it crying but they are working so that we who continue to serve in a retired or active capacity live a better life after serving our country that we love. Now get lost little boy…
It gives me chills, horror chills, to know that you served our country.
can't wait till you get old, your comments are so disrespectful, but lets see thats your era, How dare you, the reason you can make stupid comments like that is because these men died to give jerks like you your freedom
Hey everyone I just found this information and thought I would share it. I know in the beginning of this new GI Bill I just took the first information they gave me and than ran with it to the college. However, things are still changing over at the VA on the regular. During the winter and summer breaks we are suppose to get what is now called "interval pay". As long as we were at least a half-time student on the term prior to the break and still have time left on our benefits we will get the interval pay automatically during the winter and summer break. We do not have to be enrolled in any classes during the summer or winter to get the BAH payments. Here is a link explaining it further: http://www.newgibill.org/get_answers#165
Yet more proof that young and stupid are redundant.
You are a disgrace to the uniform and an embarrassment to our country. I've had some rough times in Iraq and Afghanistan with many fallen brothers; however, none of this compared to what the average Vietnam vet went through. On top of everything they went through, they had close to zero support from the American public. Shame on you!!! Grow up, and pay due respect to those who served before you and all your elders in general.
"Mr." Nixon, you are a REAL piece of work!!! I'm SURE you make your mother sooooo PROUD!!!
You are really stupid…
Laugh all you want today, I promise you as many Vietnam and Vietnam Era veterans belittled Korean War, WWII and even WWI veterans when they demanded fair treatment your day will come. Ome day in the near future as politicians memory begin to wane about the value of your sacrifice and service, like veterans before you, they will find an expedient and cost-saving way to screw the Afghan and Iraqi squirmishes as well.
All I can say is that you are one dumb ignorant Mother F#&@er. Read a book or two on the Vietnam War and learn what these guys went through over there and back here at home. Oh, and it was the Vietnamese they fought in the jungle, not Chinese. The Chinese were in Korea….idiot. And the War on Terror is a friggin' joke. And that's not to discredit my fellow fightin' friends. Thats aimed more at the politicians in Washington. Learn some respect dumbass. And I'll goes at far to guess that even if you did go overseas you were probably a FOBbit and did no fighting at all.
One day you will get old to. The health care system sucks for us old timers. Your health care cost continue to rise without any raises in your retirement income. Doctors do not want to take your medical insurance, you are having to take out supplements to cover your extra medical costs and have to revert to credit cards to cover your dental costs. You just can't walk into the local medical facilities for Vets and expect to be seen. You tell me who is getting the better treatments now a days. I served on active duty for 20 yrs and am still having to work to supplement my income. People like you are the ones WAH WAH WAH…
YOU GOT A BIG MOUTH,WHAT WAR DID YOU FIGHT IN.OLD PEOPLE.IF IT WASN'T FOR US YOU MIGHT BE LIVING IN THE JUNGLE.
The senate could help a lot of unemployed or underemployed VRA Veterans by removing the time limitation of 10 years "Use or lose" policy. If you add all the unemployment factors for the past 3 or 4 years, only a small percent of veterans are able to find so called "Middle class" type employment. The senate should add a list of additional qualifiers to extending the VA educational benefits. Unemployment presents the need for further upgrading of job skills and those vets who have remaining, unused vet benefits under the old VRA program should not have to go to the Division of Rehabilitation Services to seek help. I am a disabled VRA vet who has been unemployed for 3 years and am willing to work. It would help us to use what we earned by serving our country; the use or lose disciplinary approach does not help us when our jobs end. I hope the Senate will consider the VRA vets when revising the educational policies.
Are you serious? or just high. There is nothing funny or correct about Mr. Nixon's comments. To agree with him solidfies your ignorance. Being a veteran is a fraternity. We shouldn't give people the glory for making totally ignorant statements regarding fellow vets. You sound like you have some common sense and I think if you sit back and analyze this comment of that guy you'd reconsider agreeing with him to any dergree.
Thanks I could not have said it better.
Tony, change the behavior. Your comment is not warranted. So now we want to give benefits based on what was given by a military member? I ask you …how will this be determined? The only thing it will do is add to the already red tape that exist and severly damage the current process. Reflect before you write.
1SG
You have shed a ray of snshuine into the forum. Thanks!