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In this Update:
All-American Post
Congratulations to VFW Post #6664 for being designated an All-American Post! Thank you for always going above and beyond the standard and for your exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to the community. New Coast Guard Recruitment Office
A new Coast Guard recruitment office is now open in the North Hills! Congratulations to Captain Benjamin Keefer and staff on a successful opening ceremony. In addition, congratulations to the men and women who were sworn into the Coast Guard during this special event! American Legion Appointments
On the second Tuesday of each month, my office hosts a benefits expert from the American Legion. If you would like to schedule an appointment with the representative, you may call my office at 412-785-3070 to see available times. Streamlining Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans
Thanks to the passage of Senate Bill 232, disabled veterans with a 100% disability will no longer have to apply for a free Pennsylvania fishing license on an annual basis. Starting Aug. 29, all disabled veterans with a 100% disability determination from the VA, whether it is a permanent determination or not, will be able to purchase free lifetime fishing licenses. Easing Repayment of PA Military Family Education Program Awards for Service Members Who Separate Under Certain Circumstances
Currently, Pennsylvania National Guard (PANG) service members participating in the PA Military Family Education Program who separate from the PANG must repay the total award plus interest. Through a change made by Act 32 of 2025, service members will only be responsible for repaying a portion of the program’s benefit if they separate from the PANG on or after Sept. 5, 2025 due to death, medical reasons, discharge at the convenience of the Guard or other compelling circumstances which warrant forgiveness. PA’s Newest Brigadier Generals
In June, the state Senate confirmed the promotions of the following four Pennsylvania National Guard Officers from colonel to brigadier general:
These individuals will continue to serve our Commonwealth and lead our National Guard with honor and distinction. Reduced Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Premiums
Veterans insured coverage under the Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) program have started seeing lower monthly premiums for all ages. Discounts range from 2% to 17%, with an average reduction of 11%. Insured veterans are being notified of their monthly premium reduction through direct mail, email, online accounts and premium bills. No action is required. Veteran Burial Benefits
The National Cemetery Administration has launched Plan Today, Honor Forever, a nationwide campaign to help veterans understand their options and apply for VA pre-need burial eligibility. Eligible veterans have burial and memorial benefits for themselves, their spouses and qualifying family members whether being buried in a VA national cemetery or within a private cemetery. Taking Veterans Out to the Ballgame
Baseball fans who have served in the U.S. Military can save some money when going to Major League Baseball (MLB) games at the ballpark. MLB teams, including the Pittsburgh Pirates, offer discounted tickets through GovX for home games throughout their seasons to veterans and their families. September is Veterans Suicide Awareness Month
September is Veterans Suicide Awareness Month. I am introducing a resolution alongside my fellow Senate veterans to call attention to this important issue that affects many of our servicemembers and veterans. Veterans are 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide, and the risk factor is even higher for females at 2.2 times. Pennsylvania loses approximately 250 veterans per year by suicide, so we must do more to show support and provide necessary resources to those who have selflessly served our country. Please know help is available, you are valuable, and you are not alone. You or your loved ones can utilize the crisis line by dialing 988 to speak to a trained and caring professional. If you are a friend, family member, or are otherwise interested in learning ways to better support our veterans in this way, you can contact the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs for more information. |
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