National | Florida American Legion

The American Legion calls for fast-tracking citizenship for military members, veterans

WASHINGTON (March 1, 2021) – The nation’s largest veteran service organization, The American Legion, is pushing to strengthen military naturalization programs in support of non-citizens who honorably serve, for at least a year, in the U.S. Armed Forces.

On behalf of its nearly two million members, the organization sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting an executive order authorizing the reinstitution of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for Naturalization at Basic Training Initiative and reopening all USCIS field offices abroad for servicemembers and deported veterans.

“The American Legion believes that non-citizen veterans who are honorably discharged and have not been charged or convicted with felonious or heinous crimes should be guaranteed the promise they were made of citizenship,” said James W. “Bill” Oxford, national commander of The American Legion. “We would like to see the reinstitution of the USCIS Naturalization at Basic Training Initiative to provide onsite immigration resources and staff to support recruits beginning the naturalization process.”

The American Legion also recommends requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs assess the barriers to care and benefits that deported veterans face. “Our appeal is for President Biden to remove the barriers to VA benefits which these veterans have earned through their service to this country. These veterans took an oath to defend the United States with their lives. Awarding them with citizenship is the right thing to do,” said Oxford.

Through two organizational resolutions, The American Legion supports the implementation of measures to ensure the process of naturalization is complete prior to discharge for those who have served honorably. In addition, the organization calls on the federal government to grant expedited citizenship applications to deported veterans who were honorably discharged and have no felony convictions.

The American Legion to State Veterans Homes: ‘Obey the Law, Cooperate with VA’

(INDIANAPOLIS, February 25, 2021) – Alarmed by a report that 35 state veterans homes across the country have not shared coronavirus data with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the head of the nation’s largest veterans organization called on the facilities to “obey the law.”

“A federal law requires VA to post information about coronavirus cases and deaths that occur at state-run veteran homes,” National Commander of The American Legion James W. “Bill” Oxford explained. “Stars & Stripes reported that 35 of 158 state veterans homes have not provided the data that VA requires. This is completely unacceptable. In June, I spoke about the tragic deaths that occurred at the state home in Holyoke, Massachusetts due to the comingling of coronavirus patients with asymptomatic residents and personal protective equipment shortages. VA doesn’t run state homes but the department plays an important oversight role. In order to assist these facilities and prevent similar tragedies, these state facilities must be transparent and share the data with VA and the public. Veterans and their loved ones need assurances that their homes have the resources that are needed and are following appropriate protocols to keep all residents safe.”

Oxford added that 123 state veterans homes are reporting the information to VA but that it is not good enough. “A veteran is a veteran no matter where he or she lives,” he said. “The American Legion believes every facility that claims to serve veterans must be top-notch. We expect full compliance with the law.”

The American Legion Congratulates VA Secretary Largest VSO Offers Support in Serving Veterans

(INDIANAPOLIS, February 8, 2021) –The nation’s pre-eminent veterans organization congratulated Denis McDonough for his confirmation by the U.S. Senate to serve as the 11th secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

“The honor given to you today is matched by the solemn obligation that we all have in fulfilling Lincoln’s promise to ‘care for him who shall have borne the battle’ and to equally advocate for women veterans and the families of all who have served as well,” The American Legion National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford said. “There are many great challenges today facing America’s veterans. Whether it’s the efficient distribution of COVID-19 vaccines or legislation addressing toxic exposures, the VA will always find an informed and eager ally in The American Legion. Though we have and will continue to confront VA policies when we believe they fall short, The American Legion also believes that VA is a system worth preserving for America’s veterans. Congratulations, Secretary McDonough. The American Legion is rooting for your success in enhancing the quality of life for America’s veterans.”

Assisting with COVID-19 vaccine effort ‘a no-brainer’ for Florida Legion post

Fortunately, also located in nearby Lady Lake is the world’s largest American Legion post, Veterans Memorial Post 347. With both a large meeting room and parking lot, the post looked like a perfect location for the clinic to expand its vaccination operation.

So the clinic reached out to the post, which spent little time debating how to respond.

“To us, this was a no-brainer. Not one member of the executive committee said no when we brought it to them,” Post 347 First Commander Joan Suelter said. “The (Villages Outpatient Clinic) is a good-sized facility, but in order to handle the vaccine, they would have to shut down other portions of the medical portion of it. They do MRIs up there, bloodwork, for all our veterans. So some of those services would have to have been curtailed. And parking is very limited up there.”

By chance, Suelter said she was approached in Post 347’s parking lot by Dr. Brian Pinkston, The Villages Chief Medical Officer and a member of Post 347, about the clinic’s shortage of space for the vaccinations. Suelter immediately reached out to Post Commander Al Varrone, a member of The American Legion’s National Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission, and Post Adjutant Mike Seidel to let them know about Pinkston’s dilemma and a possible solution.

“Al jumped all over it,” Suelter said. “The train left the station immediately when Al got it. He’s been the runner of this program, and I’ve been backing him up 100 percent because I believe in what we’re doing.”

Via VA press release, Pinkston said joining up with Post 347 “began out of necessity. Since the onset of COVID-19 pandemic, our capacity inside the clinic has been reduced to allow for social distancing, which has created some new challenges for us.”

With both a meeting room encompassing thousands of square feet, as well as a parking lot large enough to serve as the starting point for hundreds of motorcycles on the 2019 American Legion Legacy Run, Post 347 was a perfect fit for VA.

“Collaboration with our community partners allows us to remain agile, receptive, and relevant to the veterans we serve across our catchment area,” Florida/South Georgia Health System Director Thomas Wisnieski said via press release. “We are very fortunate to be partnering with American Legion Post 347.”

VA staff came to set up Post 347 for the vaccination effort, working through the logistics of social distancing protocols. Post leadership met with VA staff via phone calls and Zoom meetings to work out the details.

The first batch of 80 vaccines were distributed on Jan. 28 at the post. Suelter said the hope was for two more vaccination sessions Feb. 4 and 5 before possibly transitioning to daily, including Saturdays, provided there are enough vaccines.

“This is one of our Four Pillars,” Suelter said. “And the relationship we have with (VA staff) is unbelievable. What better way for us to take care of veterans but through this program? This is exciting stuff.”

While Post 347 is serving as a vaccine site, two Missouri American Legion posts have opened up their facilities to provide COVID-19 testing.

Starting Feb. 1, American Legion Post 397 in Creve Coeur, Mo., will be a testing site for a collaboration between Visit Healthcare and the Kaufman Fund. The site will be open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. All forms of insurance are accepted, but uninsured individuals will be accepted and tested at no charge. No appointment is necessary but it is recommended to sign up in advance at visithealthcare.com.

And Roscoe Enloe Post 5 in Jefferson City, Mo., is providing free testing through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and Cole County. Testing dates are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 17, March 3 and March 19. To register for testing, visit health.mo.gov/communitytest or call (919) 351-6256.

What veterans need to know about getting vaccine from VA

According to VA, the phased plan will enable it “to do the most good for the most people” during this time.

Under the current plan, VA health-care personnel, veterans living in VA long-term care facilities and veterans who are at higher risk for serious complications or death due to COVID-19 are able to get their vaccines now. These high-risk veterans include those with chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, in-patient spinal cord injuries and disorders, and those with comorbidities. Additionally, family caregivers who are enrolled in the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers are eligible for vaccination when the veteran they care for becomes eligible, according to VA.

For more information and to determine if you’re eligible to receive your COVID-19 vaccine from VA, visit this web page. Additionally, veterans can find their local VA health facility and its current plan by visiting this VA page.

Due to a larger percentage of high-risk patients within the VA health-care system compared to the general public, it may take longer for veterans not at an increased risk to receive their vaccine. In some instances, it may be faster for a veteran to receive a vaccine through their state rather than through VA. You can find information on your state’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan here.

“The American Legion has the utmost confidence in VA to balance the vaccine rollout, while prioritizing the most vulnerable veterans and health-care providers,” said Mario Marquez, director of The American Legion’s Veteran Affairs & Rehabilitation Division. “VA has assured us they will provide this balance with site-specific resources, needs, availability and local status of the pandemic.”

In order to be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine through VA, a veteran must be enrolled in the VA health-care system. However, veterans attempting to enroll in VA health care for the first time who fall into category 8g, will not be eligible for the vaccine as they are also not currently eligible for VA health care. This is due to a VA change in policy from 2003 which removed 8g eligibility as these veterans do not have a service-connected disability and their income exceeds the allotted amount to qualify for VA coverage.

The American Legion supports 8g reintegration into VA health care. At the 2016 National Convention, the National Executive Committee approved Resolution No. 2 that called for the reinstatement by VA.

“The American Legion stands behind providing access to VA health care to veterans regardless of their economic status,” Jeff Steele, an associate in the National Legislative Division, told the House Committee on Veterans Affairs on Dec. 2, 2020.

The American Legion is also on record in recent testimony, supporting legislation that calls for standing up a bipartisan commission on veterans health-care eligibility and benefits design.

As more vaccines become available, VA plans to offer free COVID-19 vaccines to all veterans receiving VA health care who want one. If you are a veteran who is not currently enrolled or receiving health care through VA, visit this web page to apply.

For additional information, contact an American Legion service officer who is specially trained to provide expert assistance, free of charge, to veterans and their families. To find a service officer near you click here.

Mission Blue Post Assistance Grant Program

The American Legion National Headquarters has launched the “MISSION BLUE POST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM GRANT PROGRAM” which is an opportunity for Posts to receive a $1,000 grant from National HQ.

Grant monies to be used towards:

Mortgage or Rent
Utilities
Insurance Premiums

What the Grant is NOT to be used for:

Payroll
Funding Post Projects or Programs
Taxes/Fines/Fees
Lost Revenue
Repairs to Post
Funding Post

Qualifying criteria:

2020 CPR Submitted
IRS 990 is current
Florida Secretary of State Business Filing is up to date
Financial Need
Insurance Declaration Page showing Department and National listed as an additional insured/rider to policy
- The American Legion (dba) American Legion National Headquarters
- The American Legion Department of Florida, Inc.
Department Adjutant Review and Signature

The Department will review the information from the appropriate agency listed above. We will also verify CPR and Post Certification of Officer forms at Department HQ. The Post is expected to ensure all the information is current and on file or, provide a copy when submitting the application to Department HQ.

Download Application

Betty J. Hunt-Beckwith

It is with deep regret that we report the passing of Past Northern Area Commander, Betty J. Hunt-Beckwith, of Lewiston, New York at the age of 96 on Wednesday, September 23, 2020. Betty is survived by her children, Alfred M. (Paula) Hunt, Jr., Robert L. Hunt, Philip E. (Rose) Hunt, Sandra Granieri; her sister, Colleen (Dennis) Dey; seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, September 30th in Lewiston, New York.

Betty was a U.S. Army WWII Veteran and a member of American Legion LaSalle Post 1142, Niagara Falls, NY with 48 continuous years of membership. Betty joined The American Legion in 1972 at Portage Post 1465, Niagara Falls, NY, where she became the first woman to serve as Niagara Co. Commander in 1981. She moved to Florida in 1984 and became a member of Holly Hill Post 120 and then Ormond Beach Post 267. Betty served as 17th District Commander (1988-1989) and Northern Area Commander (1994-1995). Betty returned to Niagara Falls in 1999 and became the first woman Commander of the LaSalle Post 1142 in 2001.

Please keep her family and friends in your thoughts and prayers in their time of grief.

If you would like to send your condolences, you may do so through her son, Alfred M. Hunt, Jr., at 736 Powell Ln., Lewiston, NY 14092-1132.

The American Legion to White House: ‘Lower the flag’

(INDIANAPOLIS, January 10, 2021) — The head of the nation’s largest veterans organization called on President Trump to order the lowering of U.S. flags at the White House and all federal buildings in honor of a Capitol police officer who was killed in Wednesday’s attack on the U.S. Capitol.

“Brian Sicknick was an Iraq war veteran and an American hero,” American Legion National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford said. “I was pleased to learn that the U.S. Capitol lowered the flag above it on Friday. The governor of New Jersey also ordered the lowering of flags in Mr. Sicknick’s home state. Mr. President, do the right thing and lower the flags that are under your authority to half-staff in honor of this hero who gave his life defending the house of the people.”

The American Legion mourns passing of baseball great Tommy Lasorda

(INDIANAPOLIS, January 7, 2021) — The nation’s largest veterans organization paid tribute today to Tommy Lasorda, the legendary Hall of Fame manager for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Army veteran and Legionnaire who died Jan. 7 at 93.

“Tommy Lasorda didn’t just bleed Dodger blue – he bled red, white and blue,” American Legion National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford said. “As a faithful ally in our efforts to protect the U.S. flag from desecration, Tommy always summed it up the best: ‘Speech is when you talk.’ He will be remembered as one of the greatest personalities in baseball, as well as a patriot. We are grateful to have had him among the Legion’s ranks.”
During his 20 years as manager of the Dodgers, Lasorda won two World Championships, four National League pennants and eight division titles. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1997.

In 1998, Lasorda testified in support of a proposed constitutional amendment that would return to Congress the right to prohibit desecration of the U.S. flag.

A member of American Legion Post 227 in Tustin, Calif., Lasorda served in the Army from 1945 to 1947, putting his baseball career on hold. He received The American Legion Past Department Commander’s Club James V. Day “Good Guy” award in 1999.

The American Legion condemns violence in U.S. Capitol

(INDIANAPOLIS, January 6, 2021) — The head of the nation’s largest veterans organization unequivocally condemned today’s attacks on the U.S. Capitol and called for law and order to be quickly restored in Washington.

“The Capitol is the people’s house. An attack on the Capitol is an attack on all of us,” American Legion National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford said. “Just as The American Legion has condemned prior attacks and riots in other cities, we condemn it here. Regardless of whether the violence is inflicted by right-leaning groups, left-leaning groups or unaffiliated civilians, it is never acceptable. This is not how we do things in America. We believe in civil discourse to resolve our differences. The entire American Legion Family proudly stands with the law enforcement officers and National Guard members who are risking their lives to restore safety.”

Legionnaire Benefits

‘Congress should override veto,’ American Legion says

(WASHINGTON—December 23, 2020) – The head of the nation’s largest veterans’ organization called for Congress to override the president’s veto of the National Defense Authorization Act.

“The American Legion is disappointed that the president vetoed this important legislation, which would benefit our current servicemembers and veterans of previous generations,” James W. “Bill” Oxford, national commander of The American Legion said. “The NDAA passed with overwhelming support because Democrats and Republicans agree that it is good for America. The virtues of the NDAA have not changed since the president’s veto. We ask Congress to use the powers granted to it by the U.S. Constitution and override the president’s veto. Our troops deserve a pay raise and our Vietnam veterans continue to suffer the ill-effects of Agent Orange. The NDAA addresses these issues and much more.”

The American Legion: Wilkie Must Be Held Accountable

Secretary Robert Wilkie

(INDIANAPOLIS, December 12, 2020) — In February, American Legion National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford called on Congress to investigate allegations that senior leadership at the Department of Veterans Affairs attempted to retaliate against a veteran for reporting a sexual assault at the VA Medical Center in Washington, D.C. On Thursday, the VA’s Inspector General reported that VA leadership did not follow up or ensure the medical center had been implementing VA’s anti-harassment and anti-sexual assault efforts. Oxford issued the following statement concerning the findings of the IG:

“The American Legion has long supported legislation that brings accountability to the Department of Veterans Affairs. We have also called for the equal and respectful treatment of women veterans. It is unfair to expect accountability from the nearly 400,000 VA employees and not demand the same from its top executive. It is clear that Secretary Robert Wilkie failed to meet the standard that the veteran who came forward with the complaint deserved. VA’s own website includes a pledge to Stand Up to Stop Harassment Now! The document states that VA is ‘committed to a harassment-free health care environment for everyone and will not tolerate harassment of any kind.’ Clearly, that did not occur in this case. During one of my visits to a VA hospital, I was asked to sign the same pledge and gladly did so. By the promises set forth by his own department, The American Legion believes Secretary Wilkie should resign. Wilkie’s top lieutenants Pam Powers, James Hutton and Curt Cashour should also step down because of their roles in this violation of trust.”

The American Legion calls for Senate to pass, White House to sign NDAA

(WASHINGTON—December 9, 2020) – The head of the nation’s largest veteran’s organization called for the White House and Senate to reach an agreement on the proposed National Defense Authorization Act, which contains many provisions that The American Legion strongly supports. The House of Representatives passed the NDAA last night with a veto-proof majority.

“There are many items in the proposed legislation which would improve the quality of life not just for our military members, but for our Vietnam veterans as well,” James W. “Bill” Oxford, national commander of The American Legion said. “Moreover, we hope that President Trump agrees that an issue as important as liability for social media companies is important enough to debate on its own merits and should not be part of the NDAA.”

Oxford singled out the Fair Care for Vietnam Veterans Act as “a life-changing provision that is included in the NDAA which will benefit more than 34,000 Vietnam veterans and their families.” The amendment, secured by Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., would add bladder cancer, hypothyroidism and Parkinsonism to the list of service-connected presumptions associated with Agent Orange exposure.

“Additionally, the defense bill increases troop strength and includes a 3 percent pay raise which our military members certainly deserve,” Oxford added. “The American Legion has always advocated for a strong national defense and quality care for our country’s veterans. We believe that the NDAA goes a long way toward strengthening America.”

Florida Department Adjutant Announces Retirement – Now Accepting Resumes

Michael McDaniel, Dept Adjutant

With a heavy heart, I announce my formal resignation as your Department Adjutant for the Department of Florida American Legion effective July 2, 2021. After 14 years in this role, I feel it is the right time to move aside and allow younger veterans to steer us toward the future.

I am proud of the work we have done together to refocus our energies on our veterans by creating Project Vet Relief, the American Legion License plate, and now the medical program for our families.
Thanks to the passion of our incredible team of dedicated and talented Department Staff, Legion Family Members, our committed DEC, and the hundreds of volunteers in local American Legion Posts, we are taking giant leaps together to grow a powerful Florida Legion that is rededicated to service at the individual, community, and state level.

will always love Florida Legion and all of you who have touched my heart. I look forward to working side by side with you as a volunteer to accomplish this first great mission of our second one hundred years of service.

Commander Rick Johnson is appointing a Search Committee for screening and recommending to the Department Executive a candidate for the position of Department Adjutant. Individuals interested in submitting a resume, please see the attached job posting for qualification requirements and details on how to submit.

Download Memo | Download Job Announcement

The American Legion mourns passing of Chuck Yeager

(INDIANAPOLIS—December 8, 2020) – American Legion National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford issued the following statement today concerning the death of legendary pilot Chuck Yeager:

“America lost a great veteran last night but heaven gained a great pilot. Brig. Gen. Chuck Yeager was as brave as he was fast. He was not only the first to break the sound barrier but he was a World War II fighter ace. The one-time private in the Army Air Forces lived to see the creation of the U.S. Space Force. The history of America’s aviation success simply could not be told without including significant space to Charles E. “Chuck” Yeager, one of the greatest pilots that ever lived. We extend our condolences to his family. He was a real American hero.”

Chip Ganassi Racing and The American Legion Announce Multi-Year NTT INDYCAR SERIES Relationship

The American Legion to sponsor the No. 48
driven by racing legends, Jimmie Johnson and Tony Kanaan

INDIANAPOLIS (December 1, 2020) – Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) announced today a multi-year agreement with the nation’s largest veterans service organization, The American Legion, as a sponsor of the No. 48 Honda in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES represented by a combination of Seven-Time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson (street and road courses) and former Indianapolis 500 Winner and Series Champion Tony Kanaan (ovals).

“We’re excited about this new relationship with The American Legion as it allows us to further the sponsorship program on the No. 48 team with Jimmie and Tony, while also representing a very important relationship with an organization dedicated to supporting veterans,” said Chip Ganassi, team owner of Chip Ganassi Racing. “Jimmie in particular has a long-standing appreciation for the service of veterans, so it was just another reason why partnering with The American Legion on his debut in the NTT INDYCAR made sense.”

The American Legion will be featured prominently on Johnson’s No. 48 Honda during every race in the 2021 and 2022 NTT INDYCAR SERIES. The organization will also be the primary paint scheme for two races in 2021, including, “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” — the Indianapolis 500 on Memorial Day weekend. Kanaan, winner of the 2013 Indianapolis 500, will be behind the wheel for those races.

“This is truly a win-win for all involved,” said James W. “Bill” Oxford, national commander of The American Legion. “Teaming up with Chip Ganassi Racing allows The American Legion to showcase how it strengthens America every day through its programs, advocacy and support of veterans and their families. We’re looking forward to bringing that message and our mission to race fans across the country.”

The announcement comes on #GivingTuesday, a day of global giving designed to help change
communities and the world. As a result, Johnson, who has family members that have served in the
military, will be making a $10,000 donation to The American Legion. Johnson hopes his donation will
motivate fans and the public to support our veterans by donating $48 to The American Legion. The $48
pays homage to the number 48 car that he and Kanaan will drive. Donors can visit legion.org/48 to make
a gift and help celebrate this new relationship and veterans across the country.

“Our family knows firsthand how important it is to recognize our veterans,” said Johnson, who’s
grandfathers and brother-in-law served in the military. “It’s exciting to be partnering with The American
Legion to be able to show our appreciation to veterans and to continue to raise public awareness and
support for this special organization. Giving Tuesday is a great day to announce this partnership and a
way for fans to show their appreciation for our veterans.”

About Chip Ganassi Racing
Chip Ganassi has been a fixture in the auto racing industry for over 30 years and is considered one of the most successful as well as innovative owners the sport has anywhere in the world. Today his teams include four cars in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, two cars in the NASCAR Cup Series, and one car in both the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and Extreme E. Overall, his teams have 20 championships and over 225 victories, including four Indianapolis 500s, a Daytona 500, a Brickyard 400, eight Rolex 24 At Daytonas, the 12 Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Ganassi boasts state-of-the-art race shop facilities in Indianapolis and Concord, N.C., with a corporate office in Pittsburgh. For more information log onto www.chipganassiracing.com

The American Legion National Commander Congratulates President-Elect Biden

INDIANAPOLIS (November 24, 2020) — National Commander of The American Legion James W. “Bill” Oxford issued the following statement regarding the 2020 elections:

“The American people have spoken and their wishes should be honored and respected. The American Legion congratulates President-elect Joe Biden. We look forward to working with our nation’s commander in chief in providing a high quality of life for veterans and their families, maintaining a strong military and promoting patriotic programs to benefit future generations. It has been a tough campaign for both major presidential candidates and they are to be commended for their service. The coronavirus pandemic and its related economic consequences have caused great pain throughout the United States and the world. The American Legion offers our assistance and support to help the incoming administration defeat this deadly virus. We also congratulate the recently elected members of Congress and public office holders at every level. When it comes to advancing America’s interests, the 117th Congress will always find an informed and eager partner in The American Legion. We offer our same support to President Trump, who remains our president until January 20, 2021.”

VAOIG report on C&P Exam inventory/canceled exams

Enhanced Strategy Needed to Reduce Disability Exam Inventory Due to the Pandemic and Errors Related to Canceled Exams https://www.va.gov/oig/pubs/VAOIG-20-02826-07.pdf

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected how the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) fulfills its mission of “providing benefits and services to Veterans, their families, and survivors in a responsive, timely, and compassionate manner in recognition of their service to the Nation.”

Due to the pandemic, VBA discontinued all in-person disability exams on April 3, 2020. The exams allow VBA to determine the severity of veterans’ service-related illnesses or injuries, which in turn determines the monthly benefits VBA pays disabled veterans. To continue

providing some exams, VBA relied on telemental health and reviews of acceptable clinical evidence (ACE).

ACE exams are based on a review of medical records and history without an in-person clinical exam or testing but may include a telephone or video interview.

The VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) conducted this review to assess

How VBA scheduled and conducted exams during the COVID-19 pandemic to limit veterans’ exposure, minimize claims-processing delays, and ensure claims are not prematurely denied due to missed or canceled in-person exams; and

VBA’s strategy for addressing the inventory of disability exams delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Syracuse University’s IVMF to receive American Legion’s Patriot Award

The American Legion – OCT 27, 2020

On Nov. 17 via a virtual streaming ceremony, The American Legion will present its Patriot Award to Dr. Mike Haynie and Syracuse University’s Institute for Veterans and Military Families. To view the ceremony at 10 a.m. ET Nov. 17, click here.

The Patriot Award is given by The American Legion to recognize great deeds and exemplary acts of service; previous recipients include former Indiana Gov. and Purdue University President Mitch Daniels, former Secretary of Defense Dr. Robert M. Gates, Vietnam War U.S. Army combat nurse Diane Carlson Evans and South Korean multinational electronics leader Samsung.

Following the presentation of the award, American Legion Past National Commander Fang Wong and Dr. Haynie, IVMF’s founder and Syracuse University’s Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives & Innovation, are scheduled to discuss topics including higher education for veterans, training for transitioning veterans and the challenges associated with being newly disenfranchised from service. To submit a question in advance for the discussion, click here

The American Legion to sponsor the No. 48 driven by racing legends, Jimmie Johnson and Tony Kanaan

The American Legion to sponsor the No. 48
driven by racing legends, Jimmie Johnson and Tony Kanaan