Each post creates the most vital link in a nationwide network of American Legion service to America’s veterans. Through the Service Officer, the post can provide our community with a unique service.
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The Post Service Officer is a competent and dedicated person who has a deep interest in fellow veterans, the post, and community. He is readily available to those needing assistance.
Beyond the post, The American Legion maintains a full staff of appeals representatives in Washington, D.C., and at VA Insurance Centers. A small mobile staff of field representatives provides a constant flow of information concerning conditions in VA hospitals, domiciliaries, and regional offices throughout the country.
A team of Legion representatives also provides assistance and oral representation on behalf of former service members of the Armed Forces who petition Department of Defense Boards for review of less than fully honorable discharge or dismissal from the military services. The unit helps veterans in obtaining decorations and medals through the various Armed Forces and Decoration units. Every Department has trained Service Officers in the various VA regional offices and hospitals in many counties
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POST SERVICE OFFICER
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The Post Service Officer (PSO) assists members of the Post, their widows and children as well as other worthy cases brought to their attention.
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The PSO performs his/her duties under the general supervision of the State Service Officer
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The PSO routes claims and supporting evidence and all inquiries to the State Service Officer
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The PSO keeps members informed of Veteran’s entitlements and benefits offered and administered by local, state and federal agencies.
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The PSO keeps the members informed about all events and happenings that involve the VA and the Vet Centers
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The Post Service Officer can only act as a recorder when assisting Veterans in completing VA forms. He cannot act as an advisor. The State Service Officer has all pertinent information and will fill that role.
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VETERANS SERVICE OFFICER
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A Veterans Service Officer (VSO) assists veterans in navigating the complex web of services and benefits available. IDVA runs 46 full-time and 35 part-time (itinerant) offices in 80 out of the 102 counties. These offices are staffed by more than 60 individual Veteran Service Officers (VSO's), These fellow veterans are experts on federal, state and local veteran resources.
VSO's are trained and accredited by the US Department of Veterans Affairs to provide free assistance to veterans and their dependents and survivors. This includes not only applying for federal and state benefits but also providing resources related to the following:
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Compensation and Pension
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Health Care
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Education & Training
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Employment
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Burial & Survivor
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Housing
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Permits
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Transportation
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Military Records
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And more
To find a VSO, follow the link:
http://www.legion.org/serviceofficers
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