Military Officer - October 2008 - (Page 21) rapidfire NEWS YOU CAN USE VA Accepts Online Claims The VA now will accept online applications from veterans, survivors, and others filing initial applications for disability compensation, pension, education, vocational rehabilitation, and employment benefits. Effective immediately, the VA now will process applications received through its M MOAA President Visits Iraq Again OAA president Vice Adm. Norb Ryan Jr., USN-Ret., traveled to Iraq July 27–Aug. 1, his second visit in the past year. As a guest of DoD, Ryan visited the Taji National Depot and the Iraqi Army Service and Support Institute, a military training facility specializing in the logistics and medical fields. He also visited with U.S. military civil affairs and maintenance personnel, receiving an intelligence briefing from Maj. Gen. Paul E. Lefebvre, USMC, deputy commanding general of the Multi-National Corps — Iraq. Ryan’s latest visit, he says, has proved to him that Iraqi military members are both more hopeful and more confident, thanks to a much better security situation than in past years. “The focus of the coalition was to step aside and let the Iraqis do their job,” Ryan says. “They are making real progress.” Ryan also noted that despite the enormous strain on U.S. forces due to multiple, short-turnaround deployments, servicemembers still were performing with unmatched dedication. To view an online slideshow and read Ryan’s observations, visit www.moaa.org/moaainiraq. Web site without the claimant’s signature. Online applications reduce the number of incomplete applications received by the VA and decrease the need for additional development by VA claims processors. The online application also provides a link to apply for VA health care benefits and much more. For more information about VA benefits, go to the VA’s Web site at www.va.gov, or call (800) 827-1000. MILITARY OFFICER PHOTO: RIGHT, SHUTTERSTOCK OCTOBER 2008 21 http://www.va.gov http://www.moaa.org/moaainiraq
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