Three lesser-known benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

 

Here are three lesser-known benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) — what they are, why they matter, and how you apply for them.

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1. Adapted Housing Grants (SAH / SHA)

What it is:
If you have a qualifying service-connected disability, the VA offers grants to help you buy, build, or adapt a home for your needs — e.g., ramps, wider doors, accessible bathrooms, or even building a new home. Benefits+3Kiplinger+3VETERANS VALOR - VA Claims Consulting+3
Why many miss it:
These are more niche than typical benefits like healthcare or education. The eligibility criteria are specific (e.g., loss or loss-of-use of limbs, blindness, severe burns). Veterans Affairs+1
How to apply / Website / Link:

• Main info page: VA Housing Assistance – Disability Housing Grants Veterans Affairs

• To apply: Apply for an adapted housing grant (online or paper) Veterans Affairs+1

• You can use VA Form 26-4555: Application in Acquiring Specially Adapted Housing or Special Home Adaptation Grant. Veterans Affairs+1
  Tips & notes:

• Make sure your disability rating/decision supports the required criteria. Benefits+1

• You do not always have to use the full grant amount in one year — you may use portions over multiple years. Veterans Affairs

• Even if you already own a house, you may be eligible to adapt it. Benefits

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2. Caregiver Support Program – Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

What it is:
If a veteran has a serious injury or illness related to their service, their family caregiver may qualify for the VA’s program offering support services: a monthly stipend, health care through CHAMPVA for the caregiver (if applicable), training, respite, and other resources. Veterans Affairs+1
Why many miss it:
The focus is often on the veteran’s benefits; but caregiving support is a different dimension and not always front-page in benefit guides.
How to apply / Website / Link:

• Info & eligibility: Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers Veterans Affairs

• Application: You can apply online or download VA Form 10-10CG (Application for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers). Veterans Affairs+1
  Tips & notes:

• The veteran must be enrolled in VA health care or being medically discharged to qualify. Veterans Affairs

• There’s a distinction between the “General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS)” (less formal) and the PCAFC (more comprehensive). Caregiver VA

• Make sure to gather all documentation about the veteran’s injury/condition and caregiver role.

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3. Clothing Allowance & Adaptive Equipment / Vehicle Grants

What it is:
Though it sounds small, these benefits help veterans who have service-connected disabilities that require prosthetic or orthopedic appliances, skin conditions that damage clothing, or adaptive equipment in vehicles. For example:

• The VA clothing allowance helps replace damaged or worn-out clothing due to service-connected disability. Kiplinger+1

• Automobile Allowance & Adaptive Equipment: If your disability affects your ability to drive, the VA may help with a one-time payment for a specially equipped vehicle or adaptive equipment. Kiplinger+1
  Why many miss it:
  These benefits seem minor compared to large assistance programs, so people may not realise they’re eligible. Also, conditions like needing a specially equipped vehicle might be assumed to be covered by other programs and overlooked.
  How to apply / Website / Link:
  While there isn’t a single “clothing allowance page” link cited here, the VA main benefits page gives the umbrella context and you’d want to contact your local VA regional office or benefits counselor. For example:

• General page for service-member and veteran benefits: VA Service Member Benefits Veterans Affairs

• For detailed vehicle equipment and adaptive housing, see the adaptive housing grants page above (since these kinds of adaptive equipment/vehicles are in the same umbrella of “adaptation” benefits).
  Tips & notes:

• Even if you think the benefit is “small”, it still adds up and you deserve to claim it.

• Document how the disability damages clothing or how adaptive equipment is required — that evidence helps your claim.

• Ask your local veteran’s service officer (VSO) for help — they often know lesser-used benefits.

A Tribute of Resilience and Honor

 

A Tribute of Resilience and Honor

On this solemn anniversary of September 11, 2001, we pause to remember the lives lost and the families forever changed on that tragic day. Yet even in the midst of sorrow, what stands out most is the unshakable resilience of the American spirit. Out of the smoke and rubble rose courage, unity, and a determination that continues to define us as a nation.

To our veterans and military personnel, we owe a debt that words alone can never repay. When our nation was wounded, you stepped forward—many leaving behind comfort and family—to defend freedom and protect the innocent. Your service reminds us that America’s strength lies not only in its ideals, but in the men and women willing to stand guard over them.

This day is not only about remembering tragedy; it is also about celebrating perseverance. It is about honoring those who gave their lives, those who served in the years since, and those who continue to carry the torch of liberty. We remember the bravery of first responders who rushed into danger, the selflessness of ordinary citizens who became heroes, and the enduring faith of a people who refused to be broken.

September 11 will always be a reminder of our shared vulnerability—but also of our shared resilience. As we reflect, let us recommit ourselves to unity, gratitude, and hope. Let us honor the sacrifice of our veterans and service members not only with our words, but by striving to live with the same courage, integrity, and devotion they have shown.

Today, we stand together as one nation—humbled by loss, strengthened by sacrifice, and uplifted by the knowledge that even in our darkest hours, the American spirit shines bright.

Military REBOOT’s New Women-Only Course

A Path to Healing: Military REBOOT’s New Women-Only Course

Big Rapids, MI — On September 15, 2025, the Big Rapids community will launch a powerful new resource: the 12-week, women-only Military REBOOT trauma recovery course. This faith-based and peer-led program is designed for female veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, and their families, offering a safe place to begin healing from trauma.

What Makes It Unique

Unlike traditional support groups, the program is peer-led by women with firsthand experience, ensuring an atmosphere of trust, confidentiality, and empathy. Organizers emphasize that “words don’t leave this area,” creating a safe environment where participants can process their journeys openly.

Military REBOOT has proven results nationwide. Participants often report stronger relationships, decreased reliance on medication, and lower rates of depression and suicide. The course is open not only to service members themselves but also to their spouses and families—recognizing that trauma affects everyone in the home.

Why It Matters

Women now make up the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. veteran population, yet they face unique challenges, including higher rates of PTSD. Programs like this one provide a much-needed space where women can process trauma in a supportive community tailored to their experiences.

By combining peer support with faith-based teaching, REBOOT addresses the mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of recovery. With over 25,000 graduates nationwide, it has helped thousands of service members and first responders rediscover purpose and resilience.

How to Join

Classes will meet weekly from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 430 N. Third Ave., Big Rapids. New participants are welcome through the third week of the course.

Anyone interested can register or learn more at RebootRecovery.com/join.

A Beacon of Hope

For many women in uniform, the path to recovery can feel lonely. This new REBOOT course is more than just a class—it’s a community, a place of trust, and a step toward renewed strength and peace.

The Last Ace of World War II: Donald McPherson

Donald McPherson: The Last Ace of World War II

The passing of Donald Melvin McPherson in August 2025 closed a chapter of history. At 103 years old, McPherson was the last surviving American “ace” fighter pilot of World War II, a distinction given to aviators who downed five or more enemy aircraft in combat. His life, however, was not only defined by the dramatic dogfights of the Pacific theater but also by the quiet decades of service, humility, and community leadership that followed.

Born on May 25, 1922, in the small town of Adams, Nebraska, McPherson grew up far from the battlefields where he would one day make his mark. Like many of his generation, his life was transformed by the Second World War. In 1943, he joined the U.S. Navy through the V-5 Aviation Cadet Program, a path usually reserved for men with college experience. The Navy, in need of pilots, waived that requirement, giving McPherson his chance. After rigorous training at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, he earned his wings and was commissioned as an ensign in 1944.

Assigned to Fighter Squadron VF-83 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Essex, McPherson flew the Grumman F6F Hellcat, the workhorse of the Navy’s Pacific campaign. In the skies over Okinawa and other contested islands, he proved his skill and courage. He achieved ace status by downing five Japanese aircraft, a feat that placed him among the elite ranks of combat aviators. For his service, McPherson received three Distinguished Flying Crosses, multiple Air Medals, and, many years later, the Congressional Gold Medal awarded collectively to surviving World War II aces.

But McPherson’s story did not end with military glory. After the war, he returned home to Adams, where he married his sweetheart, Thelma Johnston, and raised three children. He chose a quiet, steady life: farming the land, carrying the rural mail, coaching youth sports, and serving as a Scoutmaster. He was deeply involved in his church, the American Legion, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. In recognition of the McPherson family’s devotion to their community, the local ball field was named “McPherson Field” in their honor. To those who knew him best, his faith, kindness, and service mattered far more than his wartime accolades.

Even in his later years, McPherson remained connected to his past. In 2024, at the age of 102, he once again sat in the cockpit of a restored Hellcat, reliving the experience that had defined his youth. Less than a year later, on August 14, 2025, he passed away peacefully in his hometown. His death marked the end of an era: the last living link to America’s World War II fighter aces was gone.

Donald McPherson’s legacy is twofold. In the skies, he embodied the bravery and skill that helped secure victory in the Pacific. On the ground, he lived a life of humility and service, showing that true heroism extends beyond the battlefield. His story reminds us that while history often remembers men for their wartime achievements, their deepest impact may be found in the lives they touch long after the fighting ends.

Top 10 Military Related News Stories for This Week

 

Here are the top 10 military-related news stories from this week

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1. Massive Russian missile and drone strike on Ukraine; Poland scrambles jets

Russia launched one of its largest attacks of the year on Ukraine—574 drones and 40 missiles targeted western regions, destroying a U.S.-owned factory and causing casualties. Poland scrambled jets in response.New York PostSky News

2. U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff forced into early retirement

General David Allvin will retire by November after being ousted by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, amid a sweeping purge of top military leaders under Trump’s administration.The Daily Beast

3. Russian “top sniper” exposed in compensation fraud scandal

Lieutenant Colonel Konstantin Frolov—once celebrated in Russian media—has been accused of faking battlefield wounds to claim £1.7 million in compensation, medals, and recognition.The Sun

4. U.S. and European military finalize Ukraine security options

Senior U.S. and European military officials have agreed on military options to guarantee Ukrainian security—these options are expected to be discussed among national security advisers.UNITED24 Media

5. Navy pilot rescued after $67 million fighter jet crash

A Navy pilot ejected safely from an F/A-18E Super Hornet that crashed into the ocean during a training exercise off the Virginia coast. The incident marks the sixth high-cost loss of a military jet this year.New York Post

6. U.S. Army launches advanced drone warfare operator course

The Army introduced its first official drone operator course at Fort Rucker to train soldiers in advanced drone tactics, flying systems, and 3D printing technologies.Task & Purpose

7. NATO “coalition of the willing” develops security framework for Ukraine

Top NATO and U.S. military leaders began formulating a security framework to guarantee Ukraine’s safety, while Russia criticized the talks and continues military aggression across Ukraine.The Guardian

8. North Korea’s senior military officers abruptly recalled from Russia

North Korea recalled top commanders from Russia’s Kursk region, signaling Russia’s growing confidence in its control of the region and potential easing of North Korea’s direct combat role.The Wall Street Journal

9. Trump revokes security clearances of 37 national security officials

The administration announced it would strip 37 current and former national security officials of their clearances—continuing a contentious tactic in U.S. politics.Military.com

10. Turkey and Syria coordinate to train new Syrian army

Military officials from Türkiye and Syria have begun preparations to train a new Syrian army under a bilateral agreement.Hürriyet Daily News

Top Military News for the Week August 15, 2025

 10 top U.S. military-related news stories (as of August 2025) that are particularly relevant to service members, spanning legal, operational, strategic, and human-interest aspects:

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1. Domestic Troop Deployment & Posse Comitatus Lawsuit

A trial in California is probing whether the deployment of National Guard troops and active-duty Marines to Los Angeles violated the centuries-old Posse Comitatus Act, which limits military involvement in civilian law enforcement. The outcome could significantly redefine presidential authority over domestic troop use.(Reuters)

2. Broad Implications for Future Presidential Power

A related AP exploration details how such actions—deploying troops to places like D.C. and L.A.—are testing the fragile boundaries of U.S. law regarding military domestic roles, setting a legal precedent with potential long-term implications.(AP News)

3. Revitalizing the Defense Industrial Base

The Washington Post warns of a deteriorating U.S. defense production capability—citing depleted ammunition stocks, delays in tank refurbishments, and a lack of industrial agility. The piece advocates for leadership akin to WWII mobilizer William Knudsen to drive a defense industry renaissance.(The Washington Post)

4. Trump–Putin Summit at an Alaskan Military Base

A high-stakes summit between Presidents Trump and Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, carries major global and military implications—especially regarding U.S. positioning on the Ukraine conflict and its relationship with NATO.(AP News)

5. Military Action Against Drug Cartels Under Consideration

The Trump administration is evaluating military responses—such as drone or missile strikes—to target Mexican drug cartels (designated as terrorist groups), while avoiding troop incursions into Mexico. This raises legal and diplomatic concerns.(The Washington Post)

6. Reporting Confusion in Guard/Reserve Duty Codes

A new study reveals that the vast array of duty codes used for National Guard and reserve members is unnecessarily complex, causing confusion and inefficiency for both personnel and taxpayers. Authorities recommend consolidating these codes.(Stars and Stripes)

7. Special Forces Scandal Exposed in New Book

A controversial book, The Fort Bragg Cartel, alleges troubling misconduct—including drug trafficking and murder—by members of U.S. Special Forces. The revelations come amid broader discussions on the use of special operations against cartels.(Democracy Now!)

8. Political Influence in the Pentagon

Reports suggest that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is pushing a form of Christian nationalism within the Pentagon, causing internal friction and raising questions about religious influence in military leadership spheres.(The Guardian)

9. Federal Takeover of D.C. Policing

The Trump administration has temporarily assumed control over policing in Washington, D.C., deploying National Guard soldiers and federal agents to assist with monument security, traffic operations, and drug enforcement.(AP News)

10. Tragedy at Fort Stewart

A former U.S. soldier and his wife have been charged with the grim homicide of their child due to starvation while stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia. The heartbreaking case has drawn attention to issues facing military families and base communities.(People.com)

Understanding the Rules for Deploying the National Guard

 

Understanding the Rules for Deploying the National Guard and the Marines — and Their Rules of Engagement

I. Deployment Rules: National Guard vs. Marines

A. National Guard

The National Guard is unique in that it operates under both state and federal authority. Its deployment depends on who is in command and the situation at hand.

1. State Activation (Title 32 U.S. Code)

• Governors can activate their state’s National Guard for emergencies such as natural disasters, civil disturbances, or public health crises.

• Troops remain under state command, even though they may receive federal funding.

• This is the most common type of activation (e.g., hurricanes, riots, COVID-19 pandemic).

2. Federal Activation (Title 10 U.S. Code)

• The President can federalize the National Guard, placing them under Department of Defense (DoD) command.

• Used for national defense missions, overseas deployments, or large-scale emergencies.

• Once federalized, Guard troops operate like active-duty military forces.

3. Restrictions

• When under state authority, Guardsmen can perform law enforcement roles (search, seizure, arrest).

• When federalized, the Posse Comitatus Act (1878) generally prohibits using federal military forces for domestic law enforcement unless explicitly authorized by Congress or the Constitution.

B. U.S. Marines

The U.S. Marine Corps, as part of the Department of the Navy, is a federal force. It cannot be activated by state governors and does not serve any state-specific role.

1. Presidential Authority (Title 10 U.S. Code)

• Only the President can deploy the Marines.

• Marines are used primarily for overseas combat operations, crisis response, embassy security, and limited domestic tasks (e.g., disaster relief under specific conditions).

2. Domestic Use

• Use of Marines on U.S. soil is rare and typically for non-law enforcement missions.

• Any use for law enforcement must be authorized by law (e.g., Insurrection Act).

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II. Rules of Engagement (ROE)

Rules of Engagement are directives that define when, where, and how military force may be used.

A. General Principles (Applicable to All U.S. Forces)

1. Self-Defense

   • U.S. forces may always use force in self-defense.

   • This includes unit self-defense and individual self-defense.

2. Necessity and Proportionality

   • Force must be necessary to accomplish the mission.

   • The level of force must be proportional to the threat.

3. Positive Identification (PID)

   • Before engaging, troops must confirm that a target is hostile or a valid military objective.

4. Distinction and Discrimination

   • Troops must distinguish between combatants and non-combatants.

   • Civilian casualties must be minimized.

B. National Guard ROE (Domestic Missions)

• When under state control, National Guard ROE are governed by state law and policies.

• ROE are generally more restrictive during domestic missions, especially in crowd control or riot situations.

• Use of force is usually graduated:

  1. Presence

  2. Verbal commands

  3. Physical restraint

  4. Non-lethal weapons (e.g., tear gas, rubber bullets)

  5. Lethal force (only if there is a threat of death or serious bodily harm)

C. Marines ROE (Combat Missions)

• In overseas operations, Marine ROE are governed by:

  • U.S. military doctrine

  • International law (Geneva Conventions)

  • Operational-specific ROE, approved by commanders and possibly the President.

• These rules vary based on the mission, whether it's counterinsurgency, peacekeeping, or full-scale combat.

The rules for deploying the National Guard and Marines reflect their distinct roles in U.S. national security. The Guard can operate at the state or federal level and may engage in law enforcement under state control, while the Marines serve only under federal authority and focus primarily on national defense and overseas operations. Both forces follow strict rules of engagement to balance mission success with respect for human rights and legal standards.

What about the ICE protests in Los Angeles?

During violent riots, the National Guard can be activated by a state governor under Title 32 authority to help restore order and protect lives and property. In this role, they remain under state control and are legally allowed to perform law enforcement functions, such as crowd control, enforcing curfews, making arrests, and protecting critical infrastructure.

Their use of force follows a graduated response, starting with presence and verbal warnings, and escalating only if necessary to non-lethal methods (like tear gas or rubber bullets). Lethal force is used only as a last resort, in cases of clear and immediate threat to life. If federalized (under Title 10), their law enforcement powers are typically restricted by the Posse Comitatus Act unless overridden by specific legal authorization like the Insurrection Act.

In ICE protests, the National Guard has serves mostly as a supporting force when protests became unruly or overwhelmed local authorities. Their role is not to enforce immigration law, but to help ensure public safety and protect infrastructure, especially federal property, when called upon by state leadership.

April - Month of the Military Child

 

Month of the Military Child – What It Is & What You Can Do

📅 What is the Month of the Military Child?

April is recognized as the Month of the Military Child in the United States. It’s a time to celebrate and honor the resilience, strength, and sacrifices of children in military families. These children often experience frequent moves, long separations from a parent, and other unique challenges, yet they continue to thrive with courage and adaptability.

The month was established in 1986 by Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger to bring awareness and appreciation to the lives of military-connected children.

🎗️ Why It Matters

Military children:

• Move 6–9 times on average before high school graduation.

• Often deal with long deployments or absences of one or both parents.

• Adapt quickly to new schools, friends, and routines.

• Serve and sacrifice alongside their families.

Recognizing them helps build understanding, support, and inclusion in schools and communities.

💡 What Teachers and Schools Can Do

1. Celebrate “Purple Up! Day”

• Encourage students and staff to wear purple, the color representing all branches of the military.

• Many states observe Purple Up! Day around mid-April. (E.g., April 15 or a nearby weekday.)

• Host a school-wide photo, banner, or assembly in honor of military kids.

2. Create a “Wall of Heroes”

• Display photos or drawings of students’ military family members.

• Let children write short bios or thank-you notes to honor them.

3. Morning Announcements or Spotlights

• Share daily facts about military children.

• Spotlight a military child each day and let them share their story or a fun fact about their life.

4. Classroom Activities

• Write letters or draw pictures to send to military families.

• Read books about military families (e.g., The Invisible String or Hero Dad).

• Include social-emotional learning focused on resilience, empathy, and adaptability.

5. Invite Guest Speakers

• Host a military parent or veteran to talk about their role and how families are involved in service.

6. Offer Support and Recognition

• If you have military-connected students, check in with them individually.

• Recognize their experiences during transitions, testing, or parent deployment.

👨‍👩‍👧 What Families and Communities Can Do

• Share stories and experiences of military life at home or in community groups.

• Attend local events hosted by bases or veteran organizations.

• Help non-military families understand and appreciate military kids' unique strengths and challenges.