Veterans Service Officer Shares May Report

I wanted to share a quick update and some helpful resources for our local veterans and their families.

Last month, our office handled 106 calls and welcomed 44 visitors seeking information about veterans benefits. We also coordinated rides to 24 medical appointments in the area using our DAV-sponsored vans.

Many veterans ask for help locating their service DD-214 (discharge paperwork). If you need a copy, you can request one directly from the National Archives website (archives.gov). Once you receive your DD-214, I highly recommend registering it with the county recorder and placing a copy with your end-of-life documents. This simple step can make things much easier for your family when preparing for funeral and burial benefits.

Please note: I will be out of the office and unavailable from June 6th to June 22nd. If you have urgent questions during this time, you can contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000.

June is PTSD Awareness Month—a time to learn more about post-traumatic stress and support those affected. If you or someone you know needs help, the VA offers confidential resources and support.

This month also marks two important dates: June 6th is the anniversary of D-Day, and June 14th is Flag Day. Please join me in displaying your flags proudly, thanking veterans for their service, and taking a moment to remember the sacrifices made on D-Day.

If you have flags that need to be retired, you can drop them off at the American Legion, the VFW, or the county building. They will be respectfully retired in a dignified ceremony.

Thank you for all that you do, and please feel free to reach out with any questions after I return.

Nick Kashon is the Veterans Service Officer for Montgomery County. You can reach him at Nick.Kashon@montgomerycounty.in.gov or (765) 361-4133. His office is located at 1580 Constitution Row Crawfordsville.