The Legislature’s Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee is recommending the creation of a new office in the Bureau of Veterans Services to handle requests by LGBTQ veterans who believe they were discharged from the service solely because of their sexual …
The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically altered the daily lives of Veterans across the country. This includes how they are connecting with their VA health care teams. They are increasingly using VA technologies such as My HealtheVet, VA’s online health …
BRUNSWICK — When she first applied to compete in an 11-day, nearly 417-mile peril-packed adventure race in Fiji, Gretchen Evans got an immediate “no.” The application for the Brunswick woman’s all-disabled team to participate in the event – the basis for …
VA this month announced its commitment to extend debt relief to Veterans adversely impacted by COVID-19 to the end of 2020 by suspending certain debt collection actions. The department recognizes Veterans and beneficiaries are still being greatly impacted …
In an effort to continue to slow the spread of COVID-19, the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services will continue to serve the public by phone appointment, the use of video appointments and a video intercom system with secure drop boxes for customers that wish …
Watch leaders at the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA), National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), and VA’s suicide prevention program discuss strategies to protect your family and prevent …
The VA Appeals Modernization Decision Review Quick Start Guide (QSG) provides clear and concise information for the next steps a Veteran can take when they disagree with the decision VA made on their disability compensation claim. Appeals Modernization …
SHIRLEY, Maine (AP) — A pair of U.S. senators from Maine and West Virginia has introduced a proposal to reduce the cost of special adaptive vehicle equipment for severely disabled veterans. Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine and Democratic Sen. Joe …
AUGUSTA — The Maine Hospice Council and Center for End of Life Care (MHC) has received one of 13 grants to work in partnership with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization’s “We Honor Veterans Program” (NHPCO/WHV) and the US Department of …
A new bronze bust of a Penobscot Nation tribal elder and World War II veteran who is credited with saving soldiers’ lives at D-Day will be installed Saturday at Omaha Beach in Normandy, France. The bust of Charles Shay, now 96, will be installed on July 4 …
BIDDEFORD — When Bill Clark walked up the steps into the Wreaths Across America mobile exhibit in Biddeford on Monday morning, he was on a mission, to learn more about how the organization operates and to chat with WAA personnel. Clark, of Old Orchard …
Like many worthy causes, the After Action Network (AAN) was borne from adversity. AAN is one of many Veteran-led organizations serving the Veteran community. Founded in Kansas City, Missouri, in 2017 by Marine Veteran Joe (Joey) Williams, AAN is a …
The summer months have always been a productive time to catch up on reading and resources in preparation for the upcoming school year. This year, in particular, when so many of our lives have been upended, using the summer months to reset plans and …
For veterans in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, there is an immense sense of pride that comes from serving their country. Unfortunately for some, they were involuntarily separated from the military due to their sexual orientation, …
The BDN is making the most crucial coverage of the coronavirus pandemic and its economic impact in Maine free for all readers. Click here for all coronavirus stories. You can join others committed to safeguarding this vital public service by purchasing a …
Many studies have shown a relationship, at times, between alcohol use and suicidal thoughts and/or suicide attempts. Sometimes people wonder, “When is alcohol a problem?” Common signs that may suggest further consideration include: Drinking more or for …
American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts are a lifeline for many veterans seeking to socialize and share experiences that can sometimes be difficult for non-veterans to comprehend. The COVID-19 pandemic has closed that important outlet for …
How do we measure mental health? Mental health treatment can be complicated, and adjustments are often needed to make it as effective as possible. When treatment isn’t meeting the Veteran’s goals or leading to improvement, VA encourages the Veteran and …
As the world becomes more and more attentive to the importance of mental health, researchers are offering up an invaluable resource on how to give “psychological first aid” to a distressed person—and it is available for free. Johns Hopkins University is …
More women than ever are taking on the responsibility of firearm ownership. Women Veterans are well-trained in the care and use of firearms, but other members of your home may not be. During National Safety Month this June, VA encourages women Veterans to …
