November 12, 2015
Bureau Director Adria O. Horn Featured Speaker at Sanford Veterans Memorial Committee Veterans Day Celebration
November 11, 2015
Bureau Director Adria O. Horn Honors Student Veterans at UMA Veteran Recognition Ceremony
November 8, 2015
Bureau Director Adria O. Horn Featured Speaker at UMaine's Veterans Week Luncheon
November 3, 2015
Bureau Announces Veterans' Legacy Project
Bureau of Veterans? Services encourages veterans to participate
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, November 03, 2015
Contact: Adrienne Bennett, Press Secretary, 207-287-2531
AUGUSTA ? Governor Paul R. LePage and First Lady Ann M. LePage today joined Bureau of Veterans Services Director Adria Horn, veterans and their families as they announced the Maine Veterans Legacy Project, a program helping to preserve the living histories of our veterans.
The Veterans Legacy Project provides an opportunity for all generations of Maine families to connect to our military heroes and enables citizens to actively volunteer to protect American history.
?This special program connects our past, present and future generations in a way that touches your heart. Our veterans are living history, and when you listen to some of their stories it brings tears to your eyes,? said Governor LePage. ?It is our responsibility to ensure these memories are saved and shared with fellow Mainers and Americans.?
The Bureau of Veterans Services created the Maine Veterans Legacy Project with the mission of preserving Maine history by collecting first-person accounts of those who defended the United States during wartime and protected our borders during peacetime. The Bureau of Veterans Services collaborates with WABI TV5 of Bangor to film and produce the interviews and the State of Maine Archives will file the interviews, which will be made available to the public for view.
?This is about our veterans? legacies and each veteran has his or her own story to tell and lesson-learned to share,? said Adria Horn. ?Often we hear the words, ?never forget.? The Legacy Project is about remembering and learning so we can always remember. This is a meaningful way for our veterans to share their experiences, feelings, and lasting impressions that shaped their lives for our future generations.?
The Veterans Legacy Project initially will focus on interviewing veterans of World War I, World War II, Korean, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf Wars and Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts. All veterans are encouraged to participate in the project. However, it is not exclusive to veterans; the project also seeks to share stories from civilians who were actively involved in supporting veterans and the innumerable number of family members affected by their service. The project will also offer war industry workers, medical volunteers, troop greeters and others to contribute in future months.
?This year, we have focused on our World War II veterans because we know we are losing them at a rapid rate,? said First Lady Ann LePage. ?We are losing a generation of warriors, and it saddens me to know there are very few veterans still with us who served in World War II.?
During Tuesday?s ceremony, veteran?s photographs lined the Hall of Flags. The photographer, Rafael Macias is a U.S. Navy veteran and retiree. Following his time in the Navy, he decided to pursue photography. Originally from CA, he settled in Maine and started a photography business, Maine Artworks. Recently, he was been focusing on photographing Maine?s WWII veterans as his own 18-month Veterans Legacy Portrait Project. He completed portraits at the Maine Veterans? Homes, the MVH calendar, and will later publish a book of his portraits that will include over 90 Maine veterans.
If you are a World War II veteran or you know someone who would like to participate in the Maine Veterans Legacy Project, contact: Laura Allen at the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, (207) 430-5816.
February 27, 2016
Bills Meant to Bolster Services and Access for Maine Vets Get Hearings
February 6, 2016
Maine?s Congressional Delegation Seeks Prompt Action on ?Deeply Flawed? Veterans Programs
March 17, 2016
Governor Announces Bill and Executive Order to Promote Employment of Veterans
March 2, 2016
Bills to Boost Services to Maine Veterans Advance Unanimously
January 16, 2016
Maine Hire a Vet Fact Sheet (MS Word)
February 1, 2016
Maine ?Hire a Vet? Campaign Exceeds Expectations
March 29, 2016
Togus Ceremony Honors Vietnam Vets, Families
April 16, 2016
New Law Waives Tuition for Maine National Guard Members
April 17, 2016
New Law Gives Maine National Guard Members Tuition Waivers
April 22, 2016
LePage Signs Bill Designed to Improve Services for Maine Veterans
May 21, 2016
Bureau Deputy Director David Richmond Honors 100 year-old Female Veteran at Vet-to-Vet Awards
May 19, 2016
Senate Passes Veterans, Military Construction, Housing and Transportation Spending Legislation
May 19, 2016
Veterans Affairs, Cary Medical Center Sign Provider Agreement to Preserve Access to Care for ARCH Veterans in Northern Maine
May 24, 2016
Connecting Our Maine Veterans with the Services They Deserve - Radio Address by Governor LePage
NO EMBARGO
*The weekly message is available via the Office of the Governor website http://www.maine.gov/governor/lepage/news/radio_addresses/index.shtml.
Connecting our Maine Veterans with the Services they Deserve
As we head into the Memorial Day weekend, I?m sure most of you are preparing celebrations and seeking out events to commemorate the sacrifice of brave Mainers who gave their lives in service to our country.
Hello, this is Governor Paul LePage.
One of the great privileges of my time as Governor has been the many opportunities I?ve had to meet our military families and to pay tribute to their courageous dedication.
In a state with one of the highest percentages of veterans of any state in the country, honoring Maine?s proud tradition of military service has been critically important to my administration.
That?s why I am pleased to announce a bold new initiative for the state of Maine, a first-of-its kind website, which will connect veterans to the many programs and benefits they have earned because of their service to our country.
The new site was created by the Maine?s Bureau of Veterans? Services and is now available by visiting maine dot gov forward slash veterans (www.maine.gov/veterans).
The site is designed to meet the needs of our state?s nearly 130,000 veterans, as well as, our Guard and Reserve members, spouses, children, caregivers, and community advocates. If you are a veteran or you know one, you will find this website incredibly helpful.
It has many features that have never before existed in Maine and some that can?t be found anywhere else in the country, including:
? An interactive map of nearly 400 veteran resources throughout Maine searchable by all 16 counties and across 16 categories of programs - such as education, employment, recreation and financial assistance for veterans
? A detailed Navigation Tool on the homepage that allows you to choose whether you are a veteran, a transitioning service member, or a caregiver (among others) and routes you to detailed information on the state and federal programs that are relevant to your needs
This tool is the only one in the country that provides a link specific to employers to help them connect with - and hire - the incredibly talented pool of veterans and service members we?re fortunate to have here in Maine.
? Finally, it will also feature a centralized, statewide calendar of all of the free and discounted events for veterans and their families that are held across Maine throughout the year.
So, as you?re making plans for the Memorial Day weekend, I encourage you to visit the new statewide calendar to find a ceremony near you to honor those who have given so much.
I urge you to visit www.maine.gov/veterans to explore all that it has to offer, to share it with those in your community who may find it helpful, and to visit it whenever you have a question about the state and federal benefits that you have earned through your service.
Thank you for listening.
Adrienne A. Bennett, Press Secretary Office of Governor Paul R. LePage Adrienne.Bennett@Maine.gov Office: (207) 287-2531 Cell: (207) 592-3718
May 27, 2016
DHHS Veteran Advocates Help Veterans Receive Thousands More in Monthly Benefits
May 24, 2016
New Sanford Monument Stands in Tribute to All Who Serve
June 1, 2016
$36 million in job training grants will help more than 17,000 veterans overcome homelessness, secure meaningful employment
June 1, 2016
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Launches a New Website
June 13, 2016
Honor Flight Veterans Help Inspire New Generation
June 27, 2016
Help for Veterans Suffering From PTSD
July 8, 2016
Veterans Affairs Secretary to Keynote Augusta Event
July 18, 2016
Nearly 100 Years Later, Passamaquoddy Army Veterans Honored for Service
July 22, 2016
VA Secretary McDonald Touts Reduced Wait Times for Veterans at Augusta Conference
July 21, 2016
Veterans Gather for Annual Networking Conference
July 27, 2016
Maine Veterans' Art Works Celebrated on Annual Appreciation Day
July 29, 2016
Online Sleuthing Helps Send Civil War Veteran's Remains Home to Maine
August 1, 2016
Civil War Vet's Ashes to Wind Their Way Back Home to Maine
August 1, 2016
Civil War Veteran's Ashes Begin Motorcycle Trip Home to Maine
August 1, 2016
VA, HUD, and the US Interagency Council on Homelessness Announce 50 Percent Decline In Veteran Homelessness
HUD Contact: Heather Fluit, 202-708-0980
FOR RELEASE
VA Contact: Victoria Dillon, 202-461-7600
Monday, August 1, 2016
USICH Contact: Jennifer Rich, 202-205-4800
OBAMA ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES NEARLY 50 PERCENT DECLINE IN VETERAN HOMELESSNESS
WASHINGTON ? The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) today announced the number of veterans experiencing homelessness in the United States has been cut nearly in half since 2010. The data revealed a 17 percent decrease in veteran homelessness between January 2015 and January 2016?quadruple the previous year?s annual decline?and a 47 percent decrease since 2010.
Through HUD?s annual Point-in-Time (PIT) estimate of America?s homeless population, communities across the country reported that fewer than 40,000 veterans were experiencing homelessness on a given night in January 2016. The January 2016 estimate found just over 13,000 unsheltered homeless veterans living on their streets, a 56 percent decrease since 2010. View local estimates of veteran homelessness.
This significant progress is a result of the partnership among HUD, VA, USICH, and other federal, state and local partners. These critical partnerships were sparked by the 2010 launch of Opening Doors, the first-ever strategic plan to prevent and end homelessness. The initiative?s success among veterans can also be attributed to the effectiveness of the HUD-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Program, which combines HUD rental assistance with case management and clinical services provided by the VA. Since 2008, more than 85,000 vouchers have been awarded and more than 114,000 homeless veterans have been served through the HUD-VASH program.
?We have an absolute duty to ensure those who?ve worn our nation?s uniform have a place to call home,? said HUD Secretary Juli?n Castro. ?While we?ve made remarkable progress toward ending veteran homelessness, we still have work to do to make certain we answer the call of our veterans just as they answered the call of our nation.?
?The dramatic decline in Veteran homelessness reflects the power of partnerships in solving complex national problems on behalf of those who have served our nation,? said VA Secretary Robert A. McDonald. ?The men and women who have fought for this nation should not have to fight to keep a roof over their head and I?m pleased that VA is serving more Veterans than ever before with heath care, education, job training and wraparound supportive services. While this is very real progress that means tens of thousands more Veterans have a place to call home, we will not rest until every Veteran in need is permanently housed.?
?Together, we are proving that it is possible to solve one of the most complex challenges our country faces,? said Matthew Doherty, Executive Director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. ?This progress should give us confidence that when we find new ways to work together and when we set bold goals and hold ourselves accountable, nothing is unsolvable.?
In 2014, First Lady Michelle Obama launched the Mayors Challenge to End Veteran Homelessness with the goal of accelerating progress toward the ambitious national goal of ending veteran homelessness. More than 880 mayors, governors, and other local officials have joined the challenge and committed to ending veteran homelessness in their communities. To date, 27 communities and two states have effectively ended veteran homelessness, serving as models for others across the nation.
HUD and VA have a wide range of programs that prevent and end homelessness among veterans, including health care, housing solutions, job training and education. In FY 2015, these programs helped more than 157,000 people?including 99,000 veterans and 34,000 children?secure or remain in permanent housing. Since 2010, more than 360,000 veterans and their families have been permanently housed, rapidly rehoused or prevented from becoming homeless through programs administered by HUD and VA.
More information about VA?s homeless programs is available at www.va.gov/homeless. More information about HUD?s programs is available here or by calling the HUDVET National Hotline at (877) 424-3838. Veterans who are homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless should contact their local VA Medical Center and ask to speak to a homeless coordinator or call 1-877-4AID-VET.
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August 9, 2016
The Home Depot Foundation Pledges More Than $1.75 Million to Volunteers of America to Provide Homes and Services to Vulnerable Veterans
August 10, 2016
Veteran Organizations Partner Up to Bring Emergency Shelter for Homeless Veterans to the County
August 11, 2016
New Law Will Fine Anyone Impersonating a Veteran in Maine
August 12, 2016
Maine Veterans Home-Scarborough Wins Excellence in Quality Award from American Health Care Association
For Immediate Release Contact: AHCAPressOffice@ahca.org August 12, 2016 (202) 898-3165
Three Long Term and Post-Acute Care Providers Earn Top Distinction in Quality Care
AHCA/NCAL announces recipients of 2016 Gold National Quality Award
Washington, D.C. ? The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) announced that three long term and post-acute care providers have earned the 2016 Gold ? Excellence in Quality Award. The award is the final of three distinct levels possible through the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program, which recognizes organizations nationally that serve as models of excellence in providing high-quality care.
The 2016 Gold ? Excellence in Quality Award recipients are: ? Maine Veterans Home ? Scarborough; Scarborough, ME ? Altercare Post-Acute Rehabilitation Center, Inc.; Kent, OH ? Hughes Health and Rehabilitation; West Hartford, CT
?This year?s recipients join an elite group of providers who are among the very best in the nation,? said AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Mark Parkinson. ?They are champions of quality in their communities and in our profession. I commend them all for this achievement and for their unwavering commitment to improve the lives of those they care for every day.?
Based on the core values and criteria of the nationally recognized Baldrige Performance Excellence Program, the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program challenges member providers to achieve performance excellence through three progressive levels?Bronze, Silver, and Gold. The Gold ? Excellence in Quality Award is the most prestigious of the program. At this level, recipients have invested multiple years in mastering and applying the rigorous quality improvement standards of the Baldrige Criteria to achieve superior results in the areas of leadership, strategic planning, customer and workforce focus, and operations and knowledge management.
?It takes many years for some to get to this level because we set the bar really high,? said Christine Boldt, Chair of the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Board of Overseers. ?I?m very proud of this year?s recipients for successfully rising to the challenge. I applaud them for this significant achievement.?
Since the inception of the National Quality Award Program in 1996, only 31 long term and post- acute care providers have achieved this level of quality recognition.
AHCA/NCAL announced the recipients of the Bronze ? Commitment to Quality on June 1 and Silver ? Achievement in Quality on June 30. A full list of recipients is available on the AHCA/NCAL Quality Award website here.
The program is sponsored by AHCA/NCAL Associate Business Members: My InnerView, National Research Corporation; PointRight; Team TSI Corporation; and First Quality. The awards will be presented to recipients on October 18 during AHCA/NCAL?s 67th Annual Convention & Expo in Nashville, Tennessee.
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ABOUT AHCA/NCAL The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represent more than 13,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit www.ahca.org or www.ncal.org.
August 19, 2016
Hire-A-Vet Campaign to Kickoff Sept 1 in Augusta
August 22, 2016
Event Planned for Maine Women Veterans
August 23, 2016
Civil War Veteran's Remains Make it Home to Maine
September 6, 2016
Kids Take Lemons and Make Lemonade for Veterans
September 1, 2016
Augusta Job Fair Focuses on Maine Veterans
September 1, 2016
Job Fair Brings Maine Veterans, Companies Together
September 9, 2016
Ashes of Gardiner Man Who Died in World War II Buried in Augusta
September 10, 2016
Togus at 150: How Failed Resort Plans Became a National Veterans Care Model
September 11, 2016
Togus at 150: VA Maine Healthcare Adapts to Serve a Growing Number of Veterans
September 12, 2016
Groups to Grow Equestrian, Skiing Activities for Maine Vets
September 17, 2016
In Maine, VA Secretary Affirms Pledge to Veterans and Their Families
September 21, 2016
Collins, King Push for VA Outpatient Clinics
September 26, 2016
Maine Veterans Celebrate the Growing Ranks of Women in the Military
September 30, 2016
Moose Hunt a Win for Maine Veterans. Broccoli Crops
October 31, 2016
More than 60 Veterans Hired Half-Way Through 2016 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign
November 1, 2016
Veterans Helping Veterans at a Local Corn Maze
October 23, 2016
Honor Flight Maine Welcomes Home 45 WWII Veterans
October 30, 2016
Spectrum Generations Hosting Veterans Lunch
October 26, 2016
Veterans Bureau Aims to Eliminate Veteran Homelessness
October 27, 2016
Exhibit from the American Veterans Arts and Crafts Gallery On View
November 1, 2016
TD Banknorth Supports Maine's "Veterans Count" Program
November 2, 2016
Hiring 100 Veterans in 100 Days
November 4, 2016
Maine Gets High Marks for Supporting Veterans
November 7, 2016
Grad Student at USM In Portland Helps Veterans Adjust to College Life
November 8, 2016
Honor Veterans By Making Them An Essential Part of Civilian Society
November 9, 2016
Our Only Goal is Caring for Those Who Served
November 10, 2016
He Harnesses Strong Emotions in Fight for Veterans' Rights
November 9, 2016
Local Veteran Connects Other Vets with Services
November 10, 2016
After His 'Bad Day at Work', He's Helping Veterans Relax
November 10, 2016
PTSD Puts Veterans Back in War Even While At Home
November 10, 2016
Honor Flight Founder Brings Fellow Maine Veterans to DC
November 9, 2016
'Veterans Count Heroes' Wall Dedicated to Maine's Veterans in Portland
November 10, 2016
Maine Employers Say Hiring Veterans is More Than a Public Service - It's Good for the Bottom Line
November 10, 2016
Farms Offer Troubled Veterans A Place to Start Over
November 11, 2016
Maine Veterans Honored at Togus, UMA
November 11, 2016
This Decorated Soldier is Dedicated to Serving Other Maine Veterans
November 11, 2016
We Celebrate American Heroes, Patriotism and Sacrifice on this Veterans Day
November 11, 2016
Pets to Farmer Vets Initiative Aims to Help Veterans Cope with PTSD
November 11, 2016
Veteran from Saco and Mother Featured in Documentary Film
November 12, 2016
Veterans Day Ceremony Brings Generations Together
November 13, 2016
Helping Veterans and Boosting Maine's Agriculture
November 15, 2016
Service and Sacrifice: Young Maine Veterans Receive Life Saving Care
November 12, 2016
Bureau Director Adria Horn Featured on WGAN "Inside Maine"
November 12, 2016
Bureau Director Adria Horn Featured on WGAN "Inside Maine" 2nd Half of Interview
November 11, 2016
Bureau Director Adria Horn Featured on MPBN "Maine Calling"
November 16, 2016
Iraqi Freedom Veteran Explains How U.S. Goes to War
November 16, 2016
UMA Ranked a National Leader in Educating Veterans
December 3, 2016
Donations Still Needed for Wreaths Across America
November 29, 2016
Wreaths Across America Announces 2016 Escort to Arlington Route
November 28, 2016
Campaign to Build 300 Cottages for Homeless Veterans
November 23, 2016
Thousands of Veterans Forced to Repay Severance Years After Leaving the Military
November 24, 2016
News Center Honor Flight Telethon Smashes Expectations
November 11, 2016
Profile of U.S. Veterans is Changing Dramatically As Their Ranks Decline
December 7, 2016
Bangor Parade, Wreath-Laying Planned for 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor Attack
December 7, 2016
Maine Ceremonies to Mark 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor Attack
December 7, 2016
House Passes Veterans Bill with Provisions Sought by Pingree, Maine Veteran
December 6, 2016
Governor Directs Flags to Half-Staff to Commemorate National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
December 14, 2016
Student Veterans of America Awards First-in-Maine Grant to USM's Husky Veterans
December 18, 2016
Veterans Housing Program to Receive $100,000 Grant
December 20, 2016
Local Vets Train Service Dogs in Paws for Peace
December 19, 2016
Wreaths Across Southern Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery
December 20, 2016
Veterans' Cemeteries Fell Silent at Noon on Saturday
December 20, 2016
Collins, King ask for Answers from VA About Veteran Severance Pay
December 23, 2016
Topsham Program Pairs Service Dogs with Veterans
December 23, 2016
Volunteers from Nonprofit Health Group Donate to Help Homeless Veterans in Augusta
December 23, 2016
Obstacles for Maine Veterans Getting Healthcare in New Hampshire
December 23, 2016
Travis Mills Foundation Retreat Under Renovations
December 28, 2016
Cabin in the Woods Project Set to House Homeless Vets at Togus
December 29, 2016
Togus VA Medical Center Gets Low Quality of Care Rating
March 20, 2001
Maine Woman Uses Military Settlement Money to Create Veteran Resource Center
January 4, 2017
TV Show Filmed in Maine Will Focus on Veterans Turned Farmers
January 5, 2017
Farmer Veterans - Sharing Resources and Support
February 7, 2017
How Dogs Are Helping Veterans Recover From the Horrors of War
February 6, 2017
Diamond, Pingree Push Bills to Address Maine's Real ID Problem
February 1, 2017
Survey Captures Glimpse of Local Homelessness
January 27, 2017
Senators Collins, Warner Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Authorize Delayed VA Medical Leases
January 27, 2017
Senator King Pushes Legislation to Provide Student Loan Relief for Disabled Vets
January 22, 2017
Maine Historical Society Features "Veterans' Voices"
January 12, 2017
Trump Announces David Shulkin as Pick for Secretary of Veterans' Affairs
February 9, 2017
Tax Deal Finalized on Housing Project for Homeless Veterans
February 14, 2017
Susan Collins Introduces Bill to Expand Access to National Parks for Veterans
February 14, 2017
Senate Confirms First Non-Veteran to Lead VA
February 17, 2017
Documentary, Discussion About Female Veterans
February 19, 2017
New Facility Planned for Togus to Aid Caregivers of Veterans
February 22, 2017
Paws for Peace
February 25, 2017
Local Veterans Show Off Farming Skills in Bangor Dinner
February 26, 2017
Shrinking Ranks Challenge Central Maine Veterans Groups
March 2, 2017
More Than 195 Veterans Hired Through Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign
March 3, 2017
Pineland Hosts Biathlon for Disabled Veterans
March 8, 2017
Veterans Show Talent During Togus' Creative Arts Competition
March 9, 2017
Fifty Years Later, Veterans Recognized
March 10, 2017
Bipartisan Bill Looks to Help Veterans With Real ID Problems
March 16, 2017
Telethon Pulls In Over $45,000 for Homeless Vet Shelter
March 13, 2017
Maine Veterans' Homes Proposes New Augusta Facility
March 18, 2017
New Federal Ruling May Provide Additional Benefits to Maine Veterans
March 20, 2017
Veterans are Putting Roots Down in Maine - as Farmers
March 27, 2017
Pingree Pushes for Medal to Recognize Veterans Who Served During Cold War
March 27, 2017
Former Garden Center Being Converted to Farm, Housing for Homeless Veterans
March 28, 2017
USM's Summit Project Ruck to Honor Maine's Fallen Heroes Rescheduled to September 11, 2017
March 29, 2017
Maine Senators: Give Wounded Vets Free National Park Access
March 30, 2017
The VA is on a Path Toward Recovery, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Says
March 31, 2017
Maine Historical Society Seeks Veteran Stories
March 31, 2017
Easter Seals Maine Holds 12-Hour Radiothon to Help Veterans
March 29, 2017
At Age 97, Marine Corps Veteran Heads to Washington with Honor Flight
March 27, 2017
Lawmaker Pushes for Medal to Recognize Cold War Veterans
March 27, 2017
Senators Want to Expedite Vets' Appeals to the VA
March 28, 2017
Spectrum Generations' Veterans Program Receives National Recognition
April 2, 2017
Honor Flight Gives Fresh Appreciation for Military Service
April 5, 2017
Maine Veteran Appears on Ellen Show
April 13, 2017
Augusta Home For Homeless Female Veterans Nears Completion
April 17, 2017
King Calling for VA Reform with Maine Veterans
April 17, 2017
White Star Mother Helps Raise Awareness of Suicide by Maine Veterans
April 18, 2017
Maine Veterans Home to Present Series on Elder-Care Planning
April 17, 2017
Modern, Household Model of Veteran Residential Nursing Care Coming to Augusta
April 18, 2017
Honor Flight an Experience of a Lifetime, Local Vets Say
April 19, 2017
Lawmakers Consider Bill to Require Maine to Provide Mental Health Care for Veterans
April 20, 2017
New Report Shows Improvements in Mental Health Care for Veterans at Togus
April 25, 2017
VA Working to Reduce Opiate Use But May Not Meet State Deadline for Some Patients
April 29, 2017
Veterans Celebrated at Kieve-Wavus
May 1, 2017
Husson Journalism Students Preserve Korean War Veterans' Experiences
May 2, 2017
Veterans at Risk of Suicide Negotiate a Thorny Relationship With Guns
May 3, 2017
Veterans Seeking Care Warned About Imposter Phone Line
May 3, 2017
Senators Call for More Funding for State Veterans' Homes
May 3, 2017
Documentary Details Recovery of Soldier Who Lost All 4 Limbs
May 7, 2017
Veterans Honored with Handmade Quilts
May 10, 2017
VA, VFW & Walgreens Collaborate to Enhance Veterans' Access to Mental Health Resources
May 14, 2017
Show of Goodwill Finds is Great for Veterans
May 9, 2017
Motorcycle Ride Fundraiser to Support POW/MIA Monument
May 9, 2017
New Maine National Guard Headquarters Nears Completion in Augusta
May 11, 2017
Togus to Host Charity Walk to Benefit Homeless Veterans
May 11, 2017
Inaugural Planet Dog Ball Raises $80,000 for Veterans' Service Dog Programs
May 23, 2017
Care and Benefits for Veterans Strengthened by $186.5 Billion VA Budget
May 25, 2017
Applications Open for "Armed to Farm" in Maine in August
May 15, 2017
Groundbreaking Set for Homeless Veterans Housing at Togus
May 17, 2017
Hundreds Walk at Togus to Raise Awareness of Homeless Veterans
May 23, 2017
Senators Collins, King Announce Nearly $480,000 for Maine Veterans' Home
May 22, 2017
Augusta Man Succeeds in Veterans Court Program
May 28, 2017
Tending to Veterans' Graves Still Important
May 29, 2017
Program to Give Maine's Veterans a Chance to Learn Farming
May 29, 2017
Maine Compass - Remember Those Who Died This Memorial Day
May 31, 2017
Maine Veterans Can Learn Farming Under New Program
June 6, 2017
Veterans of D-Day Tell Their Stories
June 6, 2017
Gifford's Partners with Travis Mills Foundation to Help Bring Wounded Veterans to Maine
June 8, 2017
Maine Wins Two International Awards for State Websites
June 9, 2017
Veterans Honored at 97th Annual VFW State Convention
June 13, 2017
Congress Passes Bill to Increase Accountability Among VA Employees
June 15, 2017
Veterans Presented with Certificates and Coins
June 21, 2017
Retreat for War-Injured Veterans Being Dedicated in Maine
June 21, 2017
New UMA Veteran Center Set to Open in Fall
June 26, 2017
Maine DOE and MDOL Launch Bus Driver Hiring Initiative for Veterans
June 26, 2017
Maine Retreat for War-Injured Veterans Officially Dedicated
June 29, 2017
Bureau of Veterans' Services Highlights PTSD Awareness
June 29, 2017
Bureau of Veterans' Services Discusses Resources for PTSD
June 30, 2017
"Farm of Hope" Veterans Homeless Shelter to Break Ground
June 30, 2017
Subway Kicks Off Campaign to Support EasterSeals Maine Veterans Program
July 8, 2017
Veteran Helped by House in the Woods Program
June 27, 2017
VA Secretary Formalizes Expansion of Emergency Mental Health Care to Former Service Members With Other-Than-Honorable Discharges
July 10, 2017
Governor's Bills on Career Programs, Veterans Now Law
July 11, 2017
Founder of Retreat for Wounded Veterans Meets President
July 13, 2017
House Reaches Deal on Biggest Expansion of GI Bill in Decade
July 15, 2017
Moose Hunt for Disabled Veterans Seeking Sponsors
July 17, 2017
Senator Collins Continues to Protect Northern Maine Veterans' Access to Health Care
July 17, 2017
King Announces Support for Emergency Funding to Support Veterans Choice Program
July 20, 2017
Veterans Helping Veterans - Maine Military and Community Network Conference
July 20, 2017
Defense Health Agency Says Military Struggles with Opiate Abuse
July 21, 2017
Veterans Have Unique Opportunity with Windy Warrior Project
July 31, 2017
Maine's Representatives Support Emergency Funding for Veterans Health Care
August 1, 2017
VA CHOICE Emergency Funding Passes House, Senate Vote Pending
August 2, 2017
Collins, King Applaud Passage of Legislation to Fund Veterans Choice Program
August 2, 2017
Senate Passes King-Backed Bill to Reform Veterans Appeal Process
July 19, 2017
Conference Seeks to Connect Maine Veterans and Military Families to Services
www.mainemcn.org
MEDIA ADVISORY
Conference Seeks to Connect Maine Veterans and Military Families to Services
AUGUSTA, ME (July 19, 2017) ? The Maine Military & Community Network (MMCN) is hosting their 7th annual conference on Thursday, July 20 at the Augusta Civic Center. The focus of this year?s conference is Bringing Veterans, Military Families, and Support Services together.
MMCN is a statewide network of services and concerned citizens who want to help service members, veterans and their families overcome challenges unique to their experiences. To that end, the conference is designed to provide insight on topical issues, such as substance abuse, sexual trauma, and family legal matters, and connect veterans and military families to available resources. More than 300 veterans, behavioral health providers, non-profit leaders and others are expected to attend.
Keynote speakers include Vice Admiral Raquel Bono and Dr. John Wesley Fisher. Vice Admiral Bono is the Director, Defense Health Agency (DHA), Defense Health Headquarters, Falls Church, VA. She will be speaking on drugs in the Military and what?s being done to combat the issue. Dr. Fisher is a Vietnam Combat Veteran, author of ?The war after the war,? and will speak on his research and practice of natural methods for post-war reconciliation.
Breakout sessions have been organized to facilitate discussions on women veterans, moral injury, coping with deployment in the family, sexual trauma, and family legal matters. More information about the conference, including a full agenda and descriptions of breakout sessions can be found online at https://goo.gl/wMrdZB.
At the close of the Conference, attendees will visit Maine?s first-ever exhibition of the Vietnam Graffiti Project, an installation of raw and powerful drawings created by soldiers and Marines as they were transported on the Walker troopship to Vietnam.
Media is encouraged to attend to help raise awareness of these topical issues and available resources.
WHAT: 7th annual Maine Military & Community Network Conference: Bringing Veterans, Military Families, and Support Services together
WHO: Members of the Maine Military & Community Network; Vice Admiral Raquel Bono; Dr. John Wesley Fisher; Maine Veterans and Military Families
WHEN: 8am ? 4pm, Thursday, July 20, 2017
WHERE: Augusta Civic Center, Augusta, Maine
EVENT INFO: https://goo.gl/wMrdZB
MEDIA CONTACTS: For Vice Admiral Bono ? Kevin Dwyer, Chief of Media Operations, Defense Health Agency, 703-681-1770 or kevin.j.dwyer10.civ@mail.mil.
Laura Allen, Veteran Outreach Specialist, Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services at Laura.e.allen@maine.gov or 207-446-0168
August 3, 2017
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Hires New Veteran Service Officer in Caribou
June 26, 2017
Data Suggests Over 19,000 Maine Veterans May Have Experienced PTSD
For Immediate Release Contact: Laura Allen Maine Bureau of Veterans Services 207-446-0168 Laura.E.Allen@maine.gov
Data Suggests Over 19,000 Maine Veterans May Have Experienced PTSD Maine Bureau of Veterans Services highlights signs, symptoms of PTSD and where to go for help
AUGUSTA, MAINE (June 26, 2017) ? Tuesday, June 27, is National PTSD Awareness Day. According to the VA?s National Center for PTSD, upwards of 15% of veterans experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. In Maine, which has a veteran population of 127,000, that equates to over 19,000 veterans in the state who may have experienced or are at risk of experiencing PTSD symptoms.
PTSD develops after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event, such as a major accident or intense combat. Symptoms typically begin soon after the traumatic event, but they can also appear months later or come and go over many years. Feelings of hopelessness, depression or anxiety, excessive drinking or drug use, chronic pain, and employment or relationship issues are often signs that someone is suffering from PTSD.
For veterans, the symptoms of PTSD often have complex underpinnings, such as survivor?s guilt or a realization that their responsibilities in civilian life will rarely match the intensity and significance of what they did in the military. There is also a reluctance among veterans to ask for help.
?Within the military chain-of-command, service members learn to relentlessly advocate for others, as a result, self-advocacy and asking for personal help is usually a significant barrier to healing,? noted Adria Horn, Director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. ?But the intent of PTSD Awareness Day is to break down the stigma surrounding this issue and to encourage people to acknowledge how they are feeling and then to act on it by seeking assistance.?
Traditional symptoms of PTSD may mirror symptoms of another common injury related to military service ? Traumatic Brain Injury ? making self-advocacy, and seeking a true diagnosis and appropriate treatment that much more critical. For aging veterans, latent symptoms of untreated PTSD may become stronger later in life and be present in conjunction with or an early sign of dementia.
Horn emphasized that anyone ? a veteran struggling with PTSD; a family member concerned about their parent, child, husband, wife; or an employer worried about a veteran in their workforce ? can connect with the Bureau for assistance understanding and accessing available resources. As research into the causes and treatments of PTSD has evolved, there has been a growing acceptance that diverse approaches can create a very personalized and effective approach to therapy and healing.
?In addition to our traditional individual counseling and support group approaches, all of our Vet Centers offer a variety of alternative programs such as guitar classes, book groups, and social outings to barbecues and bowling alleys,? stated Scott Hutcherson, Director of the Lewiston Vet Center. ?Sometimes, just the ability to be among other veterans who are experiencing similar emotions and challenges can be therapeutic in and of itself.?
Individuals seeking assistance with managing PTSD symptoms can contact the Bureau for assistance enrolling in VA healthcare, filing for disability compensation and providing local connections to programs such as acupuncture, equine therapy, or service dog providers in addition to traditional therapies. There are many programs available to Maine veterans and the Bureau is committed to helping veterans find the approach that will work best for them.
For more information on National PTSD Awareness Day please visit: www.ptsd.va.gov/.
To obtain assistance for PTSD, please contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services at 207-430-6035 or visit their website www.maine.gov/veterans to learn more about available resources. Maine?s Vet Centers provide counseling and support for combat veterans and MST survivors. Please visit www.maine.va.gov/visitors/VetCenters.asp to learn more.
About Maine Bureau of Veterans Services The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau does this by being a responsive, experienced, and dedicated advocate. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has seven field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the US Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans? cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
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August 6, 2017
Maine Schools Facing Bus Driver Shortage Turn to Vets
August 7, 2017
A chair of honor for veterans
August 8, 2017
Caribou gets new Veterans? Service Office and officer
August 8, 2017
Driven to Serve: Maine Recruits Veterans for Free Training to Ease Shortage of School Bus Drivers
August 10, 2017
Service members, veterans, and family members who receive TRICARE will be eligible for the new benefit
August 12, 2017
Donald Trump Signs Bill Funding Veterans Medical Care Program
August 14, 2017
Troop ship?s Vietnam War-era graffiti docks in Augusta
August 15, 2017
Maine Public to screen highlights of Burns series 'The Vietnam War' before it airs
August 16, 2017
Portland Veterans health center approved for major expansion
August 16, 2017
Veterans education bill becomes law
August 17, 2017
UMA exhibit ?brings back a lot of memories? for Vietnam War veterans
August 17, 2017
Vietnam War veterans honored at Augusta event
August 17, 2017
Maine honors Vietnam veterans
August 17, 2017
Vietnam war vets given a proper "welcome home"
August 21, 2017
Maine military history deserves a spotlight
August 21, 2017
First Lady Ann LePage to Host Seventh Annual Military Families Ice Cream Social
First Lady Ann LePage to Host Seventh Annual Military Families Ice Cream Social Tomorrow at Blaine House
Contact: Barbara Claudel, (207) 624-7500 For Immediate Release: Monday, August 21, 2017
AUGUSTA ? First Lady Ann LePage will host her seventh annual Military Families Ice Cream Social on the Blaine House Lawn tomorrow, Tuesday, August 22, from 4 to 5:00 p.m. This event is open to families of those currently serving in the military and Gold Star families.
The social is a ?Back to School? event, at which each child will receive free school supplies, thanks to Operation Homefront and community members through sales at the Dollar Store. This event is free of charge, and it is open to Maine military families of any age and any branch of service. Guests are encouraged to wear play clothes and join in a variety of lawn games with the First Lady while they enjoy their ice cream.
?Maine?s military service members and their families make tremendous sacrifices on behalf of all of us,? said First Lady Ann LePage. ?Many children are faced with the difficult task of a parent leaving home for deployment, and this is an opportunity for Maine?s military families to connect, interact with each other, and enjoy some summer fun.?
To attend, please contact the Maine National Guard Family Program office at 430-5773 or 430-5953.
August 23, 2017
More than 140 Employers Hiring August 29 at Augusta Armory
08/23/2017 10:17 AM EDT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 23, 2017
Media Contact: Julie Rabinowitz, Maine Department of Labor, 207-621-5009
AUGUSTA- More than 140 employers of various sizes, industries and parts of Maine are gathering on August 29 at the Augusta Armory to recruit applicants for job openings. The hiring fair runs from 9 a.m. to noon at 179 Western Avenue in Augusta and follows the 2017 Maine Hire-A-Vet kick-off event at 8:30 a.m. The hiring fair has free parking and is open to the public; employers want to meet civilians, veterans and military family members. A list of exhibitors can be found under the event's listing at http://www.mainecareercenter.gov/employment/jobfairs.shtml .
"Maine CareerCenters around the state are hosting or partnering on many job fairs and recruiting events," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "These give you the opportunity to meet employers face-to-face and make a strong first impression. CareerCenters can help you prepare for these events with workshops and other support, including computers to update and print your resume. Contact your closest CareerCenter for assistance or attend the job fair to connect with businesses that are hiring."
CareerCenters, part of the Maine Department of Labor, offer a variety of services to help people find employment or upgrade skills. Each center provides several public-access computer workstations with Microsoft Office software, resume writing and cover letter software, Internet access and O'Net software for skills assessment. All CareerCenter services are free of charge.
CareerCenters are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call the CareerCenter hotline at 1-888-457-8883, TTY users call Maine Relay 711, or visit http://www.mainecareercenter.gov for more information and to find the closest location near you.
About Maine's Hire-A-Vet Campaign
The Maine Hire-A-Vet campaign provides support for employers to expand the hiring of veterans, to include a network of state and federal agencies, resources and nonprofits, education on military language and culture, recruiting and hiring assistance, and recognition for the hiring and advancement of veterans and military family members. Learn more at http://www.mainecareercenter.gov/hireavet .
Employers who want to join the 2017 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign can contact Steven Roy, Campaign Coordinator, at 207-624-5156 or MaineHireAVet.DOL@maine.gov. TTY users call Maine Relay 711.
The Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign is co-sponsored by Maine Department of Labor and its CareerCenters, Boots2Roots, Easter Seals and their Veterans Count program, Live + Work in Maine, Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, Transition Assistance Advisors, VA Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment, Veterans, Inc., and Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment.
Maine CareerCenters are an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
August 23, 2017
President Trump signs Veterans Appeals Improvement & Modernization Act
August 24, 2017
VA removes red tape to increase access to care | Opinion
August 29, 2017
Hundreds of veterans seek jobs at the Augusta Armory
August 29, 2017
Lincoln Theater hosts first Maine screening of ?The Vietnam War?
August 30, 2017
VA telehealth expansion needs boost from Congress
September 1, 2017
DoD Releases Clarifying Guidance to Veterans Regarding Discharges and Military Records
September 5, 2017
Maine Resorts to Creative Measures to Solve Bus Driver Shortage
September 3, 2017
Veterans Get Thrill of a Lifetime with Windy Warrior Project
September 8, 2017
VA updates rating criteria for dental disabilities
September 11, 2017
VA Awards $188 Million In Grant Funding To Help Homeless Veterans
September 12, 2017
VA Works To Streamline Claims With 30-Day Promise
September 13, 2017
Pingree Sponsors Bill To Help Veterans Told to Return Large Amounts Of Overpaid Benefits
September 14, 2017
U.S. Probes High-Pressure Mortgage Sales Targeting Veterans
September 15, 2017
Pines Health Services partners with local veterans to offer high quality, affordable care
September 16, 2017
VA Plans To Open Third Veterans Crisis Line Call Center
September 17, 2017
Veterans Journal: Repealing or replacing Affordable Care Act may result in more uninsured veterans
September 19, 2017
VA Transparency
September 18, 2017
Disabled veterans earn special controlled moose hunt permits
September 22, 2017
Suicide Prevention
September 21, 2017
Memories Revived at Maine Military Museum
September 20, 2017
VA Wait Times As Good or Better Than Private Sector: Report
September 25, 2017
Continuity of Health Care from DOD to VA
September 26, 2017
National American Legion Commander coming to Berwick
September 27, 2017
Department of Veterans Affairs says money for private health care may run out by year?s end
September 28, 2017
Partner with your VA care team to manage and improve your health - Enroll today
September 27, 2017
Senators: More must be done to reduce vet suicides
September 29, 2017
VA to redesign benefits program for service members leaving the military
September 25, 2017
Pledge to ?Be There? for Veterans in Need
October 2, 2017
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Announces Formation of New Veterans? Family, Caregiver, and Survivor Advisory Committee
October 3, 2017
USM gets grant to help veterans attend college
October 5, 2017
Museum L-A new exhibit to celebrate veterans
October 3, 2017
VA provides comprehensive care to women Veterans
October 5, 2017
King Announces Support for Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Veterans Justice Program
October 9, 2017
Why so many veterans go hungry ? and VA?s new plan to fix it
October 6, 2017
Land Donation For New National VA Cemetery will Help Maine Veterans
October 10, 2017
A milestone for Women in Military Service for America Memorial
October 11, 2017
VA commission established to recommend under secretary to lead the Veterans Benefits Administration
October 11, 2017
Maine Homeless Service Organization To Get $2M From VA
October 12, 2017
New Photo ID Cards Will Help Veterans
October 15, 2017
Veterans Honor Long-Lost Medal of Honor Recipient
October 16, 2017
Hire-A-Vet Campaign Assistance Available to Homeless Veterans at VA Stand Down on October 21
Hire-A-Vet Campaign Assistance Available to Homeless Veterans at VA Stand Down on October 21
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 16, 2017 MDOL Media Contact: Laura Hudson, Maine Department of Labor, 621-5009 Stand Down Media Contact: Gabrielle Farris, VA Togus, 623-8411, ext. 2802
AUGUSTA? Representatives from the Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign and Maine CareerCenters will be available for employment and training assistance to homeless Veterans during the 20th Annual Homeless Veteran Stand Down on Saturday, October 21, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at VA Togus, 1 VA Center, Augusta. The Homeless Veteran Stand Down connects Maine?s homeless Veterans to VA and community resources, with a goal to end Veteran homelessness one Veteran at a time.
?Veterans make many sacrifices in service to our great country,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?No Veteran should return home and be homeless, but we know that isn?t always the case. The annual Homeless Veteran Stand Down?s goal is to end Veteran homelessness; this is something we can all support. If you know a homeless Veteran, please, connect them with this great event.?
The Homeless Veteran Stand Down is a full day of services and resources for Veterans that are literally homeless or in transitional housing. The term ?Stand Down? is a military term, in which active duty personnel would be taken off the battle field and able to ?Stand Down? in a safe place. The Homeless Stand Down allows our Veterans to ?stand down? from homelessness, to connect them with the services and supports needed to end their homelessness. Free services for homeless Veterans include transportation to and from the event from designated locations, boots and clothing, child care, employment and training resources, flu shots, food and drinks, food stamp and MaineCare applications, haircuts, health care services, housing resources, legal services, optional HEP C and HIV testing, personal care items, tax advocate, Veteran benefits, and women?s services. All services at the Stand Down are free to homeless Veterans.
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) provides free transportation to and from the Stand Down. Veterans must meet at the pick-up and drop-off location listed to have transportation provided.
DAV Van Departure Locations and Times:
? Bangor Area Shelter, 263 Main St., Bangor, ME, Depart: 7:15 a.m., Tel: 947-0092
? Betsy Ann Ross House of Hope, Summer St., Augusta, ME, Depart: 7:45 a.m., Tel: 626-7000
? Bread of Life Shelter, 155 Hospital St., Augusta, ME, Depart: 8:15 a.m., Tel: 626-3479
? Bread of Life Soup Kitchen, 157 Water St., Augusta, ME, Depart: 8:00 a.m., Tel: 621-2541 (please wait by the door)
? Emmaus Shelter, 51 Main St., Ellsworth, ME, Depart: 6:30 a.m., Tel: 667-3962
? Hope Haven Mission, 209 Lincoln St., Lewiston, ME, Depart: 7:00 a.m., Tel: 783-6086
? Hope House, 179 Indiana St., Bangor, ME, Depart: 7:00 a.m., Tel: 217-6713
? Hospitality House, 169 Old country Rd., Rockport, ME, Depart: 7:30 a.m., Tel: 593-8151
? Mid Maine Homeless Shelter, 9 Colby St., Waterville, ME, Depart: 7:20 a.m., Tel: 872-8082
? Milestone, 28 Portland Ave., Old Orchard Beach, ME, Depart: 7:55 a.m., Tel: 934-5231 ? Milestone, 65 India St., Portland, ME, Depart: 7:30 a.m., Tel: 775-4790
? New Hope Shelter, 111 So. Main St., Solon, ME, Depart: 6:30 a.m., Tel: 669-4402
? Preble Street Resource Center (wheelchair accessible bus), 8 Portland St., Portland, ME, Depart: 7:00 a.m., Tel: 874-6560
? Saco Train Station, 128 Main St. and Saco Island on Main St., Saco, ME, Depart: 7:30 a.m.
? Sanford Vet Center, 628 Main St., Springvale, ME, Depart: 6:30 a.m., Tel: 490-1513
? Tedford Shelter, 49 Cumberland St., Brunswick, ME, Depart: 7:30 a.m., Tel: 725-4871
? Trinity Shelter, 12 McClellan St., Skowhegan, ME, Depart: 7:00 a.m., Tel: 399-7538
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Transportation may be available from additional shelter locations around the state. For more information about the Homeless Veteran Stand Down, please call Gabrielle Farris, HUD-VASH Advanced Medical Support Assistant, VA Maine Healthcare System, 207-623-8411, ext. 2802.
About the Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign
The annual Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign provides support to connect employers and job seekers to expand the hiring of veterans. The campaign?s goal is to connect 100+ employers with at least 100 Veteran hires over 100 days. Services are available for Veterans and eligible Military Families. Partners include Maine Department of Labor, Maine CareerCenters, Boots2Roots, Bureau of Veterans Services, Easterseals Maine and their Veterans Count program, Live and Work in Maine, Transition Assistance Advisors, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans, Inc., and Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment. www.mainecareercenter.gov/hireavet.shtml .
About Maine CareerCenters
Maine CareerCenters offer specialized employment and training services for Veterans. CareerCenter Veterans Representatives are Veterans themselves. They can help Veterans and eligible spouses find a job, obtain new skills, or access other state or federal resources available to them. Veterans and eligible spouses are given priority of service for the receipt of employment, training and placement services provided under most Maine Department of Labor-funded programs. Connect with a Veterans Representative at www.mainecareercenter.gov/employment/veterans.shtml .
Maine Department of Labor is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.
October 16, 2017
VA announces Veterans Coordinated Access & Rewarding Experiences Act
October 18, 2017
House in the Woods Hosts Female Veterans for Inaugural Bird Hunt
October 19, 2017
Homeless veterans to get help Saturday at Togus
October 19, 2017
Veterans, Survivors' Groups Try To Shift The Conversation On Condolences
October 19, 2017
VA Seeks Partnerships to Build and Improve Health-care Facilities
WASHINGTON ? Today, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released a Request for Information (RFI) seeking interest from potential partners who want to support efforts to build world-class health-care facilities for America?s Veterans.
Public Law 114-294, the Communities Helping Invest through Property and Improvements Needed for Veterans Act of 2016, also known as the ?CHIP-IN Act,? authorizes VA to accept donations from up to five non-federal entities to help fund and expedite the construction of health-care related capital projects.
The CHIP-IN Act aligns with VA Secretary Dr. David J. Shulkin?s efforts to modernize the department and enhance service to Veterans by streamlining and instituting infrastructure improvements to health-care facilities.
?Our strategic partnerships are one of many valuable tools that allow us to provide assistance to our Veterans,? Shulkin said. ?Donations through the CHIP-IN Act will help us deliver health-care facilities for our Veterans in a faster, more cost-effective manner.?
The first CHIP-IN Act partner is helping to build a new Ambulatory Care Center in Omaha, Nebraska. The center will provide a much-needed facility to Veterans in the region faster than a traditional funding and construction timeframe, and with a reduced burden on the taxpayer. VA is looking forward to developing similar partnerships for future CHIP-IN Projects through the RFI.
The RFI, available on the Federal Business Opportunities website, is seeking interest from non-federal entities, including 501(c)(3) nonprofits, private entities, and donor groups, for the remaining four partnership opportunities. The donations must be: (1) real property that includes a constructed facility or that is to be used as the site of a facility constructed by the donor, or (2) a facility to be constructed by the donor on VA-controlled property. Interested parties must respond by Jan. 15, 2018.
The CHIP-IN Act will help VA forge even closer bonds to the community by developing strategic partnerships with existing and new partners that have close ties to the communities they serve. The CHIP-IN Act is also a roadmap for communities that want to support VA?s efforts to address the emerging needs of Veterans in a collaborative, cost-efficient manner, which will benefit taxpayers and communities broadly.
The RFI can be found at: https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=dff2a80ea513b931ba8e0030504d27a5&tab=core&_cview=0
October 20, 2017
Rep. Poliquin Announces New Bill to Help Allow Veterans to Receive Care From Local Providers
October 20, 2017
VA Mammogram guidelines: when, where, and what they mean
October 21, 2017
?Stand Down? gives Maine veterans a respite from homelessness
October 23, 2017
Open House: VA at Togus
October 23, 2017
Legacy Corps seeks volunteers to aid veterans, caregivers
October 25, 2017
Yarmouth post marks 50 years of service to, and by, veterans
October 24, 2017
VA touts private health care for vets but cost issues linger
October 24, 2017
Veteran: "Art Is An Awesome Outlet"
October 27, 2017
Honor Flight takes World War II veteran to Washington D.C.
October 26, 2017
New online portal offers free legal counsel to Mainers unable to afford it
October 29, 2017
Maine Veterans Cemetery plans annual tribute
October 30, 2017
Veterans encouraged to display license plate decals showing branch of service, medals
AUGUSTA ? As we prepare to celebrate Veterans? Day on Nov. 11, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles is reminding all Maine veterans of their options for displaying their military service on their license plates.
Decals are available for all standard Veterans plates, to be placed over the red ?V.? These decals represent the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard.
Alternatively, those veterans who earned medals, badges or ribbons for their service can choose to have a decal of that distinction displayed instead. Currently, the State of Maine offers 29 such decals, including the Bronze Star, Vietnam Service Medal, Iraq and Afghanistan campaign medals and Distinguished Service Cross. A Wabanaki decal is also available.
?The Veteran Decal Program is a small way for us to recognize those who have served our country in the United States Armed Forces,? said Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap. ?Our hope is that these plates will serve as a reminder to other motorists that the freedoms we enjoy as American citizens have been safeguarded by the sacrifices of our friends and neighbors all around us.?
All Veterans plate decals can be purchased for an initial cost of $5 and replacement decals are available at no cost for the person?s lifetime. Veterans whose decals are worn or faded are encouraged to contact the BMV for a free replacement, either in person at a local branch office, by phone at 624-9000 Ext. 52149, or via email at registrations@maine.gov.
In addition to the standard Veterans license plate, the State of Maine also offers specialty license plates for veterans who are Medal of Honor recipients, former prisoners of war, Pearl Harbor survivors or Purple Heart medal recipients.
Any veteran who wishes to display one of the veterans license plates must show proof of honorable discharge (DD 214) and, if applicable, proof of issuance of the medal, badge or ribbon represented by the requested decal.
For more information, visit http://maine.gov/sos/bmv/registration/vetdecals.html.
October 30, 2017
MBVS Director and VA Maine Suicide Prevention Coordinator join radio hosts for interview
October 27, 2017
#Grief2Healing Twitter chat explores healing after a suicide loss
October 31, 2017
VA Vitals: employee engagement and education a top priority
November 1, 2017
World War I Memorial groundbreaking set for Nov. 9 in Washington, D.C.
October 31, 2017
Togus Director Says Patient Care Wasn't Affected By Storm
November 1, 2017
President proclaims November Veterans and Military Families Month, Events held nationwide throughout November
November 1, 2017
Aimed at strengthening civilian-military relationships, VA and ?Got Your 6? Announce StorytellersX Events Across the Nation
November 1, 2017
'Mainers and WWI' exhibit opens at state museum
November 2, 2017
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Honors Veterans at Sanford VFW
November 2, 2017
Maine veterans? Art In the Capitol
November 2, 2017
VA Launches Program Aimed at Providing Veterans More Options in Claims Disagreements
November 3, 2017
Veteran Unemployment Rate Decreases to 2.7%
November 6, 2017
VA Working to Reduce Time Doctors Spend on Paperwork
November 7, 2017
Maine's Hire-A-Vet Campaign at midway point of hiring push
November 7, 2017
House Passes Chellie Pingree?s Bill Aimed At Unfair Veterans Affairs Debt Collection
November 7, 2017
Wreaths Across America Convoy: Date Correction
DATE CORRECTION FOR WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA CONVOY
There is a correction on the start date of the Wreaths Across America convoy. The convoy will begin its travels on Sunday 10 December 2017. The original message including the date correction is published below.
"A nine (9) mile long convoy will start Downeast on 10 December 2017 at 9:00AM and proceed up Rt. 1, stopping in Ellsworth at about 10:15AM, then up Rt.1A with a rolling stop in Holden at about 10:45AM-11:00AM and, from there another stop and ceremony at Quirk Auto in Bangor at about 11:30AM. After, it will be making stops @ Lincolnville, Winslow and other places as they make their way towards Arlington National Cemetery."
November 8, 2017
House approves Poliquin bill expanding VA headstone marker eligibility in tribal veterans cemeteries
November 8, 2017
Veterans Affairs Secretary David Shulkin on Texas church shooter, agency reforms
November 8, 2017
Maine's Veteran Suicide Rate Far Outpaces the Nation's
November 10, 2017
Veterans Day 2017: Message from the Secretary
November 9, 2017
Honoring employers who recruit, employ and retain our nation?s heroes
November 13, 2017
New Report Shows Need for Improved Services for Homeless and At-Risk Women Veterans
Synchrony Financial and the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans partner to build better data, improve solutions
Recognizing the trend of an increasing number of women in the homeless veteran populations, Synchrony Financial and the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans conducted a survey to gather better data to identify reasons behind this trend and to identify and guide the implementation of better solutions moving forward.
The resulting report, Families that Work Partnership to Assist Women Veterans with Children, reveals several areas of inadequacy in communities? attempts to assist homeless women veterans and homeless women veterans with children. Some of these areas are common factors for all homeless veterans, but factors that stood out as more prevalent among women veterans include:
? Child care issues ? Intimate partner violence ? Fear of being separated from children ? Perception that veteran housing is only available for individuals ? Fear of safety for children in shelters ? Shelter rules barring children based on age or gender
In addition to a complete overview of those and other factors, the report offers five recommendations for improving access to services for homeless women veterans and homeless women veterans with families:
- Communities should explore and implement responsible shelter diversion strategies.
- Housing interventions should provide appropriate services for veteran families of varying compositions.
- Mainstream resources must recognize, and meet the unique needs of women veterans and veteran families.
- The financial management and budgeting skills gap for homeless women veterans and homeless veteran families must be closed.
- Greater coordination between veteran homelessness and intimate partner violence resources is needed.
November 13, 2017
VA Prioritizes Improving Veterans? Access to Pro Bono Legal Services
November 13, 2017
Consumers impacted by scams utilizing Western Union may now seek compensation from $586M fund
November 14, 2017
Small Business Association slates business workshop for vets
November 14, 2017
HONOR FLIGHT MAINE | Help send Maine veterans to D.C.
November 14, 2017
Benefits Breakdown ? Social media across VA
November 14, 2017
VA Maine Hosting Veterans Town Hall Meeting in Caribou
November 15, 2017
VA Scheduling Now Available Online
November 16, 2017
Let VA help you quit smoking during the Great American Smokeout
November 15, 2017
United Farmer Veterans of Maine & Agriculture Commissioner to sign agreement on November 18th
November 16, 2017
Innovative photo technology saves Veterans lives
November 18, 2017
David Shulkin: Fixing VA 'a matter of national security'
November 20, 2017
VA Secretary Shulkin seeks larger role for private health care
November 21, 2017
Maine Voices: Maine Hire-a-Vet successfully connects employers to job-seeking veterans
November 21, 2017
Military Talent Source Helping Veterans Become Employed
November 20, 2017
New database provides info on VA health care providers
November 22, 2017
Wreaths Across America Convoy Schedule
November 22, 2017
Travis Mills plans program for Vietnam vets next year at Rome retreat
November 23, 2017
Thanksgiving message from VA secretary Dr. David J. Shulkin
November 24, 2017
VA telehealth: breaking down barriers to Veteran care
November 27, 2017
Accessing VA Care Services Online Easier Than Ever
November 28, 2017
Women Veterans, Depression and Heart Disease - The Risks For Female Veterans
November 24, 2017
Financial literacy resources available for Veterans and Servicemembers
November 29, 2017
VA Caregiver Support
November is National Family Caregivers Month. Family caregivers, or ?informal? caregivers, are unpaid individuals (i.e., spouse, partner, or family member) who assist with activities of daily living (i.e., eating, bathing, or dressing) and/or medical tasks (i.e., taking medication or doing required exercises).
According to the 2015 Report Caregiving in the U.S., produced by the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) and the AARP Public Policy Institute (PPI), approximately 34 million Americans provided unpaid care to an adult age 50 or older in the prior 12 months. Caregivers spend an average of 25 hours per week providing care, but this increases to nearly 45 hours per week for the spouse or partner of a care recipient. In addition, nearly 16 million adult family caregivers care for someone who has Alzheimer?s disease or other dementia.
With an increasing number of Veterans requiring some form of caregiving or assistance, there is a growing need for evidence-based research that supports family and/or informal caregivers. Studies funded by VA's Health Services Research & Development Service (HSR&D) address many aspects of the informal caregiver?s role, such as emotional support, access to services, and in-home safety. In addition, VA HSR&D?s Quality Enhancement Research Initiative (QUERI) Caregiver Support (VA-CARES) Evaluation Initiative also works with Caregiver Support Program to evaluate short-term impacts of the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers and the Caregiver Support Services Programs.
Read more findings from several specific research projects conducted by HSR&D and QUERI investigators on issues critical to improving quality of caregiving for Veterans, as well as the experience of the caregivers. https://www.hsrd.research.va.gov/news/feature/caregiving.cfm
November 28, 2017
Successful DoD-VA Program for Wounded, Ill, Injured Service Members Marks 10th Anniversary
November 28, 2017
VA Maine Job Fair
VA Maine will be hosting a job fair at the Portland VA Clinic on December 8, 2017 from 9:00AM - 2:00PM. The nurse and physician recruiter will be present along with other representatives from various career fields. ALL careers at any of our VA Maine locations can be applied to ALL job fair locations.
If you are interested in a career caring for Veterans, please join VA Maine at the career fair to meet some of the team. On site interviews may be available for select positions. For more information, please contact VA Maine Human Resources at VAMEJOBS@VA.GOV or (207) 623-5713
VA MAINE JOB FAIR Friday - December 8, 2017 Portland VA Clinic - 144 Fore Street, Portland, ME 04101 9:00AM - 2:00PM
Upcoming Job Fairs Lewiston - December 15, 2017 Bangor - February 2, 2017 Togus - March 16, 2018
November 29, 2017
White House VA Hotline Now Fully Staffed and Operational Around the Clock to Serve Nation?s Veterans
November 29, 2017
VA Announces Rollout and Application Process for New Veterans ID Card
November 30, 2017
UMA opens veterans? center to serve those who served
November 30, 2017
VFW Auxiliary makes a difference for Farm of Hope
November 30, 2017
Portland-based Cultivating Community gets grant to help farmers
November 30, 2017
HUD programs seek to end homelessness among nation's veterans
December 3, 2017
4 Common Questions About VA Benefits Answered By An Expert
December 4, 2017
Silhouette Project Aims To Raise Awareness Of Maine?s Veteran Suicide Rate
December 4, 2017
Benefits Breakdown ? Homeless Veterans Outreach and Communications
December 6, 2017
Maine veterans tell the stories behind their tattoos
December 6, 2017
VA and Humane Society of United States Announce Partnership
December 5, 2017
High demand for new veteran ID cards crashes VA website
December 8, 2017
Veterans helping veterans
December 6, 2017
The Number Of Homeless Veterans Rises
December 6, 2017
Statement by Secretary Shulkin - Homeless Funding
December 7, 2017
VA Exploring Alternative Treatments for TBI and PTSD
December 6, 2017
Google uses VA expertise to help individuals identify signs of PTSD
December 8, 2017
Make Sure You're Getting Appointment and Prescription Updates
If you are like most My HealtheVet users, you use the site to refill prescriptions and check on VA appointments. However, did you know that you can receive email reminders 13 and 3 days before an appointment and receive an email when a prescription ships?
To make sure your preferences are correct, first log in to your My HealtheVet account, and select Personal Information. Then, select My Profile. On this page, you can scroll down to Subscribe to Email Notifications and Reminders, and turn on your preference. Also check the email that you have entered on that page.
If you have questions about My HealtheVet, need help with access, or would like a little assistance, you can call VA Maine coordinator Mike L?Abbe at 207-512-6983 or the National MHV HelpDesk at 877-327-0022.
Veterans needing to upgrade to a premium account can do that at any VA primary care office. It is a two minute process during regular office hours. Bring one form of picture ID. No appointment necessary.
December 8, 2017
No time to let up on veteran homelessness
December 5, 2017
VA using simple fix to improve E.R. visits
December 7, 2017
More than 200 advocates attend White House Veterans Affairs Conference
December 9, 2017
For Veterans, a Path to Healing ?Moral Injury?
December 11, 2017
Benefits Breakdown ? Veterans Crisis Line
December 11, 2017
An army of workers: Maine employers tap into veteran talent pool
December 12, 2017
Agency adds new positions to help Maine veterans transition from jail
December 12, 2017
VA Decision Ready Claims Program Expands to Include More Types of Claims
December 13, 2017
Aimed at preventing suicides, VA invites seven cities to participate in ?Mayor?s Challenge?
December 13, 2017
VA CARE Act: putting Veterans at the center of all we do
December 14, 2017
FY2018 Adaptive Sports Grant Update
FY2018 Adaptive Sports Grant Update
The FY2018 Adaptive Sports Grant (ASG) has been authorized and funded for the FY2018 ASG application cycle; however, due to one particularly significant uncertain factor, we have held off on updates to avoid any misinformation or confusion. Since 2018 is almost here, the following information is provided to help us plan for the FY2018 ASG application and award process and improve adaptive sport activities nationwide for disabled Veterans and disabled Servicemembers. Enjoy the holidays and have a Happy New Year!
ASG Extension through FY2019: In September 2017, Public Law 115-62 extended authorization for the Adaptive Sports Grant program, as well as the Monthly Assistance Allowance for Disabled Veterans Training in Paralympic [and Olympic] Sports, not only through FY2018, but also FY2019. Therefore, the ASG application process is authorized for the next two years.
Grants.gov Retirement of PDF Legacy Application Package: On December 31, Grants.gov will discontinue the use of the downloadable .pdf package for submitting grant applications. Therefore, all future ASG applications will have to be submitted through the Grants.gov online application creation and submission processes. Grants.gov updated videos on their new process at the following site: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNSNGxQE7NWlPcYxVJsglJbRc6cPcfC8X&utmsource=alerts&utmmedium=email&utmcampaign=applicants&utmcontent=Deadline
Reminder of Registration Requirements: ASG applicants must have current registration in Duns & Bradstreet for a D-U-N-S Number (http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform/), the System for Award Management (SAM) for a Commercial and Government Entity Code (CAGE) (https://www.sam.gov/index.html/home#1), and Grants.Gov with a current E-Business Point of Contact that will be submitting the application. Every year there are ASG applicants that experience significant difficulties or fail to submit successfully due to not maintaining current registration and user information. Verify your status early and be prepared.
Continuity of ASG Application Process: Currently, the processes and forms for the FY2017 ASG application cycle are posted on the Adaptive Sports Grant Program webpage (https://www.va.gov/adaptivesports/vagrantprogram.asp). There is no initiatives to change the ASG authorizing legislation (38 U.S.C. 521) nor the regulation (38 CFR Part 77) and the forms and other processes should remain basically the same. Therefore, if you review the FY2017 ASG documentation, it should prepare you well for the FY2018 ASG application process.
Equine Assisted Activities & Therapy Amendment (EAAT): In the Make America Secure Appropriations Act, an amendment currently exists to augment FY2018 funding in the FY2018 ASG program by $5.0 million; however, this is only an amendment and is not authorization of appropriations which would require it to be retained throughout the entire legislative process. Therefore, organizations considering programs for FY2018 ASG applications should be aware of this amendment, but it may never become law or may be significantly modified in the legislative process. We will provide an update when we have actual information on the final status of this current amendment and any other changes that may affect the FY2018 ASG program. Also, as currently written, the EAAT amendment increases funding for the ASG program in order to fund these programs and therefore would not decrease funds for non-EAAT programs.
FY2018 ASG Application Submission Timeline: Due to the many factors associated with submission, vetting, review and selection of Adaptive Sport Grants, VA will issue the FY2018 ASG Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) as early as possible and plans for a similar timeframe as the FY2017 ASG cycle: a 60-day application period in February-April 2018. However, the EAAT amendment in the Make America Secure Appropriations Act could have significant effects on how the VA must evaluate and award FY2018 ASG applications, because the amendment focuses on EAAT programs. Therefore, there may be a delay in the application submission dates if the situation warrants it.
December 14, 2017
Implementation Assessment of U.S. Office of Personnel Management?s Veterans Employment Initiative
December 15, 2017
Wreaths Across America Event to Honor Veterans at VA National Cemeteries
December 15, 2017
Hyperbaric treatments offer new promise for Veterans with chronic PTSD
December 16, 2017
King Urges VA Secretary to Protect Homeless Veterans, HUD-VASH Funding
December 17, 2017
Proposed bill would provide child care for veterans receiving mental health care
December 15, 2017
VA stepping up efforts to fight veteran homelessness
December 15, 2017
Veteran unemployment rate reaches lowest rate in years
December 19, 2017
Angus King Touts New Veterans Affairs Positions At Auburn Roundtable
December 18, 2017
Veterans Creating a Brighter Future
December 20, 2017
America?s veterans honored during Caribou wreath ceremony
December 19, 2017
Happy Holidays from VA Secretary, Dr. David Shulkin
December 20, 2017
Veterans Jobs Commission Holds First Meeting
December 19, 2017
Have A Coping Plan For Grief During The Holidays
December 20, 2017
2017 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign well above target
December 20, 2017
Facebook Cybersecurity University Information
December 21, 2017
Ending veteran homelessness requires better leadership
December 21, 2017
New year, new career: VA?s tips to help you prepare
December 21, 2017
Information from focus groups can change the way VA delivers health care to Women Veterans
December 21, 2017
Potential Wintry Mix May Impact Maine Veterans? Cemeteries Over The Holiday Weekend
AUGUSTA, Maine (December 21, 2017) ? The holiday season is upon us, meaning families, friends, and loved ones will gather across Maine to celebrate the season. Many Mainers will be paying their respects by visiting one of our veterans? cemeteries. Please be advised, if weather is imminent, cemetery gates will be closed until the potential storm's passing.
?The Maine Veterans? Memorial Cemetery System will make every effort to maintain access over the extended holiday weekend,? stated Adria Horn, director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services. ?We understand the importance and significance of a family member visiting their loved ones over the holidays; however, the grounds crew will close entry gates and place road barriers if the storm causes dangerous conditions for our visitors.?
It is common practice for the Maine Veterans? Memorial Cemetery System to temporarily reduce access to veterans? cemeteries due to unsafe weather conditions. Shortly after the potential storm passes, grounds crew will re-open entry gates to plow and maintain roads allowing for visitor access.
Scott Brown, superintendent of the Maine Veterans? Memorial Cemetery System, offered remarks of caution: ?We ask our visitors to be mindful of road conditions when traveling to our sites. Please make sure you tell someone where you are going, as there will be no staff on site to observe a vehicle breakdown or similar event.?
In observance of the Christmas holiday, the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services will be closed on Friday, December 22nd through Tuesday, December 26th. Normal office hours will resume on Wednesday, December 27th at 7:30 a.m.
For more information on the Maine Veterans? Memorial Cemetery System, please visit the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services website at: www.maine.gov/veterans/memorial-cemetery-system.
About Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau does this by being a responsive, experienced, and dedicated advocate. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has seven field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans' Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans? cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
December 21, 2017
2017 End of Year Message from VA Secretary David J. Shulkin
December 22, 2017
Communities around the country are doing their part to make sure no Veteran has to sleep on the streets
December 23, 2017
Trump Signs Bill Opening VA To More Investigations
December 22, 2017
Trying To Upgrade Your Discharge? The VA Has An App For That Now
December 22, 2017
Dozens of Volunteers Lay 6,000 Wreaths in Augusta Veterans' Cemetery
December 23, 2017
Veterans Administration Adds Services for Maine Veterans
December 24, 2017
Specially painted rocks designed to honor fallen veterans
December 27, 2017
Handling PTSD during the holidays
December 25, 2017
Maine Points: Suicide Prevention
December 28, 2017
TRICARE Is Changing. Here?s How It Affects You
December 29, 2017
This Year, Live Life To The Fullest With VA Health Care
What?s your New Year?s resolution? Whether you?re looking to lose a few pounds or become more active, VA may be able to help.
Woodi, an Army Veteran, turned to VA for help with her back pain. After going through several different therapies, her physical therapist recommended incorporating yoga into her routine.
?I thought, how can you ask someone with a bad back to do yoga?? Woodi says. ?I had no idea that yoga is done in so many different ways and for people of all ages and all abilities.?
Veterans enrolled in VA health care not only have access to comprehensive medical benefits, but also exercise and movement services like Woodi?s yoga class, weight loss programs, recreational therapies and much more.
?The VA has made a huge difference in my life,? Woodi says. ?The yoga class has loosened my back up, taken away a lot of my pain, helped me to be able to move better, to have a better quality of life, to take less medication.? Take control of your health. Learn how to apply for VA health care by visiting Explore.VA.gov or clicking on the button below.
December 29, 2017
2018 National Veterans Day Poster Contest
Calling all artists! The 2018 National Veterans Day Poster Contest is underway. Each year the Veterans Day National Committee publishes a commemorative Veterans Day poster. The poster is selected from artwork submitted by artists nationwide and is distributed to VA facilities, military installations around the world across cities and town in our nation. It also serves as the cover of the official program for the Veterans Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery.
Over the years these posters have illustrated the rich history of our country's service men and women. The poster clearly reflects our pride and patriotism in saluting Veterans while providing the thematic artistry for the year.
2018 marks the Centennial Commemoration of the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. The theme for the 2018 Veterans Day Poster is: ?The War to End All Wars?.
The origin of Veterans Day came from Armistice Day.
Poster guidelines, submissions must:
?Be 18? x 24? at 300 dots per inch, scale down submissions to 9?x12.?
?Submissions are not restricted to ?human centric? presentations, such as a joint color guard. Imagery of American icons, monuments or scenery can qualify, for example, the American flag.
?Representative of the Veterans serving during World War I. The Committee may select a particular submission but ask the artist to make modifications to the original design. Additional changes may be required prior to printing.
?Include sufficient information to demonstrate that the image is the work of the artist and is not copyrighted material (i.e. photos and concepts).
?To view examples of past winning submissions visit: http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/gallery.asp.
Submit electronic versions as jpg images or PDF files by email to vetsday@va.gov or send copies of artwork on a CD with artwork files to:
Veterans Day National Committee (002D) Department of Veterans Affairs 810 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20420
To view examples of past winning submissions visit http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/gallery.asp.
The deadline for submissions is 1 April, 2018. The Veterans Day National Committee will convene a selection sub-committee in May 2018 to review submissions and make a final selection.
Questions? ? contact the Veterans Day Coordinator at vetsday@va.gov.
December 28, 2017
Study to examine suicide risk factors among veterans
December 31, 2017
New Pilot Project Looks At Mental Health Of Veterans
January 2, 2018
Chairwoman and New Members Appointed to VA Advisory Committee on Women Veterans
January 1, 2018
VAs Inquiry Routing & Information System! They are here to answer your questions.
January 3, 2018
Research builds balance and strength in Veterans
January 3, 2018
Hire-A-Vet Campaign Offers Employers Veteran Recruitment, Retention Training
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 3, 2017 Media Contact: Laura Hudson, Maine Department of Labor, 207-621-5009
AUGUSTA?Maine's Hire-A-Vet Campaign is offering businesses attendance at Military Culture 202, a no-cost training seminar to help employers recruit and retain veterans to their workforce. A panel of employers, including IDEXX, Eastern Maine Healthcare Systems (EMHS) and the State of Maine, will also share their best practices for recruiting, hiring, and retaining veterans during the seminar. Two dates are available: January 25 at Bangor Savings Bank, 5 Senator Way in Augusta, and February 1 at the Greater Portland CareerCenter, 151 Jetport Blvd. in Portland, each from 1 to 4 p.m. Employers can register at www.mainecareercenter.gov/hireavet.shtml.
?Through the Hire-A-Vet campaign, more employers are discovering the value veterans bring to their workforce,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?Ann and I fully support this successful initiative, and look forward to helping make this year?s effort reach more employers and get more veterans good paying careers in our state. Whether you are a veteran or an employer, we urge you to connect with this campaign to help us meet Maine?s workforce needs. Veterans? skills include teamwork, leadership, technology, and tremendous discipline that can benefit all of our businesses.?
Military Culture 202 explores the recruiting and retention of Veterans, including: the big picture, misconceptions, importance of structure, mission and purpose, utilizing leadership skills and experience, educational advantages, and communication. Chaplain/Col. Andrew Gibson, Director of Deployment Cycle Support, Maine Army National Guard is the instructor. Completion of Military Culture 101 is not mandatory to attend Military Culture 202. A brief review of Military Culture 101 will start off the seminar.
The annual Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign provides support to connect employers and job seekers and expand the hiring of veterans. The 2017 campaign came to a close on December 13, 2017. Data is being collected and numbers will be provided soon. Employers, veterans and military family members can find employment assistance with a Veterans Representative at their closest Maine CareerCenter, www.mainecareercenter.gov/employment/veterans.shtml.
The Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign is co-sponsored by Maine Department of Labor and its CareerCenters, Boots2Roots, Easter Seals and their Veterans Count program, Live + Work in Maine, Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, Transition Assistance Advisors, VA Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment, Veterans, Inc., and Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment.
Maine Department of Labor and Maine CareerCenters are equal opportunity providers. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.
January 3, 2018
Adjutant General Farnham Promoted to Major General
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, January 3, 2018 Contact: Julie Rabinowitz, Press Secretary, 207-287-2531
AUGUSTA ? Governor Paul R. LePage today presided over the promotion of Maine's Adjutant General Douglas Farnham from brigadier general to major general. General Farnham also serves as the Commissioner of the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management.
?I am pleased to recognize General Farnham during this promotion ceremony," stated Governor LePage. "Having earned his well-deserved second star as major general, he is Maine's highest-ranking reserve component officer, leading 3,000 of Maine?s National Guard Airmen and Soldiers.?
General Farnham was appointed Adjutant General on December 29, 2015 and unanimously confirmed by the senate on January 17, 2016. He was promoted to brigadier general on January 21, 2016, and is responsible for managing the activities of Maine?s Army and Air National Guard, Maine Veterans? Services and Maine Emergency Management Agency.
General Farnham joined the Maine Air National Guard in 1991. He has served in various operations and command positions in the 101st Air Refueling Wing. He also deployed as United States Central Command Deputy Director of Mobility Forces. Prior to assuming his current position, General Farnham commanded the 101st Air Refueling Wing in the Maine Air National Guard.
January 4, 2018
VA to Take Immediate Actions on Timely Payments to Community Providers
January 4, 2018
Veterans benefit from practicing mindfulness
January 5, 2018
Cary responds to community needs in 2017
January 5, 2017
United Farmer Veterans of Maine Participates in Maine Agriculture Fair
January 6, 2018
Veterans ID Card
January 6, 2018
VA Seeks Public Comment on Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers
January 8, 2018
First National Bank donates $25K to United Farmer Veterans of Maine
January 8, 2018
Claims Clinic - January 11 - Augusta
January 8, 2018
New year, new you? VA dieticians are here to make your resolutions stick
January 9, 2018
President Donald J. Trump signs Executive Order to Improve Mental Health Resources for Veterans Transitioning from Active Duty to Civilian Life
January 10, 2018
University of Maine at Fort Kent adds veterans club for students
January 10, 2018
United Farmer Veterans of Maine gets new executive director
January 10, 2018
Breakfast draws veterans and friends to Fort Kent Legion
January 11, 2018
VA Revises Regulations on Reimbursement for Emergency Treatment of Veterans
January 11, 2018
Here?s What We Know About Trump?s Executive Order To Combat Veteran Suicide
January 12, 2018
Back In The Maine Stream seeks new members
January 15, 2018
Homeless Veterans Grateful For Transitional Shelter
January 11, 2018
VA becomes first hospital system to release opioid prescribing rates
January 12, 2018
VA Facilities Now Offer Same-day Care for Urgent Primary and Mental Health-care Needs
January 17, 2018
Museum L-A Thanks Veterans with Handwritten Note Cards
January 16, 2018
VA reps to discuss impact of opioid reduction on suicides during summit
January 17, 2018
Women Veterans featured at Student Veterans of America?s 2018 national conference
January 17, 2018
Hire-A-Vet Campaign offers employers veteran recruitment, retention training
January 17, 2018
Benefit concert for Travis Mills Foundation set for Jan. 28
January 20, 2018
Maine Compass: Every homeless veteran counts
January 20, 2018
On 50th anniversary of Khe Sanh siege, two local veterans recall chaos, casualties
January 22, 2018
VA Maine Healthcare System (Togus VAMC and all CBOCs and Access Points) is open and fully operational during the government shutdown.
January 22, 2018
VA Appropriations Lapse Plan: Agency operations in the absence of appropriations
January 23, 2018
Advocates for Maine's veterans relieved shutdown is over
January 22, 2018
The Obstacles Facing VA In Its Fight To End Veteran Homelessness
January 23, 2018
Maine Takes Stock Of Homelessness With Annual Count
January 23, 2018
Telehealth revolutionizing Veterans? health care
January 23, 2018
VA, Health and Human Services Announce Partnership to Strengthen Prevention of Fraud, Waste and Abuse Efforts
January 24, 2018
VA?s National PTSD Brain Bank Collaborates With PINK Concussions Group
January 25, 2018
Veterans: It?s still not too late to get your flu shot
January 25, 2018
New Online Tool Will Provide Veterans With Customized Instructions for Discharge Upgrade Process
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON ? The Department of Defense (DOD), through a joint initiative with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), has launched a new web-based tool that will provide customized guidance to Veterans who desire to upgrade or change the conditions of their military discharge.
By answering a few short questions, Veterans will receive information on the specific armed services board to contact, the form/s to fill out, special guidance applicable to their case, where to send their application and helpful tips for appealing their discharge.
?This new tool and partnership with DOD is one of many VA initiatives offered to Veterans who believe they may have been unfairly discharged or received an unfair discharge characterization,? said VA Secretary Dr. David J. Shulkin. ?Veterans who believe their discharge was unjust, erroneous or warrants an upgrade are encouraged to use the tool and then apply for review.?
DOD officials also praised the new innovative tool.
?We are thrilled to have partnered with the Department of Veterans Affairs in developing this wonderful and easily accessible tool,? said Mr. Robert Wilkie, Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. ?We support our Veterans, whether they served recently or long ago, and we are excited to introduce a tool that will individualize the guidance for those who desire an upgrade or change in their military discharge.?
The military has estimated that tens of thousands of Veterans with less than honorable discharges are especially likely to have unjust discharges deserving of upgrades. These are Veterans who were discharged due to incidents relating to post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury or sexual orientation. Fragmented and confusing information has historically deterred Veterans from obtaining crucial information and ? in many cases ? necessary benefits.
The discharge upgrade tool is available at https://www.vets.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions.
January 26, 2018
Learn about VA?s connected health care tools during Facebook Live event
January 29, 2018
Belfast Navy vet to join Rep. Poliquin for State of the Union Address
January 29, 2018
Modernizing technology is paramount to better deliver care, benefits and services to Veterans
January 30, 2018
VA Expands Programs To Target Suicide
January 30, 2018
VA resumes online applications for new ID cards
January 30, 2018
IRS announces tax season, Veteran and service member-specific filing information
January 30, 2018
February is Heart Month ? A Veteran nurse?s story
January 31, 2018
Statement by VA Secretary David Shulkin -- State of the Union
January 31, 2018
VA is expanding and improving services for Veterans
January 31, 2018
Three things Veterans should include on their resume and in an interview
February 1, 2018
Maine Homeless Veterans Committee Delivers Annual Update on Vet Homelessness
February 2, 2018
Statewide programs work to decline the numbers of homeless veterans
February 1, 2018
Homeless veterans? housing project receives gifts from Dead River Co.
February 2, 2018
VA ?going red? for Veterans during heart health month
February 2, 2018
VA Announces Aggressive New Approach for Low-Performing Medical Centers
February 3, 2018
Bill would allow state-owned parcel for veterans housing, substance abuse treatment
February 5, 2018
A lesson from a Vietnam Veteran after half a century of grief and guilt
February 5, 2018
VA Welcome Kit - Benefits Breakdown
February 4, 2018
Volk Packaging Corporation to create a wall commemorating military personnel.
February 6, 2018
Department of Labor awards program honors employers who hire and retain Veterans
February 6, 2018
Help for Veterans with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
February 7, 2018
Auburn event pairs veterans and executives soon to depart
February 7, 2018
VA Celebrates African-American Veterans throughout February
February 8, 2018
More than 295 Veterans, Military Family Members Hired through annual Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign
Media Contacts: Laura Hudson, Maine Department of Labor, 207-621-5009
AUGUSTA?Employers participating in 2017's Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign hired 296 veterans and military family members during its 100-day initiative. One-hundred-and-fifty-four employers from all 16 Maine counties participated in the campaign, with an average placement wage reported of $23.16 per hour. The campaign launched last Labor Day and ended December 13, 2017. Final numbers were collected into January due to the length of hiring processes for those who applied within the 100-day period.
?Maine's Hire-A Vet campaign continues to successfully educate employers about the value veterans bring to our workforce,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?Ann and I fully support Hire-A-Vet. We want our veterans and military families who have given so much to our nation to return home to good-paying careers that appreciate the skills developed by service in the Armed Forces.?
The campaign provides support for employers to expand the hiring of veterans, including a network of state and federal agencies, resources and nonprofits, education on military language and culture, assistance with recruiting, hiring, assimilation and retention, and recognition for the hiring and advancement of veterans. The 2017 campaign's numbers were an increase over the 2016 campaign by six participating employers (148 in 2016), 101 hires (195 in 2016), and reported wages of plus $0.93 per hour ($22.23 in 2016).
Of the 296 total hires, 275 were veterans and 21 were military family members. Women veteran hires were 52 of the 275 reported (roughly 20 percent). Female veterans make up 10 percent of Maine's total veteran population. Participating employers were not required to hire veterans or military family members they interviewed in order to be a part of the campaign.
Veterans? employment representatives available throughout Maine CareerCenters can visit employers to assist them in finding qualified veterans and provide information on the benefits of hiring veterans. Employers or veterans can contact the Maine Department of Labor's Veterans? Program Manager Auta Main at (207) 623-7975 or auta.m.main@maine.gov for more information or contact their closest Maine CareerCenter. Services offered to veterans through Maine CareerCenters are also available to their military family members at no cost. A list of CareerCenters is available at www.mainecareercenter.gov. The Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign is co-sponsored by Maine Department of Labor and its CareerCenters, Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, Boots2Roots, Easter Seals and its Veterans Count program, Live+Work in Maine, Transition Assistance Advisors, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) - Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E), VA Office of Rural Health, and Veterans Inc. All partners focused on recruiting both veterans, military family members, and employers.
Maine CareerCenters are equal opportunity providers. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.
February 8, 2018
Inspiring Documentary on America?s Mental Health Crisis Airs February 17 in Damariscotta
February 9, 2018
Veterans benefit from Intermediate Care Technician program
February 9, 2018
Hire-A-Vet provides jobs for nearly 300 vets
February 12, 2018
Harry Harper named Veteran of the Month
February 9, 2018
VA, Department of Treasury Advance in Partnership to Strengthen Prevention of Fraud, Waste and Abuse
February 12, 2018
Sign up online for a Veterans ID card: Here?s how.
February 12, 2018
Cumberland library hosts tribute to fallen veterans
February 13, 2018
President Trump Seeks $12B Increase in FY2019 VA Budget to Support Nation?s Veterans
February 13, 2018
National salute to Veteran patients week
February 14, 2018
For Women?s History Month, VA to Showcase Stories of 10 Women Veteran Athletes
February 14, 2018
Nobleboro Filmmaker?s Documentary Shines Light on Mental Health Issues
February 14, 2018
VA study shows that rocking chairs can help Veterans overcome addiction
February 16, 2018
Veterans rally for funeral of WWII vet with no surviving family
February 18, 2018
Maine Launches Hospital Pilot To Connect Veterans To Behavioral Health Services
February 20, 2018
Maine National Guard Head: War Service No Longer Rare For Members
February 21, 2018
Funeral Service in Augusta Honors World War II Veteran with No Surviving Family
February 22, 2018
VA continues commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War
February 21, 2018
VA Partners With DeepMind to Build Machine Learning Tools to Identify Health Risks for Veterans
February 24, 2018
Enjoying the Moment in Nature
February 25, 2018
Pilot program pairs pups with veterans suffering with PTSD
February 22, 2018
'We want to connect with Veterans before they know they need us?: VA launches Concierge for Care program
February 26, 2018
Mosul to Maine ? For this Veteran, a journey of trauma and recovery
February 21, 2018
VA study shows that close-range blast exposure affects cognitive functioning
February 23, 2018
New initiative aims to raise awareness of women as Veterans
February 26, 2018
VA?s new innovation podcast launches with powerful episode on suicide prevention
February 22, 2018
VA modernizing systems to improve the Veteran experience
February 26, 2018
From opiates to opportunities- a conference for veterans, service members and their families
February 27, 2018
VA employs telehealth technology to provide Veterans same-day appointments and increased access to care
February 27, 2018
VA Partners with Cohen Veterans Network to Increase Access to Mental Health Resources
February 28, 2018
VA continues to study and improve care for Gulf War Veterans
March 1, 2018
National Resource Directory provides centralized access to information, resources for Veterans
March 1, 2018
VA to state Veterans directors: We?re advancing technology to improve access, services to Veterans
March 2, 2018
Celebrating Women?s History Month: VA?s history in serving women Veterans
March 2, 2018
Veterans show talent during Togus? creative arts show as part of their care
March 5, 2018
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month
When someone suffers a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), the entire family is affected. VA supports family Caregivers with caregiving tips specific to caring for Veterans with TBIs and other resources such as self-care courses and the Caregiver Support Line.
Learn more at https://go.usa.gov/xn6WH.
March 7, 2018
VA Launches Telehealth Program for Rural Vets with PTSD
March 8, 2018
Vietnam War veterans; art restoration
March 7, 2018
VA Announces Launch of ?Lighthouse Lab? at Health Information & Technology Conference
March 6, 2018
The value of recognizing Vietnam Veterans 50 years later
March 9, 2018
Veterans Health Administration Update: Burn Pits
Exposed to burn pits? Here?s three things you should know about the Burn Pit Registry:
? Registry participants can get a free medical evaluation to discuss their concerns and completed questionnaire with a knowledgeable VA provider. Call a local Environmental Health Coordinator today to schedule your evaluation.
? Joining the registry is faster than ever. We?ve updated the eligibility verification process?greatly shortening or eliminating previous delays resulting from manual eligibility checks.
? The registry is not just for Post-9/11 Veterans. Many #Veterans who deployed after 1990 qualify.
Check your eligibility and sign up: http://go.usa.gov/xnH8J
March 9, 2018
Navy, Air Force Veteran helps others sign up for VA?s Burn Pit Registry
March 9, 2018
VA Secretary Announces VA Open Application Programming Interface Pledge
March 10, 2018
3rd Maine Company A Regiment Volunteer Infantry to give presentation March 17 in Readfield
March 12, 2018
VA Expands Transparency Efforts of Institutions Receiving GI Bill Payments
March 13, 2018
ExploreVA Facebook Live event: VA health care for women Veterans
March 13, 2018
VA to Conduct In-depth Internal Review of Existing Canine Research Projects
March 14, 2018
U.S. Postal Inspection Service, others partner for ?Operation Protect Veterans?
March 15, 2018
Ann LePage honored for work with veterans
March 14, 2018
Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services Receives National Recognition for Suicide Prevention Symposium
AUGUSTA, Maine ? On Wednesday, February 28th the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services (MBVS) received the 2018 Abraham Lincoln Pillar of Excellence Award for Suicide Prevention from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Since 2011, the VA has recognized its state partners for programs and initiatives that support veterans in their respective states. The award was presented to MBVS Director, Adria Horn by VA Secretary, Dr. David Shulkin at the 2018 National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA) Mid-Winter Conference held in Washington, D.C.
All fifty states are represented as members of NASDVA as well as the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Maine was one of five states to receive a Pillar Excellence Award.
Director Horn shared the following in regard to the significance of the recognition:
?Maine has been on the front line of numerous innovative undertakings in the last few years and the success of those ventures is made evident with the number of veterans we have walking through our office doors and calling our Veteran Service Officers on a daily basis.?
?This past December we had the honor of hosting the 1st Annual Military Veteran Symposium on veteran suicide. This issue is the top clinical priority of Secretary Shulkin and the VA, and we are thrilled that Maine?s program will be used as a best practice model across the country to bring awareness to suicide prevention efforts.?
The 1st Annual Military Veteran Symposium was cohosted by the VA Maine Healthcare System and Maine Vet Centers at the University of Southern Maine in Portland. Both organizations as well as the University of Southern Maine Student Veterans Association were essential to the symposium?s success.
Despite our efforts, we know Maine Veterans struggle daily. As seen in California last Friday, Veteran suicide is still very much a chronic issue, which makes events like the symposium all the more significant. The VA Office of Suicide Prevention estimates when 1 person commits suicide 135 individuals are affected. Here in Maine, the effects are profound.
The Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services emphasizes that anyone contemplating suicide; a family member, child, husband, wife; or an employer worried about a veteran in their workforce ? can contact the Bureau for assistance in understanding and accessing available resources.
Veterans and their families can also call the Veterans Crisis Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year by calling 1-800-273-8255. Text messages can also be sent to 838255 to receive confidential support. For more information on the Veterans Crisis Line, please visit: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
For more information on the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services, or to contact the Veteran Service Office nearest you, please visit: http://maine.gov/veterans/ or call 207-430-6035.
About Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau does this by being a responsive, experienced, and dedicated advocate. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has seven field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans? cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
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March 15, 2018
VA to increase Veterans? access to mental health services
March 16, 2018
'Duty. Honor. Pride.' Honoring women for their military service
March 19, 2018
VA Open Application Programming Interface Pledge Gains Momentum to Shape a New Direction for Health Care
March 20, 2018
National League of Cities finds what works to help more Veterans secure housing: strategic landlord engagement
March 21, 2018
Bill to help former military medics transition into Maine workforce becomes law
March 22, 2018
Expanding Traumatic Brain Injury treatment options for Veterans
March 23, 2018
VA benefits topic of March 28 discussion at UMA
March 23, 2018
VA and U.S. Digital Service Launch New Web Tool to Help Veterans Track their Benefits Appeals
March 23, 2018
VA working with community clergy to support rural Veterans
March 24, 2018
Veterans? Services plans Fort Kent office hours
March 26, 2018
Applications Opening Soon for 2018 National Veterans Golden Age Games
March 27, 2018
Taxpayers can give to veterans? cemeteries
March 28, 2018
March 29 is National Vietnam War Veterans Day
March 29, 2018
Vietnam veterans thanked for their service, decades later
March 30, 2018
VA joins Department of Defense in thanking Vietnam War era Veterans and their families
April 2, 2018
Two scams aimed at Veterans targeted by U.S. Postal Inspection Service
April 3, 2018
Speaking up, moving forward: VA supports survivors of military sexual trauma
April 4, 2018
Senator Collins Announces More Than $100,000 to Address Veteran Homelessness in Maine
Washington, D.C. ? U.S. Senator Susan Collins, the Chairman of the Housing Appropriations Subcommittee, announced today that Maine has received $116,456 to address homelessness among veterans across the state.
?Maine is home to more than 116,000 veterans who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedoms, and we have an obligation to provide these courageous men and women with the most comprehensive and accessible assistance programs available,? said Senator Collins. ?The funding announced today will make a significant contribution to that effort and help homeless and at-risk veterans in Maine improve the stability of their living situation.?
This funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program and will go towards targeted vouchers that offer permanent supportive housing opportunities to veterans experiencing homelessness. Today?s announcement is part of joint HUD-VASH Voucher awards to Public Housing Authorities across the country. Each of these housing authorities has also partnered with the VA Maine Health Care System.
The funding is distributed as follows:
Augusta Housing Authority will receive $20,757 supporting five vouchers
Bangor Housing Authority will receive $25,325 supporting five vouchers
Maine State Housing Authority will receive $37,406 supporting seven vouchers
Westbrook Housing Authority will receive $32,968 supporting five vouchers
As Chairman of the Housing Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Collins has fought to ensure continued funding for the HUD-VASH program, which provides thousands of new housing vouchers to veterans each year. Since 2008, more than 90,000 VASH vouchers have been awarded, including 238 vouchers in Maine. As a result of Senator Collins? efforts, homelessness among veterans has declined 47 percent since 2010.
April 5, 2018
VA Announces Changes to Improve Delivery of Specialty Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services
April 6, 2018
VFW Post 9935 to honor veterans
April 6, 2018
Determine Your Benefits Eligibility With the Service-Connected Matrix
April 5, 2018
Debunking the VA Privatization Myth
April 6, 2018
VA launches a telehealth program for rural Veterans with PTSD
April 9, 2018
VA Takes Significant Step in Improving Correspondence With Veterans
April 10, 2018
Helping Veterans respond to an opioid overdose
April 13, 2018
Month of the Military Child
April 13, 2018
New Direct Express debit card for VA payments
April 16, 2018
VA Updates and Improves Assistance Program for Transitioning Service Members
April 16, 2018
Bill to align state retirement disability standards with Dept. of Veterans Affairs becomes law
April 17, 2018
Online Scheduling Now Available Through My HealtheVet
Fit your doctor?s visit into your schedule, not the other way around. My HealtheVet users can now schedule primary care appointments online at more than 115 VA Medical Centers (VAMCs) and their assoiated Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs).
Some VAMCs also allow online scheduling for certain specialty appointments. VA plans to add more appointment types in the future. VA is working to make online scheduling available at all VAMCs by summer 2018.
You can schedule appointments online at VAMCs where you already receive care.
How can Veterans use online scheduling?
To schedule an appointment online, you need to be a VA patient with a My HealtheVet Premium account. If your VAMC allows online scheduling, you will see a ?Schedule a VA Appointment? option on your dashboard when you log in. You can access online scheduling any time you use My HealtheVet. You can refill prescriptions, check your medical records, send Secure Messages and schedule an appointment in the same session.
?[Online scheduling] is very intuitive,? says U.S Marine Veteran Gerry Carbone. ?You can go in there and easily figure it out. I even showed my dad how to use [online scheduling] and now he?s using it.?
With online scheduling you can:
? Self-schedule primary care appointments at participating VAMCswhere you have had a primary care appointment in the past two years.
? Request help scheduling primary care appointments at participating VAMCs where you receive care.
? Self-schedule or request help scheduling specialty appointments such as outpatient mental health, optometry and audiology, at participating facilities.
? View and cancel appointments and requests.
You can also send messages about requested appointments to schedulers and receive notifications.
Learn More:
Find out if online scheduling is available at your VAMC by visiting: https://www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/web/myhealthevet/keeping-up-with-all-your-va-appointments
Need Help?
If you need help with online scheduling, please dial 1-877-470-5947. For TTY assistance, dial 711. The Help Desk is open Monday-Friday between 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. CT.
April 18, 2018
?Prescribed to Death? opioid memorial raises awareness of prescription drug crisis
April 19, 2018
U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Team Up to Simplify Student Loan Discharge Process for Disabled Veterans
April 24, 2018
VA?s Dr. Ann McKee Recognized for Her Concussion Research on TIME'S List of 100 Most Influential People
April 22, 2018
Mental health care program launches for veterans
April 25, 2018
Community Integration Service for Maine veterans launched
April 25, 2018
Discharge Upgrade Classroom on Stateside Legal
April 26, 2018
Taking part in Prescription Drug Take-Back Day can save lives and protect your loved ones
April 30, 2018
VA Video Connect Expands Veterans? Access to Health Care
April 30, 2018
VA Introduces New Feature That Allows Veterans to Securely Access Medical Images Online
May 1, 2018
This Mental Health Month, share the possibilities
May 4, 2018
VA and Small Business Administration Team up to Help Veteran Entrepreneurs
May 4, 2018
VA Offers Early Participation in a Faster New Claims Decision Review Process
May 7, 2018
Wounded Warrior Fellowship Opportunity
Congresswoman Chellie Pingree is looking to hire a Wounded Warrior Fellow for her District Office in Portland.
The Wounded Warrior Program is a two-year fellowship providing experience and exposure to veterans with the goal of broadening future career opportunities.
Veterans meeting the following requirements may apply:
- Honorably discharged;
- Released from active duty within the last five years;
- Pay grades at or below E-5 or O-3;
- 20% or greater service connected disability rating; and
- Purple Heart recipients are exempt from the service connected disability rating requirement.
Veterans who are in receipt of a 20-year or Temporary Early Retirement Authorization (TERA) retirement are not eligible for the program. No waivers will be granted.
To apply, please visit USA Jobs online at: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/487010700
For questions, please contact Congresswoman Pingree's Office at:
Congresswoman Chellie Pingree 2 Portland Fish Pier, Suite 304 Portland, ME 04101 Phone (207) 774-5019 Toll Free 1-888-862-6500 Fax (207) 871-0720
For more information about the Wounded Warrior Program, please visit: https://cao.house.gov/wounded-warrior
May 8, 2018
Post 9/11 GI Bill Updates
As part of the recent changes to Federal law, starting August 1st, the VA will calculate monthly housing payments based on the actual zip code of the campus where a student attends the majority of their residency classes.
If you are a student Veteran or dependent, please keep in mind your campus' zip code may affect your payment amount significantly. This includes internships, externships, practicums, student teaching, and other similar experiences.
For more information, visit https://benefits.va.gov/gibill/ or contact your VA Certifying Official at your school.
May 9, 2018
Thirty flags to be raised May 14 in honor of fallen veterans
May 8, 2018
Veterans benefits scam alert: Beware of scammers impersonating VA attorneys
May 9, 2018
VA?s Rapid Appeals Modernization Program now open to all appeals
May 5, 2018
U.S. Sen. Angus King helps USM celebrate graduating veterans
May 10, 2018
Maine veteran's emotional plea goes viral
May 11, 2018
VA Expands Telehealth by Allowing Health Care Providers to Treat Patients Across State Lines
May 11, 2018
Appeals status on Vets.gov
VA launched a new update for the appeals status tracker and now Veterans with a compensation appeal can view their past and current appeals issues, receive alerts for deadlines when action is required, preview the next events in their timeline, and see estimates of how long it will take to reach those events.
Read more at https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/46761/new-va-appeals-status-tool-provides-tracking-transparency-veterans/
May 10, 2018
Citizens of Maine Honor York County Veterans
May 10, 2018
Veterans center opens
May 14, 2018
VA Updates Disability Rating Schedule to Better Align with Modern Medicine
May 15, 2018
Housing Payments To Be Revised Under New GI Bill Changes
May 16, 2018
VA updates compensation rating criteria, adds women-specific conditions to the schedule
May 16, 2018
Northern Maine Veterans Cemetery packed for Flag Raising Ceremony
May 17, 2018
Volunteers needed in Lewiston to place 7,000 flags on veterans' graves
May 17, 2018
VA gets the word out for Hepatitis Awareness Month
May 21, 2018
Top 5 reasons Veterans and their spouses? voices are invaluable
May 22, 2018
Maine program helping veterans transition from active duty to civilian life
May 22, 2018
ATTENTION: Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services warns veterans of developing phishing scam
AUGUSTA, Maine (May 22, 2018) ? The Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services (MBVS) is warning veterans, military retirees and their families of a developing email scam.
Fraudulent emails have been sent to veterans, military retirees and their family members requesting action regarding the disbursement of funds. The email appears to come from the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management, however the email address displayed is a ?.aol? domain. This is not a legitimate government email address and is not an official communication from the Maine Department of Veterans and Emergency Management nor the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services.
The fraudulent email states that, ?VETERAN INFORMATION IS REQUIRED. ATTACHED IS THE DOCUMENT FOR THE SPECIFIED INFORMATION NEEDED TO EFFECT DISBURSEMENT OF FUNDS. NOTE: FILL THE REQUESTED FORM BEFORE THE STIPULATED TIME FRAME.?
The Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services reminds veterans, retirees and their family members that the Bureau will never request personal information via email and to beware of phishing emails. To avoid falling victim to these scams:
- Be aware of emails from unfamiliar senders
- Do not provide personal information via email
- Do not click on links or attachments you do not trust
- Do not forward the email
If you have received a similar email, please contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services immediately at 207-430-6035.
May 23, 2018
Vets Cemetery plans Memorial Day salute in Caribou
May 24, 2018
Veteran Identification Cards - Frequently Asked Questions
Veterans Identification Card Fact Sheet
On July 20, 2015, the President signed into law the Veterans Identification Card Act of 2015, Public Law (PL) 114-31 which amended Chapter 57 of title 38, United States Code to require that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) issue an identification card to Veterans that request a card and present a DD-214 or other document that validates service in the military, naval or air service in the Armed Forces of the United States.
Veterans can use the VIC with participating vendors in lieu of their DD-214. Implementation of the VIC closes the gap for individuals that do not have an identification card that designates them as a Veteran. Moreover, it allows the VA to ensure Veterans are able to take advantage of the benefits and discounted services available to them without compromising Personal Identifiable Information (PII) that is visible on the DD-214. The VIC does not replace the or serve as an alternate means of identification in place of the Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC) or retirement card issued by the Department of Defense, or other state or federal identification highlighting their Veteran status. Veterans who have served honorably will be able to apply for a VIC online using Vets.gov or AccessVA.
Key Facts:
? On November 29, 2017, VA launched the Veterans Identification Card (VIC) Program.
? Veterans can submit an electronic application for the VIC using Vets.gov or AccessVA. To sign in, they can use their ID.me account or the same log-in that they use for their eBenefits account (DS Logon).
? Individuals that have a character of discharge type of Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) are eligible for a VIC.
? Individuals with a Dishonorable, Other than Honorable conditions or Bad Conduct discharge are not eligible for a VIC.
? The VIC can be presented to Vendors for discounted goods and services without compromising Personal Identifiable Information (PII) that is visible on the DD-214. Vendor?s acceptance of the VIC is voluntary and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the VA.
? The VIC does not reflect entitlement to any benefits administered by the VA, DoD, or any other federal department or agency.
? The VIC will serve as proof of service for Veterans who do not have a form of identification that designates them as a Veteran.
? The VIC is not meant to duplicate Veteran identification cards currently issued by the VA, DoD, or state department or agency.
How to Apply for a VIC
? Veterans can apply for a VIC using Vets.gov or AccessVA
Explanation of Initiative
? The VIC can be used in lieu a DD-214 and will provide Veterans who served a minimum obligated time in service, but did not meet the retirement or medical discharge threshold with a more portable and secure alternative for proof of service.
VIC FAQ?s
Q. What is the Veteran Affairs identification card (VIC)?
A. On July 20, 2015, the President signed into law the ?Veterans Identification Card Act of 2015?. This Act allows eligible Veterans to be issued an identification card directly from VA.
Q. How can the VIC card be used?
A. The VIC can be presented to Vendors for discounted goods and services without compromising Personal Identifiable Information (PII) that is visible on the DD-214. Vendor?s acceptance of the VIC is voluntary and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the VA.
Q. Is there eligibility criteria in order to qualify for the VIC?
A. Yes, any Veteran who served in the Armed Forces (includes: active Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines as well as Reserve Component, National Guard, or Coast Guard) and have a character of discharge type of Honorable, General (Under Honorable Conditions) may request the VIC. Veterans Affairs will review eligibility to ensure a Department of Defense form DD?214 or other official document of discharge is present and a character of discharge type is annotated describing the service of the Veteran.
Q. Are individuals that served in the Reserves, National Guard, or Coast Guard eligible for a VIC?
A. Individuals that served in the Army Reserve, the Navy Reserve, the Marine Corps Reserve, the Air Force Reserve, the Coast Guard Reserve, the Army National Guard of the United States, or the Air National Guard of the United States qualify for a VIC if they received a DD-214 or other approved document of discharge and completed their obligated time in service.
Q. Are individuals that have an Unknown or Uncharacterized discharge status eligible for a VIC?
A. Individuals with an uncharacterized or unknown discharge status may be eligible. They will have to submit a copy of their DD-214 so that we can verify the nature of discharge and determine eligibility.
Q. I served in Army from 5/11/2005 - 5/10/2009 and Navy from 5/11/2009 - 3/18/2011. However, when I was discharged from the Navy in 2009, I received a dishonorable discharge. Am I still eligible for a VIC?
A. No, if you have multiple segments of service that are not all honorable or general (under honorable conditions) you are not eligible for a VIC.
Q. Are all individuals that have VA benefits automatically eligible for a VIC?
A. No, the two are not the same. VA can render a Character of Discharge Determination on discharges that are not Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) and can assign limited benefits to an individual. VA cannot change the discharge of record on the actual DD-214 and that is the discharge field that determines VIC eligibility.
Q. Will the Veteran be required to be enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) in order to verify eligibility for VIC?
A. No, not all Veterans retain their DEERS account after they are discharged. All active duty and retirees are automatically kept enrolled in DEERS. A VIC applicant does not necessarily need to have a DEERS account or be eligible for a DEERS account. It is required if they need to use a DS Logon. However, ID.me does not require that same system verification and individuals can access the application from there. If the Veteran has a DEERS account, they need to ensure it is updated with current information before they try to use their DS Logon to access Vets.gov or AccessVA.
Applicants can update their DEERS information using the information below:
? Visit your personnel office or contact the Defense Manpower Data Center Support Office at 800-538-9552. You can find your nearest personnel office at: http://www.dmdc.osd.mil/rsl/.
? Visit the DEERS website at https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/appj/bwe/indexAction.do.
? Go online to TRICARE to update your information: http://www.tricare.mil/DEERS .
Q. Will the VIC give a Veteran access to any other benefits, goods, or services that they don?t already get with their Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC); DoD retired identification card or state-issued identification with a Veteran designation?
A. No, the VIC does not reflect entitlement to any benefits administered by the VA, DoD, or any other federal department or agency. The VIC will serve as proof of service for Veterans who do not have a form of identification that designates them as a Veteran. The VIC is not meant to duplicate Veteran identification cards currently issued by the VA, DoD, or other federal or state department or agency. If a Veteran already has a VHIC, retirement card issued by DoD, or state issued identification with a Veteran designation they do not need to apply for a VIC. The VIC does not qualify individuals for additional benefits administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs and does not serve as proof for any benefits to which they may be entitled
Q. How can Veterans submit a request for a VIC?
A. Veterans can submit requests for a VIC on Vets.gov or AccessVA
Q. How do I sign in to Vets.gov?
A. You can sign in with your DS Logon account (used to access eBenefits or MilConnect)?and we?ll connect your account to Vets.gov through ID.me. ID.me is our trusted technology partner in helping to keep your personal information safe. If you have a basic or advanced (non-premium) account, you?ll need to verify your identity through ID.me. We can also help you use ID.me to add an extra layer of security to your account (called 2-factor authentication). If you don?t have a DS Logon account, you can create an account for Vets.gov through ID.me.
Q. What if the Veteran does not have an ID.me account, can they still apply for the VIC?
A. Yes, the same log-in used for eBenefits or DS Logon, can be used to log into their Vets.gov or AccessVA account.
Q. For Veterans without the ability to submit an electronic application, is there another way to submit a VIC request?
A. We encourage all Veterans interested in applying for the Veteran ID card to visit Vets.gov or AccessVA. At this time those are the only methods available for applying for the card.
Q. Will the VIC allow me to access military post or installations?
A. No, the VIC will not grant you access to military installations.
Q. Will the VA charge a fee to issue the VIC?
A. Veterans will not be asked to pay for the Veteran ID card. To ensure security of Veteran information, the application process is managed within the VA and the printing and shipping costs for the card are covered through a public-private partnership agreement.
Q. Is the list of vendors that offer discounts to Veterans available online?
A. Promotional discounts and services offered to Veterans may vary by location. Check with your local retailer to verify if they offer discounted goods or services to Veterans.
May 24, 2018
Cary Medical Center to Host Conference PTSD and Relationships
May 24, 2018
Join upcoming Twitter chat for information about VA?s innovative health care tools for Veterans and caregivers
May 25, 2018
Gov. Paul LePage Radio Address: Memorial Day 2018
As World War Two neared its end in June of 1945, General George Patton stated, ?It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.?
This Memorial Day, let us be thankful that our men and women in uniform have been so willing to serve our nation?even to give their lives?to protect our liberty.
Hello, this is Governor Paul LePage.
We will never forget the sacrifice, courage or commitment to our nation of our men and women in uniform.
The members of our Armed Forces have courageously defended our country for more than 250 years and continue to do so to this day. It is fitting to set a day aside to pause and remember those who left the security of their home and family to serve their country, some never to return.
This Memorial Day and throughout the year, Ann and I are proud to honor and remember the incredible group of patriots who have answered the call. We also remember and thank those they left behind?their families, who serve our nation through their loving support of the person called to duty.
Every day of the year, we must care for the men and women who have so bravely fought and sacrificed to defend the freedoms we share.
Sadly, during the Vietnam War, our members of the Armed Forces endured negative treatment upon their return home from overseas despite having answered the call of their nation and serving with honor and bravery.
Although this treatment was undeserved, these men and women have made the nation understand that we, as the beneficiaries of their sacrifice, must do all we can to demonstrate our appreciation for those who served our nation. I hope that the example of our Vietnam Veterans? service and endurance will continue to help heal our country. They are true heroes.
Those who have served in uniform since Vietnam have been treated more respectfully and with greater gratitude and understanding because we have learned from these experiences, and for that we are thankful.
Maine has the second-highest number of veterans by population of all states, and their active presence in our communities reminds us of the need to give back as they have given and continue to give to us.
Therefore, I once again urge our gold-star families, veterans, and the families of our active-duty service members to take advantage of the services available to you through the federal and state governments. These programs are not charity, they are the tangible thank-you from a grateful nation.
Whether it is a job, a gravesite, a state park pass, or free tuition, you deserve to access what you have earned. And know that, while some of these programs are small, we are also tackling the big issue of veteran suicide.
For the past two years, the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services has been on the front line of several innovative undertakings ? one of which was recently demonstrated while serving as host of the Suicide Prevention Symposium this past December.
In 2014, 55 Maine veterans committed suicide and only 6 of them were known to the VA Maine Healthcare System. The Maine veteran suicide rate was 10 percent higher than the national rate and 30 percent higher than our state general population suicide rate.
The Bureau brought together hundreds of community partners to discuss ways to address the veteran suicide epidemic, and the event was so successful, the program will be used as a best practice model across the country to bring awareness to suicide prevention efforts.
Maine has a strong heritage of dedication and service to our country and we take great pride in our troops. They have fought for us and died for us, and there is no way to repay them for what they have given.
On this Memorial Day, let?s show that we are grateful for all of our fallen heroes.
Thank you for listening.
May 25, 2018
Memorial Day: honoring Veterans? Legacy
May 28, 2018
Time to reflect on importance of honoring those who died serving
On Memorial Day, Mainers will come together across the state to honor those who gave their lives in defense of our nation?s core values. Main streets adorned with American flags will be lined with men, women and children of all ages who want to pay tribute to our fallen troops? service and sacrifice; thousands of wooden flags will be placed at our heroes? gravesites; and ceremonies will be held to memorialize our service members? valor.
A state with more veterans per capita than almost any other, Maine knows what it means to serve. Maine is home to 117,000 veterans, and at the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services, we have made it our mission to support our veterans in every manner possible.
There are countless ways to recognize our veterans? contributions, sacrifice and legacy, and here are a few examples of what has happened in the last year.
? Veteran service organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars-Department of Maine spearheaded an effort to complete the virtual Wall of Faces. Created by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, the virtual wall connects a face and a story to each of the more than 58,000 names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.
Only five states have acquired photos of all veterans who died in service to their country. In 2016, the virtual wall sought 243 photos of Maine?s 341 killed in action-missing in action Vietnam veterans; today, that number is down to one, thanks to a handful of dedicated Mainers like Clark Thompson and John Bouchard.
? American Legion Post 12 erected a new marker for the namesake of the James W. Williams Playground in Bangor. Park visitors can now read about the service and sacrifice of Pfc. Williams ? a young man who served his country honorably in the name of democracy. In fact, the World War I Centennial Working Group has done a wonderful job of shining light on the service of those who fought in the First World War, thanks in large part to 1st Lt. Jonathan Bratten, historian with the Maine Army National Guard.
? In Portland, Bangor and Damariscotta, Maine Public hosted three trailer screenings of ?The Vietnam War? by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick ? an 18-hour documentary series outlining one of the most contentious periods in American history. Each screening included a rich panel discussion and heartfelt audience participation, which was at times both thought-provoking and painfully raw.
? Last Sept. 18, people from all over the United States attended a breathtaking funeral with full military honors in Caribou for Marine Corps Pvt. Alberic M. Blanchette. He was killed in action on the first day of the Battle of Tarawa in World War II. His family mourned the loss and absence of their son for 74 years until the Department of Defense POW/MIA Accounting Command made a DNA match from a nephew given four years earlier. Pvt. Blanchette is finally home.
? In December, Wreaths Across America started its annual journey from Columbia Falls to lead the nation in remembrance. Thousands of wreaths were placed at the gravesites of the deceased, including all four of our state-run veterans cemeteries.
? We all just observed an anniversary. Navy SEAL Senior Chief Petty Officer Kyle Milliken of Falmouth was killed in action on May 5, 2017, while serving during U.S. Africa Command Operations in Somalia. His death was the first U.S. combat death in Somalia since Thomas Field of Lisbon and Medal of Honor recipient Gary Gordon of Lincoln were killed in action in October 1993.
? Camp Chamberlain, the Maine National Guard?s newly completed Joint Force Headquarters in Augusta, will conduct its ribbon-cutting in June, but not before the Battlefield Cross is placed and all hand-sketched and framed pencil drawings of fallen National Guard members are hung for all to see ? for all to remember.
If you would like to join in thanking veterans for their service, we encourage you to come to the Gardiner Common in July. The Wall That Heals, a replica of and mobile education center for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, will be on display July 19-22. Open to the public both day and night throughout the visit, The Wall will most certainly serve as a place for both reflection and remembrance.
While the exhibit is on display, the bureau will host a Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home and Recognition Ceremony and a Gold Star Family Recognition Ceremony. Those who have attended these ceremonies tell us often about the significant impact it has had on their lives. We understand how hard it is for veterans to put themselves out there, but we assure you that you?ll have no regrets.
While Memorial Day may feel like the official start to your summer, and you begin packing for that first family camping trip of the year, I urge you to reflect on the importance of this day ? and look around. In Maine, remembering is everywhere.
May 29, 2018
Maine veterans take leap to combat PTSD
May 28, 2018
Wall of Faces will keep memory of Vietnam alive
May 29, 2018
Three signs of good PTSD care for Veterans
May 31, 2018
VA Announces New Acting Secretary, Retirement of Deputy Secretary
May 30, 2018
Burn Pit Registry ? Veteran participation contributes to important research efforts
June 1, 2018
VA Recognizes Mental Health Month With Video Campaign Focused on How Treatment Can Transform Lives
June 1, 2018
President Trump?s Executive Order Supporting Mental Health Care for Transitioning Service Members Now Underway
June 4, 2018
Focused on Patient Safety, VA to Host Summit Launching a National Registry for Medical Implant Devices
June 1, 2018
Veterans with PTSD treated with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
June 4, 2018
VA?s Board of Veterans? Appeals resolves record number of claims to date for FY 2018
June 6, 2018
'Horses for Armed Forces' hopes to raise money for veterans in Maine
June 5, 2018
VA Twitter chat explores ties between tobacco use and mental health
June 7, 2018
Maine National Guard gets new 101,000-square-foot home
June 7, 2018
President Trump signs historic MISSION Act
June 7, 2018
VA Commits $17 Million to Expand Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program
June 8, 2018
VA joins nationwide effort to stop opioid abuse
June 11, 2018
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services is hiring
The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services is hiring two Veteran Service Officers.
The Bureau is looking to hire a full-time Veteran Service Officer in our Springvale Field Office. Our Veteran Service Officers assist veterans with accessing their VA benefits and provide expert advice in developing and submitting disability claims to the VA.
The Bureau is also looking to hire a Homeless Veteran Coordinator. The Coordinator will work alongside our partners at Preble Street and MaineHousing to both advise and assist veterans, and their families, who have become homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless.
If you know a veteran who is compassionate, has great attention to detail, and wants to find a meaningful way to help other veterans, please encourage him or her to apply today.
http://www.maine.gov/sesc/hr.shtml
June 11, 2018
?Forlorn Hope,? story of the 1st Maine Heavy Artillery, to premiere June 18 in Bucksport
Secretary of State Contact: Kristen Schulze Muszynski, 207-626-8404
The Maine State Archives, producer Dan Lambert, and the Alamo Theatre are co-hosting the premiere showing of ?Forlorn Hope,? Lambert?s documentary film recounting the charge of the 1st Maine Heavy Artillery Regiment at Petersburg, Virginia, on June 18, 1864.
The half-hour documentary will be shown at 2 p.m. at the Alamo, home of Northeast Historic Film, 85 Main Street, Bucksport, on the 154th anniversary of the Regiment?s charge, Monday, June 18, 2018.
?Dan Lambert?s documentary captures the story of the 1st Maine Heavy?s ?Forlorn Hope,?? said State Archivist David Cheever. ?Matching the care he took in his earlier documentary about the sacrifice of the 16th Maine Regiment at the Battle of Gettysburg, he has added a skilled narrative to one of the bravest, and most tragic, attacks in the Civil War.?
The 1st Maine Heavy Artillery Regiment is recognized as having suffered the greatest loss of men in a single battle of any Union unit in the war: The regiment arrived on the outskirts of Petersburg on June 16, 1864, and were told to wait there to allow the Army of the Potomac to assemble more fully. The two days the Union force spent waiting allowed the Confederate Army to reinforce its defensive position at Petersburg such that when the order came for the 1st Maine Heavy Artillery to make a full-frontal charge upon the entrenched Confederates, the Maine men were greeted with concentrated weapons fire.
More than 850 soldiers undertook the charge. In fewer than 10 minutes, more than 630 men had fallen, either killed or wounded, and the Confederates would not allow the wounded to be recovered or the dead retrieved. Afterwards, General George Gordon Meade announced that there would never be another full-frontal assault conducted on an entrenched enemy position.
The make-up of the 1st Maine Heavy Artillery included hundreds of men from the Penobscot River area, extending through Hancock and Penobscot counties.
?The Alamo Theatre is an appropriate choice for the premiere because towns such as Bucksport, Orland, Orrington and Bangor suffered the loss of many men in that charge,? Cheever said.
There is no admission fee for the premiere. A second showing immediately following the first will be held, should the need arise. Producer/director Dan Lambert will be present to discuss the film with attendees.
June 12, 2018
VA and PsychArmor Institute Offer Online Suicide Prevention Training
June 12, 2018
Make owning a home a reality with a VA home loan
June 13, 2018
View from Away: The challenges faced by veteran women
June 14, 2018
Veteran victims of military sexual trauma helped with telehealth technology
June 15, 2018
VA Issues New Policy to Protect Veteran Homeowners from Predatory Lending
June 18, 2018
VA Releases National Suicide Data Report
June 13, 2018
Veterans to receive free access to the Maine State Museum
The Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services (MBVS) is pleased to announce changes to the Maine Resident Lifetime Veteran Park Pass. Starting July 1, 2018, all veterans may access the Maine State Museum, free of charge, upon showing their Maine Resident Lifetime Veteran Park Pass.
The scheduled change will take effect due to the passage of L.D. 1656, ?An Act To Allow Veterans Free Admission to the Maine State Museum?. Veterans obtaining a Maine Resident Lifetime Veteran Park Pass after July 1 will receive the new pass, which will indicate museum admission. Those currently holding an older version of the Veteran Park Pass will have their pass honored by the Maine State Museum.
Recreational licenses and privileges make up four of the almost 20 state-run programs offered to Maine veterans ? one of which includes the Maine Resident Lifetime Veteran Park Pass. The pass, administered by the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services, is issued to all veterans meeting the following criteria: 1. The veteran is a resident of Maine; 2. The veteran received an honorable discharge or general discharge under honorable conditions
While the current $3 admission fee for the Maine State Museum may seem nominal, many Maine veterans find themselves living on fixed incomes. Allowing veterans free access to the state museum is a small gesture of gratitude for a population who have sacrificed greatly. Senior Citizens holding a Maine Resident Lifetime Veteran Park Pass will now be able to visit the Museum for free, in lieu of the current $2.00 ?senior citizen discount?.
The Maine State Museum is located at 230 State Street in Augusta and is open to the public Tuesday ? Friday 9:00AM ? 5:00PM and Saturday 10:00AM ? 4:00PM. The museum is closed on all state holidays.
Any veteran wishing to obtain a park pass may do so by completing and returning their application to the Bureau along with a copy of their DD 214. Park pass applications can be found on the Bureau?s website, www.maine.gov/veterans/benefits. Completed applications should be mailed to: Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services, 117 State House Station, Augusta ME 04333-0117.
For more information on the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services, or to contact the Veteran Service Office nearest you, please visit: http://maine.gov/veterans/ or call 207-430-6035.
June 20, 2018
Vets can get in Maine State Museum free
June 21, 2018
Maine Military & Community Network to Host 8th Annual Conference
On Thursday, July 19th, the Maine Military & Community Network (MMCN) will host their 8th Annual statewide conference at the Augusta Civic Center. The theme of this year?s meeting ? ?Resiliency and Reintegration: Life in Transition.?
A keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Nancy Sherman, a distinguished Professor of Philosophy at Georgetown University. Dr. Sherman has over 20 years of experience working with military veterans and will brief attendees on the topic of moral injury and the moral and ethical uncertainties of war.
MMCN?s annual conference provides veterans, veteran service organizations and clinicians the opportunity to network and share information on topics affecting veterans, service members and their families. The objective of the conference is to increase the overall awareness among service members, veterans and providers of the issues and opportunities related to those who have served in the military.
The Maine Military & Community Network is an organization comprised of 10 regional groups throughout the State of Maine with a mission of supporting Maine Military Members, Veterans, and their families in their local communities, as well as Maine?s Joining Community Forces and the MyVA Community Initiative.
MMCN is also pleased to announce a new addition to this year?s conference. Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) will be on site to assist veterans interested in individually meeting with a VSO. Please note, to meet with a VSO, you must register to attend the conference and registration is free for both service members and veterans.
To register for the 8th Annual Maine Military & Community Network conference, and to view the complete conference agenda, please visit: http://www.cvent.com/d/1gq10j. Throughout the afternoon, attendees may choose to join various breakout sessions on the topics of: behavioral health; community building; employment successes and challenges; legal, medical and transportation assistance; and veteran engagement. Those who attend will receive 5 Continuing Education Credits from AdCare.
Media may contact Melissa Willette, Director of Communications, Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services at Melissa.Willette@maine.gov or 207-430-6004 for more information.
To learn more about available resources for veterans and their families, please contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans? Services at 207-430-6035 or visit our website www.maine.gov/veterans.
June 22, 2018
Understanding the link between PTSD and substance use disorders in Veterans
June 22, 2018
Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign 2018
June 26, 2018
#ExploreVA Facebook Live Event: VA Home Loan Programs
June 25, 2018
Nine VA Programs Receive Awards for Innovation in Health IT
June 26, 2018
VA now reminds Veterans of their appointments by text
June 27, 2018
Senators Collins, King Announce Nearly $50 Million for Maine Veterans? Homes in Augusta
June 29, 2018
VA Expands Transparency Efforts of Institutions Receiving GI Bill Payments
July 2, 2018
4th of July: A time to celebrate and remember
July 3, 2018
National Guard, veterans benefits under new law
July 3, 2018
VA Releases State-level Veteran Suicide Data, National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide
July 5, 2018
National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide
The National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide reflects the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) vision for a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention that involves different sectors working together to build effective networks of support, communication and care, reaching Veterans where they live and thrive. VA is leading efforts nationwide to understand suicide risk factors, develop evidence-based strategies and identify and care for Veterans who may be at risk for suicide.
To view the National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide, please visit: https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/docs/Office-of-Mental-Health-and-Suicide-Prevention-National-Strategy-for-Preventing-Veterans-Suicide.pdf
July 5, 2018
Tele-ICU Provides Innovative Care for Rural Veterans
July 6, 2018
VAs new ChooseVA campaign highlights Veteran benefits and services, aims to attract and retain employees
July 9, 2018
Smartphone feature provides immediate access to Veterans Crisis Line
July 10, 2018
Vietnam Veterans, Gold Star Families to be recognized at Ceremony Featuring The Wall That Heals
AUGUSTA, Maine On Friday, July 20 the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services (MBVS) will host a recognition ceremony for Vietnam Veterans and Gold Star Families. The ceremony will take place on the Gardiner Common from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and be held in conjunction with a local visit from The Wall that Heals.
The Wall That Heals is a mobile education center and replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It will be on display on the Gardiner Common from July 19 through July 22. Open to the public both day and night throughout the weekend, The Wall will be a place for both reflection and remembrance for all who visit.
MBVS Director Adria Horn emphasized the importance of the recognition ceremony and The Walls visit to providing closure to Vietnam Veterans and their families:
During my tenure as director of the Bureau, we have held dozens of ceremonies to recognize a generation of veterans who have not received the necessary and proper Thank You for their service. Those who have attended our recognition ceremonies tell us often about the significant impact it has had on their lives. They have made an impact on ours as well.
Vietnam Veterans who wish to attend the ceremony should register online and contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services to ensure the Bureau has their DD214, for certification purposes. Veterans who register will be presented with a Certificate of Appreciation, a Vietnam Veteran Coin, and a 50th Anniversary Lapel Pin.
Gold Star Family members are also encouraged to attend and should register online. Families who register will be presented with a Certificate of Appreciation, a Lapel Pin, and Gold Star Medal honoring both the family and their Vietnam Veteran.
We understand how hard it is for veterans to put themselves out there five decades after coming home, but we assure you: this is an opportunity not to be missed. You will certainly have no regrets if you join us, said Director Horn.
To register for the recognition ceremony and for a schedule of events during The Wall That Heals stay, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vietnam-veteran-gold-star-family-recognition-ceremony-tickets-47477854541.
For more information, please contact Melissa Willette, Director of Communications, Maine Bureau of Veterans Services at Melissa.Willette@maine.gov or 207-430-6004.
To learn more about available resources for veterans and their families, please contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services at 207-430-6035 or visit their website www.maine.gov/veterans.
July 11, 2018
Peaks Island military museum brings attention to soldier suicide
July 11, 2018
Honor Rocks hike through the 100-Mile Wilderness recognizes those who served
July 12, 2018
Veterans owed refunds for over payments attributable to disability severance payments should file amended returns to claim tax refunds
July 12, 2018
VA Compensation 101
July 13, 2018
VAs Board of Veterans Appeals Using Innovative Tools to Make a Record Number of Decisions
July 17, 2018
6th Annual Bangor CBOC Barbeque
July 17, 2018
VEText system transforming VAs medical scheduling process
July 18, 2018
Possible tax refund for veterans
July 23, 2018
Veterans using My HealtheVet to manage appointments
July 24, 2018
Fort Fairfield VFW honors Vietnam-era veterans from the class of 1967
July 24, 2018
Veterans receive the help they need to get a college degree
July 27, 2018
Important Updates from the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services
July 26, 2018
Little known Red Cross program donates to Maine Veterans Home in Caribou
July 29, 2018
State cemetery for veterans may offer green burials
July 29, 2018
Program that puts vets back in the workforce prepares for another year
July 31, 2018
Caribou veterans service, sacrifice honored with trip to nations capital
July 31, 2018
Act Now! Adult Degree Completion Scholarship Funds Still Available for the Fall 2018 Semester
August 1, 2018
Hire-A-Vet Campaign Kickoff - Maine's Largest Hiring Fair
August 1, 2018
Veterans Cemetery seeks auction items for fundraiser
August 2, 2018
Designs sought for Honorable Service Coin
August 3, 2018
Forever GI Bill expands VA educational benefits
August 4, 2018
Heroes Mile to honor lives of deceased veterans during Caribou Marathon
August 7, 2018
Financial Guide for Maine Veterans
August 8, 2018
New Fisher House Will Provide Lodging To Families Of Military And Veterans at Togus
August 9, 2018
Sarah Sherman joins the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services
August 10, 2018
Pingree Welcomes Wounded Warrior Fellow to Portland Office
August 10, 2018
VA soliciting bids for new veterans clinic in Portland or South Portland
August 10, 2018
Maine's Hire A Vet Campaign Just Got Bigger
August 12, 2018
Maine veterans can get a lifetime state park pass for free
August 13, 2018
Veterans can now update their contact information online
August 13, 2018
First Lady Ann LePage to Host Her Final Annual Military Families Ice Cream Social
Contact: Barbara Claudel, (207) 624-7500 For Immediate Release: Monday, August 13, 2018
AUGUSTA--First Lady Ann LePage will host her eighth-annual Military Families Ice Cream Social on the Blaine House Lawn on Wednesday, August 15, 2018, from 6 to 7 p.m. This event is open to currently serving Military Families and Gold Star Families.
The social is a "Back to School" event, at which each child will receive free school supplies, thanks to Operation Homefront and community members through sales at the Dollar Store. This event is free of charge and open to Maine military families of any age and any branch of service. Guests are encouraged to wear play clothes and join in a variety of lawn games with the First Lady while they enjoy their ice cream.
"Maine's military service members and their families make tremendous sacrifices on behalf of all of us," said Mrs. LePage. "The ice cream social has been a highlight of my summer for the past several years and one I will miss. Seeing the smiling faces, meeting families and watching them connect with other military families brings me great joy and this, combined with ice cream and free school supplies, makes it an awesome evening for all!"
To attend, please contact the Maine National Guard Family Program office at 430-5773/5953.
August 14, 2018
VA updates the disability rating schedule related to skin conditions
August 14, 2018
Military OneSource is now available to Veterans and their families for a full year after separating from the military
August 14, 2018
Caddie Training Opportunity in Scotland for Maine Veterans
Don Snyder, Maine native and veteran advocate, is recruiting Maine veterans for a unique opportunity residential caddie school in St. Andrews, Scotland. The first group of veterans will meet in St. Andrews on February 1, 2019. Don has successfully raised funds to cover all expenses for six veterans to attend the program. Two veterans from the United States, two from the United Kingdom, and two from Canada will be asked to participate.
Currently in St. Andrews is a nonprofit organization known as St. Andrew Legacy. The nonprofit hosts wounded veterans from around the world to play golf as part of their healing process. While attending a caddie program himself, and witnessing the benefits of the St. Andrews Legacy, Don began to think about what he could do to help veterans in need.
Understanding relationships between golfer and caddie, and the hard work such a job requires both physically and mentally, Don knew the value a caddie program could provide veterans.
Caddie recruits will all arrive in Scotland on February 1, 2019, returning home March 1, 2019, and will all be living and sharing meals together in a rented house. The soldier caddies will have the opportunity to interview for full time caddie jobs there in Scotland, or in America at Bandon Dunes in Oregon, or in Canada at Cabot Cliffs and Cabot Links. To participate in the program, veteran caddies must commit to working the next golf season.
In Scotland the season runs from mid-April until mid-September. A hard-working caddie can earn $25,000 during this season. The ideal candidate will be willing to get into good physical condition (walking up to 10 miles a day) while carrying golf bags, have a keen desire to learn and be trained, and be 100% trustworthy.
For more information about the Veterans Caddie program or to apply contact Don J. Snyder at 207-838-3011 or go to his website www.donjsnyder.com.
August 15, 2018
Financial Guide for Maine Veterans
August 15, 2018
VA's VITAL Program Helps Student Veterans
August 16, 2018
Maine's Largest Hiring Fair Is Only Two Weeks Away
August 17, 2018
Forever GI Bill changes the way VA reimburses for tests, certifications, and licensing exams
August 20, 2018
VA, Walgreens collaborate to improve care coordination for Veterans
August 21, 2018
Are you using the VA Smart Phone App?
August 22, 2018
Presidential Citations Available For Deceased Veterans
August 22, 2018
Maine tops list of states with veteran-friendly home-loan programs
August 21, 2018
Barbecue for USS New Mexico crew August 24 in Kittery
August 23, 2018
Forever GI Bill/Colmery Act allows more Reserve service to qualify for education benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill
August 24, 2018
VA TeleRehabilitation provides best care anywhere
August 28, 2018
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Looks To Hire Two Veteran Service Officers
August 27, 2018
Maine Artists Sought to Design Coin Honoring Military Service
August 29, 2018
Beef Donated to Veterans in Need
August 29, 2018
Googles new job-hunting tools help veterans search for more fitting civilian work
August 29, 2018
Governor LePage thanks Adria Horn for her service to Maine's veterans
AUGUSTA -- Governor Paul R. LePage announced today that Bureau of Veterans' Services Director Adria Horn will leave state service effective September 14. "Adria has significantly raised the profile of our veterans' programs during her time with the bureau," said Governor LePage. "She has improved the operations of BVS and set a high standard of customer service to ensure that our veterans are treated with the respect they deserve and receive the benefits they have earned. I thank her for her leadership and wish her well in her new position."
Maine has a rich tradition of military service. More than 300,000 Mainers have been affected by service, whether as a veteran, retiree, family member, National Guard, reserve or active-duty personnel. Many veterans have returned home to become community leaders and advocates for other veterans.
"It has been both a privilege and a gift to work on behalf of Maine veterans and their families," Horn said. "Over the last three years, the bureau has not only created stronger partnerships throughout Maine's veteran advocacy community, but we've also formed invaluable relationships across the nation. Maine is now considered a thought leader on veterans' issues, and our programs have become models of best practices throughout the country. Our success has been made possible due to the incredibly compassionate and dedicated staff within the bureau. For that, I will always be grateful."
Horn will join the private sector as Tilson Technology Management's vice president of workforce development.
She graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York in 2001 and served on Active Duty in the U.S. Army until 2011. Horn deployed five times in support of the Global War on Terror and is now a lieutenant colonel in the United States Army Reserve. Upon leaving active duty, she earned her MBA from Northeastern University and began working for U.S. Senator Susan Collins in her Portland office. Appointed by Governor LePage, she has been serving as the director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services since April 2015.
Governor LePage will appoint David Richmond, deputy director of BVS, as acting director after Horn completes her state service.
August 30, 2018
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services looking to commission artist for commemorative coin
August 30, 2018
VA expands Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program to improve service to Veterans
September 4, 2018
VA announces upcoming awards of nearly $326 million in grants to help at-risk Veterans and family members
August 31, 2018
Maine VA helps Veterans rejoin society
September 4, 2018
Three steps to access community care
September 5, 2018
Register for the 2018 VA Maine Mental Health Summit
September 6, 2018
Helping Veterans Heal with Support and Service Dogs
September 7, 2018
Veterans Upward Bound helps veterans attend college
September 10, 2018
Connect with VA Mental Health Resources
September 11, 2018
VA marks Suicide Prevention Month in September with Be There campaign
September 13, 2018
New Law Lets Some Maine Veterans Skip Course Work and Take Nursing Exam
September 13, 2018
VA Implements New Fiduciary Regulations
September 14, 2018
Corsair Fighter Jet Coming to Lewiston's Veterans Park
September 19, 2018
President signs bill into law requiring VA to hire 50 outreach specialists to support Veterans involved in justice system
September 20, 2018
Lewiston Classmates to Dedicate Bench to Fallen Hero
September 24, 2018
VA national cemeteries welcome nonprofit volunteers providing tree-and landscape-care services
September 27, 2018
VA Releases National Suicide Data Report for 2005-2016: Analysis Is Part of VA Data-driven Approach to Suicide Prevention
September 28, 2018
VA marks Gold Star Families Remembrance Week
October 2, 2018
VA awards up to $9M in Adaptive Sports Program grants to aid disabled Veterans
October 2, 2018
Vietnam Veterans Receive Long Awaited Welcome Home
October 9, 2018
Ground Broken for Maine Gold Star Families Memorial Monument
October 15, 2018
Grant would fund expansion of Springvale Veterans Cemetery
October 18, 2018
Survey shows VA sustains high customer satisfaction in burial and memorial services for Veterans and families.
October 23, 2018
Advocate for Maine veterans details new programs at Oct. 31 Skidompha Chat
November 1, 2018
VA amends regulations on VA pensions and other needs-based programs.
November 6, 2018
VA mobilizes federal agencies to offer free legal services to help Veterans.
November 7, 2018
Maine veterans' good friend in Boothbay Harbor, Dave Patch.
November 9, 2018
South Portland man advocating for fellow veterans
November 13, 2018
Sealed with a kiss.
November 13, 2018
Southport Central School honors veterans at breakfast.
November 13, 2018
Uncovering a Sheepscot Veterans Story, a Century After World War I.
November 13, 2018
'Remember and give thanks' to veterans.
November 13, 2018
Rockland veterans mark 100th anniversary of end of World War I.
November 13, 2018
How female veterans found solidarity and healing at a Maine crafing retreat.
November 13, 2018
Honoring those who served: Images from the Veterans Day parade in Brewer-Bangor.
November 15, 2018
Google Luanches New Tools To Help U.S. Veterans Find Jobs and Promote Businesses.
November 15, 2018
New HBO documentary puts a much-needed face to complex veteran struggles with PTSD
November 19, 2018
VA takes key step to improve its website to provide Veterans an enhanced digital customer experience
November 26, 2018
VA Benefits Delivery at Discharge program improves service to Veterans
November 26, 2018
VA realigns several program offices to improve efficiency in meeting Veterans health care needs
November 30, 2018
Student veterans, schools frustrated over lack of housing payments from VA
December 3, 2018
Sully, Bush service dog, lies by his casket before one last journey with the former president
December 4, 2018
Curtis West honored by Maine Bureau of Veterans Services
December 4, 2018
Americans pay tribute as former President Bush lies in state at Capitol
December 7, 2018
For veterans who remember Pearl Harbor, Dec. 7 calls to mind response to infamy.
December 7, 2018
Annual wreath convoy to begin journey from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery.
December 7, 2018
Edward Little grad plays role in George H.W. Bush's funeral
December 10, 2018
Wreaths Across America stops for Augusta - Demonstration of sheer patriotism
December 10, 2018
2018 Hire-A-Vet Campaign going strong at halfway point
December 11, 2018
Statement by Secretary Robert Wilkie on Forever GI Bill Housing Benefit Payments
December 11, 2018
VA Benefits Chief - Every Single Veteran Will Be Made Whole
December 21, 2018
Attention all female veterans!
December 28, 2018
Maine Coast Guard members must work without pay during shutdown
December 31, 2018
Coast Guard members will get one-time paycheck on New Year's Eve amid government shutdown.
December 31, 2018
Mainer who kept secret about her wartime code-breaking escapades dies at 94
January 2, 2019
Mathematician inducted into Space and Missiles Pioneers Hall of Fame
January 7, 2019
Whitefield Veteran Participates in Wreaths Across America
January 7, 2019
Vietnam Vet to Discuss Wreaths Across America Experience
January 8, 2018
MBVS announces Maine Women Veterans Memorial challenge
January 10, 2019
Veterans honored at Rockland visits
January 11, 2019
Talk on USS Maine and American propaganda
January 14, 2019
Final design announced for Maine Veteran Honorable Service coin and plaque
January 17, 2019
Coast Guard Commandant: I Know You Haven't Been Paid But Stay The Course
January 18, 2019
After service, Women veterans have a new mission
January 18, 2019
Community supporting local Coast Guardsmen during federal government shutdown
January 18, 2019
Maine women veterans sought for honors
January 18, 2019
Coulombe reaches out to help U.S. Coast Guard families as community effort continues to grow
January 22, 2019
VA partners with DHS to expand Veteran suicide prevention efforts
January 22, 2019
VA to implement appeals modernization in February
January 24, 2019
Helping the Coast Guard
January 28, 2019
American Legion hosts more than 100 at Coast Guard breakfast
January 28, 2019
US military recruits getting athletic sneakers made in Maine
January 28, 2019
Deal will provide pay to Coast Guard, other federal workers
January 29, 2019
Boothbay Region World War I veterans history project
January 29, 2019
Work starts for $91 million, 138-bed Maine Veterans Homes residential care facility in Augusta
January 30, 2019
Victims of USS Thresher sinking to be remembered at Arlington National Cemetery
February 11, 2019
Portland man asks for help identifying people in father's World War II photos
February 11, 2019
Damariscotta Legion Post Gives Gift of Warmth to Veterans in Hospice
February 11, 2019
Free skiing: Veterans event draws dozens to Lost Valley
February 14, 2019
Applications opening soon for 2019 National Veterans Golden Age Games
February 14, 2019
Registration opens for 2019 National Veterans Wheelchair Games
February 14, 2019
VA seeks training providers to ready Veterans for high-tech careers
February 14, 2019
VA to provide capability for Veterans to access their VA health data on Apple iPhones
February 19, 2019
George Mendonsa, Navy veteran identified as kissing sailor in WWII photo, dies at 95.
February 21, 2019
Observation of National Vietnam War Veterans Day at the State House March 29
February 25, 2019
As Tremor Halts Work, Builder of WWII Dioramas Seeks Help to Finish Project
March 1, 2019
A pioneering WWII vet died alone. Farewell planned by community.
March 7, 2019
Trump Signs Executive Order Creating Task Force to Stop Vet Suicide
March 18, 2019
The only stone in this Camden graveyard belongs to an amazing man
March 18, 2019
Flag carried into Civil War battles by Maine regiment comes home
March 18, 2019
Andrew Wyeth - World War I
March 22, 2019
Coast Guard breaks ice on Kennebec River
April 1, 2019
Adjutant General delivers State of the National Guard address, names director of Mainei Bureau of Veterans' Services
April 1, 2019
National Vietnam War Veterans Day Honored at State House
April 1, 2019
Etna native leading cadets at West Point in international military competition
April 1, 2019
Vietnam War Veterans Day event well received
April 11, 2019
Richard Cole, 103, Last Survivor of Doolittle Raid on Japan, Dies
April 11, 2019
Bangor based Guard soldiers to get sendoff before Poland deployment
April 22, 2019
South Bristol Veterans Memorial Goes Up
April 22, 2019
VA ensures Veterans have same day access to emergency mental health care
April 29, 2019
New text feature available through VA Women Veterans Call Center
April 29, 2019
VA Secretary praises model path to ending opioid addiction
April 8, 2019
First Female Army Four Star General Named 2019 Thayer Award Recipient
May 7, 2019
Vietnam veteran Pat Farrin receives Maine Silver Star Honorable Service Medal
May 14, 2019
VA Home Loan Guaranty program notifies Veterans of potential loan fee waiverss
May 14, 2019
VFW gears up for Memorial Day parade in Waterville
May 15, 2019
House again passes Blue Water Navy benefits bill with unanimous support
May 15, 2019
Granville Coggs, a Tuskegee Airman and Renaissance man, dies at 93
May 16, 2019
VA launches community-focused public health model to prevent Veteran suicide
May 22, 2019
Work underway on British tanker sunk by U-boat off NY in WW2
May 23, 2019
VA partners with Microsoft to improve how rural Veterans access VA online services and benefits
May 23, 2019
Disabled Veterans eligible for free National Park Service Lifetime Access Pass
May 24, 2019
A Memorial Day message from VA Secretary Wilkie
May 24, 2019
World War II veteran - We went through hell
May 24, 2019
Augusta-Waterville area Memorial Day events planned
May 24, 2019
Memorial Day events around the towns
May 28, 2019
Hundreds gather in Westbrook to remember service members
May 28, 2019
Wayne honors its veterans who have died with parade, memorial service
May 28, 2019
Decorated Army vet to Skowhegan crowd. We are able to be here today largely thanks to those who are not
May 28, 2019
Lewiston soldier's death part of the Vietnam Wars gun truck legacy
May 28, 2019
Community remembers those who have fallen in military service
May 28, 2019
States and volunteers help give veterans their final honors
May 28, 2019
Memorial Day, Boothbay and East Boothbay
May 30, 2019
Hundreds gather on Memorial Day to remember those from Houlton lost in the line of duty
May 30, 2019
World War II squadron stops in Aroostook County before continuing to Europe for D-Day celebration
May 30, 2019
Solemn Memorial Day in Oakfield
May 31, 2019
White House VA Hotline surpasses 250,000 calls from Veteran community
May 31, 2019
VA and Virta Health partner in innovative approach to diabetes care
May 31, 2019
Things to know to build a home using a VA construction loan
May 31, 2019
Disabled Veterans can fly Space Available Flights for free
May 31, 2019
VA maternity care coordinators help women Veterans navigate health care services
May 31, 2019
See color images of D-Day 75 years after the historic event
May 31, 2019
Borne The Battle 147: Marine Veteran Brett D'Alessandro and Alexa Modero - Backpacks For Life
June 3, 2019
VA Mission Act
June 3, 2019
VA Urgent Care Benefit
May 3, 2019
South Bristol Dedicates New Veterans Memorial
June 3, 2019
D-Day veteran from Maine returns to Normandy for 75th anniversary
May 3, 2019
D-Day brothers in arms reunited as Togus roommates
June 4, 2019
Herbig bill to allow law enforcement to wear veteran insignia unanimously passed by committee
June 5, 2019
Maine woman to reunite with family of child her father saved during WWII
June 5, 2019
MISSION ACT - Increasing Veterans' Access to Health Care
From the Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie, to all of our Veterans and supporters across the country, a note explaining the Mission Act: Bringing Bipartisan Reform to Veterans.
Imagine if Republicans and Democrats worked together to pass reforms that improve the lives of millions of people.
And imagine if those reforms put America's Veterans at the center of their healthcare decisions, leading to better customer service for our Nations heroes. This isnt hypothetical. It happened last year when Congress passed the MISSION Act.
Through state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge technology, and increased clinician recruiting and retention incentives, VA continues to enhance its coordinated care system through high-quality VA health care and community care provider networks.
The legislation sailed through Congress with overwhelming bipartisan support and the strong backing of Veterans service organizations.
President Donald J. Trumps signature put us on a path to implementing these reforms. On June 6, the MISSION Act will enable VA to consolidate the Departments community care efforts into a single, simple-to-use program that will empower Veterans with the ability to choose the healthcare providers they trust.
So what can Veterans expect on June 6? Less red tape, more satisfaction and predictability for patients, more efficiency for our clinicians, and better value for taxpayers.
Veterans will be eligible to get community care for a variety of reasons, including when VA cant provide the treatment they need or when care outside our system is in the best medical interest of the patient.
We listened to Veterans and heard they preferred standards based on drive times rather than driving mileage because those standards better reflect Veteran experiences, especially in large urban areas with lots of traffic.
To ensure our Veterans are spending their time getting care instead of driving to it, patients facing an average drive time of 30-minutes or more for VA primary or mental healthcare, or non-institutional extended care services, will have the option of choosing a community provider closer to home. For specialty care, the drive-time standard will be an average of 60 minutes.
And to get Veterans the care they need when they need it, VA patients facing a 20-day or more wait time for primary or mental healthcare, or non-institutional extended care services, will have the option of choosing a community provider who can deliver that care faster. For specialty care, the wait-time standard will be 28 days.
For additional convenience and timely treatment, eligible Veterans will also have access to urgent, walk-in care that gives them the choice to receive certain services at participating community clinics in their communities. (To access this new benefit, Veterans will select a provider in VAs community care network and may be charged a copayment.)
Veterans will be encouraged to ask VA about these new options, and well-trained staff will be available to help them quickly understand their choices.
These exciting and important changes speak to my top priority - delivering the best medical customer service and offering Veterans more healthcare choices.
While we still have more work to do, the VA is making progress.
We are seeing more patients than ever before, more quickly than ever before and studies show VA now compares favorably to the private sector for access and quality of care and in many cases exceeds it.
And Veterans have noticed.
Patients trust in VA care has skyrocketed to 87.7 percent, and in the last fiscal year VA completed more than 58 million internal appointments a record high and 623,000 more than the year before.
VA employees are noticing improvements as well. VA ranked sixth out of 17 Federal Government agencies in the Partnership for Public Services most recent "Best Places to Work" survey, up from 17th the year prior.
To maintain the trust of our Veterans, we must continue to deliver. And we will constantly innovate, upgrade, and pursue ways to better serve our Nations heroes.
The MISSION Act is a vital part of this effort, giving VA the ability to implement the best practices weve learned in our nearly 75 years of experience offering community care.
The core of the doctor-patient relationship is trust. President Trump promised Veterans that this core value would shape the VA.
With the MISSION Act, the future of the VA healthcare system will lie in the hands of Veterans precisely where it should be.
Thats exactly what President Trump promised, its exactly what Congress voted for, and its exactly what VA will deliver to Americas Veterans.
We will provide more information and progress updates over the next several weeks.
For more information on the Mission Act, and what this will do for all Veterans, please go to www.MISSIONAct.va.gov
Your support and health are our mission. Thank you for choosing VA.
June 6, 2019
Hunters can now give Maine moose permits to wounded vets
June 6, 2019
A Maine veteran recalls his D-Day landing on Omaha Beach 75 years ago
June 6, 2019
Portland to mark 75th anniversary of D-Day with ceremony
June 6, 2019
D-Day front page of the Waterville Morning Sentinel 75 years ago
June 7, 2019
8 Things to Know About PTSD
June 12, 2019
MVBS announces Veterans' Emergency Financial Assistance program
June 13, 2019
Register to attend the 9th Annual Maine Military and Community Network Conference
June 14, 2019
Maine Veterans' Homes serves those who once served
June 18, 2019
Telehealth helped save a veterans life, now he wants others to try it
June 17, 2019
VA and White House launch Veteran suicide-prevention task force
June 19, 2019
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Verani Realty Donates $60,000 to Veterans Count
June 19, 2019
PTSD Treatment Decision Aid: The Choice Is Yours
June 20, 2019
Hero Wall Expands in Maine
June 21, 2019
USM program helps veterans navigate higher education
June 21, 2019
VA releases Request for Information, seeks strategies for ways to end Veteran suicide
June 25, 2019
FAME greenlights financing for veterans' home, Millinocket library
June 26, 2019
President Trump presents Medal of Honor to Iraq War Veteran
June 26, 2019
New Maine Law Requires Time Off From Work For Appointments at VA Medical Facilities
June 27, 2019
Military museum preserves stories of Maine's veterans
June 27, 2019
STATEMENTS & RELEASES Presidential Message on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Day, 2019
July 2, 2019
Congressman Golden seeks $5 million to bolster VA's mental health care
July 1, 2019
Maine Organization Awarded $285,000 Grant for Work with Veterans
July 5, 2019
VA extends Agent Orange presumption to 'Blue Water Navy' Veterans
July 3, 2019
VA MISSION Act: Answers to the top five questions about urgent care
July 4, 2019
Organization warns fireworks could affect Veterans
July 6, 2019
MBVS Director Joins Joe Reagan on-air for Inside Maine
July 9, 2019
First responders, military and veterans can get free tickets to the Bangor State Fair
July 11, 2019
Veterans have opportunity to grow with USDA and farming resources
July 16, 2019
Veterans express 'Creative Courage' at St. George grange
July 19, 2019
Maine Military and Community Network holds annual conference in Augusta
July 18, 2019
Veteran hopes to tap into support for asylum seekers to help the homeless
July 19, 2019
Last Navy warship sunk by a German sub in WWII is located off Maine coast
July 20, 2019
Vietnam-era Jet Coming To Lewiston
July 30, 2019
Bangor and Brewer Mayors unite to end veteran homelessness
August 12, 2019
VA and Hiring our Heroes partner on military spouse hiring initiative
August 13, 2019
Maine's only women veterans transitional home nears two years of helping veterans
August 13, 2019
Maine to receive $2 Million in grants to help Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
August 14, 2019
VA releases Launchpad app to streamline health care access for Veterans and caregivers
August 15, 2019
New national cemetery being built in Columbia Falls
August 19, 2019
Telemental health for Veterans expands care and career options
August 20, 2019
Maine Receives Grant for the Expansion of Southern Maine Veterans Cemetery
August 20, 2019
Calling all military retirees
August 21, 2019
Trump plans to sign student debt forgiveness for disabled veterans
August 22, 2019
HUD and partners host Northern New England Summit to End Veteran Homelessness
August 28, 2019
Vouchers for Veterans says thank you with fresh food, locally grown
August 28, 2019
Looking back: August 1919 in Camden
September 3, 2019
MIA POW event Sept. 20 in Camden
September 1, 2019
VA Secretary calls upon all Americans to help prevent Veteran suicide
September 3, 2019
VA partners with National Guard to provide on-site counseling during training weekends
September 4, 2019
Whitefield Senior Men's Group Repairs War Memorial
September 5, 2019
After 101 years, Maine World War I veteran receives his Purple Heart
June 5, 2019
VA Secretary calls upon all Americans to help prevent Veteran suicide
June 6, 2019
VA recognizes September as Suicide Prevention Month
September 10, 2019
Save the life of someone dedicated to saving ours
September 9, 2019
VA Secretary Wilkie urges Speaker Pelosi to support key legislation on Veteran suicide prevention
September 11, 2019
Groups unite to advocate for northern Maine veterans
September 13, 2019
Police did their job for a troubled veteran - now we must do ours
September 15, 2019
Travis Mills' retreat for wounded veterans planning to expand
September 18, 2019
'You're Not Alone,' Mills Tells Veterans At Suicide Prevention Event
September 22, 2019
Safe Haven Corner offers animal therapy for veterans and first responders
September 23, 2019
Postvention is key to suicide prevention says surviving spouse, advocate
September 24, 2019
Southern Maine Veteran's Cemetery now offering green burial option
September 25, 2019
VA Releases 2019 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Report
September 26, 2019
VA, DoD update the Suicide Risk Clinical Practice Guideline
June 25, 2019
New burial rules seek to extend Arlington Cemetery lifespan
September 27, 2019
Report reveals 17 percent increase in Maine veteran suicides
September 30, 2019
VA strengthens Caregiver Support Program
October 2, 2019
Rural initiative places Maine's 2nd national cemetery in Jonesboro
October 4, 2019
Veterans can now enroll in VA's Million Veteran Program online
October 6, 2019
Agriculture symposium in Augusta for military veterans
October 5, 2019
Legion Dedicates Memorial to Maine's Missing in Action, Prisoners of War
October 7, 2019
VA Names New National Cemetery In Maine
October 8, 2019
Honor Flight Maine Veterans Receive Heroes' Homecoming
October 8, 2019
Suicide Prevention: the power of a Veteran peer
October 8, 2019
VA completes home loan funding fee refund initiative
October 9, 2019
#BeThere Facebook Live on VA Mental Health Care and Suicide Prevention
October 10, 2019
VA, VFW Facebook Live: Delivering care to rural Veterans
October 11, 2019
VA recognizes World Mental Health Day 2019
October 14, 2019
Curt West receives Quilt of Valor
October 16, 2019
Veterans getting better care through partnerships, says VA secretary
October 18, 2019
Homeless Veterans Stand Down 'got the ball rolling' for veteran to find housing, work
October 21, 2019
Madison gathering celebrates WWII veterans, American Legion centennial
October 21, 2019
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Hires New Deputy Director
AUGUSTA, Maine (October 17, 2019) - The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) is pleased to announce Kevin Rousseau, a Coast Guard Veteran, has joined the Bureau as Deputy Director.
Rousseau comes to MBVS after working for several years at the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) where he served as the states Exercise Officer. He has extensive knowledge working in various state agencies and comes to the Bureau with over 20 years of public service experience. In addition to state service, Rousseau currently serves as a United States Coast Guard Reservist.
"My entire professional career has been comprised of serving not only my country in the Coast Guard, but also my state and local community," said Rousseau. Having the opportunity to continue that service with the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services is an honor and Im looking forward to helping our states veteran population.
Rousseau earned a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Massachusetts Lowell, a Masters Degree in Public Administration from the University of Maine, and holds a Graduate Diploma from the United States Naval War College. He has served in the United States Coast Guard Reserve (USCGR) for 10 years and currently drills with the Sector Northern New England Enforcement Division out of South Portland. Most recently, Rousseau was selected for Lieutenant Commander in the USCGR.
Kevin brings a wealth of personal knowledge and has a passion for helping Maine veterans both of which will serve him well in this new role, said David Richmond, Director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. As leaders in Maines veteran advocate community, we pride ourselves on the highly skilled and dedicated people that work at the Bureau, and the support they provide Maines veterans. Kevin is a valued member of that team and were excited to have him on board.
To find the Veterans Services Office nearest to you, please visit maine.gov/veterans/veterans-services-offices. You can also call the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services at 207-430-6035 or visit their website www.maine.gov/veterans to learn more about available resources.
About Maine Bureau of Veterans Services The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau does this by being a responsive, experienced, and dedicated advocate. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has seven field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
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October 22, 2019
American Legion Post 36 Updates
October 22, 2019
VA partners with National Guard to increase access to suicide prevention resources
October 23, 2019
Hiring Our Heroes helps Veterans, military and mil spouses find jobs
October 23, 2019
Changes to the Transition Assistance Program
October 24, 2019
Early Registration now open for Student Veterans of America NatCon 2020
October 24, 2019
Together We Served: A website to help you find old friends
October 25, 2019
Maine Vets to get Maine Honorable Service coins
October 28, 2019
Veterans Day Discounts 2019, Free Meals, Resources Exclusive to Veterans
October 31, 2019
Veterans Day Discounts 2019, Free Meals, Resources Exclusive to Veterans
October 29, 2019
VA, Health and Human Services partner to improve health care protections for Veterans
October 30, 2019
VA study uncovers critical link between pain intensity and suicide attempts
November 6, 2019
K9s for Warriors provides service dogs for Post-9/11 Veterans
November 7, 2019
Veterans Day 2019 Discounts
November 6, 2019
Vietnam veteran fighting now in different arena
November 8, 2019
Governor Mills Presents Maine Veterans with New Honorable Service Coin
November 11, 2019
Honor your fellow veterans by accessing your earned benefits
November 8, 2019
Veterans Presented with Honorable Service Coin
November 10, 2019
The New Mission: Helping veterans navigate civilian life
November 12, 2019
Maine labor official: The best way to help a veteran is to give them a job
November 10, 2019
Veteran homelessness is a solvable problem
November 13, 2019
Hire A Vet 2019: Veteran Hiring For Employers Basic Training
November 13, 2019
VA and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation launch effort to prioritize mental health and emotional wellbeing in America's workplace
November 14, 2019
ATLAS debuts at U.S. Senate, demonstrates 'The Future of Health Care'
November 15, 2019
Why hiring a veteran is good for business
November 15, 2019
Statement from the National Alliance to End Homelessness on Declines in Veteran Homelessness
November 15, 2019
Agent Orange exposure on Navy or Coast Guard ships
November 19, 2019
American Legion Post 36
November 19, 2019
Maine social club for Vietnam veterans sees growth as others decline in membership
November 22, 2019
VA reports significant increase in Veteran use of telehealth services
November 23, 2019
Veterans and community Thanksgiving dinner at House in the Woods
November 25, 2019
Maine Veteran Service Agencies to Co-Host Wabanaki Cultural Awareness Training
AUGUSTA, Maine (November 25, 2019) - On Friday, December 5, 2019, the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) and the VA Maine Healthcare System will co-host the states first-ever Wabanaki cultural awareness training, focusing on the service of Maines Native American veterans and service members.
As part of the presentation, Donald Soctomah, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Passamaquoddy Tribe will be speaking on the topic of Maine Native American History and the role Native American veterans have taken in the United States Military.
"The Bureaus mission is to serve all of Maines veterans," said Sarah Sherman, Director of Strategic Partnerships for MBVS. Its our hope that by providing cultural awareness training to our community partners, we will be better able to serve our Native American veterans. We hope to use this event as an opportunity to give voice to a group of veterans that has proudly served their country .
Over the past few months, MBVS has forged new partnerships with Native American tribes across the State of Maine in an effort to improve services and collaborate at veterans events.
MBVS and VA Maine are committed to providing quality care and service to all veterans. It is the Bureaus mission to ensure that each and every veteran who walks through the door receives the attention and assistance they deserve.
The training will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2019, from 1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. at the VA Maine Healthcare System, Theater (Building 210). Following Mr. Soctomahs presentation, there will be a screening of Underground Cities The Secrets of World War I,a film recounting the early part of WWI and the Yankee Division of New England. A brief question and answer session will be held after the film.
Media interested in attending the showings should contact Melissa Willette, Director of Communications, Maine Bureau of Veterans Services at Melissa.Willette@maine.gov or 207-430-6004 or Jonathan Barczyk, Acting Public Affairs Officer, VA Maine Healthcare System at Jonathan.Barczyk@va.gov or 207-623-8411 ext. 2969 for more information.
To learn more about available resources for Veterans and their families, please contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services at 207-430-6035 or visit their website www.maine.gov/Veterans.
November 26, 2019
Veterans Memorial Park bench honors Dolard 'Del' Gendron
November 27, 2019
National Resource Directory includes 14,000 resources for Veterans, families
November 27, 2019
MBVS November Newsletter
December 6, 2019
Training held on Wabanaki cultural awareness for Maine Native American military service
May 20, 2012
Veterans need VHIC for in-person Commissary, Military Exchange, MWR access
December 9, 2019
VA continues record setting claims processing pace for 2019
December 10, 2019
Dead River Company receives national award for hiring Veterans
December 11, 2019
Seven confidence boosters for Veterans transitioning to a civilian career
December 12, 2019
VA launches Solid Start to contact Veterans during first-year of transition
December 12, 2019
Westbrook's Veteran Services Office asks vets to register
December 16, 2019
Labor Dept. announces competition to better connect transitioning service members and employers
December 17, 2019
How to honor the memory of a homeless veteran
December 15, 2019
Combating Scams That Target Veterans
December 18, 2019
VA introduces new direct deposit options for Veterans, beneficiaries
December 19, 2019
Coins honoring Veterans' group available through Dec. 27
December 19, 2019
Tips for Managing Stress Around the Holidays
December 20, 2019
United Veterans of Maine preparing for 2020 fundraiser
December 23, 2019
Blue Water Navy Veterans' disability claims to be decided beginning Jan.1, 2020
December 24, 2019
Veterans can now access patient billing statements online
January 2, 2020
Boothbay veterans create mobile shelter for homeless vets.
January 1, 2020
DoD answers top 10 questions on expanded commissary, exchange, MWR access
January 3, 2020
Army Veteran to Become Wiscasset Veterinarian
January 3, 2020
2020 Military Retiree Pay Dates
January 5, 2020
Young artists learn patriotism in annual VFW Auxiliary contest
January 6, 2020
VA Offers Intimacy-Building Skills To Struggling Couples
January 7, 2020
Newly separated veterans will now get calls from VA to talk benefits and services
January 7, 2020
Your Next VA Home Loan
January 8, 2020
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Hires Director of Strategic Partnerships
AUGUSTA, Maine (January 8, 2020) - The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) is pleased to announce Sarah Sherman, a native of Mid-Coast Maine, has been named the Bureaus Director of Strategic Partnerships. Sherman has been serving in an interim capacity with the Bureau since August of 2018.
Throughout her tenure with MBVS, Sherman has worked extensively on issues surrounding homeless and incarcerated veterans; has created numerous memorandums of understanding with our community partners; and has established relationships with populations of Maine veterans that have been previously underserved, including the Wabanaki Tribes and LGBTQ veterans.
"I believe that the Bureaus mission means that we have a duty to serve all veterans and I have worked very hard to improve the feeling of inclusiveness that MBVS offers to veterans and their families," said Sherman. Having the opportunity to continue this important work in a permanent capacity is an honor, and Im looking forward to building off of the framework we have established.
Sherman earned a B.A. in English with a minor in Behavioral Science, with honors, from the University of Maine at Augusta, and a Masters Degree in Criminal Justice from Boston University. She serves as a Trustee for the Hendricks Hill Museum on Southport Island, is an Angel Volunteer for the Lincoln County Recovery Collaborative, and served as the Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 238 for ten years, where she mentored four Eagle Scouts.
Sarah has been a tremendous asset to our agency, said David Richmond, Director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. Over the past year and a half, shes shown a passion for serving Maine veterans and has developed many new partnerships in the community. We have highly skilled and dedicated people that work across the state, and she is certainly a valued member of the team.
Like many Mainers, Shermans family has a long history of military service dating back to the Revolutionary War. Her father, Maurice A. Sherman, served as a Forward Observer for the U.S. Army during the Second World War, was wounded in Italy, and awarded the Purple Heart. Most recently, her nephew, Jack Sherman, served with the United States Marine Corps overseas.
To find the Veterans Services Office nearest to you, please visit maine.gov/veterans/veterans-services-offices. You can also call the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services at 207-430-6035 or visit their website www.maine.gov/veterans to learn more about available resources.
About Maine Bureau of Veterans Services The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau does this by being a responsive, experienced, and dedicated advocate. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has seven field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
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January 9, 2020
7 stress resources Veterans can use right now
January 10, 2020
Boots2Roots tweaks leadership to 'move mission forward for Maine
January 13, 2020
Seeking help for homeless veterans is the first step to receiving it
January 14, 2020
Farmer and gardener training for veterans begins Jan. 13 at Togus
January 14, 2020
Recognizing the life and legacy of Galen Cole
January 15, 2019
Husband and wife spread the word about VA Connected Care tools
January 17, 2020
New office helps connect Maine veterans with services, benefits
January 21, 2020
VA makes progress on resolution of legacy appeals
January 23, 2020
Announcing the Veterans Benefits Banking Program
January 22, 2020
WWII graffiti referencing 'Livermore Falls Maine' uncovered in England
January 24, 2020
Introducing the All New PTSD Coach Mobile App
January 24, 2020
Commissioner Douglas Farnham: Priorities for Department of Defense, Veterans & Emergency Management
January 27, 2020
Committee updates selectmen on proposed regional veterans monument
January 27, 2020
VA releases updated DOD list identifying Agent Orange sites outside of Vietnam
January 27, 2020
Jay man reunites with Korean War buddy after 68 years
January 28, 2020
Oakland, Winslow aim to start banner programs to honor hometown soldiers
January 28, 2020
Local vets' mobile homeless shelter project gains momentum
February 2, 2020
VA offers Veterans new resources to safely store lethal means
January 31, 2020
DoD Expanded Access: we appreciate your patience
February 4, 2020
American Legion remembers four chaplains
February 5, 2020
Select locations to offer virtual exams for Veterans
February 6, 2020
Register for the 2020 Vietnam Veteran Recognition Ceremony
February 9, 2020
Veterans receive help through clergy training program
February 7, 2020
Area posts host supper for Veterans No Boundaries
February 11, 2020
New videos showcase choices, National Guard, Reserve
February 10, 2020
VA strengthens care and benefits for Veterans with $243 billion budget request for fiscal year 2021
February 12, 2020
Updates from American Legion Post 36
February 12, 2020
Maine veteran provides furniture, supplies to veterans transitioning out of homelessness
February 12, 2020
283 Veterans Hired During the 2019 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign
Media Contact: Jessica Picard, Maine Department of Labor, jessica.l.picard@maine.gov
AUGUSTA - Final results are in, and a total of 283 veterans were hired during the 2019 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign!
The Maine Hire-A-Vet campaign provides support for employers to expand the hiring of veterans through a network of state and federal agencies, resources and nonprofits, education on military language and culture, recruiting and hiring assistance, and recognition for the hiring and advancement of veterans and military family members.
The 2019 campaign kicked off on August 29 with a hiring fair at the Augusta Civic Center, officially started on Labor Day, and ended on December 9.
The average hourly wage of veterans hired was $22.78, and 254 employers signed on to the campaign. Every county in the state had veteran hires in them. Participating employers also sent 175 staff members to a "Veteran Hiring for Employers" training, which provides a Basic Training approach to aid businesses in recruiting, hiring and retaining veterans.
Veterans have received valuable training during their military service that can transfer to in-demand civilian skills, said Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman. The Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign helps connect veterans with employers, and employers with the skilled workforce they are looking for.
The 11 businesses that had the most hires during the 2019 campaign were Bath Iron Works/General Dynamics, Northern Light Health, VA Togus -Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), the State of Maine, Dead River Company, Tilson, City of Portland, Casella Waste Systems, Helical Solutions, Maine Veterans' Homes, and Estes Oil.
2019 campaign sponsors included: Destination Occupation, Mix Maine Media, Pleasant River Lumber Co., Maine Department of Corrections, Bath Iron Works, Fiber Materials Inc., Darling's, Adecco, and the city of Augusta. During the 2018 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign, 191 employers participated, and 286 veterans and military family members were hired.
The campaign has connected nearly 900 employers with over 1,300 veteran-hires since its inception in 2015 and has been recognized as a best practice by the United States Department of Labor (USDOL) and the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA). The Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign is a partnership between the Maine Department of Labor and its CareerCenters, Boots2Roots, Easter Seals and their Veterans Count program, the Maine National Guard Employment Support Program, Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, Transition Assistance Advisors, VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, and State Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment.
Learn more at www.mainecareercenter.gov/hireavet.shtml, and follow the campaign on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mainehireavet.
Veterans, military family members and civilians seeking assistance in job search and training are encouraged to contact their closest Maine CareerCenter, which can be found online at www.mainecareercenter.gov/locations. Veterans Representatives and Career Counselors are available at each location.
The Maine Department of Labor and Maine CareerCenters are equal opportunity providers. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.
February 13, 2020
Veterans can now update their contact information online
February 13, 2020
Heroes Honor Ball raises money for veterans services
February 14, 2020
New Gloucester - Veterans Recognition Monument
February 18, 2020
Gen. Farnham addresses military funding, veterans assistance in speech to Maine Legislature
February 19, 2020
Facetime: Jerry DeWitt - always advocating for veterans
February 19, 2020
American Legion Post 36
February 20, 2020
Inmates and veterans come together to refurbish Warren Community School
February 20, 2020
Maine Nordiques Host Veterans Appreciation Weekend
February 21, 2020
Maine veteran captures act of kindness on camera
February 24, 2020
Bill Nemitz: He picked up a WWII dog tag - and couldn't let go
February 23, 2020
Softball fundraiser to fight veteran homelessness
February 22, 2020
UMA Recognized for Outstanding Educational Support to Veterans
February 25, 2020
I-Team: Suicidal Texas veteran left waiting as crews are dispatched to a house in Maine
February 26, 2020
Maine men transform trailers into temporary homes for veterans
February 27, 2020
Applications for 2020 Disabled Veterans Moose Hunt being taken
February 27, 2020
Hire a Vet connects veterans with employers
February 27, 2020
Coronavirus: Be informed and call your provider if symptoms develop
February 28, 2020
'I am my brother's and my sisters keeper'
February 28, 2020
Do you know a veteran who should be recognized for their service?
March 1, 2020
Governor Mills Signs Bill to Provide Free Noncommercial Lobster, Crab Fishing and Scallop Licenses to Disabled Veterans
March 3, 2020
Safe Firearm Storage Saves Lives
March 5, 2020
Veterans assistance counseling in Milo
March 6, 2020
King, Golden Introducing Bipartisan Bill to Make National Parks Free for Gold Star Families
March 10, 2020
VA announces safeguards to protect nursing home and spinal cord injury patients
March 11, 2020
Togus and all Maine veteran outpatient clinics now screening everyone who enters for coronavirus
March 12, 2020
VA is ready for coronavirus - and working to protect you
March 13, 2020
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Receives Third National Award
On Monday, February 24th, the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) received the 2020 Abraham Lincoln Pillar of Excellence Award for Innovative State Programs from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Since 2011, the VA has recognized its state partners for programs and initiatives that support veterans in their respective states. The award was presented to MBVS Director, David A. Richmond by VA Secretary, Robert Wilkie at the 2020 National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA) Mid-Winter Conference held in Alexandria, VA.
MBVS Director Richmond shared the following regarding the significance of the recognition:
"The Bureau is truly honored to be recognized with this award, but its certainly a shared success story. This initiative was a collaborative effort with our partner agencies, all of whom share a goal of working together to find ways to improve advocacy to incarcerated veterans. This program turned into a statewide network that has not only benefited justice-effected veterans, but the veteran correction officers who oversee them."
MJAC has changed the way incarcerated veterans are viewed and their cases are handled. It has made great strides in improving access to veterans advocates, information, and services. It is MJACs stance that we have a duty to serve all veterans with the same level of respect and we do all that we can to prepare transitioning veterans to succeed after their incarceration.
This years award is in recognition of the Bureaus creation of the Maine Justice Action Committee (MJAC), which connects incarcerated veterans and veteran corrections staff to needed services. This is the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services third consecutive Pillar of Excellence Award, having been recognized previously for its veteran suicide prevention efforts in 2018, and work to end veteran homelessness in 2019.
In March of 2019, the Bureau co-founded MJAC with the Maine Department of Corrections (MDOC) Veterans Pod staff, VA Incarcerated Veterans Coordinator, VA Veteran Justice Outreach Specialist, Easterseals Maine, and Preble Street. The Committee had three goals:
- Improve communications between agencies;
- Standardize intake procedures for veterans who are justice involved; and
- Utilize Skype technology to improve incarcerated veterans access to MBVS Veterans Service Officers.
This is fantastic news, said Randall Liberty, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Corrections. Agencies across Maine continue to work together in order to connect veterans with valuable resources, and I couldnt be happier with the collaboration thats happening on behalf of Maine veterans.
MJAC quickly expanded to include new members and started to collaborate with the Maine Correctional Center, Southern Maine Womens Re-entry Center, Mountain View Correctional Facility, Bolduc Correctional Facility, Maine Coastal Regional Re-Entry Center, the Penobscot Nation Judicial Systems Healing to Wellness Court, Wabanaki Health and Wellness, the Maine Department of Labor and its Career Centers, Veterans Treatment Court, Veteran Mentors of Maine, Veterans Upward Bound, Maine State Approving Agency for Veterans Education Programs, the Small Business Association of Maine, the Maine Prisoner Re-Entry Network, Destination Occupation, K-9s on the Frontlines, the Kennebec County Sheriffs Department and its Veterans Pod, and the Maine Arts Commission.
Interactions with these additional agencies led to the creation of a welcome packet for new veteran hires at the Maine Department of Corrections, re-entry resource fairs for incarcerated veterans and corrections staff, the updating and sharing of a master list identifying businesses willing to hire ex-felons to help improve their transition back into the workforce; connection made between Veterans Treatment Court and the Penobscot Nation Judicial Systems Healing to Wellness Court for Native American Veteran referrals, introduction to VA Veteran Justice Outreach Specialists, and an invitation to participate in 2020 court trainings; the creation of a K-9 companion training program at the Southern Maine Womens Re-entry Center; discussions of ways to improve the re-entry process back into the community and the creation of apprenticeship programs for veteran inmates; the Veterans Writing Group at the Kennebec County Jail which led to submissions of poetry and short stories to the PEN 2019 Prison Writing Contest and one inmate/veterans artwork being chosen by the Maine Arts Commission to be hung in the 2019 Veterans Art Show, and ongoing discussions to create tiny houses for homeless veterans through the MDOCs building construction and furniture making programs.
With six field offices located across the state, and a claims office at the VA Maine Healthcare System at Togus, our Veteran Service Officers stand ready to connect with veterans from all branches and every period of service. MBVS is committed to serving our veteran population in the most efficient and respectful manner possible, and MJAC is another resource connecting Maine veterans to needed services.
For more information on the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, or to contact the Veteran Service Office nearest you, please visit: http://maine.gov/veterans/ or call 207-430-6035.
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March 16, 2020
VA postpones 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration events
March 17, 2020
New suicide prevention toolkit for Caregivers
March 18, 2020
Augusta DEERS Office Closed Until Further Notice
Effective immediately, the Augusta DEERS ID Card office located at Camp Keyes will be closed until further notice. Please call 207-430-5914 and LEAVE A VOICE MESSAGE if you need assistance or have questions.
Voice messages will be received and calls returned by DEERS Site Security Managers to establish priority and appointment necessity, especially if there is an impact to medical benefits.
March 19, 2020
How Maine Departments are operating during the pandemic
How Maine Departments are operating during the pandemic
March 22, 2020
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March 23, 2020
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March 24, 2020
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March 25, 2020
Veterans can attend virtual events for National Vietnam War Veterans Day
March 30, 2020
Togus VA adds external triage tent to handle coronavirus cases, testing
March 31, 2020
Maine Veterans' Cemeteries Update Interment Protocol For COVID-19
AUGUSTA, Maine (March 31, 2020) - In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, effective March 31, 2020, the Maine Veterans' Cemetery System (MVCS) will be completing direct interments only at all cemetery locations: Augusta (2), Caribou and Springvale.
All Maine Veterans Cemeteries are open and will continue to provide interments for veterans and eligible individuals. However, the MVCS is continuing to adjust its services in light of best practices urged by the CDC in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"The Maine Veterans Cemetery System will continue to honor the service of our veterans," stated David Richmond, Director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. We understand the importance and significance of a family member paying their respects during these difficult times; however, we must also take into consideration the health and well-being of our grounds crew and those families and friends in attendance.
Starting March 31, 2020, as a matter of public health and safety, committal services will be discontinued until further notice. Immediate family members (limited to 10 individuals) of the deceased may choose to witness the interment from the cemetery road or the sections edge. Cemeteries will work to schedule a committal or memorial services at a later date for those families that choose to continue with the direct interment.
Scott Brown, Superintendent of the Maine Veterans Cemetery System offered remarks of caution. We ask our visitors to be mindful of those who are more susceptible to this virus as well as our dedicated staff. This was a difficult decision to make, however for public safety, it is necessary at this time.
For more information on the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System, please visit the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services website at: http://maine.gov/veterans/memorial-cemetery-system.
About Maine Bureau of Veterans Services The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has six field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
April 1, 2020
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April 2, 2020
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April 6, 2020
VA extends financial, benefits and claims relief to Veterans
April 7, 2020
Our Virtual C&P Examination Alternatives During the Pandemic
April 8, 2020
VA appeals production at all time high
April 9, 2020
Heroes Linked provides professional growth for Veterans
April 12, 2020
VA releases safe firearm storage toolkit in suicide prevention effort
April 13, 2020
Information for Caregivers During COVID-19
April 14, 2020
Be sure to give thanks to a veteran
April 17, 2020
VA, Treasury will automatically send stimulus checks to veterans
April 19, 2020
Now more than ever, let's look out for one another
April 21, 2020
"FrontLine WarmLine" Launches to Help Maine's Health Care Workers and First Responders Manage Emotional Toll of COVID-19
April 22, 2020
VA and DoD Identification Card Renewal and Issuance Guidance During the Coronavirus Pandemic
April 23, 2020
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April 25, 2020
Rolling Thunder brightened the day of residents and staff at the Maine Veterans' home
April 26, 2020
Maine VA health care professionals deploy to New York City
April 27, 2020
VA Maine Health Care Coronavirus (COVID-19) Operation Update
April 28, 2020
Food 4 Vets
April 29, 2020
Red Cross - Stress Management Workshop
April 29, 2020
Veteran Homeless Assistance: Public Comment Period Now Open
May 4, 2020
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May 5, 2020
Get anytime access to mental health support with mobile apps
May 5, 2020
VA Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry reaches major milestone
May 6, 2020
VA gets boost from CARES Act to provide emergency assistance to Veterans who are homeless
May 6, 2020
Central Maine Memorial Day parades, Fourth of July events canceled due to coronavirus restrictions
May 7, 2020
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
May 7, 2020
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May 12, 2020
Maine National Guard Conducts Flyover To Honor Frontline Workers
May 13, 2020
VA national cemeteries to commemorate Memorial Day
May 15, 2020
VA, multiple agencies launch Joint Mortgage and Housing Assistance website for Americans impacted by COVID-19
May 20, 2020
Central Maine Memorial Day weekend festivities and cancelations
May 19, 2020
Create an online memorial for a loved one on the Veterans Legacy Memorial Website
May 18, 2020
PBS Memorial Day Concert to air May 24, 2020
May 20, 2020
Bates College to start building a Veterans Plaza on its campus
May 21, 2020
Memorial stone delivered to Veterans Memorial Park
May 21, 2020
Maine police officers do push-ups on top of cruisers (and other places) to raise awareness of veteran suicide
May 22, 2020
https://wgme.com/news/local/volunteers-place-flags-at-veterans-gravestones-in-lewiston
May 25, 2020
Mainers navigate changes to Memorial Day ceremonies, business amidst COVID-19
May 23, 2020
Bureau of Veterans' Services: How to remember our heroes this Memorial Day
May 26, 2020
Maine veterans to benefit from 12-hour radio thon
May 28, 2020
VA conducts deep-dive study into effects of COVID-19 on Veterans
May 29, 2020
MBVS Congratulates Winners of the 2020 Disabled Veterans Moose Hunt Lottery
May 30, 2020
VA highlights rural Veterans during Mental Health Month
June 3, 2020
Update from American Legion Post 23
June 2, 2020
Volunteers Clean Up WWII Memorial
June 4, 2020
Pride Month: Celebrating All Who Served
June 7, 2020
WWII, Korean War veteran survives Covid-19 and receives overdue medals at Maine Veterans Home
June 11, 2020
National nonprofit announces first Maine chair
June 11, 2020
Disaster relief webinars offer resources for Veteran-owned small businesses
June 12, 2020
VA's Million Veteran Program seeking female Veterans for genetic-based studies
June 16, 2020
Safe firearm storage saves lives
June 17, 2020
VA enhances mental health treatment with measurement based care
June 18, 2020
Johns Hopkins is Offering Free Online Course in Psychological First Aid
June 18, 2020
President Trump releases PREVENTS roadmap, a nationwide plan for ending suicide among Veterans and all Americans
June 19, 2020
Boothbay veterans build mobile shelters for homeless vets
June 19, 2020
Veterans' organizations eager to reopen halls July 1
June 22, 2020
LGBT veterans may apply for discharge upgrades
June 21, 2020
Positive steps for your mental health
June 23, 2020
How a program that teaches veterans to farm pivoted during the pandemic
June 24, 2020
Senate passes bill to give millions more veterans free lifetime entry to national parks
June 25, 2020
Military Child Education Coalition: free resources for Veteran families
June 25, 2020
VA holds first virtual Women Veterans Forum
June 26, 2020
VA supports 988 expansion for National Suicide Prevention Crisis Line and Veterans Crisis Line access
June 29, 2020
Food4Vets Schedules Five New Pickup Locations For Food Boxes
June 27, 2020
Veteran monuments in Fort Kent get some much needed care
June 29, 2020
After Action Network: One-stop shop for Veterans
June 30, 2020
Bust of Penobscot Nation elder who stormed the beach at D-Day will be installed in Normandy
June 29, 2020
'Welcome home' to Vietman vet at Wreaths Across America exhibit
July 1, 2020
Annie text message program guides Veterans during COVID-19 pandemic
July 6, 2020
VR&E gets a new name, focuses on readiness
July 7, 2020
Travis Mills Foundation launches clothing line with proceeds for veterans
July 8, 2020
SecVA: REACH campaign strives to reduce Veteran suicide
July 9, 2020
MBVS Updates Office Protocols for COVID-19
AUGUSTA, Maine (July 9, 2020) - In an effort to continue to slow the spread of COVID-19, the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) 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 to deliver documents in person.
MBVS has six field offices across the state located in Caribou, Machias, Bangor, Lewiston, Portland, Springvale, an office at the VA Maine Healthcare System at Togus, and a central office in Augusta located at Camp Keyes. All offices are currently staffed and open to assist veterans by phone appointment, or Skype appointment.
Any veteran wishing to speak with a Veteran Service Officer at this time should complete the following form and return it back to MBVS. Forms can be emailed to mainebvs@maine.gov or mailed to the office on the back of the form. Forms can be found on the homepage of our website, www.maine.gov/veterans.
"The Maine Bureau of Veterans Services has continued to provide needed services to Maine veterans over the past few months," stated David Richmond, Director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. We understand the importance and significance of veterans meeting with our Veteran Service Officers to discuss their individual circumstances; however, we must also take into consideration the health and well-being of those veterans we represent. Our Bureau offices are staffed during normal hours but we will continue to make every effort to meet the needs of our veterans through the use of remote communication options and secure drop boxes. At the same time, the urgent services that we provide such as helping homeless veterans and conducting burials at the veterans cemeteries will continue as they have, taking all possible and necessary precautions.
MBVS employees can provide immediate assistance with: homelessness, cemetery services and burials, financial hardship, and VA claim services. All routine/non-emergent requests can be made via email or regular mail. Routine requests include: Veteran Recognition requests, State Park and Museum Pass requests, Hunting/Fishing Licenses, and DD214 requests. The answers to frequently asked questions can be found on our website, www.maine.gov/veterans/, and all of the above requests may be processed by filling out a request form online (website homepage). All documents will then be mailed to you.
Steven Lanning, Veteran Service Officer Supervisor offered the following, We take the responsibility to serve our veteran population seriously, and while we look forward to opening our offices to walk-in traffic soon, we must also protect our employees and the public from exposure during office visits.
For more information on the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services or to make an appointment with a VSO, please visit the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services website at: http://maine.gov/veterans.
About Maine Bureau of Veterans Services The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has six field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
July 9, 2020
Togus - Coronavirus (COVID-19) Operational Update
July 10, 2020
Maine Hospice Council receives a national grant for Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) for veterans on hospice
July 10, 2020
Veterans Table - Honor Flight Maine
July 12, 2020
U.S. Senators Want To Make Adaptive Vehicles Affordable For Veterans
July 13, 2020
VA offers debt relief to Veterans through year's end
July 14, 2020
Mental health and suicide prevention during COVID-19
July 14, 2020
Quick Start Guide for Modernized Veteran Appeals Decision Review now available
July 15, 2020
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services updates office protocols for COVID-19
July 16, 2020
FCC approves 988 to be 3-digit number for national suicide hotline starting in 2022
July 15, 2020
Brunswick U.S. Army veteran doesn't let deafness deter her from competing in 'Worlds Toughest Race
July 17, 2020
United Veterans of Maine receive $100,000 grant
July 20, 2020
VA expands funding for emergency response for Veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness during COVID-19 pandemic
July 19, 2020
VA offers debt relief to Veterans through year's end
July 21, 2020
Telehealth video visits by Veterans have increased by 1,132 percent
July 22, 2020
Legislative committee recommends creating office to help Maine LGBTQ veterans
July 23, 2020
Veterans benefits 2020: Most popular state benefit
July 24, 2020
Golden seeks better mental health care for Maine veterans
July 27, 2020
Veterans continue to serve their country by leading on masking during COVID-19
July 29, 2020
Maine Veterans Home in Scarborough finds a safe way for loved ones to reunite
July 28, 2020
Veteran-serving professionals invited to free America's Warrior Partnership Symposium
July 30, 2020
Veterans benefits 2020: Most underused state benefit
July 31, 2020
6 things Veterans can do to successfully transition from a military career
August 3, 2020
VA Maine Healthcare System - COVID 19 Update
August 4, 2020
VA, America's Adopt A Soldier partner to help Veterans at risk of or experiencing homelessness stay connected
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August 5, 2020
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August 5, 2020
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August 6, 2020
Veterans benefits 2020: Most unique or newest state benefit
August 6, 2020
Collections relief extended for VA medical care debts during COVID-19
August 7, 2020
Stress Management Response Team (SMaRT):
August 8, 2020
REACH to Prevent Veteran Suicide
August 10, 2020
Navy Week 2020
August 11, 2020
American Legion Post 36: Fundraiser Aug. 30 for local family
August 12, 2020
VA to award more than $400 million in grants to end Veteran homelessness
August 13, 2020
Veterans benefits 2020: Largest or most successful state employer of Veterans
August 14, 2020
Veterans Table - Aroostook Veterans Alliance
August 14, 2020
Major Veterans Plaza groundbreaking set for downtown Brunswick
August 17, 2020
No-Cost Small Business Training for Veterans and Veterans' Family Members
August 18, 2020
New guide series provides GI Bill benefits information
August 18, 2020
Ground broken on Monday for new Veterans Plaza in Brunswick
August 19, 2020
Postvention - VA offers support after suicide loss
August 19, 2020
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August 19, 2020
VA Maine's Caregiver Support Program Resource Fairs set for Aug. 26
August 21, 2020
New Director at United Veterans of Maine
August 20, 2020
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August 21, 2020
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August 25, 2020
Women's Health Transition Training - Via virtual classroom through mid-December
August 24, 2020
VA rolls out new patient-appointment tool, as part of electronic health record modernization transformation
August 25, 2020
Local Legion benefiting from homemade face mask sales
August 26, 2020
Veterans and locals participate in #22PushupChallenge
August 27, 2020
Maine Hire-A-Vet Schedule of Events
August 27, 2020
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August 28, 2020
VA's Board of Veterans Appeals reaches appeal decisions goal early
August 30, 2020
Suicide prevention: How can you get involved?
August 31, 2020
VR&E announces national deployment of electronic Virtual Assistant (e-VA)
August 29, 2020
VA dedicates new national cemetery in rural Maine
September 1, 2020
Suicide Prevention Month: Start the conversation with a fellow Veteran
September 2, 2020
During Suicide Prevention Month VA encourages supporters to "Be There" for Veterans and help connect them with resources
September 2, 2020
September 2 is the 75th anniversary of end of World War II
September 3, 2020
Maine is getting new resources to help veterans battling substance use disorder
September 4, 2020
Veterans call VA Video Connect a "lifesaver"
September 15, 2020
Veteran finishes a virtual Boston Marathon to honor bombing survivor
September 16, 2020
New Services Make Great Care at Togus Even Better
September 22, 2020
Maine Safer Homes Taskforce Unveils Firearm Safety Guidance
Maine Safer Homes Taskforce Unveils Firearm Safety Guidance
AUGUSTA, Maine (September 2, 2020) - The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) is pleased to announce the creation of the Maine Safer Homes Taskforce (MSHT). The taskforces main mission will be to promote firearm and medication safety in our homes in an effort to prevent suicide in Maine. Nationally recognized as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, the taskforce will use the month of September to begin the distribution of its educational materials.
The MSHT endorses a public health approach to combat Maines suicide rate the highest rate in the northeast. Members of the taskforce include: the Sportsmans Alliance of Maine, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Maine, the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, the VA Maine Healthcare System, and Maine Vet Centers. By utilizing the strong safety culture that already exists within the firearms community in Maine, the taskforce seeks to promote gun safety education, mental health resources, and practical off-site storage of both firearms and medication for those working through mental health issues.
"Reducing the veteran suicide rate in Maine has been a goal of the veteran advocacy community for many years," said David Richmond, Director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. While it is evident that awareness to the topic of suicide has increased, we also know that public education surrounding preventative safety measures need to be improved. We believe that by working with Maine Sportsmen and our fellow veterans advocates, we can reduce our rate here in Maine.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, roughly 75% of veteran suicides in Maine are completed with a firearm. It has been proven that putting both time and space between someone in crisis and their firearm can save a life. Simple storage practices such as keeping a firearm unloaded and securing it with a gun lock when not in use can protect the owner, their family members and the public from misuse.
Means reduction is a method we can all understand and apply to a situation to help keep Maines veterans safe. Families, friends, veterans, and the community can work together to help reduce suicide risk by taking the time to learn the warning signs, work with veterans to create a safety plan that documents preferred steps to be taken if he or she is feeling unsafe, and utilize out-of-home or increased firearms and medication storage, said Sarah Sherman, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Maine Bureau of Veterans Services.
A few of the most important objectives the taskforce has taken on include:
Promoting temporary off-site firearm and medication storage options with family members or friends. Developing veteran family and community safety plans. Work with firearms retailers, firing ranges, firearms and hunter safety instructors to create suicide awareness programs.
As part of their Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month outreach efforts, the TaskForce in coordination with the VA Maine Healthcare System will be sending thousands of gun locks to their community partners for distribution. Gun locks are an extremely inexpensive way to put time and space between a person in crisis and their firearm.
For more information, and a copy of an MSHT brochure, please visit: https://www.maine.gov/veterans/highlights/suicide-prevention-and-awareness.html You can also call the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services at 207-430-6035 or visit their website at www.maine.gov/veterans to learn more about available resources across Maine.
September 23, 2020
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September 2, 2020
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October 1, 2020
New Maine veterans task force works to reduce suicide by firearms, medication
October 7, 2020
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November 9, 2020
Organization seeking nominations for Purple Heart Patriot Project trip
November 10, 2020
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November 10, 2020
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November 11, 2020
Sherman's last World War II vet recalls his experience in the worlds greatest conflict
November 11, 2020
Micmac veterans reflect on 'sense of duty' that drives traditions of honor
November 11, 2020
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November 11, 2020
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November 11, 2020
Veterans visit the Village
November 11, 2020
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November 12, 2020
Waterville celebrates Veterans Day with parade, speakers
November 12, 2020
Thorndike honors veterans with POW/MIA Chair of Honor
November 12, 2020
American Legion Post 36 holds flag disposal ceremony
November 13, 2020
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November 18, 2020
Army chief says Wreaths Across America will not be canceled despite COVID concerns
November 18, 2020
Dresden Dedicates Veterans Memorial Bridge for Second Time in 65 Years
November 23, 2020
University of Maine to train military veterans in farming
November 30, 2020
Partnerships to help prevent Veteran suicides
December 2, 2020
A Maine Veteran Gives Back As A Handyman
December 2, 2020
Lewiston Vet Center offers help to homeless veterans
December 3, 2020
Landlords are key to ending veteran homelessness in Maine
December 3, 2020
Virtual Veteran Town Hall
December 4, 2020
Senate unanimously passes Collins, King resolution marking this Dec. 19 as 'Wreaths Across America Day'
December 7, 2020
Partnership with Postal Inspection Service helps Veterans avoid scams
December 8, 2020
American Legion Post 36
December 8, 2020
2021 Veterans disability compensation rates
December 10, 2020
Wreaths Across America to go on in national cemeteries with COVID restrictions
December 10, 2020
Wreaths Across America convoy ready for annual mission, undeterred by pandemic
December 14, 2020
Maine Veterans' Cemetery System Announces National Wreaths Across America Events
AUGUSTA, Maine (December 14, 2020) - On Saturday, December 19th, the Maine Veterans Cemetery System (MVCS) will be joining Wreaths Across America (WAA) for National Wreaths Across America Day; albeit events will look a bit different this year.
Wreaths Across America will be delivering wreaths to Maines four veterans cemeteries, and those wreaths will be laid on gravesites of our veterans by WAA volunteers. In years past, the Maine Veterans Cemetery System received very generous donations of additional wreaths that would arrive either the day of, or a few days after, formal events. Due to COVID-19 and social distancing guidelines, the MVCS will not be asking members of the public to assist in the laying of wreaths.
Maines Veterans Cemeteries will be open normal hours for visitors to place wreaths at the site of their loved ones grave.
"The Maine Veterans Cemetery System will continue to honor the service of our veterans," stated David Richmond, Director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. We understand the importance and significance of a family member paying their respects during these difficult times; however, we must also take into consideration the health and well-being of our grounds crew and the public.
Scott Brown, Superintendent of the Maine Veterans Cemetery System offered remarks of caution. We ask our visitors to be mindful of those who are more susceptible to this virus as well as our dedicated staff. While we encourage families and friends to pay their respects to their loved ones, we also ask that for public safety purposes, our visitors adhere to social distancing guidance in our cemeteries.
In observance of the Christmas holiday, the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services will be closed on Friday, December 25th. Normal office hours will resume on Monday, December 28th at 7:30AM.
For more information on the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System, please visit the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services website at: http://maine.gov/veterans/memorial-cemetery-system.
About Maine Bureau of Veterans Services The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has six field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
December 14, 2020
VA Profile allows Veterans to update contact information on all VA systems
December 15, 2020
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December 15, 2020
1-800-MyVA411 (800-698-2411) is one number to reach VA
December 16, 2020
American Legion Post 36 Updates
December 16, 2020
VA Welcome Kit adds 11 new guides for Veterans and their families
December 17, 2020
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Begins Implementation of Veterans Homelessness Prevention Coordination Program
AUGUSTA, Maine (December 17, 2020) - The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) is pleased to announce that funding is now available to temporarily house homeless veterans in need of assistance. The newly available funds will be granted based on an application process. and will be in accordance with rules established pursuant to 37-B M.R.S. 513-A, enacted by P.L. 2019, chapter 504.
The program was created to provide assistance for Maine veterans experiencing homelessness or who are on the brink of homelessness, and will provide payment to human services-based volunteer organizations that provide transitional housing to homeless veterans. MBVS will not reimburse expenses accrued prior to approval of an organizations application and will notify all approved applicants of the status of available funds regularly and upon request.
To qualify for funding, a provider must comply with the following:
Be a non-profit corporation in good standing in the State of Maine and qualified for tax exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or be a municipal corporation;
Be a provider of homeless services who has been active in the State for at least (2) years providing emergency housing, street outreach, homeless prevention, or rapid re housing services;
Be a human service-based Volunteer Organization that has as one of their core programs addressing homelessness and veterans' services. In compliance with 37-B M.R.S 513-A, the Bureau must give priority to an organization founded, chartered or organized in the state; and
Have the administrative and financial management capacity necessary to administer and to account for the use of the applicable funds in accordance with the Bureau's invoicing requirements.
Applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria outlined in the established rules to determine if their organization qualifies to apply for the program.
Applications can be obtained by contacting the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services at 207-430-6035 or visiting their website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
In addition to those established rules above, if a Maine veteran is in need of shelter in a region of the state that has no qualifying provider, the MBVS Homeless Veterans Coordination Team can work to connect the veteran with shelter and other resources.
For this assistance, please call 207-430-6035 or email mainebvs@maine.gov.
About Maine Bureau of Veterans Services
The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau does this by being a responsive, experienced, and dedicated advocate. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has seven field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans
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December 16, 2020
MyVA411
December 18, 2020
Maine delegation united on bill to help veterans with early-stage dementia
December 21, 2020
Fix promising better dementia care for veterans approved
December 22, 2020
Federal tools to help maximize GI Bill education benefits
December 23, 2020
Veterans, take lead on Covid prevention
December 23, 2020
Caribou veterans honored in Wreaths Across America ceremony
December 23, 2020
American Legion Post 36
December 24, 2020
Respite relief for Military and Veteran's Caregivers program now available nationwide
December 25, 2020
Veterans' Homelessness Prevention Coordination Program funding available
December 28, 2020
Ask the I-Team: What's the plan for vaccinating veterans in Maine?
December 29, 2020
Vietnam War memorial proposed for Lewiston's Veterans Park
December 30, 2020
Collins' bill expanding dementia care for veterans slated to become law
December 31, 2020
Congress directs Veterans Affairs to deploy crisis line fix after I-Team investigation
December 31, 2020
VA resumes overpayment notifications while continuing relief options for Veterans
January 4, 2021
Kudos: Jerry Dewitt and the L&A Veterans Council have been active during a tough year
January 6, 2021
Blood donation could earn Super Bowl tickets
January 7, 2021
VA expands access to telehealth services during COVID-19 pandemic for older, rural and homeless Veterans
January 8, 2020
One year later, VA has processed more than half of Blue Water Navy claims
January 9, 2021
In tough times, call on VA for mental health support
January 11, 2021
Desert Storm: Veterans and VA
January 10, 2021
Deer hunters give of their bounties to help veterans
January 11, 2021
VA, Fitbit help support Veteran health and wellness during COVID-19 pandemic
January 12, 2021
Jay VFW announces annual essay contest winners
January 13, 2021
Customer Experience: Bringing same day onboarding for care, benefits and community resources
January 14, 2021
Group of Maine veterans works to to provide housing for homeless vets
January 14, 2021
Maine National Guard sending troops to Washington
January 15, 2021
Madison Legion gives winter clothing to area school districts
January 19, 2021
How VA listens and responds to Veteran feedback
January 20, 2021
One question could save a life. Would you ask it?
January 21, 2021
What we learned from analyzing GIBill's social media data
January 22, 2021
VA to provide COVID-19 testing and vaccinations to caregivers of Veterans in the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers
January 28, 2021
UMA ranks in top 100 Best Online Bachelor's Degree for Veterans
January 27, 2021
New VA Program Investigates Outdoor Therapy For Veterans
January 28, 2021
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services and Northeast Delta Dental Partner to Create Maine Veterans Dental Network in 2021
Augusta, Maine (January 28, 2021) - In September of 2020, the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) released a 105-page, needs assessment, Oral Health Access for Maines Veterans. Since then the Bureau has been working on several action steps to help address the reports numerous recommendations. The first was to create an online dental care resource on the Bureaus website as a clearing house of information for veterans. The second was to partner with Northeast Delta Dental to form a Maine Veterans Dental Network in 2021 to assist veterans who may not be able to afford necessary dental services. Join the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services and Northeast Delta Dental as they work together to provide veterans with much needed access to oral health care.
Veterans Dental Network Recruiter and U.S. Air Force Veteran, Dr. Mitch Couret, founded the New Hampshire Veterans Dental Network in 2018, which currently consists of a cadre of 12 dentists and oral surgeons (ten are veterans themselves and two wanted to give back to the veterans community). Each has committed to provide a discounted fee by (20%) and to date, over $300,000 in dental services have been donated (50% from the dentists and 50% from Northeast Delta Dental). Dr. Couret noted, "The level of donations understates the need and compassion the program provides for New Hampshires veterans. This program truly has the ability to change a veterans quality of life and embodies the spirit of giving back to the community." In December of 2020, Northeast Delta Dental pledged $35,000 to assist the Bureau with the formation of a Maine Veterans Dental Network in the new year. MBVS Director of Strategic Partnerships, Sarah Sherman, will serve as the programs point of contact and to help coordinate veterans transportation when needed. Contact information: Telephone 207-430-5816 or email sarah.sherman@maine.gov If you are an oral health professional interested in joining the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services and Northeast Delta Dental to create the Maine Veterans Dental Network, or if youd like to learn more about the project, please contact Dr. Mitch Couret and leave a message with your name and phone number so he can return your call. Contact information: 603-496-1015 or email mcouret@nedelta.com. To review the Bureaus online dental care information or needs assessment report go to - https://www.maine.gov/veterans/benefits/healthcare/dentalaccessand_information.html
About Maine Bureau of Veterans Services The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau does this by being a responsive, experienced, and dedicated advocate. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has seven field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
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January 29, 2021
VA easing economic hardships for Veterans, their families, survivors and caregivers
February 1, 2021
Dwindling membership plus COVID straining veterans organizations
February 3, 2021
American Legion Post 36 Updates
February 4, 2021
Red Cross Services Available For Active Military, Veterans, and Families
February 5, 2021
Free tax return preparation for Veterans, military members and their families
February 8, 2021
Resources to support you throughout your GI Bill journey
February 9, 2021
Veterans to benefit from personalized career planning and guidance
February 10, 2021
Wreaths Across America launches Mobile Education Exhibit's 2021 National Tour
February 10, 2021
How Veterans, designated caregivers can get COVID-19 vaccine from VA
February 11, 2021
VA offers millions in grant funding for adaptive sports to support disabled Veterans
February 12, 2021
VA receives additional 200,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses to administer to Veterans, employees
February 16, 2021
Maine Veterans Project to hold ice fishing event
February 18, 2021
Veterans' Initiative Food Drive
February 18, 2021
VA offers continued debt relief options to Veterans
February 22, 2021
2021 National Veterans Day Poster Contest open for submissions
February 23, 2021
University of Maine at Augusta designated as 'Military Friendly School'
February 25, 2021
Veterans! Don't post your vaccination card photo on social media
February 26, 2021
Golden co-chairs caucus of veterans in Congress
February 26, 2021
Programs teach military competency, PTSD, suicide best practices
February 26, 2021
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Announces 2021 Disabled Veterans Controlled Moose Hunt
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Announces 2021 Disabled Veterans Controlled Moose Hunt
On March 1st, the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services (MBVS) will begin accepting applications for the 2021 Disabled Veterans Controlled Moose Hunt held in Aroostook County.
Since the programs inception in 2010, MBVS has partnered with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (IF&W) and Smoldering Lake Outfitters to issue hunting permits and essential equipment to participating veterans. The hunt, which is entirely free for selected veterans, costs roughly $50,000 to administer. Costs associated with the hunt include guiding services, essential adaptive equipment, meat processing and travel and lodging.
For those who served in the military, no matter the branch, you understand the importance of community. That need for communal support doesnt go away when you leave service - and we take pride in knowing that Mainers have stepped up to provide collaborative advocacy for our service members. The Disabled Veterans Controlled Moose Hunt offers our veterans an opportunity to gain comradery, confidence, and support from fellow veterans who have gone through similar struggles. In fact, veterans who have participated repeatedly share with us the value of the program as well as the significant impact it has had on their lives.
Unlike the regular IF&W moose lottery, the Disabled Veterans Controlled Moose Lottery is limited to only those veterans with a disability rating of at least 50%. Each hunter is required to team up with a registered Maine Guide who has specific training for the hunt, and if a veteran has ever tagged a moose through the program, that veteran is ineligible to hunt again.
Applications will be accepted starting March 1st and must be submitted to the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services by 4:00PM on Friday, April 30th. Applications can be downloaded from the Bureaus website: http://maine.gov/veterans/benefits/recreational-licenses/veterans-moose-lottery.html . Results of the lottery will be posted no earlier than Friday, May 28th.
Completed applications can then be uploaded directly to the Bureau's "Document Upload" page.
For more information about the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services and the Disabled Veterans Controlled Moose Hunt, please visit: http://maine.gov/veterans/ or call 207-430-6035.
March 1, 2021
Premium reductions coming to enrollees of Veterans' Group Life Insurance
March 2, 2021
How to plan your legacy with the VA Survivors and Burial Benefits kit
March 3, 2021
AARP, others offer free tax prep help to Veterans, military and families
March 4, 2021
Five Maine schools designated as military friendly
March 5, 2021
VA fights back against predatory claims-assistance practices
March 8, 2021
VA kicks off on-demand Women's Health Transition Training
March 10, 2021
Veterans get updates through new digital notification feature
March 11, 2021
Auburn creates development incentive program that would cut construction fees for U.S. military veterans
March 12, 2021
American Rescue Plan provides Veterans seamless COVID-19 protections and monetary aid
March 16, 2021
Women Veterans can get help addressing their needs through VA programs
March 17, 2021
Honoring Maine's Military Women
March 17, 2021
UMaine students support Maine Veterans Project with virtual fundraiser, raffle
March 18, 2021
Ice fishing derby to support veterans and first responders
March 25, 2021
Vietnam War veteran takes his art on the road with his Celebration of Life Truck
March 30, 2021
Maine Navy sailor and craftsman helped build vice president's desk
April 6, 2021
Local business creating Old Glory American flag out of bricks for town of Mexico
April 22, 2021
Mills Administration launches Maine Veterans' Dental Network in partnership with Northeast Delta Dental
April 23, 2021
Monument honoring US soldiers lost in 1962 plane crash to be unveiled in Columbia Falls
May 7, 2021
Bowdoin resident appointed first female commander of Maine National Guard combat engineer company
May 16, 2021
Soldiers who died on secret mission are memorialized in Maine
May 21, 2021
Biden awards Korean War vet Medal of Honor as South Korea's president takes part
May 26, 2021
Inspired by his father's experience in WWII, Belfast stonemason repairs local memorial for imprisoned and missing soldiers
June 1, 2021
George W. Bush honors veterans at Kennebunkport Memorial Day service
June 1, 2021
Ellsworth Memorial Day parade marks a return to normal, despite the rain
June 1, 2021
Memorial Day 2021
June 1, 2021
Soldiers buried at Pownalborough Courthouse honored on Memorial Day
June 4, 2021
Lake View resident a winner in 2021 Disabled Veterans' Moose Hunt Lottery
June 9, 2021
US Navy Blue Angels to headline 2021 Great State of Maine Air Show
June 16, 2021
Ed Harmon of AL Post 36 receives top service award
June 21, 2021
Wounded Maine veteran gets keys to new and accessible home
June 21, 2021
VA plans to offer gender-confirmation surgery to transgender veterans, reversing ban
June 30, 2021
Boothbay Harbor, Wiscasset hosting 50th anniversay of American involvement in end of Vietnam War
July 5, 2021
Boots 2 Bushels: Veterans cultivate their farming skills
July 6, 2021
3 of Maine's World War II veterans, from a shrinking generation, reflect on their service
July 6, 2021
Photos: Wreaths Across America mobile exhibit makes Brunswick stop
July 8, 2021
Coast Guard's iconic tall ship, Eagle, will visit Maine for belated bicentennial celebration
July 7, 2021
11-year-old boy donates over $31k to Travis Mills Foundation
July 7, 2021
Maine fly-fishing companies to host Brunswick event to support wounded veterans
July 18, 2021
US Navy: First woman passes elite training scheme
July 19, 2021
Free seminar zeroes in on financial future of Veterans, service members
July 20, 2021
Veazie Army hero honored with bridge dedication 50 years after his death
July 22, 2021
Friends, family help WWII vet buy back home
July 23, 2021
Consumer Fraud Alert: Tips for avoiding VA home loan scams
July 26, 2021
Governor Mills Announces 2021 Aides-de-Camp Nominees
Augusta, Maine (July 26, 2021) - Governor Janet Mills announced today her 2021 selections for the Aides-de-Camp program, an advisory council of military veterans who advise the Governor on policies impacting Maine veterans. The eleven veterans selected to serve are:
MAJ David Hassen, Augusta
SGT Jessica Brennan, Farmington
CSM Gretchen Evans, Brunswick
COL Lori Sussman, Windham
MAJ Brenda Pennels, Scarborough
SFC Jerry DeWitt, New Gloucester
LT Scott Hansen, Yarmouth
PO3 James Bachelder, Acton
SGT Craig Florey, Kenduskeag
CPL Gary Bies, Lincoln
LT Whitney McKay, Eliot
"I am honored to welcome these veterans to our Aides-de-Camp program. Their history of service to their communities, our state, and our country are to be commended and their vast and diverse experiences will help us address those issues that most affect our veterans," said Governor Janet Mills. Maine has a long-standing tradition of military service, and this program is an extension of that service. I thank these veterans for bringing their experiences and talents to the table for discussion, problem solving and strategic planning to strengthen Maine's unwavering commitment to its veterans and their families.
The Bureau of Veterans Services reviewed more than 50 applications and the nominees were selected based on criteria focused on diversity of experience to ensure that the eleven Aides are representative of the veterans population in Maine.
The Governor has identified the following issues for the Aides to focus attention on: Quality health, dental, and mental health care (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Sexual Trauma, and Substance Abuse Disorder); homelessness and food insecurity; connection to State and Federal benefits; ensuring access to services for Maines tribal veterans and veterans living in rural areas; LGBTQ veterans; access to alternative therapies and adaptive sports; and support for veterans court participants, suicide prevention, and aging in place.
Honorably discharged officers or enlisted personnel who served in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard or Marine Corps and who are not members of the state military forces may be appointed as Aides-de-Camp. These individuals will be expected to meet with the Governor and/or her staff periodically to discuss issues pertaining to Maine veterans and to serve as a liaison between the Governor and the veteran service organization they represent. The Governor and Maj. Gen. Douglas Farnham, Commissioner of the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management have also invited other members of the Governors Cabinet who are veterans to join the program, including Commissioner of Corrections, Randy Liberty, and Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety, Mike Sauschuck.
July 28, 2021
VA announces new options to help Veterans avoid foreclosure
July 28, 2021
New Medical Conditions Linked To Agent Orange
July 29, 2021
Calling all Veteran job seekers!
July 30, 2021
Cadets Organize Fundraiser To Honor Veterans
July 30, 2021
Wreaths Across America: Remembering, Honoring And Teaching About Our Nation's Military Heroes
August 1, 2021
VA Online Scheduling (VAOS) lets eligible Veterans request community provider appointments
August 3, 2021
VA to start processing disability claims for certain conditions related to particulate matter
August 4, 2021
Afghanistan: How Veterans can reconcile service
August 5, 2021
Maine VA dedicates Fisher House, a home to lodge veterans' families in Augusta
August 6, 2021
Initiative to house 100 Maine Veterans in 100 days
August 6, 2021
Veterans Crisis Line reaches out with caring letters
August 10, 2021
Pentagon will require vaccine for all troops by Sept. 15
August 11, 2021
Veterans and service members can learn about paying for college in a free seminar
August 12, 2021
VA Secretary appoints new Veterans Law Judges to adjudicate more appeals for Veterans
August 13, 2021
UMA-Bangor Dental Hygiene Clinic to partner with Main Bureau of Veterans' Services to provide eligible veterans free dental hygiene services
The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) and eight participating clinics, including the UMA Dental Hygiene Clinic in Bangor, will provide dental hygiene services to veterans unable to afford preventive dental care. The Maine Veterans Dental Network, which is overseen by MBVS, received a $35,000 grant from Northeast Delta Dental to serve veterans who do not otherwise have dental coverage or cannot afford dental care.
The UMA Dental Hygiene Clinic received $4,000 of this grant funding to provide preventive dental hygiene services (e.g. cleanings) for qualifying veterans. This program will also provide UMAs dental hygiene program students with valuable clinical experiences under the supervision of UMAs Dental Hygiene faculty.
To receive dental hygiene services, veterans must provide a copy of their DD-214 (discharge papers) to the clinic and grant permission to forward the document to MBVS for inclusion in its database. If the veteran does not have a copy of their DD-214, MBVS can assist them in acquiring one by submitting the State of Maine Request Form - https://www.maine.gov/veterans/forms/index.html located on the MBVS website.
To make an appointment, eligible veterans may contact the UMA Dental Hygiene Clinic at 207-262-7872 or visit https://www.uma.edu/academics/programs/dental-programs/patient-services/ to schedule a free dental cleaning, including X-rays and fluoride treatment. The UMA Dental Hygiene Clinic is located at 201 Texas Ave, Bangor.
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Image provided: Interior of the UMA Bangor Dental Hygiene Clinic - File photo pre-COVID-19, courtesy of UMA.
August 17, 2021
VA Secretary Denis McDonough's statement on Afghanistan to Veterans, their families, survivors, and caregivers
August 18, 2021
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services partnering with 8 clinics to provide free dental hygiene services
August 18, 2021
Fundraiser looks for more help for homeless Maine veterans
August 19, 2021
'A special occasion:' 112 Veterans visit DC during 1st Honor Flight since pandemic began
August 20, 2012
WWII vets honored with tribute flights in 1942 plane over Caribou
August 23, 2021
VA spotlights special benefits for elderly wartime Veteran population
August 28, 2021
Amid chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal, Travis Mills is on a mission to support service members who 'did good'
August 29, 2021
Sunday marked the 5th annual Pain to Power Suicide Awareness Ride in Lewiston
August 30, 2021
Maine Delta Force sniper memorialized for heroism in Somalia
August 31, 2021
Veterans turn to farming jobs, receive assistance through Farmer Veteran Coalition
August 31, 2021
As eviction moratorium ends, VA offers vital resources for Veterans
September 1, 2021
U.S. pullout from Afghanistan: VA psychologist, post-9/11 combat Veteran on impact to Vets, service members
September 2, 2021
'Reach Out' campaign highlights programs and assistance for Veterans during Suicide Prevention Month
September 3, 2021
New bill to provide service dogs to veterans with PTSD
September 7, 2021
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is here for families of the fallen
September 8, 2021
VA works to complete compensation & pension exams postponed due to the pandemic
September 8, 2021
VA enhances geriatric emergency care for older Veterans
September 9, 2021
VA annual report shows decrease in Veteran suicides
September 15, 2021
Veterans Film Festival helps to build dialogue
September 17, 2021
Homeless Veterans to Receive Assistance at Local Stand Downs
On Tuesday, October 5th, Department of Veterans Affairs, Maine Vet Centers, Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) and their community partners will join forces to hold a Stand Down for homeless Veterans in need of assistance. The Stand Down will be the first of three planned mobile events in Caribou, Bangor, and Lewiston.
The locations, dates, and times of the three planned events are as follows:
Caribou Stand Down - Tuesday, October 5th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Caribou Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), 163 Van Buren Rd, Caribou
Bangor Stand Down Tuesday, October 12th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bangor Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), 35 State Hospital St, Bangor
Lewiston Stand Down Tuesday, October 19th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Lewiston Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), 15 Challenger Drive, Lewiston
Veteran advocacy groups supporting the Stand Downs will include Maine Veterans in Need, the Elks Lodge, Operation Brotherhood, Preble Street, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Volunteers of America, Easterseals Maine, Veterans Inc., and the Maine Career Centers.
"We are excited to bring the Stand Down closer to the Veterans," said Tracye B. Davis, Medical Center Director of VA Maine Healthcare System. VA Maine has done a great job connecting homeless Veterans to VA resources at past Stand Downs. We now need to go beyond our Togus campus to reach homeless Veterans and at-risk Veterans who have not yet been connected with the VA.
There are currently 198 homeless Veterans in the State of Maine, said David Richmond, Director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. Were hoping to reach this vulnerable population and get them the help and resources they need in this critical hour. Just as importantly, we are also encouraging Veterans to attend who are at risk of becoming homeless. Our goal is to connect you with resources that will keep you in your home.
Veterans in need of assistance are encouraged to attend and will receive cold weather supplies, non-perishable food items, connection to resources, and care packages.
COVID-19 testing will be available, and COVID related safety measures will be taken throughout the three events to mitigate the potential spread of the virus. VA Maine will have a team of clinical personnel conducting VA healthcare eligibility/enrollment and health screening with many of the needed health resources onsite at the CBOC location. They will also make available Narcan first aid kits and give training on how to administer the life-saving product. Vet Center staff will also be on site with the Mobile Vet Center. The Vet Center will be available for any Veterans in attendance that may be in need of their services. Many other services will be available from our community partners, as well as a large array of cold weather gear, clothing, supplies, and a hot meal.
For more information please call the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services at 207-430-6035 or visit their website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
September 20, 2021
Navy aircrews reunite at former Brunswick Naval Air Station
October 5, 2021
Maine National Guard members deploy to southern border
October 7, 2021
Hermon father delays retirement so he can deploy with his son overseas
October 13, 2021
World War II solider laid to rest in Millinocket after 77 years
October 16, 2021
Coast Guard: Shipwreck found in Atlantic off Boston is storied cutter Bear
October 19, 2021
Free dental hygiene services for veterans at Bangor dental program
October 19, 2021
Wreaths Across America to Add Ceremonial Wreath Representing the United States Space Force
October 21, 2021
Governor inducts veterans into Aides-de-Camp program
October 25, 2021
The support we owe them: Senators join push to prevent military suicide
October 27, 2021
UMA-Bangor Dental Hygiene Clinic program offering veterans preventive services at no cost
October 29, 2021
Maine Delegation Announces Key Step Towards Groundbreaking for New Veterans Mental Health Facility
October 29, 2021
Vets Celebrate Successful Moose Hunt in Maine's Disabled Veteran Hunting Program
November 1, 2021
Wreaths Across America announces new national tour
November 6, 2021
Local lobsterman giving away buckets of lobsters for some lucky veterans
November 6, 2021
Wisdom of Heroes: 13 WWII veterans give advice to young Americans
November 8, 2021
New Portland VA clinic poised to serve Maine veterans for decades to comev
November 8, 2021
Era of omission: Despite long tradition of service, recognition for Native American veterans has only just begun
November 9, 2021
Gratitude for U.S. inspires Pakistani native to serve and give back
November 11, 2021
Veterans met with gratitude at 1st Bangor-Brewer parade since pandemic began
November 11, 2011
Maine veteran raises thousands for new Vietnam War memorial
November 18, 2021
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services offering Virtual Veterans Experience Action Center
December 15, 2021
These Flying Santas with Rockland roots still bring aerial gifts to Coast Guard members
December 27, 2021
Governor Mills announces Maine Veterans' Dental Network to continue services with $100,000 grant from Northeast Delta Dental
February 22, 2022
Brunswick police, veterans to collect irreparable flags for retirement service
December 5, 2021
VA and Bureau of Veterans' Services teaming up for 3-day assistance program
February 27, 2022
It was a day of skiing and shooting for veterans at Pineland Farms Saturday
March 4, 2022
Maine Veterans' Dental Network receives Excellence Award
March 14, 2022
Remains of Maine Airman killed during WWII identified
March 14, 2022
Veterans caucus, Maine's Jared Golden play crucial role in War on Terrorism memorial
March 17, 2022
Bipartisan push to help sick veterans exposed to toxic burn pits
March 18, 2022
Downtown Revitalization Committee introducing Veterans' Banner Program
March 31, 2022
Maine's Vietnam War veterans honored
March 31, 2022
Travis Mills Foundation hosts breakfast for Vietnam-era veterans
April 6, 2022
Maine board formally votes to keep open pair of veterans' homes
April 6, 2022
Washburn Rotary to construct brick walkway to honor veterans
April 7, 2022
Red Maple Inn honored for its support of veterans
April 8, 2022
King Cosponsors Bill Seeking to Provide Full Military Benefits for Disabled Veterans
April 9, 2022
Governor Mills holds ceremonial signing for bill to keep Maine Veterans Homes in Caribou and Machias open
April 13, 2022
Maine lawmakers plan to overturn new gaming rules that hit veterans clubs hard
April 15, 2022
Bowl-A-Thon for Veterans takes place April 30
April 19, 2022
Bipartisan group of federal lawmakers advocate for more VA health professionals in rural areas
April 18, 2022
Thank-A-Vet: Sanford World War II vet gets street named after him
April 28, 2022
Veteran groups urge Senate to move on burn pit legislation
April 29, 2022
Preserving Maine veterans' access to long-term care
May 4, 2022
Community Health Options continues commitment to wellness
May 6, 2022
After 79 years, soldier from Canaan who was killed in WWII to be buried in Maine
May 6, 2022
King Urges Top Army Official to Address Veteran Suicide "Epidemic" by Studying, Improving Transition to Civilian Life
May 6, 2022
Maine launches $50 million homeowner assistance fund
May 13, 2022
Hundreds attend funeral for Maine veteran they never knew
May 12, 2022
Maine Veterans: Welcome home Maine Soldiers and Troopers
May 5, 2022
Civil War soldier killed in 1863 given military burial ceremony in Buckfield, 159 years after his death
May 17, 2022
King Backs Bipartisan Legislation to Honor Women Nurses in World War II
May 18, 2022
Maine veterans say military-supplied earplugs have caused hearing loss
May 19, 2022
Lawmakers reach deal to help veterans exposed to burn pits
May 19, 2022
Presque Isle Honors Military Veterans with Banners
May 19, 2022
'It's our responsibility to give back': Navy veteran wins contest, gets a free new roof
May 20, 2022
Millinocket Students visit Veterans Community in Chelsea
May 22, 2022
Volunteers place flags at grave stones of 4,000 Maine veterans
May 25, 2022
11th annual Miles for Mills 5k set for Sunday
May 29, 2022
Miles for Mills brings community back to raise money for injured veterans
May 29, 2022
At a Biddeford cemetery, children plant flags, learn about sacrifice ahead of Memorial Day.
May 31, 2022
In Brunswick-Topsham, the parade resumes and a veteran is honored - The Portland Press Herald
May 30, 2022
Holden honors veterans with ceremony
May 30, 2022
Togus Volunteers Help Boothbay V.E.T.S. Build Trailers for Homeless Veterans
June 1, 2022
Sen. King aims to address veteran suicide 'epidemic'
June 2, 2022
Old Orchard Beach has vision for Veterans Memorial Park
June 2, 2022
At Pride Ceremony in Ogunquit, Governor Mills Declares June as Pride Month in Maine
June 3, 2022
Monson builds memorial for Maine veterans
June 3, 2022
Culinary students deliver cupcakes to Veterans Home for Memorial Day
June 4, 2022
Nonprofit providing homeless veterans a place to call 'home'
June 6, 2022
Crowds honor WWII veterans at Normandy D-Day celebrations
June 12, 2022
Free dental care for Veterans in Maine
June 12, 2022
Old Town Airport hosts 2nd annual Wings & Wheels Car Show & Fly-in
June 11, 2022
Bangor Man to hold annual tire flip for Maine Veterans Project
June 13, 2022
Army reserve center in Saco rededicated for fallen Korea, Vietnam veteran
June 14, 2022
Governor Mills Signs Executive Order Establishing Cabinet on Aging
June 15, 2022
Main Street banners honor local veterans
June 15, 2022
Memorial for Monson Civil War veterans
June 16, 2022
Boothbay V.E.T.S named Coulombe Center Innovation Award winner
June 17, 2022
The Senate has passed a historic expansion of care for veterans
June 17, 2022
Maine senators back bill to support vets exposed to burn pits
June 22, 2022
Livermore official asks for markers for suspected veterans' graves
June 22, 2022
Wilton voters OK veterans memorial, talks on consolidating services in the region
June 23, 2022
King Joins Bipartisan Legislation to Support Hiring of Military Spouses
June 23, 2022
Augusta school raises funds for Mills foundation
June 24, 2022
WWII veteran's dog tags and medals could soon get to his family
June 24, 2022
Placido receives Maine Military and Community Network's Coin of Excellence
June 25, 2022
Boots2Roots' Efforts to Attract Veterans to Maine Workforce
June 28, 2022
Boothbay V.E.T.S Named Coulombe Center Innovation Award Winner
June 29, 2022
25 local individuals to be honored during Midcoast Maine Veterans Memorial's 2022 Tile Dedication Ceremony
June 29, 2022
Livermore discusses veterans' graves, cemetery road
June 29, 2022
Caribou to own, maintain Veterans Memorial Park after nonprofit group disbands
July 4, 2022
Stories emerge during Midcoast veterans memorial ceremony
July 8, 2022
Maine Veterans Project hosting cornhole event at Cole Land Transportation Museum
July 8, 2022
Women's barbershop chorus performs for veterans, plans summer events
July 12, 2022
Characters of the County: For Ed Harmon, It's A Community Thing
July 13, 2022
Wilderness Walk for Warriors holds 9th annual 'Support N' Escort
July 14, 2022
Burn pits legislation nears finish line with House approval
July 15, 2022
Community helps veteran's widow in Glendale
July 18, 2022
Change to mental health crisis hotline benefits veterans
July 18, 2022
Registration is Open for the 2022 Wreaths Across America Stem to Stone Races
July 19, 2022
Maine DHHS launches 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
July 20, 2022
Hannaford Supermarkets recognized as 'patriot employer' by DAV
July 21, 2022
Maine prison program pairs residents with puppies
July 21, 2022
Maine veteran awarded 2022 Pat Tillman Award
July 22, 2022
Ride to End the War Within this weekend
July 31, 2022
Failure of veterans health care bill in Senate angers supporters
August 3, 2022
The Senate passes help for veterans exposed to toxins, after a reversal drew fury
August 4, 2022
Thousands of Maine military veterans could be eligible for care due to burn pits exposure
August 9, 2022
Jackson to host veterans town hall meeting in Caribou
August 11, 2022
President Biden signs burn pits help for vets, a personal win, too
August 11, 2022
Veterans Forward program gets $500k from feds
August 21, 2022
A Maine campsite conversation leads to 2 WWII marine veterans meeting for the first time
August 21, 2022
Veterans and Family Outdoor Expo Sept. 24
August 27, 2022
A warm and welcome surprise for veterans
September 9, 2022
Community rallies to honor Maine U.S. Navy veteran in Augusta
September 11, 2022
New health and wellness center at Travis Mills Foundation retreat will allow more families to visit
September 15, 2022
Bridge dedications honor three Maine heroes in Brownville
September 15, 2022
POW-MIA memorial to be dedicated Sept. 24
September 20, 2022
Maine quilter warms hearts of veterans
September 23, 2022
Maine military veterans press Congress to let newly arrived Afghan allies stay in U.S.
October 18, 2022
Vietnam Veterans Feel Welcome Home
October 21, 2022
Amateur genealogists memorialize World War II soldiers
October 21, 2022
Remains of Mainer who died in World War II to be buried on Veterans Day
October 27, 2022
Maine seeks owners of unclaimed war bonds dating to the 1940s
October 29, 2022
Honor Flight Maine arrives in U.S. Capital region
November 1, 2022
Honor Flight Maine returns home from emotional trip
November 8, 2022
Hannaford offering 10% discount to veterans, active military and family on Veterans Day
November 8, 2022
Afghan Special Operations vets get new tech through Maine nonprofit
November 10, 2022
Veterans' emergency financial assistance being offered
November 14, 2022
Donate to NEWS CENTER Maine's Honor Flight Maine Telethon
November 14, 2022
Army veteran receives medals, 50 years after earning them in combat
November 14, 2022
Missing World War II veteran brought home and laid to rest in Avon
November 15, 2022
Box of Maine partners with Maine Veterans Project to gift a slice of home for the holidays
November 15, 2022
At Labor Department, veterans help veterans transition to civilian careers
November 16, 2022
Characters of the County: Jefferson Man Dedicated to Serving Veterans and Students
November 17, 2022
5K to benefit veterans in need of heating assistance
November 18, 2022
Good News for Veterans Who Need Food for Thanksgiving Dinner
November 18, 2022
King Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Protect Veterans from Benefits Fraud
November 21, 2022
Maine Veterans Project distributes Thanksgiving meals
December 1, 2022
Honor Flight Maine telethon nets over $175K
December 1, 2022
Wreaths Across America returns Dec. 17
December 8, 2022
Veterans of Maine hold Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony
December 8, 2022
Mainers gather to pay respects to those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor
December 12, 2022
Clara Gilbert, WWII Navy WAVES veteran, celebrating 100th birthday
December 15, 2022
Maine Homeless Veterans Alliance wraps gifts to help homeless vets
December 19, 2022
A military veteran from Maine asks the community for help
December 21, 2022
Fallen Veterans honored in Houlton with wreath ceremony
December 22, 2022
Record pay increase for Veterans receiving VA compensation benefits
January 3, 2023
Birthday cards wanted as WWII Code Girl turns 99
January 10, 2023
Provisions of AUTO for Veterans Act Signed into Law
January 17, 2023
Starting Jan. 17, Veterans in suicidal crisis can go to any VA or non-VA health care facility for free emergency health care
January 12, 2023
Jobs & Training Unemployment Insurance Disability Services Workplace Safety Labor Laws Labor Statistics Workforce Development 186 People Hired During the 2022 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign, at an Average Hourly Wage of Over $33
January 13, 2023
Veterans Benefits Expanding for Those Exposed to Burn Pits
January 23, 2023
Fishing derby in Great Pond supports non-profit veteran organization
January 25, 2023
UMaine's online masters in education among the best programs for veterans
January 26, 2023
Commander surprised with big OCW donation for special project
February 2, 2023
Program helps Maine veterans fight back against loneliness
January 30, 2023
Maine teen hikes 30 miles to support veterans for Eagle Scout project
February 7, 2023
Governor Mills Announces Maine Veterans' Dental Network to Continue Services with $200,000 Grant from Northeast Delta Dental
February 7, 2023
King Hosts Veterans' Committee 'Kickoff Conversation with Maine Veterans
February 13, 2023
UMA Bangor Dental Hygiene Clinic Partners with Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services to Provide Free Dental Hygiene Services to Veterans
February 17, 2023
University of Maine at Augusta Hosts Summit Project Honor Case
March 1, 2023
Helping veterans set up their 'forever homes'
March 2, 2023
Maine veteran calls on Congress to do more to help those who've served
March 8, 2023
Windham vet walking to all corners of U.S., finding big hearts along the way
March 8, 2023
New StoryCorps "Military Voices" initiative asks Maine Veterans to share their stories
March 9, 2023
State of Maine to recognize National Vietnam War Veterans Day
March 9, 2023
UMaine earns Military Friendly School designation
March 17, 2023
Free tax filing offered for veterans
March 20, 2023
Honor Flight April Homecoming
March 23, 2023
Maine veterans' nonprofit celebrates $150K raised, new documentary
March 27, 2023
To Support Maine Veterans' Homes, King Presses the VA to Reimburse Domiciliary Care Services
March 28, 2023
Heroes and Hope dodgeball tournament helps local veterans' non-profits
April 19, 2023
WWII Veterans Head to New Orleans
April 27, 2023
County Veteran Honored to be Entered into West Point Library
April 28, 2023
"I'm so excited." Maine veterans get first Honor Flight of 2023
April 29, 2023
Volunteers help a Dexter veteran and grandfather
April 30, 2023
Maine veterans experience hero's welcome after first Honor Flight trip of the year
May 11, 2023
97-year-old World War II veteran honored with Lifetime Achievement Award
May 17, 2023
Sen. King Suggests Simple Fix to VA Director to Smooth Military Transitions
May 29, 2023
Maine Veterans' Cemetery System honor our Veterans on Memorial Day
June 16, 2023
President Biden Signs King Bill to Increase Benefits for Veterans, Military Families
July 6, 2023
Two Maine veterans in new documentary
July 8, 2023
Motorcycle ride held in honor of Maine veterans
July 8, 2023
Rock Row throws veterans appreciation concert
July 9, 2023
Rockland memorial wall dedicates 17 in 2023, idea shared of additional Gulf Wars monument
July 26, 2023
Bangor organization marks 70 years since end of Korean War
August 1, 2023
Banner tribute planned for region's military veterans
August 2, 2023
Maine veteran honored nationally for helping veterans find employment
August 4, 2023
Secretary of Veterans Affairs in Maine promotes care and compensation for burn pits exposure
August 4, 2023
New initiative calls for an end to veteran homelessness in Maine by 2025
August 5, 2023
Preble Street launches 'No Veterans Homeless' campaign in Maine
August 10, 2023
Edgecomb selectmen approve veterans banner project
August 11, 2023
Veteran's wife skydives in memory of husbands life
August 15, 2023
Maine delegation wants VA to fix travel reimbursement system
August 16, 2023
Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign kicks off Thursday in Augusta
August 16, 2023
YMCA Alliance Partners with US Department of Veteran Affairs
August 17, 2023
Maine kicks off annual 'Hire-A-Vet' campaign
August 21, 2023
Banner Program to honor veterans
August 21, 2023
Maine veteran finds new mission
August 21, 2023
The Wall That Heals: A mobile exhibit honoring Vietnam War veterans coming to Sanford
August 25, 2023
Bangor veteran receives new smart home
August 26, 2023
In August Podcast, King Recaps Veteran Affairs Secretary's Visit to Maine
August 29, 2023
16 Year Old Fundraising for Maine Veteran's Project at Blue Hill Fair Again This Year
August 29, 2023
Maine veteran to set sail on trip of a lifetime
September 5, 2023
Painted hearts give hope to Maine veterans
September 6, 2023
Jay VFW Post announces annual POW/MIA Recognition Ceremony, September 16
September 7, 2023
Sanford hosts 'Wall that Heals:' A tribute to Vietnam veterans
October 4, 2023
Veterans could win newly constructed home by entering essay contest
October 10, 2023
Travis Mills makes anniversary cover of Men's Health magazine
October 18, 2023
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services hosts event to aid homeless veterans in Sanford
October 19, 2023
Edgecomb ready to salute veterans with 6 banners
October 23, 2023
Maine based group provides free nature outings to disabled veterans
October 24, 2023
Birthday card requests | World War II veterans from Maine turning 103 and 104 years old
January 8, 2024
Maine's first female commander of Maine National Guard officially nominated
January 10, 2024
Bill to fast track veteran access to health care benefits
January 15, 2024
104-year-old WWII veteran among those honored at Madawaska ceremony
January 18, 2024
Maine businesses partner with Veterans non-profit to help keep Veterans warm
January 19, 2024
Maine ski program gives veterans a boost of confidence on the slopes
January 26, 2024
Meet the lawyer who got disabled Maine vets a bigger vehicle tax break
January 26, 2024
U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs hears ideas in Augusta on improving care for aging veterans
January 28, 2024
VFW Post 8835 celebrates birthday of 102-year-old WWII Veteran
March 1, 2024
'A life-changing program': Formerly homeless veteran says trades program gave him a new career
March 6, 2024
Travis Mills Foundation to host Vietnam-Era Veterans Breakfast
March 8, 2024
UMA Dental Health Programs Awarded $5K to Provide Dental Care to Maine Veterans
March 8, 2024
Maine Veterans Project gets much-needed fundraising boost
March 8, 2024
Sanford students write birthday cards to Maine WWII veterans
March 9, 2024
Dozens play cornhole to fundraise for rebuilding Veterans Memorial Park in Lewiston
March 13, 2024
More Maine veterans to get access to dental care
March 13, 2024
Maine Calling | Gen. Diane Dunn
March 21, 2024
