Page 45 - Lubbock Senior Link Magazine Fall 2019- Online Magazine

Veteran’s Death Benefits:

Where Government Funds Fall Short

by Laura Landes

s Americans, we are humbled and other items needed at the time This dire situation begs the
by the selflessness of our of the death of a soldier or veteran question: Has our government
Aveterans, the courage they is greatly inadequate. misled its military and veterans
have shown and the sacrifices they OR do most just assume there will
have made for this great nation. We So many veterans are under the be a more significant monetary
find ourselves in quiet reverence as assumption that, having served their compensation from the government
we honor those who have fallen, country with honorable diligence they have served at the time of
whether active, inactive or retired. and unwavering dedication, their their death? There is clearly a
In addition, the US military provides bodies will one day be laid to rest disconnect between expectation
traditional and poignant military in a dignified manner on behalf of and distribution.
honors upon the passing of fallen the country they served. Although
brothers and sisters, including a fair assumption, this has not Preparedness and knowledge are
the folding and presenting of the held true. The monetary amount a key. Veterans need to plan ahead,
United States flag to the family family will receive to assist in the know what funding is available
recipient and a heart stirring funding of funeral services is from and make plans for the difference
rendition of “Taps”. The Veteran’s $300 to $2,000. This is “a drop in cost. Our veterans have served
Administration also provides a in the bucket” compared to the their families well, protecting not
military headstone and even a $4,000 to $12,000 needed for a only them but their fellow citizens
spot in one of the many National funeral and burial. In addition, as from our nation’s adversaries. But
Cemeteries, if one chooses to be with all other government funds, until the government makes more
laid to rest with their “brothers massive amounts of paperwork substantial contributions in death
and sisters in arms”. However, the must be completed which benefits for veterans, they must
US Government fails to provide require an extended processing take action to protect their families
adequate monetary benefits that period. These funds are issued again - from debt, burden and pain.
are so desperately needed during as “reimbursement” and are not Having a plan of action today can
this critical time of loss. The available to the family at the time alleviate the burdens of tomorrow.
allotment for actual funeral services services are rendered.

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September 3, 2019 - The Suicide Epidemic - Nick Watts & Sharron Davis
September 17, 2019 - Protecting and Maximizing Your IRA - Nathan Ziegler
October 1, 2019 - The Silent Epidemic - Dr. Arica Black
October 15, 2019 - The Cremation Deliberation - Laura Landes

November 5, 2019 - Coping with Grief During the Holidays - Rev. Kara Leslie

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