‘VA Assistance’ opportunity: Learn more at July 11 American Legion sponsored event in Guin

GUIN — If you have ever worn a military uniform and served your country, you are being invited to a “VA Assistance” educational opportunity to find out if you can qualify for any type of veterans benefits.
American Legion Post 147 of Guin is hosting the informational event on Saturday, July 11, from 9-11 a.m., at the Collins Life Center in Guin (581 14th Street North).
Post commander Dade Hunsinger provided more information on the event, and strongly encourages all veterans to attend.
“We’re having this on a Saturday, so you don’t have to miss work,” he said. “American Legion Post 147 is sponsoring this event, but we’ll also have Marion County Veterans Services Officer Marlon Holloway, and perhaps some other VSOs, on hand to help.
“All veterans, and dependents from anywhere, are welcome to attend.”
Hunsinger explained there are too many veterans who are unaware they are eligible—by their service—for benefits through the VA.
“A lot of veterans, for example, who may have served three years in the Army National Guard, just don’t realize they may still be eligible for VA Health Care. They just have to pay the co-pay. Or they may be eligible for a VA claim.
“It’s not necessary for veterans to have been deployed or to have gone on a deployment, or gone into a combat zone. Veterans are still eligible for many things, and they just don’t realize it.
“That’s what we’re trying to spread the word about. Just because you didn’t deploy and go overseas, it doesn’t mean you’re not eligible. If you were a veteran in any branch of the service—if you wore that uniform and you had an honorable discharge—you are eligible for benefits.
“The way health care is right now, a lot of people are struggling with insurance. But through the VA, you may get health care. You may just have to pay the co-pay. And some veterans may have full coverage, without paying the co-pay. If you served, and you’re eligible, you can get help with your health care.
“So, if you had a shoulder messed up or another injury, and you went to Birmingham, think about how much money that will cost. If you go to the VA, it will probably be a whole lot cheaper, just because you’re paying the co-pay.”
Hunsinger also noted there are other benefits for those who are eligible.
“It’s not just insurance. You can also get add-ons, too,” he said. “You can get hearing aids. You can get dental. You can get glasses. And even for medical, you may have a lot of options that may be less expensive than going through regular public health care avenues.”
He also noted, even if veterans have jobs and insurance where they are employed, they can still get some help through the VA.
“Come and talk to us and explore your options,” he said.
For more information, Hunsinger can be contacted at 205-412-0170.
VSO Marlon Holloway can be reached at 205-921-3161 every weekday except for Wednesday and Thursday. He is at the Vernon office on Wednesday at 205-695-0023 and at the Russellville office on Thursday at 256-332-8845.