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| June 2026
Volume XVIII Issue 6
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Website: RockVets.com
E-mail: pat@rockvets.com
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then Press 1
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| Editorial by Jerry Donnellan -- July 2016
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July 2016 -- Jerry Donnellan
If you can read this, thank a teacher. If you can read it in English, thank a veteran. Or so it goes. This obviously speaks to our WWII vets since I don’t think the American public is worried about anyone speaking Korean, Vietnamese, or Arabic.
We tend to look at WWII as the gold standard as how wars should be fought. But even the veterans of that War were a problem for society because after the War, what do you do with them? Then there were 16 million people coming out of uniform. Vets didn’t want to complain or ask for
anything because they had been cast in the role of heroes and felt they had to live up to that role. So those who had been in some combat, and God knows there were many, just kept their demons to themselves. They treated as many others have before and since with alcohol for as long as that lasted. Some were institutionalized. There were more psychological discharges from WWII per capita than there were from Vietnam.
Then of course, the suicides – but nobody talked about that then. Washington was too busy patting itself on the back for the GI Bill and talking about all it did for the veterans. In fact, it did help many but not all veterans were college
material and veterans of that era were in their mid-20’s coming back. So not everyone could take advantage of it. The GI Bill was as much self-defense on Washington’s part because if those 16 million veterans coming out looking for a job in what was at best a shaky economy retooling from a war footing, the economy would have tanked and would have put us right back into Depression. Korean vets got less all the way around. And onto Vietnam where we all know that story.
What truly worries me is the way we are treating our most recent veterans. Desert Storm was another one of those pretty good wars. Forgive me for saying this but it was over in very little time
and only 147 were killed in action. It seems that one death is a tragedy but 147 or 58,000 become a statistic.
From what I’ve seen, the public today has an impression that today’s veterans have it much better than the Vietnam veterans. The truth is other than the mood of the country, today’s veterans have it much worse. Understand, yes we were spit on by the cowards who called themselves Anti-War. For the record, no one was more Anti-War than those of us who fought that war, and if the self-serving Wannabees had half a brain they would have welcomed the returning GI’s and asked for their help in ending the War. If that would have happened the War would
have ended a lot sooner. However, after the warm welcome we did receive the vets of course would have nothing to do with the Anti-War movement. They went so far as to form their own organization – The Vietnam Veterans Against the War, which later grew into what today we know as the Vietnam Veterans of America. But had we been given the opportunity, we could have presented a far stronger case. We had the ability to say, "Hey, I fought your War and I’m here to tell you it sucks", rather than, their soul-stirring, "Hell no, we won’t go". That sounds more like something you’d learn at cheerleading school. You see, after being shot at, being spit at is not really a big deal but makes for good Press.
We the veterans took solace in the fact that there were real Americans and they understood. And unlike now there were real jobs. Further, we had the WWII and Korean vets to watch out for us to serve as kind of rabbis. You see, by the time we got back home, WWII and Korean guys were in middle and upper management and they kept an eye on us. Yes, there were the Archie Bunkers but you could tell they had never heard a shot fired in anger.
After the Draft ended in 1973, the GI would be changed forever and not necessarily for the better. The number of veterans began to drop. Today’s veterans don’t have
anywhere near the jobs or the rabbis we had. More troubling is they don’t have the votes.
Recently, in wake of the poor job prospects for the veterans, the idea was put forward to require the VA to hire one veteran for every three new hires. The unions that work for the VA saw that that never saw the light of day. Amazing that the people whose very existence depends on the fact that there are veterans, don’t want to work with them or give them a chance - and that the leadership allows it.
And to listen to some of the general public it seems like the view of today’s vets is getting more distorted. It’s easy to see where it comes from – just watch TV for a night or news coverage on veterans. They seem to feel that veterans are either Navy Seals or broken – people who can’t function. PTSD didn’t exist in earlier wars. Now it seems as though every vet is supposed to have it. Like so many things, PTSD went from nowhere to everywhere in seemingly no time, and further misunderstandings that PTSD means you can’t function. That’s not true. PTSD like other conditions are defined in stages from 1% to 100%. In some ways the public is a lot more positive towards the veterans, but in some cases it kind of rings hollow – "we love our vets" but "maybe you shouldn’t leave them alone with our
kids."
Fortunately, there are still real people out there who can and want to help. We understand that sometimes returning vets are turned off to the public in general and that’s completely understandable. Civilians whine, waste water, and are never on time. Today’s veterans have suffered through multiple deployments. I can’t imagine what it would be like to have to return to Vietnam, that is if I had made it through the 1st tour. I’ve seen that kill careers, marriages, and veterans. The suicide rate today is about one an hour.
The other concern I have for our veterans is now that the war is over, we are downsizing our Army to a point that existed prior to WWII. This is troubling because again comparing Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan, one of the very important differences is that Viet Cong didn’t follow us home. Maybe this isn’t the best time to downsize! Jerry -- 2016
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Camp Shanks Museum:
- Every Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. during the months of June, July and August, except July 4, 2026.
- Available for
private tours. Please call (845) 304-6809
Thursday, June 4th, 2026: Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 monthly meeting will be on Thursday, June 4th, 2026. The VVA Board of Directors meets at 6:30 p.m. and the Membership meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. The Chapter welcomes current, former and prospective VVA members to attend. The meetings are held at the Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970. See below for further information and Zoom link to meeting.
Thursday, June 4th, 2026: Register now for this virtual hiring event on Thursday, June 4th, 2026 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. EST. The event is focused on employment opportunities in operations and business management! Employers are looking for talent from the military community and hiring for hundreds of open positions. This event is open to transitioning service members, veterans, military spouses, dependent military children, and military caregivers.
http://Register Now!
Friday, June 12th, 2026: Veteran's Game Day Social Luncheon from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Community Center Town of Clarkstown - Auditorium located at 31 Zukor Road, New City, New York 10956. All Veterans and their spouses, Caregivers and Gold Star families are welcome to join us to play games including BINGO and TRIVIA for prizes. See further details below.
Saturday, June 13th, 2026: The Sons of Italy, Rockland County Lodge 2176 is hosting their 3rd Annual Veterans Appreciation Day. They invite our Armed Forces veterans for a complimentary lunch and Bocce-playing experience on Saturday, June 13th, 2026 from 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. The event will be held at the Sons of Italy Rockland Lodge 2176, 46 Van Wyck Road Blauvelt, New York 10913. Transportation can be arranged.
It is requested that veterans register for the luncheon at soi2176.com to receive a free hat upon arrival. For any questions contact TJ Mignone at 845-642-9259 or via email: TJMignone@gmail.com.
Wednesday, June 17th, 2026: Senator Weber's Veteran Appreciation Reception is on Wednesday, June 17th, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Nyack Seaport -- 21 Burd Street, Nyack, New York 10960. Senator Weber stated: "I look forward to this opportunity to recognize our sacred debt to America’s veterans. Your achievements and sacrifices on behalf of this country have not been forgotten."
The Tappan Zee Bridge will be lit up red, white, and blue in recognition of your service.FOOD AND BEVERAGES WILL BE SERVED COURTESY OF SENATOR WEBER. TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS EVENT, INDIVIDUALS MUST RSVP AT 845-623-3627 AS SPACE IS LIMITED.
ALBANY OFFICE: 504 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247 • PHONE: (518) 455-2991 DISTRICT OFFICE: 163 Airport Executive Park, Nanuet, NY 10954 • PHONE: (845) 623-3627 E-MAIL: weber@nysenate.gov • WEBSITE: weber.nysenate.gov
Monday, November 2nd, 2026: Registration is open for the 5th Annual Commander's Cup Golf Outing at Blue Hill Golf Course. You can register online or send in the registration form with a check. (RAIN DATE: NOVEMBER 5TH, 2026)
9:00 a.m. Shotgun Start/Best Ball
Check-In at 7:00 a.m. and Continental Breakfast
BLUE HILL GOLF COURSE - Veterans Preferred • $25 per Veteran. • $175 per Civilian
INCLUDES:
18 Holes of Golf & Cart, Lunch, Raffles, 50/50, Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, Team Prize & Hole in One (Mercedes-Benz of Nanuet.)
REGISTRATION CLOSES, SEND CHECKS NO LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 1ST, 2026 TO:
VFW Post 9215 • 250 Birchwood Ave • Upper Nyack, NY 10960 OR REGISTER & PAY ONLINE @ http://WWW.VFWPOST9215.ORG
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| Vietnam Veterans Chapter #333 Watchfires
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Every year on May 30th, the traditional Memorial Day, Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333, have come together to honor those who were lost in wars, and those who have still not truly come home. This tradition started in May of 1987 and has continued every year since -- this year was the 40th Memorial Day Vigil and it is a sacred and solemn tribute to those we've lost.
Note from
Congressman Mike Lawler: " I had the honor of attending all four Watchfires across Rockland County last night. From Eugene Levy Memorial Park in Pomona to Bowline Point Park in Haverstraw, Clausland Mountain Park in Orangeburg, and Piermont Pier, Vietnam veterans led Watchfires honoring the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. This special tradition brings the community together to remember the fallen and reaffirm our promise to never forget their sacrifice. Thank you to all the veterans, fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and volunteers who support the Watchfires."
To view a 2 minute video of the 2026 Watchfires, please view this link:
https://x.com/RepMikeLawler/status/2060859755162406932?s=20
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| Property Tax Exemption Updates
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From: Pomerance, Benjamin (VETERANS)
Sent: Friday, May 29, 2026 10:09 AM
Subject: Property Tax Exemption Updates
New York State’s newly enacted State Budget contains news that I know you have been waiting to hear: a revision to the
New York State Real Property Tax Law regarding Veterans’ property tax exemptions.
Under this language negotiated by the Senate, the Assembly, and the State government’s executive branch, the Real Property Tax Law is revised as follows:
(1) Local governments gain the option to provide a full property tax exemption for Veterans within that locality who have a100% permanent and total disability compensation rating from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Again, this is not a statewide mandate. Each local government has to decide for itself whether they can afford to offer this exemption to Veterans with a 100% permanent and total disability rating.
(2) There is no longer any requirement for a Veteran to receive a VA housing grant to qualify for this exemption.
(3) There is no longer any requirement for a Veteran to have a Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) designation to qualify.
(4) Veterans who have a 100% rating that is not designated as permanent and total by the VA will not qualify for the total exemption.
(5) None of these provisions have any adverse impacts whatsoever on any Veterans Real Property Tax Exemption held presently by any Veteran or any surviving spouse of a Veteran. (For instance, if a Veteran has a 100% rating that is not permanent and total, that Veteran will still be able to receive the same partial exemption on their property taxes for which they already qualify. There will be no reduction or adverse income to that exemption).
(6) None of these provisions apply to the school tax exemption. They apply solely to the property tax exemption on a Veteran’s primary residence in the State of New York. As before, the school tax exemption for Veterans is not a statewide mandate. Rather, the school tax exemption for Veterans is determined by each individual school district, based on that district’s
assessment of their financial abilities to offer such an exemption (and, if yes, how much of an exemption they can afford to offer).
I hope that this helps. Please let me know if you have any questions regarding any of these provisions from the enacted budget.
Thank you greatly for all that you do!
Respectfully,
Benjamin P. Pomerance
Deputy Counsel
New York State Department of Veterans’ Services
2 Empire State Plaza, 17th Floor, Albany, NY 12223
Phone (518) 474-6114 | Fax (518) 473-0379 | benjamin.pomerance@veterans.ny.gov
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| VA's Military Life Cycle Modules
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Plan your future with VA’s Military Life Cycle (MLC) modules
May 18, 2026
Veterans Benefits Administration,
Outreach, Transition and Economic Development
We’ve all fallen down the rabbit hole of endless scrolling, from adorable baby videos to mind-blowing dance moves, and lawns that are practically a work of art. But while you’re enjoying the latest viral sensation, have you paused to think about planning your future? VA’s Military Life Cycle (MLC) modules are here to help you do just that.
VA offers free
MLC modules to help Veterans, service members and their families proactively plan for their futures. Whether you’re launching your own career, transitioning out of the service or settling into life after military duty, these modules are designed to deliver the information you need, exactly when you need it.
In 2024, VA helped more than 900,000 Veterans or their families pay for school and cover expenses while training for a job. MLC modules help maximize benefits like this by covering key topics such as education benefits, home loans, life insurance, disability compensation and mental health resources. Plus, they provide valuable insights for families, helping them plan for major milestones like pursuing higher education or buying their first home.
What makes MLC modules stand out? They’re designed
to be accessible and adaptable at every stage of a service member’s career, and to provide support during important life transitions. The following modules are available to enroll in today:
- VA Benefits 101
- VA Education Benefits
- Community Integration Resources
- Mental Health for Families
- Vet Centers
- VA Education and Training Benefits for Spouses and Dependent Children
- Reserve Component Dual Payments
- Reserves and National Guard
- Social and Emotional Health Resources
- VA Life Insurance Benefits
- Disability Compensation
- VA Home Loan Guaranty Program
- Survivor and Casualty Assistance Resources
- Other Than Honorable
MLC modules put the tools for success right at your fingertips. These resources simplify the process and provide everything you need to confidently plan for your future.
Visit VA’s transition assistance program to get started.
To read article from the VA website, view
this link:
https://news.va.gov/146768/plan-your-future-va-mlc-modules/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
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| Joseph P. Dwyer Vet-to-Vet Events and Activities
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Vet-to-Vet: Special Events
THE ROCKLAND COUNTY JOSEPH P. DWYER
VETERAN PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM
WEEKLY WELLNESS AND OTHER ACTIVITIES FOR VETS
Friday, June 12th, 2026: Veteran's Game Day Social Luncheon from 11:00am to 2:00pm at the Community Center Town of Clarkstown - Auditorium located at 31 Zukor Road, New City, New York 10956. All Veterans and their spouses, Caregivers and Gold Star families are welcome to join us to play games including BINGO and TRIVIA for prizes. It’s time to come out, get together, socialize, eat lunch and have fun! This event is provided free of charge by Vet to Vet. There is plenty of parking available and the auditorium is very large with plenty of room for folks to spread out. Doors open at 10:40 am. RSVP: Required for Lunch! Contact us and reserve your seat early as we need a proper head count to order the catered meal.
Please contact Elise O'keefe-Edson at EOkeefeEdson@VetToVetRC.org or call 845-903-2332 to reserve a seat or if you have further questions.
Veterans Accessible Transportation
BRIDGES offers free door-to-door service to and from VA facilities in Montrose and Castle Point. A two week notice for scheduling or cancellations is required. Donations are welcomed. To schedule or learn more, call 845-624-1366 Ext. 139.
Dwyer Vet-to-Vet
Wellness Activities
THE ROCKLAND COUNTY JOSEPH P. DWYER
VETERAN PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM
WEEKLY WELLNESS ACTIVITIES
VETERANS WALKING CLUB - Weekly - (Wednesdays) 9:30 am at PALISADES CENTER. Meet in front of BRIDGES, 2nd Floor, next door to Autobahn Indoor Speedway. We will walk between 45 minutes to an hour. Join a fast pace group, slow pace group or walk at your own pace for however long you want. The mall offers us a comfortable indoor venue regardless of the weather outdoors where we can gather together in camaraderie and get some fitness and exercise while we are walking.
Semper Fi,
"Li"
Elise O'Keefe-Edson, Veteran Outreach Coordinator
Joseph P. Dwyer Vet to Vet Peer Support Program, Rockland County, New York
Cell: (845) 903-2332
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| Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333
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VVA #333 Monthly Meetings
Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 -- monthly meeting is usually held on the first Thursday of each month, at Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station
Road, Pomona, New York 10970.
The next meeting will be held on Thursday, June 4th, 2026
The VVA Board meets at 6:30 p.m. and the Membership meeting starts at 7:30 p.m.
The Chapter welcomes current, former and prospective VVA members to attend. The meetings are held at the Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970.
If you would like to attend via Zoom, here is that information:
JOHN MASTANDREA is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom
meeting.
Topic: JOHN MASTANDREA's Zoom Meeting
Time: Jun 4, 2026 18:15 Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83368534415?pwd=4a7S3fdKVZz40sFTvCGJQ4lbkX8LaC.1
Meeting chat link
https://us02web.zoom.us/launch/jc/83368534415
Meeting ID: 833 6853 4415
Passcode:
153340
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One tap mobile
+16469313860,,83368534415#,,,,*153340# US
+16465588656,,83368534415#,,,,*153340# US (New York)
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Join by SIP
• 83368534415@zoomcrc.com
Join instructions
https://us02web.zoom.us/meetings/83368534415/invitations?signature=YGGFf__BBVHBh-VZXeTLWXmIED1FC2UvSXbvaLuje1A
Also, check out the new website for VVA #333. See it here: https://vva333.org
Sad to say, one of our original VVA members has passed....Richie KeiserRichard Robert Keiser Obituary May 13, 2026 - Moritz Funeral Home
https://share.google/RZxrw2DWcokrMdNQh With deepest condolences, VVA 333 announces the death of Charter and Life member Richard Robert Keiser on May 13th, 2026. A retired detective with the Orangetown Police Department, Richard moved to Roscoe, New York upon his retirement. May he rest in eternal peace.
John Mastandrea, VVA #333 President
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VA RESOURCES
For any questions or requests,1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411) is always the right number.For non-urgent questions, you can reach VA using the VA Health & Benefits App or MyHealtheVet secure messaging to schedule an
appointment, refill prescriptions, and access your medical records.
Enroll in VA health care.
Submit a VA disability compensation $$$ claim.
with everyone you know who may benefit, including Veterans, caregivers, service members and survivors.
We're making millions of Veterans eligible for VA health care under the PACT Act. Here’s what YOU need to know.
- If you served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, or Afghanistan, you can enroll.
- If you deployed to any combat zone after 9/11, you can enroll.
- If you deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, you can enroll.
- And even if you never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or serving on active duty here at home—by working with chemicals, pesticides, lead, asbestos, certain paints, nuclear weapons, x-rays, and more—you can enroll, too.
Bottom line: all Veterans who meet the minimum service requirements and were
exposed to toxins and other hazards—at home or abroad—are eligible to enroll in VA care.
VA provides the best and most affordable health care for Veterans in America – and this is your chance to apply. Veterans who are enrolled in VA health care are proven to have better health outcomes than those who get their care elsewhere. And copays can be as low as $0 for prescriptions, urgent care, outpatient care, and more.
Choosing VA means getting everything you need in one spot. Come see why 90% of
patients said they trust VA for their health care. Even if you don’t need this care today, you may need it tomorrow, or the next day, or 30 years from now. And once you’re in, you have access for life.
You can also file claims and receive other help through the local Rockland County Veterans Service Agency, located on the first floor of 20 Squadron Blvd., New City, New York 10956. They are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call ahead to make an appointment. 845-638-5244.
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| VA Announces Clinical Trial -- MDMA-Assisted Therapy
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VA launches MDMA-assisted mental health
therapy trial
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs today announced a new clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted therapy, or MDMA-assisted therapy, for the treatment of severe mental health disorders, including posttraumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder.
The new trial comes after President Trump’s recent executive order on "Accelerating Medical Treatments for Serious Mental Illness." The order aims to increase clinical trial participation and accelerate innovative research models and drug approvals for psychedelic drugs.
VA’s trial, titled "A Randomized Controlled Trial of MDMA-Assisted Therapy for PTSD and Alcohol Use Disorder in U.S. Veterans," will enroll approximately 80 Veterans and compare outcomes between those receiving MDMA-assisted therapy and those receiving identical psychotherapy with an active placebo. VA is coordinating with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and intends
to share data from the trial with FDA.
"We need an all-of-the-above strategy when it comes to improving mental health treatments, and under President Trump, that’s exactly what VA is working to deliver," said VA Secretary Doug Collins. "This trial represents an important step in safely evaluating new approaches and innovations to treat Veterans with severe mental health conditions."
The randomized, placebo-controlled trial of MDMA-assisted therapy will take place at VA
Providence Healthcare System, and Veterans will be recruited for the trial from the Providence, Rhode Island, campus and VA Connecticut Healthcare System in West Haven, Connecticut.The health and safety of Veterans who choose to participate in this trial is VA’s top priority. Investigational treatments will be delivered in a safe, controlled, clinical setting using pharmaceutical grade drugs under careful quality controls, stringent safety protocols that were developed with FDA, and in a setting that includes structured psychotherapy.
VA is involved in 19 other
active clinical trials focused on psychedelic therapies for mental health conditions that are supported by more than $23 million in external funding. All VA research, including research into psychedelics, is conducted under strict safety protocols and in full compliance with federal guidelines.
Psychedelic drugs are a class of substances that alter consciousness or awareness and can be organically or synthetically produced. The FDA has granted breakthrough therapy designation to several psychedelic substances, including MDMA, psilocybin and LSD, allowing for expedited review of these drugs. Clinical use of these therapies outside of research will only be considered by VA once FDA approval is granted.
VA strongly discourages self-medicating or attempting to replace other mental health treatment options with psychedelics or any other unprescribed substances. Proven, evidence-based treatments, are currently available at VA facilities to treat Veterans with mental health conditions. Veterans should always consult their health care providers before making any treatment decisions.The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT07118839).
Veterans with questions about their health care and benefits (including GI Bill). Questions, updates and documents can be submitted online.Contact us online through Ask VA
Veterans can also use our chatbot to get information about VA benefits and services. The chatbot won’t connect you with a person, but it can show you where to go on VA.gov to find answers to some common questions. Learn about our chatbot and ask a question
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Free lifetime Liberty Pass for Vets and Gold Star Families
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The Lifetime Liberty Pass offers various benefits, including free entry to state parks, DEC-operated day-use areas, boat launch sites, historic sites, and more. It also provides perks like free golf at State Park golf courses, access to State Park pools, and discounts on camping and cabin rentals.
Link for information: Liberty Pass for Veterans and Gold Star Families
EligibilityThe Lifetime Liberty Pass allows qualified New York State (NY State) Veterans or Gold Star Parents, Spouses, and Children discounted use of state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities operated by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (NY State Parks) and the
Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Once issued, the Lifetime Liberty Pass will never expire.
New York State Veteran- A resident of NY State who is a Veteran, as such term is defined in section one of the Veterans’ services law.
- A resident of NY State who has served on active duty for the state as a member of the state organized militia as defined in subdivision nine of section one of the military law and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable.
- A resident of NY State who has served on active duty in the uniformed services of the United States or on active duty for the state as a member of the organized militia and has a qualifying condition, as defined in section one of the Veterans’ services law, and has received a discharge other than bad conduct or dishonorable from such service.
- A resident of NY State who is a discharged LGBT Veteran, as defined in section one of the Veterans’ services law, and has received a discharge other than bad conduct or dishonorable from such service. Applicant must be a NY State resident. Section 26 of New York’s Veterans’ Services Law incorporates the federal definition of a
parent, at U.S.C. 1126 to determine eligibility for the State’s Gold Star annuity program. The federal definition, which pertains to the federal Gold Star lapel program defines a Veteran as a service member who lost their life during armed conflicts, international terrorist attacks and military operations specified in federal rules.
New York State Gold Star Parent, Spouse, or Child- The term 'Gold Star Parent' for this program includes any biological parent, stepparent, and parent by adoption who was serving in the role of a parent to the service member at the time of the service member's death.
- The term ‘Gold Star Spouse’ for this program includes any spouse or domestic partner of a Veteran whose death qualified the parent for an annuity.
- The term ‘Gold Star Child’ for this program includes any biological, step, or legally adopted minor child of a Veteran whose death qualified the parent for an annuity.
ApplyTo apply or learn more, visit the State Parks website or call 518-474-2324 during regular business hours.
Additional AssistanceIf you need assistance, or just want to learn more about the benefits and services you may be eligible for, schedule an appointment with one of our Veterans Benefits Advisors, all Veterans themselves.- Call 1-888-838-7697 to speak to an advisor.
- Schedule a phone or video consultation online.
- Use our search to find a Services Office near you.
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| Cold War-era Veterans Exposed to Radiation
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‘We worked in secrecy’: Cold War-era veterans exposed to radiation demand easier access to VA benefits
By LINDA F. HERSEY
STARS AND STRIPES • May 27, 2026
WASHINGTON — Incomplete, lost and destroyed military records hinder efforts by some Cold War-era veterans exposed to radiation at the Nevada Test and Training Range and other nuclear weapons sites to collect benefits after a diagnosis of cancer or other serious disease years later, a Nevada lawmaker said. "The records just weren’t there to show that some people were actually involved in the testing and how much exposure they received," Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., said Tuesday at an unusual roundtable organized by Democratic lawmakers at the National Atomic Testing Museum, in Las Vegas. "People not only have had to fight their own
diseases, but they have had to fight the government they served during the Cold War to get compensation for the illnesses that evolved over that exposure," Titus said during a more than two-hour discussion, streamed on YouTube and Facebook, that featured firsthand stories of veterans. Rep. Mark Takano, of California — the top Democrat on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee — traveled from the nation’s capital to Nevada to host the discussion and learn from veterans about their efforts to access military records and medical evidence to qualify for benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Military service at the Nevada Test and Training Range is not currently classified as a blanket "radiation-risk activity" by the Department of Veterans Affairs for standard disability presumptions, according to lawmakers. Veterans often must provide specific documentation, including radiation dose estimates, to link an illness to their former duties
at the site. "We worked in secrecy and silence during the Cold War and could never speak about what we did," said Rick Workman, a retired Air Force captain and founder of the Sound of Silence Project. Sound of Silence (SOS) advocates for Cold War-era nuclear weapons technicians, inspectors and specialists who served between 1945 and 1991. "We did not know what was being emitted through surfaces of nuclear weapons when we were in close proximity," said Workman, a former nuclear weapons specialist who served at Nellis Air Force Base, in southern Nevada. "We were bombarded with gamma and neutron radiation," said Workman, adding that his organization represents 30,000 Cold War-era veterans who supported, inspected and maintained the nation’s arsenal of nuclear weapons. The Cold War, which began shortly after World War II and ended in 1991 with the collapse of the Soviet Union, was defined by geopolitical tensions and a buildup of nuclear arsenals, according to the National World War II Museum.
SOS, The Invisible Enemy and the National Association of Atomic Veterans were among veterans advocacy groups that participated in the roundtable.
The groups pressed Takano, Titus and other Democratic members of Nevada’s delegation to prioritize the PRESUME Act and other bills that would make it easier for
radiation-exposed veterans and their dependents to receive VA benefits. The PRESUME Act stands for Providing Radiation Exposed Servicemembers Undisputed Medical Eligibility Act.
The legislation would end a requirement for some veterans to prove they absorbed a certain level of radiation to qualify for health care and compensation, according to language in the bill.
Titus, who introduced the bill, said that historical radiation dose estimates often are difficult to calculate, inaccurate or missing from a veteran’s military records.
"Simply being present in a known radiation-exposure location — such as during nuclear cleanup or testing — should be enough to grant presumptive status," Titus said.
The bill was reviewed in February by the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.
"Our veterans do not have the luxury of time when they are standing toe to toe with toxic exposures," Takano said.
Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev., who serves on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, said that more than 20 years ago Congress passed legislation to provide free medical treatment and compensation for nuclear weapons technicians who became ill after radiation exposure.
But veterans who served at the Nevada Test and Training Range often were "not able to prove their service and receive the health care they were entitled to," due to the classified nature of their missions, she said, adding that they continue to struggle for recognition.
The Defense Department today does not classify NTTR as a location where toxic exposures occurred, said Lee, who is leading the PROTECT Act.
The Presumption for Radiation or Toxin Exposure Coverage for Troops Act, or PROTECT Act, specifically provides VA health care coverage and disability benefits to radiation-exposed veterans who became ill after their service at the Nevada Test and Training Range.
To continue reading, use this link: https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2026-05-27/veterans-radiation-exposure-access-benefits-21795728.html?utm_source=Stars+and+Stripes+Emails&utm_campaign=d8cf3f5726-Newsletter+-+Veterans+news&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_0ab8697a7f-d8cf3f5726-296933127
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Food Pantry at Veterans Service
Agency
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VETERANS SERVICE AGENCY
20 Squadron Boulevard, Suite 101
New City, New York 10956-5258
Phone: (845) 638-5244 Fax: (845) 638-5730
Email: BranamS@co.rockland.ny.us
Susan Branam, Director
Our office has a Food Pantry for veterans and surviving spouses. We will gladly accept donations. Items can be dropped off during business hours, Monday - Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Our
current wish list:
- Protein Drinks
- Sports Drinks
- Peanut butter
- Canned chili Jelly
- Hot cocoa packets
- Laundry detergent
- Kitchen bags
- Mayonnaise
- Pretzels
- Cookies/Crackers
- Sponges
- Dish soap
- Cans of coffee
- Canned fruit
- Canned salmon
- Canned Tuna and Spam
- Pudding cups (non-refrigerated)
- Rice
- Pasta sauce
- Aluminum Foil
- Ziploc bags
- Popcorn
- Parmesan cheese
- Cooking oil (not large)
- Body wash
- Socks (new)
Thank you!
*We cannot accept clothing at this
time.
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| Faces of Freedom -- Those Who Defend Our Country
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Faces of Freedom -- Oral Histories and Portraits of the Men and Women that Defend Our Country
I never served in the military, and I never had to make the sacrifices US military veterans have made. I decided I wanted to do something to show my gratitude to our veterans and I began my project which I call Faces of Freedom.
The project consists of interviews and photographs. I meet with veterans, record
their personal history, and take their photo. I print the photo in black and white, frame it and present it to each veteran at no charge. The interview covers each veteran’s life before, during and after their time in the service. Each veteran has the opportunity to make any changes to their bio before it is finalized. I make no money from this project and the photos are free to each veteran.
Currently these photos and bios appear on my website www.facesoffreedom.us. They also appear on my Facebook page and the photos and stories of the WWII veterans have been sent to the National WWII Museum for their archives. There are currently 80 interviews and photos on the
website. I hope to make this into an exhibit for universities, high schools, community centers, libraries, etc. to help increase awareness of the 3% of the population who is doing the heavy lifting so the rest of us can enjoy all that this country has to offer.
Every veteran has a story. Some stories are about combat, some are about funny memories, some stories are sad, and some are about things accomplished after their military service. All are about service to country and making sacrifices.
You have a story and I want to tell it to the rest of the people in the United States. Let’s pick a date and get together to record your history and tell it to our fellow citizens.
Regards,
Walter Schuppe
Avon, CT
Phone: (860) 558-1072
E-mail: walter11_22@yahoo.com
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| Book Proceeds Benefit Disabled Veterans
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Please check out Vietnam veteran Roy Tschudy's book, "Endless." Roy is a past President of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #333, and writes about a variety of experiences that our Vietnam vets encountered. As with all good books, be prepared to experience a lot of emotions with this: you will be intrigued, angry, surprised, maybe shed a tear or two, and laugh out loud at some of the shenanigans in this enjoyable tale of fact, fiction and myth. All proceeds of "Endless" go to help veterans. The book is available in paperback or Kindle edition from Amazon:
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VA: Hiring Veterans - Manage your career and employment benefits
County of Rockland: Visit our website to learn more about employment in Civil Service and to search for a variety of employment opportunities available to you within Rockland County. https://mycivilservice.rocklandgov. com/exams
NYS Department of Civil Service
Looking for a job with great benefits? Join New York State! Public servants for NYS enjoy benefits including:
*Generous PTO
*Health Insurance
*Hybrid Remote Work Options
Browse open positions: https://statejobs.ny.gov
#NYSJobs #NowHiring #WorkLifeBalance
VA Hudson Valley is hiring and enrolling! Our Veterans deserve the best and we need your help to deliver that care for them. Please share with your networks!Hiring: We currently have 100+ job vacancies posted on our USAJOBS page, available USAJOBS - SearchThese include clinical and non-clinical roles at our campuses in Montrose and Castle Point, as well many of our 7 clinics throughout the Hudson Valley. Applicants can review the great VA benefits we offer, to include, compensation, leave flexibilities, student loan forgiveness, health care benefits and retirement benefits.Some of the jobs we need filled urgently are:- Nurse, including all Specialties – Montrose Campus
- Medical Support Assistant - Montrose and Castle Point locations
- AC Mechanic – Castle Point Campus
Always accepting applications for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurse and Certified Nurse Assistant. VA wants to hear from you! If you have questions about any of the above positions, please contact Timothy.McGuigan@va.gov or call 503-307-0193.
For further information, contact Timothy J McGuigan, MS,
HR Senior Consultant, VA Hudson Valley HCS -- (503) 307 0193. VISN2HRSBUHudsonValley@va.govThe Department of Civil Service: The following examination announcements have been updated and added to our public website. When filing your online application, please be advised that technical assistance is available Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please be advised that you will need a
personal NY.gov ID to apply for Department of Civil Service examinations. If you do not have a personal NY.gov ID, please create an account. Here are some of the employment opportunity examinations coming up -- please view this link for further description of each position: Continuous Recruitment ExaminationsThe Department also accepts applications for most continuous recruitment examinations on an ongoing basis, with no application deadline.- Continuous Recruitment Examinations -
https://www.cs.ny.gov/jobseeker/public/cr.cfmHELP Program – No Examinations RequiredThe Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement (HELP) Program temporarily removes the civil service exam requirement for more than 100 direct care, health and human services titles across State agencies for a 12-month period. To be eligible for jobs in the HELP program, candidates must meet the jobs’ minimum qualifications and any other conditions of employment. Candidates should visit the HELP Jobs
Portal and use the candidate portal to apply for jobs in the HELP program.
Check out HELP Jobs Portal here: https://www.cs.ny.gov/help/Veterans Employment and Training Services (VETS) Resources for VeteransFedEx Independent Service Provider
FedEx is looking to hire full time and part time drivers to deliver and pickup packages from Blauvelt, NY. Full time schedule is Monday – Friday and part time schedule has weekend positions available. Must be over 21 years old, have a clean drivers license, and be able to pass physical and drug tests. Background checks are also required.
Salary for full time starts at $700 per week. Please contact 201-724-7781 to see if you qualify.
Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction of the Veterans Administration:
The link below lists current positions have been announced for the Office of Acquisition, Logistics and Construction (OALC). This is not a complete listing of all Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) vacancies and may not include all positions announced for OALC. You may access VA recruitment information on the VA Jobs site at this link: https://www.va.gov/jobs/
If you wish copies of announcements listed below, please contact the individual identified in the specific announcement. Here is the link to the OALC Job Listings:
https://www.va.gov/oalc/career.asp
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| Rockland County Marine Corps League
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Rockland County Marine Corps League regularly receives donations of handicap assistance equipment for disabled veterans from people who want to help. The
donated equipment is available for free to military veterans and their families. The items include the following:
- Motorized Wheelchairs
- Manual Wheelchairs
- Oxygen Generator
- Walkers
- Bath Chairs
- Transfer Benches
- Braces
- Crutches
- Canes
If you have need of any of this equipment, contact John Leighton of the
Rockland County Marine Corps League - 845-521-5361 or via email: jhleighton@att.net.
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RockVets Monthly E-Newsletter
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RockVets is an Outreach program of New York Vets, Inc., a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization established in 1992, to advocate for those who have worn the uniform of the U.S. Military, no matter where or when they served. The volunteers at New York Vets / RockVets publish this monthly e-newsletter. We welcome your thoughts, questions, and feedback. E-mail: NewYorkVets@gmail.com or pat@rockvets.com.We are not affiliated with any government agency such as the Veterans Administration, Rockland County Government, nor the Veterans Service Agency of Rockland.Each month, our newsletter
reaches more than 1800 local veterans or those who care about veterans' interests. Please use this forum to let veterans know of any information, resources, links or events they might be beneficial to them. Send information to NewYorkVets@gmail.com or send us a note through our website: https://newyorkvets.org. Thank you for passing this newsletter along to other veterans or those who care.
Our Mailing
AddressNew York Vets, Inc. / RockVetsP.O. Box 387Tomkins Cove, New York 10986 Pat McGladeCo-Founder / Director
Website: http://newyorkvets.org
RockVets Newsletters: https://newyorkvets.org/newslettersEmail: NewYorkVets@gmail.com
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