National Vietnam Veterans Day on March 29 honors the courage and sacrifice of those who served during the Vietnam War – many of whom never received the welcome home they deserved. Learn why this day matters, the unique VA benefits challenges Vietnam veterans face, including Agent Orange exposure and PTSD and how veterans and their families may still qualify for disability compensation and survivor benefits. Plus VASRD updates.

On Four Chaplains Day, we remember the extraordinary courage of four U.S. Army chaplains who sacrificed their lives in 1943 so others could survive. Their final act – giving away their life jackets and praying arm in arm as the SS Dorchester sank – remains a powerful symbol of unity, faith, and service above self. Today, their legacy continues in how we support veterans and surviving families, ensuring they receive the VA benefits and advocacy they deserve.

Award-winning actor and longtime veterans’ advocate Matthew Modine joined The VA Claims Lawyer for an unforgettable Veterans Day 2025, using his voice, platform, and personal story to honor those who served. From his powerful keynote speech at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum to heartfelt moments with Marines and military families, Modine brought authenticity, compassion, and deep respect to every event.

Coordinated by The VA Claims Lawyer, Modine’s visit included national media interviews, a Marine Corps Birthday Ball appearance, and the launch of his Full Metal Jacket Diary exhibition—now on display at NVMM through the end of 2025. His off-the-cuff Veterans Day remarks moved many to tears and underscored a shared mission: ensuring veterans are seen, heard, and supported long after their service ends.

Christmas is a season of generosity, and for many veterans, the spirit of service continues long after their military career ends. From Marine-led toy drives and holiday meals for military families to care packages for deployed troops, veterans play an extraordinary role in lifting their communities during the holidays. This guide highlights the most meaningful Christmas drives, support programs, and volunteer opportunities — along with ways veterans and their families can find help if the season feels overwhelming. Whether you’re a veteran wanting to give back or someone who wants to support those who served, here’s how to make a real impact this Christmas.

Losing a loved one is devastating — navigating survivor benefits shouldn’t be. November’s focus on Veterans Day and Military Family Appreciation Month is the ideal time to understand VA programs like Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), survivor pensions, and accrued benefits. Even years later, you may still qualify. Learn your rights and get clear guidance from Al Giordano, The VA Claims Lawyer.

If you are unsure if you can file a claim, or your claim was denied, speak to an experienced attorney about VA benefits and Social Security for veterans. You need to know what the best route is for maximizing your benefits without losing eligibility.

Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability is a term for a Veterans Affairs (VA) disability benefit. With this acknowledgement, you will receive the 100% disability compensation rate and have access to healthcare.

In most situations, this opens the door for significantly higher benefits.

Surviving spouses may be eligible for several types of benefits. VA benefits for widows can seem confusing, as there are several variations to them. The survivor of a veteran may be eligible for Survivors Pension and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). Surviving spouse VA benefits are not always immediately applied to your compensation. You will need to demonstrate that you qualify based on various factors.

Veterans are facing long delays and appeal backlogs, and that is impacting the quality of care and well-being. If you are facing such complexities, hiring an attorney to advocate for you is critical.

Many Veterans are navigating the process of filing claims under the 2022 PACT Act for toxic exposure. However, there have been numerous updates in 2025.