The 2024 VEAF Memorial Day Campaign

Dear Legionnaire,

John had seen too much in Vietnam. The images of war never left him, haunting his nights and clouding his days. Post-traumatic stress was a constant companion, lurking in the shadows, ready to pounce at the slightest trigger. Despite his valor in battle, John returned home to a country that didn’t quite understand the demons he carried.

This is very common as we embrace our Vietnam Veterans and connect with our brothers and sisters who served during this time. Many of our members that served in Vietnam continue to file disability compensation and supplement their income. The Service Officer continues to refer our veterans to support groups who welcome these courageous human beings who signed the dotted line.

With the current Pact Act many have asked questions concerning the presumptive conditions that allow our veterans to file upgrades in their disabilities. 

John mentioned that over the years his scars remained, both visible and invisible. Financial struggles added another layer of hardship to his burdened shoulders. Jobs came and went, never sticking long enough to provide stability. Now, as the weight of his past and present converged, John found himself in need of help. It wasn’t easy to ask, but he knew it was time to reach out and seek the support he deserved. John, a Vietnam veteran, received financial assistance from the American Legion Newport Harbor Post 291.

He found financial support through our Veterans Emergency Assistance Fund (VEAF). With our help, John was able to get through the month as there was a discrepancy with his disability compensation payment. The Veterans Affairs had a payment error that was not corrected within a reasonable amount of time. John had to figure out how to navigate an error he was not responsible for.

John reached out to the Service Officer, Cory Vigil. The Service Officer was able to file a complaint with a congressional representative on his behalf. Cory utilized the VEAF and paid for his rent to avoid an eviction. John found some stability and a sense of community with this support. The one-time assistance helped him get through the month. This is the impact of the VEAF. 

I encourage all of you to continue to support the Memorial Day Campaign and donate as we help with situations that John endured.

VETERAN EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FUND (VEAF) – American Legion 291 (al291.com)

We are grateful for your support.

VETERANS HELP VETERANS

Respectfully,

Cory Vigil
U.S. Navy, Operation Iraqi Freedom
The American Legion Post 291 Service Officer
714-643-3854