SGT. SHAFT: VA claims advantageous

Dear Sgt. Shaft,I recently had a stroke that left me blind in my right eye. I am already 100 percent service-connected disabled. Is there any advantage to making a further claim?

Thank You,

Maj. Richard H, USAF, Retired

Dear Richard:

Depending on the remaining vision in your right eye, there could be additional compensation payable. You would have to undergo a Veterans Affairs eye examination to determine the extent of your visual impairment.

I suggest you contact the VA to file a claim for increased VA compensation.

Shaft notes

• I was happy to join Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis and a variety of military personnel, veterans, service organizations and congressional leaders who attended the annual salute to veterans at the U.S. Department of Labor headquarters on Friday.

The event included a discussion with two female veterans, highlighted the work of the department’s Veterans Employment and Training Service and spotlighted contributions veterans are making to the workplace.

• The Sarge also was happy to join National Security Adviser James L. Jones, a retired Marine general; Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James T. Conway; and other members of Mac’s Marines to celebrate the 234th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps.

As usual, this special event began with the following prayer:

“O Lord, we have long known that prayer should include confession. Therefore, on behalf of the Marines, I confess their sins: Lord, they’re just not in step with today’s society.

“They are unreasonable in clinging to old-fashioned ideas like patriotism, duty, honor, and country.

“They hold radical ideas believing that they are their brother’s keeper and responsible for the Marine on their flank.

“They have been seen standing when colors pass, singing the National Anthem at ball games, and drinking toasts to fallen comrades.

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