VA is working closely with other Federal departments and agencies to monitor human cases of Swine Influenza in the United States. A Swine Influenza advisory has been issued to all of our medical facilities nationwide. These advisories are a part of daily and weekly updates to inform staff and patients. Our medical professionals are carefully monitoring our Veteran population for any new cases and any new strains. More information is available from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website or the White House Swine Flu information center.

90 Minute Presentation on Post–9⁄11 GI Bill

VA starts accepting applications for the Post 9⁄11 GI Bill on May 1, 2009. Individuals with active duty service since September 11, 2001, may be eligible for this benefit and can apply on–line at www.GIBILL.VA.gov. The program provides tuition assistance, a housing allowance, a books and supplies stipend, and the option to transfer these benefits to family members under certain circumstances. By law, the new benefit is effective August 1, 2009. For more information, visit the GI Bill website or call 1–888–GIBILL–1 (1–888–442–4551).

VA Progress Report
President Obama’s charter to transform the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) into a 21st Century organization has instilled new purpose and urgency within VA. We have reorganized the Office of the Secretary to ensure unified direction. We have instituted numerous practices and policies to strengthen ethical behavior, increase transparency, create accountability, and improve services to Veterans. (full report)

Filipino World War II Veterans
In February, VA announced that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act authorized a new benefit for Filipino Veterans who aided American troops during World War II. The VA Regional Office in Manila is now accepting claims for this one-time payment of $9,000 for non–U.S. citizens and $15,000 for Filipino Veterans with U.S. citizenship. Claims need to be received no later than Feb. 16, 2010. (claim form) (more information)

Veterans seeking information about their rights under the proposed settlement of the court case involving the May 3, 2006, theft of computer equipment from the home of a former VA employee can visit www.VeteransClass.com for more information.