An Open Letter to North Dakota's Newest Veteran

Welcome home!

Thank you for your service and the sacrifices you have made. It has been said that we live in the Age of Information. This may be true, yet one of the most often heard laments from National Guard service members returning from mobilization, is that there is so much information regarding veterans' benefits. This onslaught of new information and how your veteran status now fits into your lives can be overwhelming, confusing, and frustrating.

As your Transition Assistance Advisor, I will assist and guide you in your pursuit of your benefits. Benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs include health care, disability compensation, dental care, vocational rehabilitation, life insurance, and home loan assistance, to name a few. Some of your benefits must be applied for within a specific amount of time.

• Dental treatment (must have been mobilized for 90 days and must be applied for within 180 days of REFRAD date): The VA provides dental care for veterans who were not provided with dental examination upon separation from active duty. You need preauthorization from the VA before your dental visit.

• Reemployment (within 180 days of REFRAD date): If you left a civilian job to enter active duty, you may be entitled to return to that job after discharge. There are some stipulations and restrictions; check with ESGR at 701-333-2057.

• Unemployment compensation: Eligibility and amount of benefit and payment period varies from state to state. In North Dakota, the number is 1-701-328-4995 or visit their website at www.jobsnd.com.

Every county in North Dakota has a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) who will be able to assist you with applications and information on benefits and services offered by the DVA. You can access your county VSO is at http://www.nd.gov/veterans/officers/. Your Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty, DD Form 214, member copy 4, is your claim ticket to your veterans' benefits from the DVA. Safeguard this valuable document and take it with you when you visit your county VSO.

If you have any questions, regardless of where you are in your pursuit, whether you have just returned home or if you have been home for a while, please contact me. I look forward to being able to assist you.

Again, welcome home and thank you for your service and consideration.

Marilyn C. Rohrer
Transition Assistance Advisor
for the North Dakota National Guard
Arrowpoint Corporation
Telephone: 701-333-4816
Fax: 701-333-4825
email