VSO Talk Radio

H.R. 8281, the Guard Equal Benefits for Federal Missions ActVA improvements and investmentsMA Welcome Home Bonus Class Action 

Honoring Women History Month

VA plans to scan a million veterans claims for signs of fraud

Major Richard Star Act (S. 1032/H.R. 2102) remains a top priority for veteran advocacy groups, with 2026 being a renewed push for passage. The act seeks to end the unfair "offset" that forces combat-disabled veterans with less than 20 years of service to subtract VA disability pay from their military retirement, often called the ""wounded veteran tax""

The 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, composed of Black soldiers, was one of the first official African American units in the U.S. Civil War. The Tuskegee Airmen were the first Black military aviators in the U.S. Army Air Corps (AAC), a precursor of the U.S. Air Force

On Feb. 17, the Department of Veterans Affairs published an interim final rule that changes one deceptively simple question at the heart of disability exams. Then on  February 19, the VA halted the enforcement the controversial Rule. 

We highlight some Pending Legislation in Congress for Veterans and we speak to Larry Brace, the newest member of our Ludlow Veterans Center Team! 

State Auditor released their report of  an audit of the Veterans Home at Holyoke. VA in 2026 looks to get EHR rollout back on track, embark on health care reorganization

Updates to changes happening in 2026. 

Remember the fallen. Honor those who serve. Teach the next generation the value of freedom. It’s the mission of Wreaths Across America.

In honor of the Marine Corps Birthday, we featured some famous people who served in the Marine Corps🇺🇸

Special in Studio Guest:  Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services Secretary Dr. Jon Santiago▪️creation of cabinet level position ▪️accomplishments ▪️Government Shutdown▪️Hero Act▪️Veterans Homelessness ▪️what’s next as he gets ready to transition out of office.  

As the government shutdown moves into day 15,  we discuss resources available to Service members to alleviate the financial hardship.  

VA Urgent Care Benefit allows eligible veterans to receive treatment for non-life-threatening conditions at community-based urgent care clinics without prior VA authorization.

Some of the greatest players who served our country 

If you already have a service-connected disability, did you know that other conditions caused or worsened by that disability may also qualify? 

This week we have : Westfield State University, Veterans Services Director Mr. Rob Vignault and Springfield College, Veteran and Military Service Coordinator, Jacki Wolf, we discuss Educational Benefits with the subject matter experts. 

VA ancillary benefits a topic that often gets overlooked—those additional programs that go beyond monthly compensation

 Positive stories from the VA, how it works, and how it affects you

Interviewing SSG(Ret) Brian Willette,  his career in the army, his multiple deployments, his Purple Heart and his work in the Veteran community. 

Today we’re talking about a topic that affects thousands of veterans and families each year: divorce. More specifically, what VA benefits stick with you—and which ones don’t—after a separation. Whether you’re a veteran, a spouse, or both, understanding your rights is vital.

VA’s health priority group system, how it works, and how it affects you, and what upcoming changes may be coming in 2025

The debate over privatization of veterans health care versus traditional VA care is one of the most heated and impactful issues in veterans policy today

▪️VA’s Legal Services for Veterans Grant         Program ▪️Beware of Claim Shark 

Women Veterans Recognition Day, observed annually on June 12th, honors the contributions of women who have served in the United States military.

The VA was created to fulfill one core mission: To care for those who have borne the battle,”Is the VA still keeping its promise?

Veterans Stand Down

We want to continue last Episode’s conversation about justice involved veterans with some more information provided by the VA on Incarcerated veterans.  What is available to them but also their families.  

The Western Massachusetts Veterans Treatment Court (WMVTC) is a specialized program within the Massachusetts court system, designed to support veterans who are involved with the criminal justice system and who struggle with substance abuse, mental health challenges, or trauma related to their military service.

This week we discuss SSVF Program. 

VA News and Veteran Suicide Prevention

Presumptive conditions, specifically cancers, associated with herbicide exposures 

▪️VA 2025 Proposed changes▪️what the 5/10/20 rule is when it comes to VA disability ratings. 

March 29th is National Vietnam War Veterans Day—a time to recognize the sacrifices, courage, and resilience of those who fought in Vietnam, as well as the families who stood by them.Today we highlight a few remarkable stories of heroism from the Vietnam War highlighting the bravery and sacrifices of those who served

Current local and National legislation introduced to support Veterans

We Discuss the recent firings at the VA and what this could mean for our veterans. 

A vital aspect of  VA Disability  is the presumption of soundness

This week on #𝗩𝗦𝗢𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 #𝘃𝘀𝗼𝘁𝗿  we talk whst benefits are available for Veterans with 0% Service-Connected Disability 

Brandon Franco a Marine Drill Instructor Turned Veteran’s Services Team Leader for Rosecrance Behavioral Health in Winnebago County Illinois.

▪️VA extends time to switch to new online login system▪️ New VA Secretary sworn in▪️ Heroes' Voices Project 

*Government Hiring Freeze *Benefits for National Guard & Reservists