U.S. and Hawaiian flags will be lowered to half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day (all day May 15), Armed Forces Day (all day May 21), and Memorial Day (until noon May 30). Armed Forces Day Celebration, May 21 The public
U.S. and Hawaiian flags will be lowered to half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day (all day May 15), Armed Forces Day (all day May 21), and Memorial Day (until noon May 30).
Armed Forces Day Celebration, May 21
The public is invited to join Kaua‘i veterans and their families at this year’s Armed Forces Day celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kaua‘i Veterans Center. There will be patriotic music, museum tours, vintage military vehicle displays, ample parking, free games for the keiki and more. Admission is free to this alcohol- and drug-free event. Call 246-1135.
Memorial Day Observance, May 30
This annual observance will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Kaua‘i Veterans Cemetery in Hanapepe. Call 246-1135.
TriCare Young Adult medical coverage
TriCare Young Adult is a premium-based health care plan currently available to eligible children of active duty service members, certain members of the Selected Reserve and military retirees. This new fee-based program extends TriCare medical coverage up to age 26. The previous cut-off was at age 21, or 23 for full-time students. This coverage provides worldwide medical and pharmacy benefits. Dental coverage is not provided. TriCare Prime coverage costs $213 per month and TriCare Standard/Extra coverage is $186 per month.
Stop-loss deadline extended again
The deadline for eligible servicemembers, veterans and their beneficiaries to apply for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay (RSLSP) has been extended again to Oct. 21. The RSLSP compensates military members for the hardships they encountered when their service was involuntarily extended under Stop Loss Authority between Sept. 11, 2001 and Sept. 30, 2009. Eligible members or their beneficiaries may submit a claim to their respective military service in order to receive the benefit of $500 for each full or partial month served in a stop-loss status. To apply download DD Form 2944 or call Air Force: 800-525-0102, Army: 877-736-5554, Marine Corps: 877-242-2830, Navy: 901-874-4427.
Substance abuse treatment available on Kaua‘i
The Kaua‘i VA Medical Clinic (CBOC) offers substance abuse counseling and treatment to veterans enrolled in the VA Medical Care Program. Smoking cessation is also offered. All services are confidential and group and individual sessions are available. POC: Paul Ochoa, Addictions Therapist, 246-0497.
Free wireless Internet access and computer usage
The Kaua‘i Veterans Center located on Kapule Highway announces this new service to the Kaua‘i veteran community, including those veterans visiting our island. Computers are for in-center use only and have printing capability. Open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; or call 246-1135 to reserve a time.
Kaua‘i Veterans Military Museum
The Kaua‘i Veterans’ Military Museum offers a unique display of war memorabilia beginning in time with a regimental drum used in the Spanish American War to German mauser rifles once used by the Viet Cong in Vietnam. With more than 38 separate displays, the museum honors all services, all wars and all veterans. Located within the Kaua‘i Veterans Center on Kapule Highway near the airport, the museum is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Closed on holidays.
VA begins new family caregiver program
This program provides added services for primary Family Caregivers of eligible post-9/11 veterans including in-home and community based care, a stipend, mental health services, and access to health care insurance, respite care, caregiver education and training programs, and caregiver support groups. Other services include durable medical equipment and prosthetic and sensory aides to improve function, financial assistance with home modification to improve access and mobility, and transportation assistance for some veterans to and from medical appointments. Disabled veterans must meet certain criteria for their caregivers to receive these benefits. The disability must be a serious injury, including traumatic brain injury, psychological trauma or other mental disorder, incurred or aggravated in the line of duty in the armed forces on or after Sept. 11, 2001. Post 9/11 veterans may locate the Caregiver Support Coordinator at their VA medical center by calling 1-877-222 VETS (8387). In addition, there are over two dozen services specific to caregivers of veterans of all eras that are currently being offered by VA. To find out more about these benefits, contact the Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-230-3274.
Change of address or phone number
Veterans and widows receiving monetary benefits from the DoVA are responsible for informing the VA of any change of address or contact phone number. To report a change, call 1-800-827-1000. Veterans receiving medical care from the Kaua‘i VA Medical Clinic (CBOC) should call 246-0497. Veterans receiving treatment from the Kaua‘i Mental Health Clinic (Vet Center) should call 246-1163.
Tai Chi/Qi Gong classes
Veterans, learn how to relax, reduce blood pressure and maintain good health by attending Tai Chi classes at the Kaua‘i Vet Center each Thursday from 11 to noon. Call 246-1163.
• Tony Elliott, Kaua‘i Office of Veterans’ Services, can be reached at 241-3348.
