Last year Congress enacted a GI Bill for the 21st Century, historic legislation that provides veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with a full, four-year education, among other benefits. Some veterans who have enrolled in college have not yet received their student aid, so Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki has authorized a $3,000 emergency advance for students who have applied for benefits.
Students may obtain these advances, on-the-spot, by visiting their regional VA benefits office or by applying online at www.va.gov. Students without transportation can call their nearest VA medical center and ask for assistance getting to the nearest office. While the VA improves its processing, we can be grateful Secretary Shinseki has taken this step to see that our veterans can concentrate on their studies.
Anthony graduated from Middlesex County College in May 2009 with a major in liberal arts/journalism. He has been writing for The Home News Tribune for almost three years, starting as a circulation representative for the newspaper.