I have friends who have served in the Marines, Army, Navy, Air Force, as well as the National Guard, but I have no acquaintances who have served in the Coast Guard. It is perhaps due to the fact that I am hundreds of miles from any ocean, or maybe it’s my personality. This really bums me out because I find the Coast Guard to be fascinating. In honor of the Coast Guard’s birthday, and it also being my own birthday today, I’ve decided to write about the Coast Guard. (Note: As I am sure someone will point out, the Coast Guard actually dates back to August of 1790. However, January 28th is the anniversary of the signing of the 1915 Coast Guard Act that established what is now known as the Coast Guard.)
One thing that stands out about the coast Guard is that many people forget that it is a part of the military, and thus are eligible for benefits. A Coast Guardsman, just like a Soldier, Marine, Airman, or a Sailor, are eligible for VA Disability benefits. Granted, there are a lot fewer Coast Guardsmen then there are Marines for instance, and thus, there are a lot fewer applying for benefits. Also, many people don’t believe that a Coast Guardsman can serve in combat. While they are a lot less likely to serve in a combat mission an individual serving in the Coast Guard may see combat. Finally, the Coast Guard falls under the Department of Homeland Security, and not the Department of Defense. This too leads to the misconception that it’s not a part of the military.
Well, a Veteran of the Coast Guard is just as eligible for benefits as the Veterans in the Marines. I know this because I have spoken to a few Coast Guard Veterans who are now our clients…and it’s my job. One particular story stands out about a mother who called me once regarding her son who had served in the Coast Guard. She stated that he had PTSD and she was upset because she did not know where to turn. Apparently her son was very withdrawn from society. She said that he was not working, and she was really fearful for his safety. We spoke, and I assured her that he was eligible for benefits. We set him up as a client and helped him apply. Now he is seeking treatment for his PTSD.
I really hope to meet someone who served in the Coast Guard soon. What they do really does fascinate me. Until then, if you served in the Coast Guard, and would like to know more about VA disability, give me a call for a free phone consultation. 1-877-526-3457, If you want me to give you a call, fill out this form. Also, request a copy of our free book.
