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Veteran’s day is a time to thank those who serve our country, but it can also be an opportunity to raise awareness about issues facing vets. Students and veterans gathered at the University of Texas at San Antonio on Wednesday for a roundtable discussion. More from Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea
November 12, 2009 · Most vets now pursuing higher education are concerned about Post 9-11 G.I .Bill. The law was implemented at the beginning of this school year and dramatically expands benefits for those who qualify, but collecting the aid has been a difficult process. Lorna Lewis is the president of the Student Veterans Association at UTSA. She hopes the distribution of benefits the winter semester will be smoother than the fall semester.
“We have encouraged everybody to register early, get certified early and just have a backup plan, because we understand that with a new system in place, and so many students that it can be bogged down,” said Lewis.
Texas Congressman Ciro Rodriguez helped lead the roundtable discussion. The Democrat concedes the new program is off to a bumpy start, but hopes he and other members of Congress can fix the problems soon.
“We’ve already had a hearing in D.C. on the implementation of the G.I. Bill, but we need to continue to see where the gaps are and how we can correct the piece of legislation,” said Rodriguez.
Rodriguez sits on the House Veterans Affairs committee and has a large population of veterans in his vast rural district. He has pushed for expanding services in West Texas and supports the construction of a new VA hospital in the Rio Grande Valley, but at this point vets must get the services they need at local hospitals contracted to help them or drive to San Antonio for major care. Rodriguez is still hopeful Congress will approve a new facility.
“I think the services have improved. It’s not where it should be, but we’re working on it. But as we go out into rural communities and other parts of the country there are major gaps, so we’re trying to see how we can fill those gaps,” Rodriguez said.
Students and vets peppered Rodriguez and his staff with questions and concerns for about an hour on other issues including extended deployments and family support.
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