Last week’s “What is a Form- 214?” column hit home with many veterans, their families and survivors. One call was from a veteran in Bowdoinham whose wife asked him “Do we have one of those?” He told me that he was really embarrassed to tell her “I think so, but I’m not sure.” I’ve heard this kind of response in the past. But it’s really important for veterans to have this paper readily available.

Veterans and survivors who may need help obtaining VA and military records can call the Mid- Coast Veteran’s Resource Center at Brunswick Landing (406-4103). You know that non-veterans have the same responsibility to get their paperwork and affairs in order. Death is one of the eventualities in life, but one that the survivors must face – the death of their loved one. To help ease the burden on your spouse and family, certain preparations can be made in advance.

Gather and keep in a safe place (readily available to survivors) the original or copies of: that DD- 214/discharge certificate (veterans) and any VA documents that indicate a claim number (after June 1974, the veteran’s social security number is assigned as the claim number); a copy of any marriage certificates and divorce decrees (if any); insurance policies with beneficiary designations; a copy of the family will and/or power of attorney; for veterans, a VA form 21-22 (appointment of Veteran’s Service Officer as claimant’s representative (form 21-22 dies with the veteran, so the family must reapply to gain death benefits due them)); bank account and investment records (IRAs, 401Ks, etc.); credit card records; mortgage documents/deed; automobile records; social security records; pension payment info; location of safety deposit box.

When it comes to healthcare, military retirees turning age 65 should understand the differences between Medicare and Tricare (DOD) – two separate healthcare programs. Medicare is medical insurance for anyone age 65 and older, as well as for those under 65 who qualify for social security disability insurance. Military retirees can call the MVRC on Tuesdays, between 9 a.m. and noon to get Tricare-related questions answered – ask to speak to Tom.

Marine Corps veterans should know that in August 2012, President Obama signed a Camp Lejeune Contaminated Water Healthcare Act into law, which recognizes that Camp Lejeune, NC, drinking water contamination may be responsible for health problems for active duty military veterans and their family members who resided at the base for 30 days or more between Jan. 1, 1957 and Dec. 31, 1987; and they may be eligible for VA health benefits for 15 named medical conditions. Under this law, the VA immediately provided care for veterans who had been stationed at the base, but now the VA will also cover their dependent’s healthcare costs since March 26, 2013. For more information, call Paul Loveless at the MVRC (from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday).

In state legislative news, the 127th legislative session will be opening in January. A swearingin ceremony will take place on Dec. 3 at the House and Senate chambers, third floor of the State House. Members of the Mid-Coast Veteran’s Council legislative committee will be on hand along with members from other veterans groups. A Meet & Greet social event will take place following the ceremony, around 4 p.m., so that veterans’ groups will have an opportunity to meet the legislators who are veterans. A ‘Veterans Caucus’ will be held to discuss upcoming veterans-related legislation. Today, MCVC representatives will also attend the monthly meeting of the Maine Veteran’s Coordinating Committee to conduct business and attend to the Committee’s biannual election of officers.

Congratulations again to Joanne McMahon on her selection as a Channel 6 TV “6 Who Care” awardee. Her profile appeared again on Thursday’s 5:30 p.m. news. Joanne, we’re all very proud of your award.

A correction from last week’s column — Dante is not going to Arizona; he’s headed to Las Vegas to hit it big. He has said that he’ll donate a new building to Brunswick Legion Post 20 from some of the millions he’s going to win. Jim says he can add a little, too, if Dante does. The Coffee Crowd has dwindled down a bit… must be the weather. Old bones don’t like the cold.

‘Till next time, keep the faith and remember Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7,1941.

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Chick Ciciotte is the legsilative chairperson for the Mid-Coast Veterans Council. He lives in Topsham.