Americans admire the selflessness, courage, and valor of current and former service members year-round. Veterans Day, however, is an occasion for the nation to publicly recognize those who bravely serve our country. On Nov. 11, join Massachusetts as we come together to remember and honor the veterans who defend our freedom. For information on events in your area, contact a local Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO).

Department of Veterans’ Services

The Commonwealth supports those who serve through the Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS), which aims to improve the lives of those returning from duty and ease their transition to civilian life. Veterans’ Service Officers (VSO) dedicate themselves to helping veterans learn about local, state, and federal benefits while assisting them with the application processes.

Programs and Services

While each of the available benefits and services addresses a different set of needs, they all share the universal goal of providing assistance to our veterans, and their families.

• Eligible veterans receive financial and medical assistance to help purchase necessities such as clothing, food, housing supplies, medical care, and shelter.

• Certain veterans qualify for special license plates, exemptions for motor vehicle taxes, and motor vehicle registration exemptions.

• Some veterans’ dependents can participate in state and federal family benefits programs, including financial assistance for food, clothing, and medical aid.

• Local Veteran Employment Representatives (LVERS) at One-Stop Career Centers throughout Massachusetts provide job search, employment, and training assistance to veterans.

• Veterans may receive financial assistance toward their education through tuition waivers and scholarships; scholarships for family members of veterans are also available.
• Financial assistance for housing is available in several forms, including:
  • Home loans;
  • Tax exemptions;
  • Transitional housing; and,
  • Permanent housing.

• Veterans can receive health and well-being resources through VA Healthcare. The VA’s clinics, hospitals, and centers also provide women’s health services, as well as information about the Transitional Assistance Program (TAP).

• The Women Veterans’ Network of DVS is the central resource for women veterans in Massachusetts and sponsors the annual Massachusetts Conference for Women Veterans, which provides networking opportunities, workshops, and wellness programs.

• Veterans and their family members can get copies of military records, and obtain medals and certificates for their service.

• Additionally, Massachusetts has three veterans’ cemeteries, where certain eligible veterans and family members can be buried.

For additional details about veteran-related programs and services, speak with your local VSO.

How will you be celebrating Veterans Day? Tweet us @MassGov and don’t forget to #ThankAVet!

Tags: department of veterans services, veterans, veterans day, veterans programs