Byrd worked with the DAV office in Manchester, N.H., and a claim was filed in 2016. In 2017, the VA accepted the hearing loss but denied the physical injury claim; the leg and knee injuries were separated into two claims. Two appeals were submitted and later granted in 2018, but one had an incorrect effective date. Meanwhile, Bennett’s health worsened. “My dad was really sick earlier this year and back in the hospital again,” said Byrd. “Day to day, I didn’t know if he’d make it.” Then DAV benefits specialist Jesse Welch jumped into action. Welch stressed the veteran’s age and health condition to his counterparts at the Manchester VA Regional Office. “We needed to get him paid,” explained Welch. “Joseph’s benefits would have disappeared if he passed away, despite his daughter helping him pay out of pocket to fund his care.” The ability to help veterans like Bennett is what means the most to Welch. When the VA granted the earlier effective date just weeks before the World War II veteran’s 100th birthday in April, he was overcome with relief for both Byrd and her father. “It was so important to me that we were able to get resolution for Joseph promptly due to his age and declining health,” said Welch. “This means the money my father gets for disability and Social Security goes to his bank account instead of the medical bills he shouldn’t have had to pay,” said Byrd. “Having an advocate like DAV to tell you not to quit is important,” she added. “I had someone to help me through the process and what I felt like was an injustice. He served, was injured and deserved to be taken care of.” Welch understands firsthand that there is no expiration in honoring service. He served in the Marine Corps for a year and a half before a training injury forced his medical separation. Welch wasn’t even aware DAV.ORG | of the benefits he was eligible for until 25 years after his discharge from the military. A family friend connected him with DAV, and he finally received the benefits he earned through service—decades later. An introduction to the organization also provided him with the ability to continue serving. “Too many veterans believe they have been out too long to get help. It’s important they know that the recognition of their service has no expiration date .” Jesse Welch, DAV National Service Officer “My service in the Marine Corps was cut short,” explained Welch. “I didn’t plan on leaving the military. Working at DAV is an opportunity for me to serve when I couldn’t before.” “Every DAV benefits specialist has been on the other side of the table, going through the claims process themselves,” said National Service Director Jim Marszalek. “They work tirelessly to ensure their fellow veterans receive the benefits they have earned through service. And when there is an absolute emergency—like cases with extenuating circumstances like Joseph’s— they can ensure the claim is processed expeditiously.” “I am thankful for DAV and all they did to help me,” said Bennett. “Too many veterans believe they have been out too long to get help,” said Welch. “It’s important they know that the recognition of their service has no expiration date.” ■ Learn More Online Need help with a claim? Contact a DAV national service office near you. Find yours at dav.org/ veterans/find-your-local-office. @DAVHQ | DAVHQ 7 FACEBOOK.COM/DAV |