VFW’s swift action brings benefits to military widow

After listening to a distraught voicemail from military wife Barbara Helsel, VFW Claims Representative Tom Parker knew Barbara and her husband, Edward, were in a desperate situation.

Edward Helsel had recently been diagnosed with lung cancer as a result of exposure to Agent Orange. He was now in home hospice care.

Parker received the message on September 30, 2016. He had little time to act since the VA processes all claims at month-end; not wasting any time, Parker immediately drove to the Helsel home and retrieved signatures for same-day claim submission.

Thanks to Parker’s efforts, the Helsels’ claim was approved. But tragically, Edward Helsel passed away soon after, on Memorial Day, May 29, 2017.

“Though it was a sad situation, I’m glad we were able to honor Mr. Helsel by securing care for his widow,” Parker related.

Because Edward’s claim had been approved before he passed away, Barbara was granted Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). Barbara said, “I’m still grieving the loss of my husband…it’s all so new. But I’m very thankful for the VFW’s help.”

Edward Helsel voluntarily joined the U.S. Army in the winter of 1962. A reserved and humble man, Edward did not share details of his experience in Vietnam with his family.

Barbara knew he suffered from malaria, a gunshot wound and hearing problems. She later found out Edward was a Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient.

Barbara explained he never filed a claim for benefits between retiring from the military and his passing, because, “he always thought someone would need the benefits more than him.” Edward’s graveside service with full military honors was held June 5, 2017.

Barbara would advise all active duty military members to file for benefits immediately after they begin the transition back to civilian life. She said, “Don’t wait. Veterans deserve good care and compensation. They’ve earned it – they answered the call to serve.”

All around the world the VFW is reaching out to America’s heroes doing long dangerous deployments, doing the often difficult transitions back to civilian life and always in the years that follow. The VFW supports veterans and service members with programs that make a real difference which includes educational resources and support, financial assistance during hard times and help navigating the VA system. These programs are available at no charge to veterans and their families thanks to the generosity of Patriots Circle members.

Information for this column came from VFW Patriots Circle Quarterly.

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