yachterotter

This is really nice advice. You seem very sweet (especially to have gone through so much.) Thank you!

Yes, this is true. But for women who are interested who did not serve (ex: wives, children, grandchildren, etc.), the Auxiliary is their only option. I suppose I should have made that more clear.

I don't want to make it seem like I am spamming this thread, as I have made other comments, but you should look into getting support or joining the American Legion or the American Legion Auxiliary (for women). Both are excellent veteran support organizations that do great work for Vet advocacy. The work they do ranges from youth programs, welcoming home vets from their tours overseas, to helping out families. I have been a member for five years now, and I absolutely love it.

First of all, I just want to say that I really can't thank you enough for your service and hope your situation continues to get better.

Second of all, I just want to send a message to anyone who is saying, "What can I do?" There are a number of great options that OP has already highlighted, such as writing to your Congressman or simply listening to a Veteran. But there are other options that provide the opportunity to work first hand with Vets or work first hand in advocating for better conditions. There are great organizations, such as the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary that work first hand with Veterans affairs, advocacy for Vets, and assistance with families of members. They do a wide variety of things ranging from welcoming service members home from duty, helping out families in times of need, to going to the VA and helping out with poker night or bringing supplies/cookies to underprivileged Veterans. Both are great organizations, but you have to be a Veteran or a relative of a Veteran who served active duty in a war in order to join. However, communicating with your local Legion/Auxiliary post will also have a great amount of resources that could point you in the right direction.

I hope this helped at least one person. Helping Veterans is one of my passions, and I just hope others get to have the same opportunity to help our heroes.

Yeah, the Legion can be corrupt in some areas, mainly in the East/Southeast. I suppose I am used to the Legion posts on the West Coast, where they are not as big/don't have other interests. It's good to hear they are doing good work though!

I wish you the best!