The state of Maine has joined New York and New Jersey in the fight for getting laws passed which aim at protecting each state’s veterans from predatory companies not accredited by the VA who try to take advantage of veterans applying for claims.

Can you imagine the trauma “claim sharks” can instill on the already fragile minds of the returning military? Many of our veterans are coming home from either a war zone, a post where there is much suffering because of not being a democracy, or a place of such poverty that living conditions are abysmal. Then, when back in the states, trying to get the benefits they so richly deserve, a claim shark, which can be an individual or a company that tries to get their hands on the veteran, gets in the picture.

The VFW, through the years, has championed a nationwide passage of legislation that protects all veterans from these same claim sharks and unscrupulous law firms. These firms could require a fee, which VA accredited service officers, such as VFW service officers do not.

The VFW Post 4174, in Lehigh Acres, has a very able service officer who is always ready to assist any veteran or the veteran’s family member in whatever type of claim necessary. The VFW has a network of more than 2,300 VA accredited service officers who will never charge a veteran or family member for help.

If you are a veteran in need of help with your claim or information regarding the benefits you are eligible to receive, feel free to call our Post 4174 at 239-369-5100 and get an appointment with our service officer, Larry D’Angelo. He is a highly qualified service officer who has been assisting our veterans for many years and has many commendations to show for his excellent work.

Being a member of a VFW post is really a good place for veterans to join. There is always something happening in the upper echelon which the post is kept up to date on, the activities are often fun, but also patriotic and memorable. The VFW family is a very close one and goes out of its way to continually serve our veterans.

Take the time to get to know us. You’ll be glad you did!