Legionnaires visit NATO headquarters to help transitioning servicemembers.
On Feb. 16, veteran service officers (VSOs) Jennifer Schoenhuth and I visited NATO’s Allied Special Operations Forces (SOFCOM) headquarters, near NATO’s Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers in Europe (SHAPE) in Belgium. The visit provided vital support to transitioning U.S. servicemembers, overcoming the logistical challenges of accessing VSO assistance in Belgium; for many stationed at SHAPE, such a meeting often requires traveling to Germany or even back to the United States.
These logistical hurdles can delay access to important benefits, including the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program, which supports veterans in their transition to civilian life. I had already been assisting two SOFCOM members remotely and was able to offer face-to-face consultations during this visit. Navy Cmdr. Jim Roche suggested the idea of bringing the VSOs to SOFCOM for an in-person briefing on the BDD program. This allowed servicemembers an opportunity to engage with us directly and learn about the benefits they can access during their transition.
The visit also included a follow-up briefing organized by Army Capt. Erica Loroff, commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Allied Forces North Battalion, on Feb. 17. Loroff’s briefing offered additional support for troops considering retirement or transitioning to civilian life.
In total, Schoenhuth and I met with more than 40 active servicemembers and recent veterans, demonstrating the effectiveness of VSO visits for personnel stationed abroad. Roche, who is set to retire soon, emphasized the importance of the visit. “Having these VSO briefs, especially with one-on-one time, is crucial for servicemembers here in Belgium,” he said. This successful visit highlights the critical role of veterans service officers in ensuring transitioning servicemembers are informed and able to access the benefits they have earned, regardless of their location.
- FODPAL