American Legion conducting third annual DSO Symposium Oct. 25-30 to provide representatives with education, resources and tools to help veterans and their families obtain their benefits.
American Legion accredited service officers are encouraged to attend the third annual Department Service Officer (DSO) Symposium in October. The symposium offers advanced training for accredited service officers who assist veterans and their families in navigating the benefits process.
The symposium takes place Oct. 25-30 at the Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. Service officers interested in attending must register by Sept. 25. To register for the symposium, use this link. Upon acceptance, participants will receive further information on travel logistics, class schedules and other specifics.
Hotel check-in begins at 1 p.m. Oct. 25 and is followed by a welcome reception and dinner at 4 p.m. Click here to register for the reception and dinner. A graduation ceremony will take place at approximately 10 a.m. on Oct. 30.
The symposium will feature a 300-level course designed to increase participants’ understanding of the full lifecycle of VA disability claims. The event will include expert-led sessions, hands-on exercises and keynote presentations. In addition to equipping American Legion DSOs with the tools and knowledge they need to better serve veterans, the symposium also is an opportunity to strengthen their network and ensure that those who advocate for veterans are fully prepared to navigate complex claims and appeals.
For attendees, the first 60 hotel room blocks are $150 plus applicable tax; after the first 60 are reserved, the room rate changes to $269. Airfare and gas expenses are to be covered by the DSO’s sponsoring department or agency.
Per diem, food and transportation to the venue from the airport will be covered by American Legion National Headquarters.
For more information, contact Brandon McClain at bmcclain@legion.org or Keyshia Croslan-Proctor at kproctor@legion.org.
- Veterans Benefits