The Office of Tribal Government Relations in the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) sends this information as posted below:
On July 25, 2025, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes’ will host a Presumptive Conditions Disability Claims Campaign Event focused on identifying and assisting Veterans across Western Oklahoma who may have presumptive disabilities and be eligible for a VA pension claim.
The Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 was a new law that expanded VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances during their military service. This law helps VA provide generations of Veterans — and their survivors — with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.
At the event, on-site Veteran Service Officers will assist with filling out VA disability claim paperwork and will review claims.
In addition, benefit advisors will be available from the Oklahoma City VA Health Care Center, Muskogee VBA Regional Office, Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, local Vet Centers, Tribal and Indian Health Service programs, and Tribal Veteran Service Officers. VA health care representatives will enroll Veterans and provide toxin health screens.
A presumptive disability is a condition that VA presumes is related to military service, although the condition may first appear after discharge from the military. These conditions may qualify for VA compensation payments.
Widows and spouses are encouraged to attend this event as they may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation when a Veteran dies as a result of these presumptive disabilities.
Throughout 2025, VA is continuing a nationwide campaign to increase outreach, rolling out Veteran disability enrollment claims events collaboratively with more than 30 tribal communities. VA realizes this outreach effort could have a direct, tangible impact on the lives of thousands of previously unreached Veterans and their spouses.
“With the focus on Veterans with presumptive disabilities and those who are pension eligible, VA is hopeful we can help Indian Country Veterans access the full range of benefits they have courageously earned through their service,” said Stephanie Birdwell, Director, VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations.
Perhaps the largest health care and benefit expansion in VA history, the PACT Act of 2022 brings these changes:
- Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras
- Adds more than 20 new presumptive conditions for burn pits and other toxic exposures
- Adds more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiation
- Requires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every Veteran enrolled in VA health care
- Helps VA improve research, staff education, and treatment related to toxic exposures
If you’re a Veteran or survivor, you can file claims now to apply for PACT Act-related benefits. To learn more about the PACT Act, visit the PACT Act and VA benefits.
WHAT: “Your Service. Our Mission: Bringing VA Benefits Home” Disability Claims Presumptive Conditions Campaign Event
The event is free and lunch will be provided.
WHEN: Friday, July 25, 2024, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
WHERE: R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Gym, 220 E. Black Kettle Blvd, Concho, OK 73022
WHO: Veterans and their spouses/widows/widowers
HOW: If available, Veterans are asked to bring the following documents:
- Medical records/medical evidence (e.g., doctor or hospital reports)
- Any documents that provide historical or military information needed for the disability you are claiming
- Discharge or separation papers (DD 214 or equivalent)
- Dependent records (e.g., marriage certificate, death certificate, children birth certificates)
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