Schilling invites area heroes to Veterans Forum?

Congressman Bobby Schilling (IL-17) will be hosting a forum specifically for veterans this Saturday, May 12 at the American Legion, 571 E. North St., Galesburg. The forum is from 10 a.m. - noon.

Duane Honeycutt, director of the Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Office in Chicago (VARO), and Dawn Oxley, acting director of the Iowa City VA Health Care System have agreed to meet with area veterans to gather input from them about their needs and provide them with information about veterans benefits and processes.

The forum is intended to be educational and will address issues pertaining to the operation of the VARO, such as how to properly file a claim, the claim and appeal process, what documents are necessary to file a claim, the length of time to review a claim, and more. The forum is open to veterans, their spouses, VSOs, and other individuals who may have concerns.

?“Our veterans and their families have sacrificed so much for our country, and it is our responsibility to provide them with the care they deserve,” Schilling said.  “This forum will give our area’s heroes the opportunity to speak directly with VA officials to share their ideas about what can be done both in Illinois and in Washington to improve their access to care.” ?

Those interested in attending the forum can contact Schilling’s office in Moline by calling (309) 757-7630. Due to the sensitive nature of casework the forum itself is closed to the press. Media should check in with Ken Moffett upon arriving for further information.