VA LAUNCHES NEW WEB SITE TO SERVE IRAQ AND AFHGANISTAN VETS

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2009— AMVETS, one of the nation’s leading veterans’ service organizations, applauds the VA’s new online resource for OIF and OEF veterans, www.oefoif.va.gov.

“We’re excited to see this new, comprehensive Web site up and running,” said AMVETS National Commander John C. Hapner. “For today’s veterans, the internet is their primary means of staying connected. This new Web site takes full advantage of all these resources to ensure that our newest vets have access to VA’s resources.”

The VA launched the new “Returning Veterans” Web site as a comprehensive online resource for recently-returned veterans to connect and communicate with their peers and to learn about the benefits to which they may be entitled.

The site features videos, stories, and a blog where veterans can post their own comments on critical issues. The new site also features a comprehensive overhaul of the VA’s traditional benefits Web page, allowing veterans to easily search by category and areas of interest.

“VA is entering the world of Web 2.0, because that’s where this generation of Veterans is already communicating,” said Dr. Gerald M. Cross, VA principal deputy undersecretary for health, in a press release this morning. “We’re opening our doors to them virtually to let them know what they can expect when they step through our doors in reality. We hope our returning Veterans find this site easy and helpful, but also engaging.”

The VA went on to say that as the site grows, they will link to critical information from across the veterans’ community, such as blogs and relevant external resources. AMVETS looks forward to working with the VA down the road to ensure that this Web site remains a viable, comprehensive resource for today’s veterans.

About AMVETS:    
A leader since 1944 in preserving the freedoms secured by America’s armed forces, AMVETS provides support for veterans and the active military in procuring their earned entitlements, as well as community service and legislative reform that enhances the quality of life for this nation’s citizens and veterans alike. AMVETS is one of the largest congressionally-chartered veterans’ service organizations in the United States, and includes members from each branch of the military, including the National Guard and Reserves. To learn more visit www.amvets.org.