VA and the Veterans Day National Committee (VDNC) invite cities, towns and non-profit organizations that wish to host local Veterans Day Observances to apply to be recognized as official Veterans Day Regional Sites. Regional observances—such as parades, concerts, ceremonies, and educational programs—highlight the vital contributions Veterans have made to our nation’s history and culture. Why…
How one Veteran found his purpose through CWT
After years in uniform, Charles Bazier found himself standing at a familiar point many Veterans know too well: the moment after service when the mission is over, but the next chapter is not yet clear. The transition into civilian life can feel like losing a rhythm, a team and a sense of direction all at…
Break free from chewing and dipping
Join the Great American Spit Out and let VA help you stop chewing and dipping for good It’s often not easy to stop chewing or dipping. Tobacco is addictive and cravings are real. That’s why, for the Great American Spit Out this Feb. 19, Veterans should know that VA will provide them with tools to…
Home loan borrowers can now deduct funding fees
Starting this year, Veterans, service members and their surviving spouses can deduct VA funding fees on their taxes when purchasing a home using the VA-guaranteed home loan. The VA funding fee is a one-time payment that the Veteran, service member or survivor pays on a VA-backed or VA direct home loan. Generally, the VA home…
A VA career is always in season
Take your career to the next level this winter by joining the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). We’re spotlighting some of our most in-demand roles across the country—roles that not only support our mission of serving Veterans but also provide you with benefits that fit your lifestyle. VA currently has over 2,000 roles available (at…
From D-Day to 100th birthday
Big Spring honors the remarkable life of Navy Veteran JL Stevens Navy Veteran and Centenarian JL Stevens provides remarks to a gathering of more than 100 Big Spring and West Texas VA Health Care System staff following a ceremony marking his 100th birthday and his century of service. On Jan. 29, 2026, the West Texas…
Live Whole Health #305: Give your shoulders a little love
I often carry my stress in my shoulders and upper back. Colder weather and sitting in front of a computer for many hours a day certainly doesn’t help. The good news is that even just a few minutes of movement at a time can help relieve both the stress and the muscle tightness in your…
CHAMPVA app hits 1 million, bringing benefits to your fingertips
Linking Veterans and families to benefits, covered services and VA resources VA recently reached a major milestone as it welcomed its one-millionth beneficiary of the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). As enrollment in CHAMPVA continues to grow, VA is focused on helping every eligible spouse, dependent and survivor…
VCS customers donate 7,000+ items to help homeless Veterans
All items to Veterans in need During the season of giving, the patrons of Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) did their part and collected more than 7,000 donated items at PatriotStores throughout VA. As part of VCS’s 12 Days of Holidays campaign, VCS encouraged patrons to buy essential items in the PatriotStore and leave them in…
A healthier Valentine’s Day
A home cooked meal with a rich, chocolatey dessert Valentine’s Day brings thoughts of love, happy endings and chocolate. It’s easy to find greeting cards with sentimental messages, romantic comedies on TV, and of course heart-shaped boxes of chocolates. As you think about how you’ll celebrate Valentine’s, consider avoiding the fancy dinner reservation to make a delicious meal at home. You’ll save money and reduce saturated fat, sodium (salt) and calories. Plus, a home-cooked meal makes your special someone feel even more…
Plan for your future as an Intermediate Care Technician
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Lead Intermediate Care Technician (ICT) Evan Messegee knows firsthand that when employees feel valued and supported, they’re empowered to do their best work. As Lead ICT, Messegee provides quality, compassionate care to Veterans at the Dallas VA Medical Center (VAMC) while working with a supportive VA team that puts people…
VA prosthetics help Veteran
Fitness goals When Ben Shortreed lost his hand in a fireworks accident, his life changed dramatically. During an impromptu outdoor party, the firework Shortreed was gripping suddenly exploded in his left hand. The result was a mangled mess of skin, bone and muscle, and the decision was made to amputate the hand. That brought the…