Season 3, Episode 1 - The Heroes Behind the Scenes: How VSOs Champion Veteran Rights

The Heroes Behind the Scenes: How VSOs Champion Veteran Rights

 

In this episode of Beyond the Dais, host Scott Anderson engages in a profound discussion with Marshall Bosworth, the division director of El Paso County Veterans Services. Together, they explore the critical work conducted by Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) to support veterans in securing their well-deserved benefits. This episode is not only a tribute to the unsung heroes who serve the veterans but also an eye-opener to the indispensable roles legislative changes, like the PACT Act, play in making a tangible difference in their lives. 

From Veteran to Champion of Veteran Service: Marshall Bosworth, a former combat medic with 25 years of service in the Army, now employs his wealth of experience in taking care of others and leading the El Paso County Veterans Services team. His role revolves around assisting veterans and their families with filing for disability or compensation benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Marshall emphasizes that the passion driving each VSO is rooted in the collective mission to ease the transition for veterans from military life to civilian life, ensuring they receive the benefits they have rightfully earned. Remarkably, many VSOs are veterans themselves, further intensifying their commitment and understanding of the struggles faced by fellow servicemen and women. 

Transforming Lives One Claim at a Time: One of the most touching stories Marshall shares is that of a veteran who, after years of struggle, finally received his benefits. This success underscores the emotional and practical impact of the diligent work executed by VSOs. It's not just about processing paperwork; it's about profoundly changing lives, offering hope, stability, and the means to thrive. The resounding gratitude and relief expressed by veterans who have fought tooth and nail for recognition and compensation reflect the profound impact of the VSOs' dedication. 

The PACT Act - A Legislative Lifeline: Scott and Marshall shed light on the pivotal role of the PAcT Act in broadening the scope of benefits accessible to veterans and their surviving families. The Act has been instrumental in addressing eligibility gaps, making it easier for veterans to qualify for and receive benefits. One crucial point Marshall highlights is the necessity for veterans to submit their applications promptly during the presumptive year of the PAcT Act to optimize the benefits fully. This legislative progress exemplifies how policy changes can foster significant improvements in the veteran benefits landscape. 

The Power of Claims Clinics: Another significant topic explored in the episode is the immense value of claims clinics organized by Marshall's team. These clinics, often executed in partnership with various agencies, have proven to be effective, allowing a high volume of veterans to receive the help they need within a concentrated time frame. Reflecting on past experiences, Marshall notes the importance of scheduling appointments to manage workload better and deliver a higher quality experience for each veteran. These clinics not only facilitate the submission of claims but also provide an opportunity for face-to-face support, fostering a more personalized service environment. 

Support Beyond Claims: While Marshall's team primarily focuses on disability claims, their scope extends to other critical services. Enrollment in the VA healthcare system, assistance with pre-need forms for the National Cemetery Administration, and guidance on survivor benefits and pensions are all part of the comprehensive support offered. Furthermore, the team’s dedication does not end with filing claims; they are deeply invested in following up on denied benefits and guiding veterans through the appeals process. With experts like appeal specialist Jennifer Clark, who has consistently secured significant retroactive pay and increased monthly benefits, the team ensures steadfast support in rectifying any oversights in the claims process. 

A Call to Action: The profound contributions of Marshall Bosworth and his team has enhanced the lives of veterans in El Paso County. This episode serves as a resounding call for veterans to reach out for assistance with their claims, help is merely a phone call or an email away. Veterans are encouraged to contact El Paso County Veterans Services at 719-520-7750 or via email at vetvetpassoco.com for support. 

This episode of Beyond the Dais spotlights the crucial work of VSOs, the transformative power of legislative acts like the PACT Act, and the boundless dedication of those who champion the rights and well-being of our veterans. You can explore more episodes by visiting the Beyond the Dais podcast.