Each November, the United States reflects on and pays tribute to the millions of veterans for their patriotism and for dedicating their lives in service to the country.
Veterans Day is the designated national day of observance that is held each year in November, where Americans pause to acknowledge and thank the men and women who made great sacrifices.
A Brief History of Veterans Day
Veterans Day falls on November 11 each year. The ceremonial day originates from the end of World War I, also known as “The Great War.” Combat during WWI finally came to an end on November 11, 1918, when a temporary halt of fighting went into effect between the Allied nations and Germany on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month (November).
President Woodrow Wilson officially established November 11 as Armistice Day in 1919, which later became known as Veterans Day when President Dwight Eisenhower signed a proclamation to change it in 1954.
Veterans with Disabilities
As of 2023, there are approximately more than 15 million military veterans in the United States. The number of veterans with a service-related disability, meaning they became disabled or ill in some way as a result of their time during military service, has increased over the years, with more than $112 billion paid toward disability benefits in 2022.
A service-related disability is wide ranging and may be physical or psychological or both. According to this VA Disability Conditions List, these can include, among others:
Anxiety and depression
Insomnia
Back pain
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Hearing loss
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Scars
Amputations
Paralysis
Unfortunately, it is far too common for veterans who have disabilities that resulted from their services to experience significant difficulties post military as they transition back to civilian life. While managing their physical and mental challenges, they also face barriers with accessing health and social services, housing concerns, employment, and caring for their families.
Resources for Veterans with Disabilities
There are excellent resources for veterans with disabilities in every state across the US. It is recommended to research and explore as much as possible the many options that are obtainable both in your state and nationwide. You should make every effort to be informed and understand the benefits and rights of being a veteran with a disability.
More broadly, here are just a few examples of the types of benefits and assistance that may be available to veterans with disabilities.
The Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Business (SDVOSB) Program supports veterans with disabilities who own and operate a small business.
The Veterans Benefits Administration — provides a benefits A to Z list of information that is available for veterans with disabilities, such as health insurance or education assistance
The US Department of Veterans Affairs — offers step-by-step instructions for how to file a VA disability claim as well as eligibility for disability benefits available here
USA.gov — details rental assistance that is available for veterans with disabilities who have housing needs
Ways You Can Support Our Veterans
Financial donations, volunteering your time, and participating in Veterans Day events are all excellent methods for showing support toward our veterans, especially those who are living with a disability.
Remember to check out local areas and governments for events or observances that may be closer to home. Below are just a few examples that you can learn more about and support if you are able.
1. The National Veterans Day Parade is held annually in Washington, DC and is complete with marching bands, veterans groups, and related celebrations.
2. Disabled American Veterans empowers veterans to lead exceptional lives with gainful employment and other personal needs through free, professional assistance and outreach programs.
3. The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) offers support to veterans with disabilities or who are facing challenges to help better their lives as civilians.
4. The Military Wallet provides an excellent list of restaurants and retail stores around the country that offer veterans free or discounted meals and products on Veterans Day.
5. Wounded Warrior Project aims to assist wounded and ill veterans and families to achieve renewed purpose and build connections with their local community.
For more resources and ways to help, visit Ability Central’s homepage—and, if you’re able, consider making a donation.
Additional Information
The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for legal, medical, or other professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date resources, some information may become outdated or incomplete. Always consult with your provider about personal medical concerns.
