The United States of America is involved in a war like no other – the Global War on Terror. Those who have spent time on the front lines know that there is no other way to describe it – this is war at its worst. Those returning from active duty in this war are finding themselves facing the same issues that every other war veteran has faced over the years. Our veterans need to know that their country stands proudly in support of their service, and is ready to react to their needs. On March 6, 2007, President Bush established the Task Force on Returning Global War on Terror Heroes. This task force was to identify ways that a grateful nation could improve the delivery of Federal services and benefits to the service members and veterans of this War on Terror.
The results of the work of this task force were presented to the President on April 19, 2007. This report contains not only recommendations, but also a Government wide action plan for their implementation. Two of these action plans directly affect the processing of claims for VA loans. There are now processes in place to expedite the claims of veterans requiring adaptive housing Military Loans or Home Adaptation Grants Claims. The Task Force also recommended expanded eligibility for the SBA Patriot Express Loan among many other recommendations.
It is important for all veterans, including those who are serving or have served in the Global War on Terror, to understand the myriad of benefits that are available to them. These benefits, such as the VA home loan guaranties are there because Americans recognize the sacrifice that our forces make to help secure the freedom that we have come to take for granted. 9-11 brought this war to the USA in a very real way. The war on terror is no longer something that is happening in a small country halfway around the world. We need our soldiers, sailors, and airmen like we have never needed them before.
In today’s citizen/soldier armed forces with the increased number of reserve detachments serving on the front lines, we need to let them know that there are programs in place to help them take care of themselves and their families. Through VA home loan guaranties, they can get the best interest rates possible and purchase that new home or fix up the one they have with a secured, no down payment, VA guaranteed military loan. The details of the President’s Task Force can be found at http://www1.va.gov/taskforce/.