Many veterans are completely unaware of a fantastic free resource that is available to assist them in getting the vital benefits they need and deserve. What's the resource? Your Veteran's Service Office.

Although Veteran Service Offices are normally located at VA Regional Offices and VA Hospitals and Clinics, these offices are not operated by VA employees. In fact, they are run by one of many military veterans service organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), AMVETS, etc. The counselors who work in these offices are referred to as either Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) or District Service Officers (DSOs). These counselors are often dedicated veterans who are committed to assisting you with the process of getting enrolled in the VA, filing claims, and pursuing your hard-earned benefits and compensation.

Military.com recently interviewed Robert (Bob) Cruze -- one of the most dedicated DSOs in the country -- to find out exactly what VSOs do, why they do it, and why it is important to you.

Military.com:
Bob, what type of services do you offer to veterans?

Bob Cruze:
First I have to explain that each Veteran Service Office is different. At a minimum, VSOs are supposed to assist veterans with filling out paperwork, and application processes. Some VSOs will go as far as driving veterans to the clinic, assisting with appeals, and providing counseling and advocate services.

Military.com:
Do veterans have to belong to veterans organizations like the VFW to receive help from VSOs?

Bob Cruze:
No. We are here to assist ALL veterans.

Military.com:
Why should a veteran contact their local VSO before they start the process of applying for VA benefits?

Bob Cruze:
The VA paperwork can be confusing, and most delays are caused by incorrect or incomplete paperwork.

Military.com:
What are the top 3 tips you have to offer veterans for getting the most of their benefits?

Bob Cruze:
1. Don't file VA claims on line.
2. Get enrolled -- even if you don't think you qualify for benefits.
3. Never do it alone! Always get assistance from a VSO.

Military.com:
What if a veteran has trouble finding a VSO?

Bob Cruze:
They can visit our new online resource and directory at www.vfwserviceofficer.org to help them get started. Our staff is dedicated to assisting veterans no matter where they live -- in fact, we have helped veterans from all over the U.S.

Author's Note:
In times like these, with the Department of Veteran Affairs bracing to meet the huge influx of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan it is good to know that there are people like Bob Cruze and his staff who are completely dedicated to assisting veterans with getting the benefits they deserve.

Mr. Cruze is a State Assistant Department Service Officer and his office is located at the Vancouver/Portland VA Medical Center. You can reach him by e-mail at robert@vfwserviceofficer.org.