Non-profit groups with a track record of helping Soldiers and their families will soon experience a more streamlined process to get them access to military installations. The defense secretary recently issued two memos directing the military services to implement additional procedures to improve access to installations for service and support organizations. Installations are legally bound to provide installation access to Department of Veteran Affairs-recognized VSO/MSO entities to assist Soldiers with their Department of Veterans Affairs, or VA, claims, if the senior installation commander receives and approves a written request. VSO/MSO organizations include the Military Officers Association of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, American Red Cross, and the Wounded Warrior Project. Nonprofit organizations supporting Soldiers and families, including VSO/MSOs not processing VA claims, may be required to provide an IRS Form 990 to establish their credentials.
For more veteran and family support resources, see this Military.com Spouse Channel article. For a complete guide to military bases around the country, visit the Military.com Base Guide.
