The Toxic Exposure Act (PACT ACT) was signed into law by President Biden on Aug. 10 ... finally! Sarah Sherman’s article in the Register summarizes how this new law will affect our veterans. As she pointed out, now veterans who served in Southeast Asia, but not in Vietnam, but where exposed to Agent Orange in other surrounding countries will get the benefits they deserve if they should come down with the medical conditions caused by AO. If this might apply to you, make an appointment with a veteran service officer (VSO). There are a number of them at Togus, including the American Legion, VFW, DAV, PAV, and the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. They are all trained to file your claim with the VA. You don’t have to be a member of any of them, they are all there to serve you. Why go to a non-VA service officer? Because they become your advocate. Once the claim is filed, they are there to help you through the process. Should the claim get denied, they will help you with an appeal and if it goes to a “hearing,” they will be there at the “hearing” with you. The American Legion VSO number is (207) 623-5726. Or, you can call the Togus main line 623-8411 and ask for any of the other VSOs.

Just in case you didn’t know, the Legion has a Pepsi vending machine outside. It is probably the cheapest soda you can find anywhere ... just $1. The Legion doesn’t make a huge profit but every little bit helps.

Don’t forget this weekend is the big barbecue event at the Hall starting at 4:30 p.m.! Last year was a great event, this year is going to be bigger than ever! Several bands will be playing and there will be games for the kids. The weather is going to be perfect, so come and enjoy the fun and great food! And, you will be supporting the Veterans Emergency Temporary Shelter (V.E.T.S.) project! If you want to help, call the Hall at 633-4487 or Ed Harmon at 207-242-9310.

Did you know the VA Togus has a Facebook page? Check it out: www.facebook.com/VAMaine. Lots of up-to-date information and the ability to “chat” and share your thoughts.

The next breakfast is this Sunday, Aug. 28. The next meeting is Sept. 12.