It’s not surprising that David Patch, retired commander in the U.S. Navy, would know a lot about navigation.  And it’s a real benefit for local veterans that he brings another type of navigation to the Community Center at the Meadow Mall, Boothbay Harbor between 10 a.m. and noon on the first and third Mondays of each month.

That’s when Patch lends his considerable expertise to local veterans who need help navigating the benefits offered by the Veteran’s Administration as a result of their military service. Patch, of Boothbay Harbor, is not only a veteran but also serves as vice commander of the Boothbay Harbor American Legion post. He volunteers his time and services to help area veterans obtain benefits from the VA.

Patch explained that his approach is to help “one veteran at a time,” and he provides a hands-on service. This may mean that he takes the veteran to Togus for the first time, so the trip is less intimidating. He explained that he may not always have an immediate answer, but tells veterans that he will help them and “We’ll find the answer together.”

Patch said he serves as a “conduit” for the Legion between the local post and the official Legion representative at Togus VA Medical Center in Augusta. He asks “What does the veteran or their family need?” and identifies resources for them.

Even if there is no medical treatment available, Patch may still be able to assist the veteran in obtaining financial benefits. In one recent example, he helped a veteran obtain $1,000 per month that he should have been receiving for years. As he explains, “If it’s a veteran who’s got an issue, it’s covered.”

Patch is also keenly aware that some younger veterans are not happy with the VA. He hopes to reach out to them to offer his services and find ways for them to receive benefits.  He also provides assistance to families of service members in finding records of deceased veterans.

In addition to his American Legion command, Patch continues his lifetime of service by volunteering his time and expertise to other veterans’ organizations, including the Vietnam Veterans Association, the Maine Veterans Coordinating Committee and “Veterans No Boundaries.”

For more information and to set up an appointment to meet with Patch, contact the Community Center at 633-9876.