Deckplate Discussions

PTSD in Military Veterans

This episode dives into the discussion of PTSD in Military Veterans. We discuss the causes, symptoms, and effective self-help strategies for PTSD, such as exercise, mindful breathing, and connecting with others. We will also discuss professional treatments like CBT and EMDR, as well as provide advice for supporting loved ones with PTSD. 

Is A Future in Military Service for You?

This discussion explores the advantages and disadvantages of a military career, focusing on financial benefits (salary, healthcare, retirement), educational opportunities (tuition assistance, GI Bill), and personal growth (leadership skills, discipline, adaptability).  The target audience is high school seniors and college students considering their post-secondary options.  

What is the Warrior Ethos?

The Warrior Ethos.  There has been a lot of conversation about this subject in the past few months. In this discussion we will dive into the history of the Warrior Ethos and how it is applied in today's military and civilian society. The Warrior Ethos is central to all of our military branches and provides the foundation to our military mindset.

The Complete Guide to VA Home Loans

The first source is a comprehensive guide to the VA home loan program, detailing eligibility requirements, application procedures, loan types, and post-purchase management. The second source offers a more concise guide to the VA home loan application process, focusing on preparing for the application, finding a lender, completing the application, and managing the loan after closing, supplemented with additional resources for veterans. 

Senate Vet Affairs Chair Prioritizes Care Access and Mental Health

The new chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee plans to prioritize expanding veterans' access to healthcare, particularly focusing on improving community care programs and mental health services. He aims to achieve this without undermining the VA system, seeking to enhance both community care and direct VA care options.  

2025 VA Disability Rating Changes

This episode discusses the blog post by Brian Reese, a VA disability benefits expert, discusses significant changes to VA disability ratings coming in 2025. These changes will affect ratings for mental health conditions, sleep apnea, and tinnitus. While mental health evaluations will become more objective, potentially increasing ratings for those with severe symptoms, sleep apnea and tinnitus ratings will likely be reduced.  

Massive Junior Enlisted Pay Raise in 2025

This episode discusses the recently passed annual defense authorization bill, a crucial piece of legislation that includes a substantial pay raise for junior enlisted troops (E-4 and below), amounting to a 14.5% increase. All service members will also receive a 4.5% salary increase.  

Military Mental Health Crisis

In this episode, we tackle an urgent and growing concern: the 40% increase in mental health diagnoses among active-duty military personnel. We’ll explore the potential causes behind this alarming trend, including the pressures of modern military life, combat exposure, and the challenges of seeking mental health support within the armed forces.

Some Vets Get 12 Extra Months of College Benefits

 The case challenged a VA policy requiring veterans to forfeit Montgomery GI Bill benefits when using the Post-9/11 GI Bill, even if they qualified for both. The Supreme Court ruled this policy unfair, leading the VA to announce a new policy granting up to 12 additional months of benefits to eligible veterans.  

Claiming Your VA Benefits

Unlock the benefits you’ve earned with this essential guide to claiming your VA benefits. In this episode, we dive into the complexities of the VA system, providing step-by-step instructions on how to start your claim, avoid common pitfalls, and advocate for your needs effectively. Whether you’re a veteran filing for the first time, appealing a decision, this episode is packed with expert advice and practical tips to ensure you get the support you deserve.