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Department of New Jersey Constitution and By-Laws AMVETS National Constitution and By-Laws AMVETS National District One Constitution and By-Laws AMVETS Department of New Jersey Constitution and By-Laws AMVETS Service Foundation of New Jersey Constitution and By-Laws AMVETS Convention Corporation of New Jersey Constitution and By-Laws New Jersey AMVETS Convention Rules

AMVETS License Plates Below, find links to forms for ordering New Jersey AMVETS License Plates for your vehicle. NJMVC Form and Instructions *Plates will be mailed to your home. There is no pickup at the NJDMV required*

Items For Sale

All Military hats-Shirts are only $15.00

White Clover Medal

The White Clover Medal is a National award that was developed and approved a number of years ago. It is recognition for an AMVETS member who exemplifies service to veterans, most often service to our hospitalized veterans. There is not one specific set of criteria; in fact various Departments have differing criteria. However, it is frequently used to recognize a individual who has performed some special task(s) in the line of service to hospitalized veterans. Some departments/posts award it to the person leading the most successful “White Clover Drive” since the money raised is frequently used for the benefit of patients at the Veterans Affairs Med­ical Centers. Some department/posts award it to the person who represents their “AMVET of the Year,” again based on individuals impressive accomplishments in ser­vice to veterans. Typically, departments/posts using this recognition make one or two awards per year. New Jersey has the White Clover Medal for $15.00 each includes shipping charges.

Veterans In Need of Assistance

Veterans are being accepted at Meadowview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, newly signed contract with the VA, care include sub-acute rehabilitation, respite care, end of life care and long term nursing home care for eligible veterans Those interested in receiving care at Meadowview can call the facility at 609-645-5955. Meadowview is located at 235 Dolphin ave, Northfield NJ Knitted Knockers are special, soft, light weight breast prosthetics that are very comfortable for women who have undergone mastectomies, lumpectomies and radiation, and/ or are undergoing reconstruction. www.knittedknockers.org Catholic Charities’ Veteran Services (Ready Vet Go) Program: Atlantic and Cape May Counties Outreach Case Workers, Diana Carolina Martinez or Nelson Gonzalez, Phone: 856-701-5428, Fax: 856-342-4180, Diana.Martinez@camdendiocese.org or nelson.gonzalez@camdendiocese.org, or www.catholiccharitiescamden.org DRNJ (Disability Rights New Jersey) Intake Unit 210 South Broad St., Third Floor, Trenton, NJ 08608, Phone 800-922-7233, Fax 609-292-9742, advocate@drnj.org Jewish Family Service, Laura Rodgers, LCSW, 609-822-1108 Help for Homeless Veterans: 877-424-3838, www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/index.asp Heroes on the Water, Programs: Warriors & Family Members Served, Reduction in overall stress, Reduction in hyper vigilance, Reduction in avoidance behavior. 101-C N. Greenville Ave. #55, Allen, TX 75002, Phone: 214.295.4541, Email: info@heroesonthewater.org, Website: http://heroesonthewater.org/ Newark, NJ, US Dept. of Veterans Affairs: Military Services Coordinator & Homeless Veterans Outreach Coordinator: Paul Charbonneau, 973-704-3865, Fax 973-297-3219, paul.charbonneau@va.gov Newark, NJ Veterans Services – 1-800-827-1000. New Jersey Dept. of Military and Veterans Affairs: Chris W Wambaugh 609-441-3060 New Jersey’s Mission of Honor for Cremains of American Veterans www.njsmissionofhonor.org. For Cremains of American Veterans abandoned remains. Contact: Information Management 732-232-3286, jakinfomgmt@gmail.com NJ HomeSaver: Free appointment 800-989-2227 NEW JERSEY JUDICIARY ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE OF THE COURTS Stuart Rabner, Chief Justice, Glenn A. Grant, J.A.D., Acting Administrative Courts Directore Operation First Response (Serving Wounded Heroes and Families): www.operationfirstresponse.org Phone: 888-289-0280, Fax 888-505-2795, Email: info@operationfirstresponse.org Superior Court of New Jersey, information on court matters, Kathy Boyle, Assistant Criminal Division Manager, 609-909-8249 US Dept. of Veterans Affairs, NJ VA Health Care System: Frank Quadrino, Manager, Outreach Program, Office of the Chief of Staff 908-647-0180 X 5815, Fax 908-604-5247, frank.quadrino@va.gov VA CareGiver Support: 1-855-260-3274 VA Health Benefits Application Forms: 1-877-222-8387, www.va.gov and Select (Contact The VA) VA Veterans Choice Program, Wilmington VAMC: Christine O’donnell, 302-994-2511 X 4248, va.gov/healthbenefits/apps/choice/ VA Traveling Veteran Program: Colleen Donahue, Coordinator, 302-994-2511 X 7859 VA Veterans Transportation Service (VTS) in Wilmington VA Medical Center: Roy E. Cephas – Mobility Manager VTS, (302) 994-2511 x 4469, To schedule transportation, contact the Transportation Coordinator at: (302) 994-2511 x 4871 Veterans Free Legal Help: Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ) is offering legal assistance for veterans in New Jersey needing help with military records corrections or discharge upgrades. Driver’s License Restoration, Fridays: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm. , call (973) 645-1955, Lawyer for Vets: Weiner Lesniak LLP, Attorneys at Law George T. Hanley, Esq., 629 Parsippany Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054, Phone 973-403-1100. Fax 973-403-0010 Veteran's Haven South (NJ Transitional Housing for Veterans) P.O. Box 80, 301 Spring Garden Rd., Winslow, NJ 08095-0080 609 561-0269 or 609 567-5806 or Toll Free: 888-849-7188, Fax: 609 561-7604 Vets helping Vets - 856-579-7561 or 856-340-5861 Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 Veterans Mental Health and Courts Assistance, for information on benefits and services: NJ Dept.t of Military and Veterans Affairs, Call 1-866-VETS-NJ-4-U (1-866-838-7654) 24 hours a day or visit state. NJ .us/military Veterans Military Service Record DD 214 Request: 314-801-0800, www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/ Welcome Home Vets of NJ, Providing Care for Our Soldiers, Veterans and their families in need: Chairman, George T. Hanley, Esq. 831-38 Rourte 10 East, Suite 262, Whippany NJ 07981, www.WelcomeHomeVetsOfNJ.org, Info@WelcomeHomeVetsOfNJ.org

Veterans Programs and Services

AMVETS Programs Manual Equine Education Foundation Veteran Equine Therapy Stables Veteran Affairs: http://www.va.gov/ Branches of the Federal Government The Executive Branch - The White House: www.whitehouse.gov The Legislative Branch - The United States Senate: www.senate.gov The Legislative Branch - The United States House Of Representative: www.house.gov Military Branches The Pentagon: www.defenselink.mil/pubs/pentagon The United States Army: www.army.mil The United States Navy: www.navy.mil The United States Marine Corps: www.usmc.mil The United States Air Force: www.af.mil The United States Coast Guard: www.uscg.mil The American Merchant Marines: www.usmm.org Military Academies United State Military Academy: www.usma.edu United States Naval Academy: www.nadn.navy.mil United States Merchant Marine Academy: www.usmma.edu United States Coast Guard Academy: www.cga.edu United States Air Force Academy: www.usafa.af.mil United States Air Force ROTC: www.afoats.af.mil General / Misc Resources Federal Executive Branch Resources: www.loc.gov/global/executive/fed.htm Federal Judiciary Branch Resources: www.uscourts.gov Memorial and Tribute Web Sites / Military Memorials: Korean War Veterans Memorial: www.nps.gov/kowa Vietnam Veterans Memorial: www.nps.gov/vive/index.htm National World War II Memorial: www.wwiimemorial.comArizona Memorial Museum Association www.nps.gov/usar United State Air Force Museum: www.wpafb.af.mil/museum Arlington National Cemetery: www.arlingtoncemetery.org American Memorial Park: www.nps.gov/amme/main.htm Societies Congressional Medal Of Honor Society: www.cmohs.org

Burial Plots Available

New Jersey AMVETS is in possession of 66 burial plots. If you are an AMVET member and are interested in purchasing a veteran + spouse plot, cost is $100.00. Please contact AMVETS Department of New Jersey Headquarters at the phone number below.

Burial Plots Deed

State Department Officers and Trustees

Service Foundation Officers and Trustees

Convention Corporation Officers and Trustees

NJ Certified Serivce Officers

Courtney Johnson Nutley Health and Veteran Bureau Township of Nutley, NJ 973-284-4976 Monday- Friday 9:30- 3:00pm Robert L. Frolow, Veterans Services Officer 201 S. Shore Road, Ground Floor Northfield, NJ 08225 Phone (609) 677-5700 Fax: (609) 677-5705 Fred Vineyard, Veterans Service Officer 415 Shore rd Somers point NJ 08244 For Appointment, Please e-mail Fav1126005@aol.com Sam Podietz Service Officer Sanctuary Services 429 JFK Way Willingboro, NJ Tuesday and Thursday Only by Appointment Only 609-937-3862 VA Medical Center Locations We are pleased to produce the following information to assist all veterans in locating VA Medical Care facilities and New Jersey Veterans Memorial Homes.

Hospitals East Orange VA Medical Center 385 Tremont Avenue, East Orange, NJ 07018 (973) 676-1000 VAVS: John Bruschi NJAMVETS Representative Ernest Stoukas Lyons VA Medical Center 151 Knollcroft Road, Lyons, NJ 07939 (908) 647-0180 VAVS: Mark Bolitho NJAMVETS Representative Don Morgan Philadelphia VA Medical Center 3900 Woodland Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104 (800) 949-1001 Wilmington VA Medical Center 1601 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE 19805 (302) 994-2511 New Jersey Veterans Nursing Homes Veterans Memorial Home - Menlo Park 132 Evergreen Road, Menlo Park, NJ 08818-3013 (732) 452-4100 (Main Telephone Number) (732) 454-4272 (Menlo Park Admissions Officer) Ernest Stoukas representative Veterans Memorial Home - Paramus 1 Veterans Drive, Paramus, NJ 07652 (201) 634-8200 (Main Telephone Number) (201) 634-8435 (Paramus Admissions Officer) Ernest Stoukas representative Veterans Memorial Home - Vineland 524 North West Boulevard, Vineland, NJ 08360-2895 (856) 405-4200 (Main Telephone Number) (856) 405-4261 (Vineland Admissions Officer)

Applications for the Veteran Property Tax Deduction of $250.00 may be obtained from the Tax Assessor's Office. To qualify for the deduction the applicant must be a New Jersey resident and property owner as of October 1st of the preceding year. The applicant must be an honorably discharged veteran with active wartime service during one of the following periods: Operation Northern/Southern Watch August 27, 1992-March 17, 2003 Operation Iraqi Freedom March 19, 2003-Ongoing Operation Enduring Freedom September 11, 2001-Ongoing “Joint Endeavor/Joint Guard”-Bosnia & Herzegovina November 20, 1995-June 20, 1998 “Restore Hope” Mission-Somalia December 5, 1992-March 31, 1994 Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm Mission August 2, 1990-February 28, 1991 Panama Peacekeeping Mission December 20, 1989-January 31, 1990 Grenada Peacekeeping Mission October 23, 1983-November 21, 1983 Lebanon Peacekeeping Mission September 26, 1982-December 1, 1987 Vietnam Conflict December 31, 1960-May 7, 1975 Lebanon Crisis of 1958 July 1, 1958-November 1, 1958 Korean Conflict June 23, 1950-January 31, 1955 World War II September 16, 1940-December 31, 1946 World War I11, 1918 The surviving spouse of a veteran or serviceperson who died during war time active duty is entitled to the deduction if they were a resident and property owner of New Jersey as of October 1st of the preceding y April 6, 1917-November ear. The veteran or serviceperson must have been a resident of New Jersey at the time of death. For complete eligibility requirements, please carefully review the application. If the deduction is granted for the current year, a credit will be applied to the November payment due.

NJ Veterans Tax Deduction

New Jersey Military and Veterans Legislation

Fred Vineyard Legislative Director fav1126005@aol.com

I am pleased to present New Jersey legislation that pertains to veterans. I will continually update this information as it changes. Legislation that has passed into law will appear at the end of this listing. Active Duty Military Personnel and Veterans New Jersey provides special consideration for active duty military personnel. Special privileges are also available for service-disabled or blind veterans (see below). License extensions If you are on active military duty and have been deployed, including New Jersey National Guard and Reserve, you and your immediate family are entitled to automatic extensions for your driver's license, registration and inspection requirements. Your license, registration and inspection documents will remain valid for as long as you are deployed.. When you are demobilized, you will need to renew your expired documents within 90 days of your demobilization date or return from duty. Law enforcement officials are aware of this extension. Please carry the Administrative Order along with your active duty military credentials at all times when operating a vehicle. See Related Links below for extension instructions to obtain the Deployed Military Administrative Order. Registration refunds If you enter or are an active member of the U.S. Armed Forces and have a valid New Jersey registration, you can get a refund for the remainder of the registration period. To obtain a refund: Write a letter to the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) stating the reason you are requesting a refund along with proof of service. Complete and return a refund form (RU-9). Refund forms are also available at motor vehicle agencies or by calling the MVC's Customer Support Line at 609- 292-6500 weekdays (except holidays) from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.. Return the original registration and the New Jersey license plates along with a copy of military orders and a copy of the out-of-state registration. Service-disabled or blind veterans You may qualify for free registration, if you meet the following classifications: Are without sight as a result of war service and eligible for compensation from the State under N.J.S.A. 38:18- 1. Currently have another service-connected disability and have qualified for a free automobile from the US Veterans Administration and: o You have a valid New Jersey driver's license or a generated driver's license number. o The vehicle in question is equipped with special attachments or devices that may be necessary for its safe operation. o The vehicle is properly insured by a New Jersey licensed company. To apply for free registration, call 609 292-6500 extension 5076 for an application. Mail the certified application with affixed seal or stamp of the U.S. Veterans Administration to: New Jersey Motor Vehicle CommissionGovernment UnitP.O. Box 016Trenton, New Jersey 08666-0016 Once the free registration status has been established, all subsequent renewals can be completed at a motor vehicle agency, or through the mail in the envelope provided. Disabled Veteran, Purple Heart Recipient Placards Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 39:4-207.10) permits exemption from payment of municipal parking meter fees, for up to 24 hours, for disabled veterans and Purple Heart recipients under certain, specific circumstances. For more information, click here. We are required to capture a customer’s full face when taking a picture for a driver license or non-driver ID card; therefore we need to be able to see from the top of your forehead to the bottom of your chin. If you have a medical or religious need to wear a head covering in your photo, please advise the MVC staff at the agency camera station. Winner: New Jersey veterans Several bills intended to help the state’s veterans, particularly those who became disabled during their service, were approved by lawmakers during the lame duck, including a measure signed into law by Christie on Monday. The new law creates a 5-year pilot program that would issue grants to nonprofit groups to make improvements to the homes of disabled veterans, such as wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms and energy efficient equipment to reduce utility costs. The bill appropriates $5 million from the state’s general fund over the five-year program. Income Tax Exemption for Veterans New for Tax Year 2017. You are eligible for a $3,000 exemption on your Income Tax return if you are a military veteran who was honorably discharged or released under honorable circumstances from active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States by the last day of the tax year. Your spouse (or civil union partner) is also eligible for an exemption if he/she is a veteran who was honorably discharged or released under honorable circumstances and you are filing a joint return. This exemption is in addition to any other exemptions you are entitled to claim and is available on both the resident and nonresident returns. You cannot claim this exemption for a domestic partner or for your dependents. Providing DocumentationYou must provide a copy of Form DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, the first time you claim the exemption.This form does not need to be provided each year. The United States National Archives and Records Administration can assist with obtaining a copy of your DD-214. You can certify for the exemption by sending a copy of your DD-214 and Veteran Exemption Submission Form to the Division before you file, which may help process your return faster. To certify: Use our secure document upload feature to submit your DD-214 and Veteran Exemption Submission Form. Enter the notice code VET and select PO Box 440; or Mail a copy of your DD-214 and Veteran Exemption Submission Form to: The New Jersey Division of Taxation, Veteran Exemption, PO Box 440, Trenton, NJ 08646-0440; or Fax your DD-214 and Veteran Exemption Submission Form to 609-633-8427. If you do not certify before you file for the exemption, you will need to submit a copy of your DD-214 when you file using: A Paper Return. Enclose a copy of your DD-214 with your return; NJ Fill’nFile. Upload your DD-214, along with all of your other documentation, into the repository; Other Electronic Filing Methods. If you file your return using NJ WebFile, third-party software (such as TurboTax), or you have a tax professional who electronically submits your return, you can send a copy of your DD-214 and Veteran Exemption Submission Formusing one of the three certification methods listed above. National Guard and Reserve Finally Get 'Veteran' Status New Jersey NEW Tax deduction for Veterans 2017 The tax deal introduced a $3,000 tax deduction for veterans. The law defines veterans as those who are "honorable discharged or released under honorable circumstances from active duty in the Armed Forces of the United states, a reserve component thereof, or the National Guard of New Jersey in a federal active duty status." Here's how 8 N.J. laws taking effect Jan. 1 might affect you | NJ.com Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans by State Jersey Disabled Veterans Real Estate Tax Exemption NJDVSSE Press Release: NJHA, UHF Announce $1.35M Grant to Bolster Veterans’ Mental Health Initiatives in New Jersey. For Immediate Release PRINCETON, N.J. (June 13, 2016) – The New Jersey Hospital Association (NJHA) and United Health Foundation brought together health professionals and military leaders today to raise awareness about the complexities of managing veterans’ health and examine ways to improve access to care through innovative partnerships and community engagement. The forum, “Managing the Complexity of Veteran Health: Serving Those Who Have Served,” highlighted a $1.35 million partnership between NJHA’s Health Research and Educational Trust (HRET) and United Health Foundation to bolster veteran health programs, including the hiring of additional Veteran Navigators to facilitate access to high-quality, community-based mental health, behavioral health and supportive services for veterans and military families in underserved areas of the state. The forum was attended by U.S. Representative Tom MacArthur (NJ-3), Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno, New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Adjutant General Michael Cunniff and Assemblymember Cleopatra Tucker (28-LD). United Health Foundation Partnership with New Jersey Hospital Association Helping Veterans and Service Members Navigate Health Services to Improve Access to Care Veteran Navigators hired through $1.35 million partnership grant are helping connect veterans, service members and their families to health services and programs in communities throughout New Jersey Forum brings together care providers and military leaders to raise awareness about managing the complexity of veteran health “Veterans and military families face unique health needs, and it is often a challenge for them to access the care and programs that help ensure they receive quality care,” said Betsy Ryan, president and CEO of the New Jersey Hospital Association. “This partnership with United Health Foundation is providing valuable resources that are helping raise awareness and improving the health and wellness of our veterans and service members.” According to the National Institutes of Health, military service members and veterans face health issues differently than civilians. The stressors of being in combat, combined with being separated from family, can put service members and veterans at risk for mental health problems. These include anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse and depression that, in extreme circumstances, can lead to suicide. According to a study commissioned by the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) and United Health Foundation, there is a preparedness gap among most community-based mental health providers in being able to take care of the special needs of military veterans and their families. Through its partnership with United Health Foundation, NJHA is using a peer-to-peer model with Veteran Navigators to connect with their fellow service members to facilitate access to the care that veterans and their families need. “The work of NJHA is improving access to care for veterans and military members,” said New Jersey Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno. “NJHA’s partnership with United Health Foundation is the type of public-private approach that will make a difference in the lives of our neighbors, particularly those with the greatest needs.” “Helping veterans and their families with support to improve their quality of life is mission critical,” said Michael Cunniff, Adjutant General, New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Our service members, veterans and their families often face unique challenges to care including having access to care providers who understand their specific needs. By raising awareness and having veterans engage directly with service members and their families, we are helping improve their personal health and recovery.” During the forum, guest speakers discussed important health topics facing veterans and military service members including military culture, injury and recovery programs, PTSD, suicide prevention and navigating the VA system, among others. NJHA provided an overview and update on how the organization is working collaboratively with other partners in the state to implement a comprehensive model to close the gap between providers and veterans through efforts that increase awareness of available support, and improve skills of mental health professionals in addressing veteran-specific issues and needs. U.S. Rep. Tom MacArthur (NJ-3) praised the work on behalf of veterans and service members. “I applaud the work of all the organizations gathered today for this important forum that is raising awareness about improving care for our veterans and service members who have sacrificed so much for our nation. It is important to help connect our troops with the programs and care they need, particularly given the unique situations they face. Programs like this are model initiatives that bring together the best minds and organizations to forge solutions to care.” The Veteran Navigators, along with the entire project team at NJHA, are being cross-trained in Mental Health First Aid, Health Coaching and supplemental topics with an opportunity to become Certified Prevention Specialists to help meet the unique needs of military service members and their families “This partnership between NJHA and United Health Foundation is helping to ensure that our military men and women understand the programs and services available to them to improve their care and quality of life,” said Heather Cianfrocco, President, Northeast Region, UnitedHealthcare. “The Veteran Navigators are a critical resource, understanding their experiences and their needs, and helping to alleviate the stresses that our nation’s service members, veterans and their families endure every day.” About NJHA and the Health Research & Educational Trust The New Jersey Hospital Association is a healthcare trade organization that helps hospitals and post-acute care providers deliver affordable, accessible and quality healthcare to their communities. The Health Research and Educational Trust of New Jersey is a nonprofit affiliate of NJHA. It provides leadership and resources to improve the healthcare delivery system and health of the community. Its mission is to develop research projects and educational initiatives that promote quality, affordable and accessible healthcare and raise public and provider awareness about vital healthcare issues. About United Health FoundationThrough collaboration with community partners, grants and outreach efforts, United Health Foundation works to improve our health system, build a diverse and dynamic health workforce and enhance the well-being of local communities. United Health Foundation was established by UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) in 1999 as a not-for-profit, private foundation dedicated to improving health and health care. To date, United Health Foundation has committed more than $285 million to programs and communities around the world. We invite you to learn more at www.unitedhealthfoundation.org or follow @UHGGives on Twitter or Facebook.com/UHGGives. Contacts: Kerry McKean Kelly L.D. Platt New Jersey Hospital Association United Health Foundation (609) 275-4069 (202) 654-8830 kmckean@njha.com LD_Platt@uhg.com Veteran EMT Support Act signed into law Trained military medics will be put on an accelerated track to receive state EMT certification and licensure Aug 4, 2016 WASHINGTON — New legislation will help military veterans with medic training to transition into the civilian workforce, helping to address a shortage of EMTs. The Veteran Emergency Medical Technician Act of 2016, H.R. 1818, was signed into law with the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) in late July. The bill was a key priority of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, who will help create a transition program for trained military medics to meet state EMT certification and licensure requirements. "The Veterans EMT Support Act is an important step forward to help veterans in their transition back to civilian life, while improving emergency care in our communities," said Rep. Lois Capps, D-California one of the officials who introduced the bill. "These heroes have proven their skills on the battlefield. It is only right that we break down any artificial barriers that delay or prevent them from serving our communities here at home." CARA aims to address the growing opioid addiction epidemic by authorizing nearly $900 million over the next five years to support education, prevention and law enforcement efforts. The bill was formally signed into law on July 23.

Legal Assistance

Military Veterans Legal Assistance Program 614-230-6769 Military Veterans Resource Center 614-230-0662

VA Benefits for Reimbursement of Cremation Expenses A. $300 is available for honorably discharged veterans if one of the following conditions are met: Veteran was receiving a pension or disability benefits from the VA at the time of death. Death occurred in a VA hospital. Death occurred in a VA nursing home or VA contracted health care facility. B. $2,000 is available if one of the following conditions are met: Veterans died during active duty. Honorably discharged veteran died of a service-connected injury. C. $300 Burial Plot Allowance is available when an honorably discharged veteran is not interred in a cemetery that is under the jurisdiction of the U.S. government if one of the following conditions are met: Veteran was receiving a pension or disability benefits from the VA at the time of death. Death occurred in a VA hospital. Death occurred in a VA nursing home or VA contracted health care facility. D. Transportation Allowance for deceased veterans will be reimbursed by the VA for: Transportation expenses from the place of death to the cremation facility if the death occurred in a VA hospital or military hospital for retired and active duty personnel. Transportation expenses from the crematory to a National cemetery for veterans that either: Died from a service connected injury, were receiving a VA pension or disability benefits, or died in a VA or military hospital. Interment In a National Cemetery Many families of deceased veterans take advantage of interment benefits available through the Veterans Administration National Cemetery System. FREE gravespace for interment of cremated remains is available in any one of a number of VA National cemeteries located throughout the country. Eligibility Requirements All honorably discharged veterans, their spouses and minor children who have been cremated are eligible for interment in a national cemetery. In addition, certain members of the Reserve Component of the Armed Forces, World War II Merchant Marines and Commissioned Officers of NOAA and the Public Health Service may also eligible. For a complete listing of eligibility requirements contact your local veterans affairs office or visit the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery System Web Site. Interment Options There is no charge for interment of cremated remains in a National Cemetery. Cremated remains may be interred in either an in-ground grave, a garden niche, or placed in a columbarium depending upon the family's preference. Please note that not all National cemeteries provide for each of these three interment options. A complete listing of VA National Cemeteries and telephone numbers can be found at http://www.va.gov/cemetery/address.htm. Scheduling an Interment Funeral Director will arrange for an interment in a National Cemetery as part of their service. Normally, all that is required to make these arrangements is a copy of the official military discharge document or a Form DD 214. The funeral director will forward the required documentation to the cemetery director and a tentative date for interment will be set. Cremated remains may not be delivered to the cemetery until interment eligibility is verified and the arrangements are confirmed. Please note that memorialization in a National Cemetery is available only on an at-need basis at the time of death. Eligible veterans may not reserve burial or niche space in a National Cemetery on a pre-need basis. Military Honors Section 578 on the National Defense Act provides free military honors for eligible veterans whose families request them. The law includes a basic military funeral honor ceremony consisting of the folding and presentation of the American flag and the playing of Taps. The military detail performing this ceremony will consist of two or more uniformed members of the military, with at least one member representing the branch in which the veteran served. Each military branch may also include additional elements of the ceremony such as a rifle volley. In most cases, the funeral director that you select will handle the details of scheduling the military ceremony if they assisted the family is setting up and coordinating the memorial service. For more information about military honors, you may visit the Department of Defense web site at www.militaryfuneralhonors.osd.mil. Headstones, Markers and Monuments If burial of the cremated remains takes place in a National Cemetery, the VA will provide a free granite or marble headstone or a granite, marble, or bronze marker. If burial takes place in a private cemetery, the VA will provide a free headstone consistent with the cemetery requirements. For veterans who's cremated remains have been scattered, a memorial monument is available. Most cremation societies will take care of arranging for installation of a headstone, marker or memorial monument at no charge. Social Security Benefits Some of the deceased's family members may be able to receive Social Security benefits if the deceased person worked long enough under Social Security to quality for benefits. Funeral Parlor contacts Social Security as soon as possible to make sure the family receives all of the benefits to which it may be entitled. Please read the following information carefully to learn what benefits may be available. A one-time payment of $255.00 may / can be paid to the surviving spouse if he or she was living with the deceased; or, if living apart, was receiving certain Social Security benefits on the deceased's record. If there is no surviving spouse, the payment is made to a child who is eligible for benefits on the deceased's record in the month of death. This money cannot be applied to the funeral home expense of the deceased, as it can come several weeks/months after death. Certain family members may be eligible to receive monthly benefits, including: • A widow or widower age 60 or older (age 50 or older if disabled); • A surviving spouse at any age who is caring for the deceased's child under age 16 or disabled; • An unmarried child of the deceased who is younger than age 18 (or age 18 or 19 if he or she is a full-time student in an elementary or secondary school); or age 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22; • Parents, age 62 or older, who were dependent on the deceased for at least half of their support; and • A surviving divorced spouse, under certain circumstances. The Social Security Administration website is a valuable resource for information about all of The Social Security Administration’s programs. In addition to using the Social Security Administration website, you can call them toll-free at 1.800.772.1213. Staff can answer the most specific questions from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. They can also provide information by automated phone service 24 hours a day. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call the TTY number at 1.800.325.0778. Who is eligible for Military Funeral Honors? • Military members on active duty or in the Selected Reserve. • Former military members who served on active duty and departed under conditions other than dishonorable (who received a documented Honorable Discharge or a documented Disabled Release from the United States Armed Forces). • Former military members who completed at least one term of enlistment or period of initial obligated service in the Selected Reserve and departed under conditions other than dishonorable (who received a documented Honorable Discharge or a documented Disabled Release from the United States Armed Forces). • Former military members discharged from the Selected Reserve due to a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty. Who is not eligible for Military Funeral Honors? • Any person separated from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions (Dishonorable Discharge) or whose character of service results in a bar to veteran's benefits. • Any person who was ordered to report to an induction station, but was not actually inducted into military service. • Any person discharged from the Selected Reserve prior to completing one term of enlistment or period of initial obligated service for reasons other than a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty. • Any person convicted of a Federal or State capital crime sentenced to death or life imprisonment. How do the Surviving Family Members establish the Veteran’s eligibility? The preferred method is by locating / providing the DD 214 Form (also known as the DD Form 214), Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. If the DD 214 Form is not available, any discharge document showing other than dishonorable service may/can be used. The DD 214 Form may be obtained by filling out a Standard Form 180 and sending it to: National Personnel Records Center(NPRC) 9700 Page Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63132 The Standard Form 180 may be obtained from the National Records Center or via the following web site: http://www.archives.gov/research/order/standard-form-180.pdf Is anyone else eligible to receive funeral honors? Yes. Members of the Commissioned Officer Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), as members of a Uniformed Service, are also eligible to receive funeral honors. • For PHS personnel, funeral honors eligibility is established using PHS Form 1867, Statement of Service (equivalent to the DD Form 214). If the family does not have a copy of the Statement of Service, it may be obtained by contacting the Privacy Coordinator for the Commissioned Corps at (240) 453-6041 or by writing to: Division of Commissioned Personnel/HRS/PSC Attention: Privacy Act Coordinator 5600 Fishers Lane 4-36 Rockville, Maryland 20857 • For NOAA personnel, eligibility is established using NOAA Form 56-16, Report of Transfer or Discharge. If the family does not have a copy of the NOAA Form 56-16, it may be obtained by contacting the Chief, Officer Services Division, NOAA Commissioned Personnel Center at (301) 713-7715. or by writing to: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Personnel Center Chief, Officer Services Division (CPC1) 1315 East-West Highway, Room 12100 Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 Veteran Burial Flag United States flag is provided, at no cost, to drape the casket, accompany the casket, or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran who served honorably in the U. S. Armed Forces. The Funeral Home / Funeral Director will be able to best provide direction when it comes to making that decision, based on the conditions present on the day of the funeral. It is furnished to honor the memory of a veteran's military service to his or her country. VA will furnish a burial flag for memorialization for: • A veteran who served during wartime • A veteran who died on active duty after May 27, 1941 • A veteran who served after January 31, 1955 • A peacetime veteran who was discharged or released before June 27, 1950 • Certain persons who served in the organized military forces of the Commonwealth of the Philippines while in service of the U.S. Armed Forces and who died on or after April 25, 1951 • Certain former members of the Selected Reserves Who Is Eligible to Receive the Burial Flag? Generally, the flag is given to the next-of-kin, as a keepsake, after its use during the funeral service. When there is no next- of-kin, VA will furnish the flag to a friend making request for it. For those VA national cemeteries with an Avenue of Flags, families of Veterans buried in these national cemeteries may donate the burial flags of their loved ones to be flown on patriotic holidays. How Can You Apply? You may apply for the flag by completing VA Form 27-2008, Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes. You may get a flag at any VA regional office or U.S. Post Office. Generally, the funeral director obtain the flag. Can a Burial Flag Be Replaced? The law allows us to issue one flag for a veteran's funeral. We cannot replace it if it is lost, destroyed, or stolen. Ho How Should the Burial Flag Be Displayed? The proper way to display the flag depends upon whether the casket is open or closed. Again, The Funeral Home / Funeral Director will be able to best provide direction when it comes to making that decision, based on the conditions present on the day of the funeral. VA Form 27-2008 provides the correct method for displaying and folding the flag. The burial flag is not suitable for outside display (flying / hoisting) because of its size and fabric. It is made of cotton and can easily be damaged by weather. For More Information Call Toll-Free at 1-800-827-1000

SEC Meeting Schedule ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ SEC Meetings Sept 13, 2020 Dec 13, 2020 Mar 7, 2021 Breakfast 10am Meeting start 11am 415 Shore Rd, Somers Point NJ * Meeting dates are subject to change **We will keep you advised if there is a change to any of these dates due to pandemic guidelines**

AMVETS (American Veterans) offers one of the most liberal membership criteria of any national veterans service organization. Anyone who has served honorably in the Armed Forces of the United States from World War II to the present - including those on active duty, in the National Guard, Reserves or wartime Merchant Marine - is eligible to join. There is no limitation on when your service occurred (war-time period or not), what service you were in, what grade you held or how long you served. The assistance that AMVETS offers to veterans is free of charge, and a veteran doesn't have to be an AMVETS member to receive it. AMVETS members serve active duty armed forces personnel, their fellow veterans and their communities through a variety of programs. AMVETS also keeps a watchful eye on all Capitol Hill legislation and aggressively comments on every bill that is likely to affect veterans and active duty and reserve personnel in the armed forces.

Membership News

This is your application for membership in AMVETS Department of New Jersey. Please print this form and mail it with your check to the address below. Please include a copy of your discharge papers. I am applying for: New Annual $30.00:__________ (Member At Large-varies by Post) Life Member $250.00:_________ Post # :______________ State:_____________ Sponsor :________________________________ Name :__________________________________________________ Spouse Name :__________________________________________________ Address :__________________________________________________ City :_________________________________ State:____________________ Zip:_____________ Phone :__________________ Fax:__________________ E-mail:_____________________________ Branch of Service :___________________ Discharge Type :______________________ Date Entered Service :_______________ Date Discharged :_______________ Service # :_____________________ Sex :_____________ Date of Birth:______________________ Today's Date :_______________ Signature:__________________________________________

New Jersey AMVETS Membership Application

Department News

Elks Flag Day Service Egg Harbor Twp - June 2020

AMVETS members making repairs to AMVETS Building June 2020

Submariner Cmdr Tom Innocentee raising the American Flag at the AMVETS Building June 2020

Memorial Day 2020 Meadowview Nursing Home

Sea Isle recognizes first responders that delivered first baby born in Sea Isle since 70s February 2020

Link to Article

Check out the Post 21 Newsletter February 2020

Newsletter Link

New Building for Post 911 Decmeber 2019

Pearl Harbor Memorial December 2019

Article Link

Coast Guard Dinner November 2019

911 Tribute September 2019

Membership Drive July 2019

Flag Day June 2019

Military CDL Skills Waiver Program at NJ DMV

Link to Site

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission is helping military personnel transition their military driving experience into civilian employment. By waiving the CDL Skills Test (behind-the-wheel exam) qualified military applicants will no longer have to provide a commercial vehicle in order to obtain a NJ CDL license. Veterans seeking the CDL waiver must meet certain requirements and present specific documentation, including: *Satisfactory proof he/she was a member of a branch of the active or reserve component of the military within the last 90 days in a military position requiring the operation of a military motor vehicle equivalent to a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV). *A current or expired military commercial driver’s license and a valid New Jersey driver’s license. *A completed Military CDL Skills Test Waiver Form certified by a commanding officer. *Successful completion of a CDL knowledge and vision test *Presenting 6 Points of Identification and proof of primary address *A CDL Holder Self-Certificate and Medical Examiner’s Certificate

Do I received more money from Social Security for serving our country? In January 2002, Public Law 107-117, the Defense Appropriations Act, stopped the special extra earnings that have been credited to military service personnel. Your military service in calendar year 2002 and future years no longer qualifies for these special extra earnings. The information that follows applies only to your military service earnings from 1940 through 2001. Under certain circumstances, special earnings for your military service from 1940 through 2001 can be credited to your record for Social Security purposes. These extra earnings may help you qualify for Social Security or increase the amount of your Social Security benefit. The extra earnings credits are granted for periods of active duty or active duty for training. (No additional earnings are granted for inactive duty training.) Social Security cannot add these extra earnings credits to your record until you file for Social Security benefits. Here's how the additional earnings are granted: Service from 1978 Through 2001: For every $300 in active duty basic pay, you are credited with an additional $100 in earnings up to a maximum of $1,200 a year. If you enlisted after September 7, 1980, and didn't complete at least 24 months of active duty or your full tour, you may not be able to receive the additional earnings. Check with Social Security for details. Service In 1957 Through 1977: You are credited with $300 in additional earnings for each calendar quarter in which you received active duty basic pay. Service In 1940 Through 1956: If you were in the military during this period, including attendance at a service academy, you did not pay Social Security taxes. However, your Social Security record may be credited with $160 a month in earnings for military service from September 16, 1940, through December 31, 1956, under the following circumstances: you were honorably discharged after 90 or more days of service, or you were released because of a disability or injury received in the line of duty; or you are still on active duty; or you are applying for survivors benefits and the veteran died while on active duty. You cannot receive these special earnings credits if you're already receiving a federal benefit based on the same years of service. But there is one exception to this rule: if you were on active duty after 1956, you can still get the special earnings for 1951 through 1956, even if you're receiving a military retirement based on service during that period. You can get both Social Security benefits and military retirement: Generally, there is no offset of Social Security benefits because of your military retirement. You'll get your full Social Security benefit based on your earnings. Social Security survivor’s benefits may affect benefits payable under the optional Department of Defense Survivor Benefit Plan. For more information, visit website at www.socialsecurity.gov or call toll-free 1-800-772-1213 (for the deaf or hard of hearing, call TTY number, 1-800-325-0778). Social Security can answer specific questions and provide information by automated phone service 24 hours a day.

Events & Activities

Chapel of the Four Chaplains

Sam Podietz Service Officer Sanctuary Services 429 JFK Way, Willingboro NJ Tuesday and Thursday Only by Appointment Only 609-937-3862

Energy Assistance Application 609-883-1626 NJ SHARES

VA Loan Info & Calculator

VA Pension Center Info

National Guard Benefits

Take The Wheel Program

Veterans Justice Outreach Program

Apply for VA Healthcare 877-222-8387

Wells Fargo Scholarship Program

AMVETS Job Search

Racers Army Navy

racersarmynavy@yahoo.com

Support System for Veterans and Families 844-831-4673

VA Homeless Outreach Team Trisha Bowe 267-881-2150

Patricia.Bowe@VA.gov

New Jersey Income Tax Exemption For Veterans Instructions

New Jersey Veteran Income Tax Exemption Submission Form

VA-accredited claims agent discusses mesothelioma claims and world-class VA care

VA Claim Assistance for Mesothelioma Veterans

including veterans with PTSD and disabilities

WWII Memorial

VA Connected Health Care