Department Service Officers

Veterans need not be alone in their battles for benefits and medical care. Veterans are often forced to wage war against the paperwork and bureaucracy of government in order to get medical care or benefits. Here's some good news: American Legion department service officers (DSO) offer free advice and guidance for veterans who need to deal with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

This directory provides contact telephone numbers and addresses for the service officers in your area. Direct all correspondence to department service officer.

Documents that may help support a VA disability claim

If possible, have the following ready when you make your call:

DD Form 214 (Issued at the time of separation) ***
Service Medical Records (Outpatient), dental records, entrance and separation examination reports
Inpatient Hospitalization Records (private or military)
Private Outpatient Medical Records (if applicable)
Personnel File
Line of Duty (LOD) investigation reports
Overseas or Temporary Duty (Travel) Orders

Separating personnel should ensure that all of the information (including awards, overseas time, campaigns, RE code, etc.) on the DD 214 is correct before signing. Uncorrected errors may cause problems in the future when applying for VA and other benefits.

Find a Department Service Officer