Blake Kemp, a Veterans Service Officer, has been with the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs for nearly four years. In Oklahoma and other states, a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a state-appointed or state-affiliated professional who helps veterans and their families navigate the various federal, state, and local benefits, services, and advocacy processes available to them.
The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA) has exceeded its outreach targets for untethered veterans, as reported by James Bynum, the Executive
Director of ODVA, to the Oklahoma Veterans Commission at its July meeting. In the first
half of 2026, ODVA staff registered 938 previously unregistered veterans-surpassing the
original goal of 840-and in FY26, secured $1.2 billion in federal benefits for Oklahoma
veterans through ODVA claims.
Untethered veterans are those who have no direct connection to state or federal veterans
affairs agencies. By identifying and reaching out to these individuals, ODVA ensures they gain access to essential benefits and resources. Tethering veterans to ODVA provides:
• Access to Federal and State Benefits: Registration enables veterans to claim financial, healthcare, and housing benefits.
• Personalized Case Management: Veterans receive guidance from nearly 50 Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) across the state, who help navigate the claims process and coordinate services.
• Comprehensive Support:
ODVA offers prevention
programs, long-term care
housing, and benefit
management tailored to
individual needs.
• Trust and Engagement: VSOs focus on compassionate outreach, building trust and following through on commitments to veterans.
ODVA’s efforts are especially focused on aging veterans, including those from the Korean
and Vietnam wars, ensuring they are made aware of benefits and can access state veterans’ homes. Many veterans may not realize they qualify for these services, and ODVA is working
to change that through targeted outreach and partnerships with recognized Veterans Service Organizations.
“Our mission is simple: Veterans First,” said Paul Young, Chief of Staff. “We are proud of our achievements and remain committed to connecting every Oklahoma veteran with the benefits and support they deserve.”
To schedule a veteran intake appointment, visit the Claims & Benefits information page.
