No more long phone waits or trips to the VA medical center. The VA: Health and Benefits App lets you refill prescriptions, message your care team and check benefits anytime, anywhere. With a 4.8 rating in the app store, many Veterans feel it’s an essential tool for managing their VA health care.
Your VA care team at your fingertips
Remember the frustration of trying to reach your provider by phone? They might have been busy, or the call may have been outside regular hours. With the app, you can quickly send a secure message to your VA care team, just like using your favorite social media app.
“It’s great to know I can message my provider and get quick answers,” said Stephen Havard, a Marine Corps Veteran from Texas. “I recently asked my primary care team about a medication, and I had a response by the end of the day.” Veterans are taking advantage of this feature, with over 300,000 secure messages sent each month. Remember, secure messaging is for non-urgent communication only. If you’re in crisis, call 911, 988 (then Press 1) or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also access the Veteran Crisis Line straight from the app.
Kick pharmacy runs to the curb
Gone are the days of waiting in line at the VA medical center’s pharmacy. Refilling medications through the VA: Health and Benefits app is now as easy as ordering takeout. “While sitting in my deer blind, I realized I was low on one of my prescriptions,” said Luke Yanny, a Marine Veteran from Wisconsin. “I opened the app and ordered a refill in just a few taps.” Using the app, you can select the medication you need from your prescriptions, ensuring you order the correct one. Your prescriptions are mailed to your address on file, usually within 5-7 business days, at no cost. With over 250,000 prescriptions refilled monthly through the app, it significantly benefits Veterans everywhere.
Claims and appeals status updates at lightning speed
Remember when checking your claim status was frustrating? It wasn’t very user-friendly, with endless phone loops and navigating various web pages to log in. Now, it’s instant. The app gives real-time updates on claims and appeals, bringing you peace of mind with just a glance at your screen. “The app lets you track your claim from your phone,” said Thomas Turman, a Navy Veteran from Texas. “It’s great not to have to make countless calls for updates.” Veterans have checked their claims over 45 million times through the app—providing 45 million moments of clarity.
Appointments managed with military precision
The app’s appointment feature serves as a personal assistant, helping you view, cancel or track appointments. The app lets you add appointments to your phone’s calendar for easy tracking, ensuring you won’t miss any check-ups. “It’s a lot easier to track appointments,” said Deborah Hall, a Marine Veteran in Alabama. “I recently rescheduled an appointment with my primary care team and added it to my phone’s calendar with just a few taps.” That kind of efficiency would make your drill instructor proud. Once it’s on your calendar, you can easily share it with your caregiver, spouse or family to add to their calendars.
Proof of service in your pocket
The app’s one-touch Proof of Veteran Status feature is like having a digital DD-214. “I’m thankful I can use my Veteran’s discount at different stores,” said Richard McMullen, a Colorado Army National Guard Veteran in Colorado. “Now, it only takes a few seconds to prove my status, and it’s a better option—no paperwork.”
A new battle buddy
Download the VA Health and Benefits app, your new battle buddy for navigating your VA health care and benefits and let it change how you connect with VA. If you find the app helpful, share it with fellow Veterans. Scan this QR CODE or visit
www.mobile.va.gov/app/va-health-and-benefits.

Family members and Veteran caregivers gathered at the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Home in Bossier City, Louisiana, to pay tribute to four World War II-era residents.

All eyes were on Veterans Alfred Procell, 101; Albert Smith, 101; Billie Taylor, 100; and Robert “Bob” Robertson, 100. Between them, the Veterans have 402 years of combined life experience to celebrate.

“These Veterans are truly a living encyclopedia of history, wisdom and experience,” said Kim Lane, associate director of the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center in neighboring Shreveport, where many of the facility’s residence receive their care.

Each Veteran received a framed proclamation and coin signed by VA Secretary Doug Collins to celebrate their life achievements.

Robertson, a Navy Veteran, spent time as an engineer aboard the vessel “Landing Ship Medium 310” in the Pacific during his service.

“If the war hadn’t ended when it did, I probably wouldn’t be sitting here, had they not dropped the bomb on Japan,” Robertson said.

He credits his longevity to never drinking or smoking and some fortunate genetics.

“My dad lived to 103,” Robertson added.

Robertson, Smith and Procell each served in the Navy, while Taylor had a career in the Air Force.

“We’re grateful for the time they have spent with us here at the Veterans Home,” said Wesley Pepitone, administrator of the state-run Veterans home.
by David Hodge, Public Affairs Officer, Overton Brooks VA Medical Center

Harry S. Truman
The 33rd President of the United States

During his few weeks as vice president, Harry S. Truman scarcely saw President Roosevelt, and received no briefing on the development of the atomic bomb or the unfolding difficulties with Soviet Russia. Suddenly these and a host of other wartime problems became Truman’s when, on April 12, 1945, he became president when Roosevelt died. He told reporters, “I felt like the moon, the stars, and all the planets had fallen on me.”

Truman was born in Lamar, Missouri, on May 8, 1884. He grew up in Independence, and for twelve years prospered as a farmer. He went to France during World War I as a captain in the Field Artillery. Returning, he married Elizabeth (Bess) Virginia Wallace, and opened a haberdashery in Kansas City, which failed.

Active in the Democratic Party, Truman was elected a judge of the Jackson County Court (an administrative position) in 1922. He became a senator in 1934. During World War II he headed the Senate War Investigating Committee, exposing waste and corruption and saving perhaps as much as $15 billion.

As president, Truman made some of the most crucial decisions in history. Soon after V-E Day, the war against Japan had reached its final stage. An urgent plea to Japan to surrender was rejected. Truman, after consultations with his advisers, ordered atomic bombs dropped on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Japanese surrender quickly followed. In June 1945 Truman witnessed the signing of the charter of the United Nations.

Soon he presented to Congress a 21-point program, proposing the expansion of Social Security, a full-employment program, a permanent Fair Employment Practices Act, and public housing and slum clearance. The program, Truman wrote, “symbolizes for me my assumption of the office of president in my own right.” It became known as the Fair Deal.

In 1947 the Soviet Union pressured Turkey and, through guerrillas, threatened to take over Greece. Truman asked Congress to aid the two countries, as part of what was soon called the Truman Doctrine. The Marshall Plan, named for his secretary of state, stimulated spectacular economic recovery in war-torn western Europe.

When the Soviets blockaded the western sectors of Berlin in 1948, Truman created a massive airlift to supply Berliners until the Soviets backed down. Meanwhile, he was negotiating a military alliance to protect Western nations, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), established in 1949.

In 1948, Truman faced New York Governor Thomas Dewey and a left-leaning third-party challenger, former Vice President Henry Wallace, and defied the predictions of pollsters and analysts to win his own full term as president. After the election, the Trumans moved out of the sagging White House so that it could be gutted and reconstructed. The Truman White House renovations were completed in 1952.

In June 1950, the Communist government of North Korea attacked South Korea. Truman later wrote, “There was no suggestion from anyone that either the United Nations or the United States could back away from it.” A discouraging struggle ensued as U.N. forces held a line above the old boundary of South Korea. Truman limited the fighting, which frustrated Americans—especially his Korea commander General Douglas MacArthur, whom he fired for insubordination.

Having served almost two terms, Truman decided not to run again. Retiring with Bess to Independence, he lived until December 26, 1972. Later, Americans came to appreciate his honesty, sound judgment, and courageous decision making, admiring him far more than his own contemporaries had. Of his presidency, Truman modestly said, “Well I wouldn’t say I was in the ‘great’ class, but I had a great time while trying to be great.”

Elizabeth Wallace, better known as Bess, was born to David and Madge Wallace on February 13, 1885, in Independence, Missouri. 1
Bess was a bright young woman who excelled in sports. After graduating from Independence High School, she attended finishing school at the Barstow School in Kansas City.
At the age of five, she met Harry S. Truman at Sunday school at the First Presbyterian Church, and the two attended school together until they eventually became engaged in 1917. 3
After Harry Truman returned from serving in World War I, the two were married on June 28, 1919. 4
They welcomed a daughter, Margaret, to their family in 1924 and continued to live in Independence.
In the 1920s, Harry Truman embarked on a career in local, and later national, politics that eventually brought the Trumans to Washington, D.C. Bess learned the ins and outs of campaigning, formed friendships with congressional wives, and advised her husband while traveling between Missouri and the nation’s capital. She even worked on her husband’s office staff, handling correspondence. Harry Truman aptly called her “The Boss,” as she expertly navigated life as a senator’s wife and later as second lady during Truman’s tenure as vice president. 5
Following President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s death on April 12, 1945, Harry Truman ascended to the presidency. Bess Truman was now first lady—a role she had never aspired to hold. Unlike her predecessor, Eleanor Roosevelt, Mrs. Truman preferred to stay out of the public eye. She canceled Mrs. Roosevelt’s regular women-only press conferences, though she paid special attention to correspondence from the public. 6
Behind the scenes, Bess was an important political asset and sounding board for the president, discussing critical domestic and international issues together.
The Trumans also moved into a White House in desperate need of repair, leading to a massive, multi-year renovation which modernized the home for generations to come. 7
Meanwhile, the family lived across the street in Blair House. Nevertheless, Mrs. Truman continued in her responsibilities as first lady, hosting events, traveling with the president, and managing their household. She also supported organizations including Girl Scouts of America, the Red Cross, and PEO Sisterhood. 8
After leaving the White House, the Trumans returned to their home in Independence. Bess Truman passed away ten years after her husband on October 18, 1982; they are buried beside each other at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence.

SAN DIEGO – Lt. J. G. Sofia Figueroa, a native of Choctaw, Oklahoma, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM-41 Seahawks).
Figueroa graduated from Bishop McGuiness Catholic High School in 2016.

Figueroa joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Figueroa serves as a Naval Aviator.

“I joined the Navy because my family has a legacy of military service, with both my father and grandfather serving full careers in the Air Force,” said Figueroa. “I hadn’t considered joining myself until my older brother attended the Naval Academy. Through him, I learned about the career and education opportunities that the Navy had to offer and decided I wanted the chance to serve there too.”

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Choctaw.

“Choctaw is a small town; somewhere between rural and suburban,” said Figueroa. “The people there are hard-working, honest, humble, and extremely generous. It costs me nothing to be kind and help others where I can, and I’d like to think those are qualities I’ve learned from growing up in Choctaw.”

According to Navy officials, members of HSM-41 Seahawks fly and maintain the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, the Navy’s most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform. The Navy MH-60R is able to perform many different missions. Some of the most common operations include strikes on maritime targets, submarine hunting and attack, electronic warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuations and supply support.

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

Figueroa serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Figueroa has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is earning my wings as a helicopter pilot,” said Figueroa. “Flight school challenged me in many new ways, but with great friends, peers, and leadership throughout, we made it.”

Figueroa can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Serving in the Navy means so much more to me now than when I initially joined,” said Figueroa. “Though I am still very early in my career, I have had the priviledge of working with some of the most dedicated and inspiring individuals I have met. I am so grateful to have the opportunity to serve my country, and even more so, to serve with such an amazing team.”

Figueroa is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“First and foremost, I would like to thank my parents for their outpouring of love and support throughout my entire life,” added Figueroa. “I’d also like to thank the staff from Bishop McGuinness who wrote letters of recommendation for me and those coaches who helped me become a better teammate and athlete. Their contributions are a large part of the reason I am here today, and I am very grateful. Finally, I have to thank my parish, Saint Philip Neri, for their continued support even now.”

“My first goal is to qualify as a helicopter pilot within the fleet replacement squadrons,” said Figueroa. “For the next eight years, I plan on using this to travel to as many places as I can. The best part of the Navy is working with all of these amazing people. As long as I continue to work with such amazing talent, I plan on staying in.”
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tristan Cookson, Navy Office of Community Outreach

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently announced that it is reinstating National Social Security Month—a public awareness campaign held in April each year that is dedicated to helping Americans access their benefits. The agency last observed National Social Security Month in 2019, during President Trump’s first term. The early days of the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of National Social Security Month in 2020, and the Biden Administration never resumed the observance.
“President Trump has promised to protect Americans’ hard-earned Social Security benefits so that all eligible individuals can access them,” said Lee Dudek, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. “Under the previous administration, SSA promoted radical and wasteful DEI and gender ideology while employees worked from home. The result was sky-high wait times for customer service and unconscionable delays for benefit decisions. Resuming National Social Security Month further aligns the SSA workforce with President Trump’s principle that government must serve The People—and at SSA that means helping all Americans access their benefits in office, over the phone, and online.”
Effective immediately, April of each year will once again be recognized as National Social Security Month. This year, the period of enhanced public outreach will extend to August 14, when Social Security celebrates its 90th Anniversary. Social Security has a proud tradition of public outreach dating back to its establishment, when employees fanned out across the country to enroll Americans in the program. This year’s enhanced public outreach to help eligible individuals access their benefits continues Social Security’s proud tradition of service to the American people.
At the same time, SSA continues its work with the Department of Government Efficiency to rapidly transform SSA into a customer-focused organization that safeguards Americans’ benefits. In alignment with President Trump’s directives, SSA has identified a range of cost avoidance or efficiencies, including terminating or de-scoping wasteful contracts promoting radical DEI and gender ideology. SSA has also refocused its workforce on customer service by: implementing President Trump’s directive that teleworking employees must return to work in-person full time; surging employees in support positions to front-line service positions; and eliminating layers of outdated and inefficient bureaucracy in its headquarters and regional offices to increase accountability. The combined savings from all of these measures is estimated to be over $1 billion. Ongoing modernization of SSA’s IT will further improve the agency’s customer service across all of its service channels while protecting benefits from waste, fraud, and abuse.
For more information about customer service improvements at SSA, please visit the agency’s Communications Corner at www.ssa.gov/news.

With a dream of serving in the military since the age of five, Oklahoma City native Donn Turner is beginning a new chapter in his life as a military chaplain. What makes his story so unique is that he was commissioned into the Navy Reserve in his early fifties.
Like many others, Turner dreamed of becoming a naval aviator after watching the film Top Gun as a young man in the 1980s. He joined America’s Sea Cadets, a U.S. Navy youth development program, as a young student with the intent of eventually joining the Navy. However, when it was time to attend college, the Air Force had more opportunities for pilots, so Turner enrolled in the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps program at the University of Oklahoma. He completed boot camp at Lackland Air Force Base, but unfortunately, Turner was medically discharged from the service.
“I was heartbroken but soon found fulfillment by serving in the United Methodist church,” said Turner who has served as a bi-vocational pastor in his civilian job. “I never imagined that I was being prepared for a different mission.”
Twenty-four years later, at the age of 48, Turner came across a Navy chaplaincy advertisement. Despite being past the maximum age for direct commissioning, something compelled him to click the link.
“I was stunned to read that I could still serve,” Turner said. “I was even more surprised when I discovered that my ministry experience over the last 24 years was exactly what I needed to meet all of the professional requirements.”
Determined to pursue this new chapter, Turner enrolled in the Master of Divinity program through Liberty University, adding Christian Counseling to his degree. He also realized that in order to meet the Navy’s physical requirements, he’d have to lose more than 100 pounds to be qualified to serve. Over the course of 18 months, he adopted a healthy diet and lost 110 pounds to align with Navy fitness standards.
“Chaplain Turner, despite now being in his early fifties, demonstrated remarkable determination, a lifetime of leadership, and a deep understanding of pluralistic ministry, making him a strong candidate,” said Lt. David Lockwood, the Chaplain Program Officer of Navy Recruiting Command.
After a rigorous officer package submission process, Turner was accepted and took on the new title of chaplain.
“I called everyone I knew to share the great news of my appointment as a Navy chaplain,” Turner said. “When that turned out to not be enough, I even shared my excitement with strangers in grocery stores and gas stations. I do not believe my feet touched the ground for the first few months.”
LT j.g. Turner currently serves at the Oklahoma City Navy Reserve Center (NRC) as a Navy reserve chaplain. He will soon join the fleet and transition to active duty through the reserve component to active component (RC to AC) program. Outside of his reserve duties, Turner works as a learning and development professional, creating and managing corporate training programs, while also serving as a bi-vocational minister at a United Methodist Church. These experiences have equipped Turner with the skills and insight to excel as a chaplain.
“Some people serve because they need an extra paycheck. Some serve because it’s what the contract requires,” said Cmdr. Andy Valerius, former commanding officer of the Oklahoma City NRC. “The fact that he changed his diet and lifestyle later in life to lose weight just goes to prove that he wants to be here serving our nation and its Sailors.”
Determination and passion are evident core values ingrained in Chaplain Turner’s persona. Once he joins the fleet, he will share his experiences and wisdom with everyone he encounters.
“As a chaplain, I get to be someone’s spiritual advisor, teacher, mentor, or coach,” Turner said. “More than anything, I get to be their champion.”

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Gabriela Isaza, Navy Reserve – Navy Public Affairs Support Element West.