Experts will assist vets; families receive and file claims
HUGO, Okla. – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will host the first “Bringing VA Benefits Home for Your Hometown” of 2025 in Hugo. The day of assistance is for all veterans seeking VA services. It will take place Tuesday, Feb. 18, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Hugo Community Center, 1304 W. Victor St.
Representatives of the VA will be on hand to answer questions about benefits and to help veterans and their families file claims. Veterans can also receive free toxic exposure screenings.
The event is funded by the PACT Act, a law that expands VA health care for veterans who may have been exposed to dangerous substances during their service.
Attendance is open to all Choctaw and non-Native military veterans and their families at no charge. Participants should bring their Veterans DD214 discharge forms, and if needed, marriage licenses, and death certificates.
Another “Bringing VA Benefits Home for Your Hometown” event will be scheduled at a different location later in the year.
For program updates, contact Harlan Wright of the Choctaw Nation Veterans Advocacy Office at HWright@choctawnation.com or (580) 642-8475; or Mary Culley of Veterans Affairs, Mary.Culley@va.gov or (405) 626-3426.
