VFW Action Corps Weekly
Aviation Cancers Study Bill Becomes Law: After being introduced in three successive congresses, the VFW-supported ACES Act of 2025 was finally signed into law on Aug. 14, 2025. Public Law 119-32 mandates a comprehensive study of cancer prevalence, morbidity, and mortality among military fixed-wing aircrew, with a focus on potential links to occupational toxic exposures. Targeted cancers include brain, colorectal, melanoma, and prostate.
Successful Claims Clinic Held at VFW Convention: The VA claims clinic held at the 126th VFW National Convention was a tremendous success. Nearly 200 veterans received on-the-spot claims assistance from either an accredited representative or a VA employee. Of these, 49 received examinations in a VA Mobile Medical Unit van, and almost $55,000 in benefits was granted. Two people received permanent and total ratings, which now gives their families access to education and health care benefits. We look forward to providing this service again next year at the 127th VFW National Convention in Reno, Nev. In the meantime, if you or someone you know needs assistance with their VA benefits, contact an accredited representative. Remember to always work with an accredited representative and don't feed the Claim Sharks!
Afghanistan War Commission Update: VFW voices were front and center in Columbus, Ohio. The bipartisan Afghanistan War Commission (AWC) held an emotional and powerful listening session during the 126th VFW National Convention during which more than 20 veterans shared their deeply personal stories about serving in Afghanistan with many expressing frustration about the war’s legacy. The AWC just released its second interim report. While it does not yet draw final conclusions, it highlights emerging themes such as strategic drift, interagency incoherence, and the disconnect between Afghanistan-based operations and broader global counterterrorism goals. The final report remains on track for completion and submission to Congress in August 2026. This report is designed to reflect the full breadth of experiences, and veterans are still invited to share their stories directly with the ACW.
TRICARE Weight Loss Medication Coverage Update: TRICARE has announced a change beginning Aug. 31, 2025, that will affect some beneficiaries. Weight loss medications will no longer be covered for individuals who are not enrolled in TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Select, or receive benefits from a premium-based plan. Coverage will remain available for certain medications when prescribed to beneficiaries with a diagnosis of diabetes, but will not be available if obesity is the primary condition being treated. Meeting clinical criteria, having a prescription from a TRICARE network provider, and submission of prior authorization are also factors. Read more. PACT Act Performance Dashboard Update: Aug. 10, 2025, marked the third anniversary of the passage of the Honoring our PACT Act of 2022. Public Law 117-168 is one of the most consequential pieces of benefits legislation in American history. It expanded health care access and streamlined the disability claims process for thousands of veterans and service members exposed to toxic substances. Since the law’s enactment, VA has approved nearly two million related benefits claims, while more than a million veterans enrolled in VA health care for the first time. In commemoration of this significant milestone, VA released a special three-year anniversary edition of its monthly PACT Act Performance Dashboard, featuring a graphical look at the law’s impact.
MIA Update: The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency did not announce any new identifications or burial updates this week.