Hello Allan,

Please Note>> Click here to load the entire newsletter into a new window

Veteran Memorials -

Grayslake

Prayers to all our

Iraq Families

The VAC Commissioners meetings for 2024-25 will be held on the following dates:

 

September 10, 2025

November 19, 2025

At the Gurnee American Legion Post 771 (749 Milwaukee Ave).

Meetings begin at 10:30 am. Visitors are welcome.

You can also use the link below to log into the meeting:

https://meet.goto.com/754472005

OR dial in using your phone.

in United States, call: +1 (312) 757-3121

and use Access Code: 754-472-005

The VAC office at James A. Lovell FHCC is now reopened.

Building 135, Room 106-107

and the Main Lovell FHCC Parking Garage is now open also!

Flag Etiquette and the US Flag Code

Military.com

Updated August 14, 2024 | Published November 02, 2011

The U.S. Flag Code is not legally enforceable, but adherence to it is considered a sign of patriotism and respect. The code formalizes and unifies the traditional ways in which we give respect to the U.S. flag, and also gives specific instructions on how the flag is not to be used.

By following these guidelines, individuals and organizations show respect for the American flag and the values it represents.

When should the American flag be displayed?

• Answer: The U.S. flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset. It can be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during darkness.

How should the U.S. flag be displayed when hung vertically or horizontally on a wall?

• Answer: When hung vertically, the union (blue field with stars) should be at the top and to the U.S. flag's own right (the observer's left). When hung horizontally, the union should be at the top and to the observer’s left.

How should the U.S. flag be raised and lowered?

• Answer: The U.S. flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously.

What is the proper way to display the U.S. flag on a vehicle?

• Answer: The U.S. flag should be fixed firmly to the chassis or clamped to the right fender.

Can the U.S. flag be used as drapery or a covering?

• Answer: No, the U.S. flag should not be used as drapery or covering. It should not be used as bedding or draped over a vehicle.

More Questions and Answers About Showing Respect for the U.S. Flag

VA Private Medical Care Referrals Will No Longer Require Additional Doctor Review

Military.com | By Patricia Kime

Published May 19, 2025 at 2:57pm ET

The Department of Veterans Affairs has changed its process for veterans to get medical care from non-VA providers, removing a requirement that a referral to community care be reviewed by another VA doctor.

The VA announced Monday that it is enacting a provision of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act that will help ease veterans' access to medical services from private providers. The law, signed in December by then-President Joe Biden, prohibits VA administrators from overriding a VA doctor's referral for a patient to get outside care.

"Now, we're making it even easier for veterans to get their health care when and where it's most convenient for them," VA Secretary Doug Collins said in a statement Monday. "We are putting veterans first at the department, and that means placing a premium on customer service and convenience. This important change will help us do just that."

The VA Choice Act of 2014, passed in the wake of a scandal over medical appointment wait times at VA medical centers nationwide, gave veterans broader access to medical care at non-VA facilities if they faced long waits for care at a VA hospital or clinic.

The Mission Act, signed by President Donald Trump in 2019, expanded the benefit to include veterans who face more than a 30-minute drive for primary care or an hour or more for specialty care, or those who can't get an appointment within 20 days for primary care and 28 days for specialty care.

Under the Mission Act, eligible veterans could consult with their VA physicians to receive referrals to community care. The VA required these referrals to be reviewed internally by an administrative staff member.

During congressional debate over the Elizabeth Dole Act, Republicans said the review process intentionally hampered access to community care, while Democrats argued that it was proper government oversight and that removing it was part of an overall effort to privatize VA health care.

According to the law, the ban on the administrative review will remain in place for two years, after which the VA must report on its effects to Congress.

Read More.

Trump's VA Strands Thousands of Veterans by

Ending A Key Mortgage Program

Source: NPR

May 1, 20255:00 AM ET

By Chris Arnold, Quil Lawrence

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, as of Thursday, has ended a new mortgage-rescue program that so far has helped about 20,000 veterans avoid foreclosure and keep their homes.

The move leaves millions of military veterans with far worse options than most other American homeowners if they run into trouble paying their home loans. And it comes at a time when nearly 90,000 VA loans are seriously past due, with 33,000 of those already in the foreclosure process, according to the data and analytics firm ICE.

At issue is the VA Servicing Purchase program, or VASP. It was put in place during the Biden administration after missteps by the VA left homeowners with no affordable way to catch up on their VA-backed home loans if they fell behind. VASP rolls the homeowners' missed payments into a new, low-interest rate loan that the VA then owns outright. With today's higher mortgage rates of around 7%, it is often the only affordable option for homeowners with VA loans.

But Republicans in Congress have been critical of the VA Servicing Purchase program, saying it puts too much taxpayer money at risk. In a statement this week to NPR, the VA said, "[As of May 1,] the program, which was unilaterally created by the Biden Administration and lacks congressional authority, will stop accepting new enrollees."

Learn More

Who's Winning the Multi-Billion Dollar Battle

over Veterans Benefits?

The War Horse | By Leah Rosenbaum

Published June 12, 2025 at 2:59pm ET

Veterans' advocates have worked for years to stop unaccredited consultants from charging vets thousands of dollars for help filing disability claims​, b​ut setbacks in court and on Capitol Hill indicate their quest to ban the deep-pocketed companies could be in peril.

With Republicans in control of Congress, a bill legalizing for-profit claims consultants nationwide will advance to a full House of Representatives vote, the first time such a measure has made it out of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. Meanwhile, a competing bill introduced by a Democrat, which would crack down on for-profit companies by imposing criminal penalties, has not advanced.

And in a case closely watched by other states, a federal appeals court has suggested that a New Jersey law banning the companies in the Garden State could violate their First Amendment right to advise veterans -- even if they're doing it to make a profit. 

Read More

Ask a VSO - This feature is written by the VSO's at the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County

Benefits for Veterans with a 100% VA Disability Rating

 Krista Wolfer, VSO

A 100% disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) opens the door to a wide range of benefits designed to support veterans and their families. These benefits cover healthcare, housing, education, and financial assistance, providing essential support for veterans who have sacrificed for their country.

1. Tax-Free Monthly Disability Compensation

Veterans with a 100% disability rating receive a tax-free monthly compensation. The exact amount varies based on factors like the number of dependents, but it provides vital financial relief for those who are unable to work due to service-connected disabilities.

2. VA Health Care

Veterans in this category are eligible for the highest priority group in VA healthcare (Priority Group 1). This includes:

• Free healthcare for service-connected disabilities
• Free dental, vision, and hearing care
• Potentially free care for other conditions related to military service

3. VA Home Loan Guarantee

This benefit makes homeownership more accessible by offering:

• Zero down payment
• Reduced closing costs
• Low interest rates on home loans

4. Property Tax Break

In Illinois, veterans with a 100% disability rating are eligible for a property tax exemption, including:

• A 100% exemption from property taxes on up to $250,000 of your home’s equalized assessed valuation (EAV)
• Automatic renewal of the exemption each year if the disability is Permanent and Total

5. Commissary and Exchange Access

Veterans with a 100% disability rating gain access to military commissaries, exchanges, and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities, providing savings on food, goods, and recreational activities.

6. Dependent’s Education Assistance (DEA)

Spouses and children of veterans with a 100% disability rating may qualify for the Chapter 35 DEA Program, which offers financial support for:

• Tuition, fees, and supplies for eligible dependents
• Monthly payments to help cover educational costs

7. CHAMPVA Health Coverage

If the veteran is not eligible for TRICARE, their spouse and dependent children may be eligible for CHAMPVA. This program provides coverage similar to standard health insurance, offering a range of medical services.

Is Private Long-Term Care Insurance

Necessary for a 100% Disabled Vet?

Military.com | By Lacey Langford

Published June 23, 2025 at 12:24pm ET

From Military.com - Ask Lacey, an advice column in which accredited financial counselor and MilMo founder Lacey Langford answers your pressing financial questions.

Q.: I am a 100% disabled vet. I am paying $200+ per month for LTC insurance. Do I need to keep that insurance?



Thanks so much for your question. It’s awesome that you’re taking a good look at your finances and wondering whether the $200-plus per month in long-term care (LTC) insurance is still worth it. A lot of people don’t even think to revisit these decisions, so you’re already ahead of the game. As a 100% disabled veteran, you have valuable Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits that might make private LTC insurance less necessary, but it’s worth digging into the details to make sure you’re making the right call for you.

Since I don’t know your age or whether you’re on Medicare or Medicaid, I’ll keep things broad to cover all bases.

Click here to read the details

PTSD and Marriage: 5 Things Spouses Need to Know

Military.com | By Amy Bushatz

Updated June 20, 2024 | Published January 13, 2017

Like the rest of marriage, loving someone who suffers from PTSD or who is trying to work through the ghosts of trauma -- whether combat related or not -- doesn't come with a guidebook. And although the whole thing can feel very isolating (everyone else seems fine! Is my marriage the only one in trouble?) that doesn't mean you're alone.

You never invited combat stress or post-traumatic stress disorder to be a part of your marriage. But there it is anyway, making everything harder.

Sometimes you want to give up. Why does everything have to be so, so hard? Other times, you wish someone would just give you a manual for dealing with the whole thing. Surely there's a way to know how to handle this disease?

Therapists who specialize in PTSD know that while some couples may put on a good show for the outside world, dealing with trauma is hard work and, no, everything is not perfect.

If you're dealing with PTSD at home, you are not alone.

Husband and wife team Marc and Sonja Raciti are working to help military couples work through how PTSD can impact their marriages. Marc, a veteran, has written a book on the subject, "I Just Want To See Trees: A Journey Through PTSD." Sonja is a licensed professional counselor. The Racitis said there are five things that a spouse dealing with PTSD in marriage should know.

A Safety Plan Can Help Veterans Facing A Crisis!

Download Safety Plan App

May 6, 2025

Matthew Miller, Ph.D., MPH Executive Director, VA Suicide Prevention, Office of Suicide Prevention

The VA’s Safety Plan app was developed to help Veterans create their own unique Safety Plan.

Having a plan can make a big difference in how your day goes. It doesn’t have to be complicated—sometimes it’s as simple as “get up, take a shower, grab some breakfast.” Having structure in your day can provide direction and help you know what to expect.

For Veterans who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide, having a safety plan is critical for addressing a crisis. That’s why VA worked with Veterans and health care providers to create an app to help you easily build your own safety plan with a mental health provider and easily access it at any time.

The app guides you through the process step by step, making it easier to create a plan that works for you. For extra encouragement, you can tap a sun icon to read hopeful messages from other Veterans who’ve faced similar experiences. These messages serve as powerful reminders that even though you may be facing life challenges, you don’t have to face them alone.

What can I expect when I download the app?

GET THE APP

VA’s disability calculator produced wrong results, costing some vets thousands of dollars

By LINDA F. HERSEY, STARS AND STRIPES • June 6, 2025

WASHINGTON — A benefits calculator that the Department of Veterans Affairs used for figuring monthly compensation amounts for disabled veterans had errors that incorrectly lowered payments for certain complex illnesses and injuries, a federal watchdog found.

The VA Office of Inspector General reported findings from a review of an automated compensation calculator that was part of a web-based benefits management system. Findings were not based on actual identified claims of individual veterans, the inspector general said. The inspector general’s office was responding to a report in November 2023 that the automated compensation calculator did not always generate the correct results for determining disability compensation, according to a report the inspector general released last week. “The OIG review team confirmed that the calculator generated inaccurate results for the disability scenarios listed in the allegation and for several others identified by the team,” the report said. Disability compensation is a tax-free payment that the VA dispenses monthly to veterans who were injured or developed illnesses connected to their military service.

The VA has an online system for managing veterans benefits that “supports end-to-end claims processing,” according to the review by the inspector general. In October 2024, the VA discontinued the calculator that was producing the errors but continued to use an older “legacy” calculator that was functioning correctly, the inspector general’s office said. VA said it did not know the reason for the miscalculations or for how long the problems had been occurring, according to the report.

Source - Stars and Stripes

Should You Research the Interviewer Before the Interview?

Or Is that Creepy?

Military.com | By Jacey Eckhart

Published May 22, 2025 at 9:20 am

I don’t see military veterans look shocked and appalled all that often. As the transition master coach for Military.com’s Veteran Employment Project, I can tell you most of our users don’t shock all that easily. That is, until I told them they were supposed to research the interviewer on LinkedIn before the interview.

Cue the shock. The disdain. The contempt. “That just seems creepy,” a transitioning service member told me recently. “What kind of person reads up on where the interviewer went to college and what their job titles used to be? What kind of job seeker does that?”

The employed kind, that’s who.

Read more

The Veterans Closet has been over stuffed with clothing and household goods for as long as I have been in contact with them - over 10 years! In addition to clothing and household items, the Closet hosts a Mobile Food Market once a month.

During the first 5 months of 2025, they have supported almost 4,000 family visits, consisting of over 11,000 family member visits. Over 60 percent of these visits are active duty families!

VA urges holdouts still receiving veterans benefits by paper check to move to electronic banking



By LINDA F. HERSEY STARS AND STRIPES • June 24, 2025

More than 120,000 veterans and their family members still collect paper checks from the Department of Veterans Affairs by mail for disability, survivor support and other compensation.

The VA is pushing veterans to receive the money directly deposited to a bank account. (Stars and Stripes) WASHINGTON — The Department of Veterans Affairs is making a final push to move veterans who receive benefits by paper check to get the money directly deposited to an account after President Donald Trump ordered a shift to electronic banking for federal agencies by Sept. 30.

Click to read more

VA is Here for You During Times of Emotional Distress

Call the Veterans Crisis Line 24/7 at  988



Feeling distress is a normal response to negative events, especially events that feel personal. Veterans and those who care about them are encouraged to learn more about available mental health and healing resources.

Your suicide crisis doesn’t have to define your future

Originally published in Military.com, June 12, 2024 by Matthew Miller, Executive Director of VA Suicide Prevention, Office of Suicide Prevention

Most suicidal crises are brief. Be prepared before a crisis happens. Being prepared can save your life!

Not every Veteran will face a crisis. And not every Veteran who faces a crisis will have thoughts of suicide. But if you or a Veteran you care about is going through a tough time, you can be ready in case a crisis happens. The first major step is to ensure that weapons and ammunition are locked safely and in separate locations.

There are people who want to help and resources ready to support you.

Every VA facility has mental health specialists. Find one near you.

• Community-based Vet Centers are available to you. Call 1-877-927-8387 or find one near you.
• Maketheconnection.net offers stories of hope and healing for Veterans experiencing challenging life events.
• Have a question for VA? 1-800-MyVA411 (800-698-2411) is available 24/7.

If you are in need of food support, click here.

If you are interested in supporting Northern Illinois Food Bank by volunteering (as I do), Click here to see the types of volunteer opportunities you can sign up for and where they are.

If you have any questions, contact Allan Ayers at 847-377-3344

In all the situations below, you can always contact the VAC (847-377-3344) directly for further assistance. If you are struggling with rent or mortgage payments with the elimination of pandemic forbearance programs, Call the VAC immediately!

• Rent or Mortgage payments or Emergency Housing
• Utility payments
• Food - Northern Illinois Food Bank - See Schedule or
• Midwest Veterans Closet (See the calendar below)
• Medical Care - Contact VAC when civilian benefits lost - Do not go to VA if not registered with them. Contact the VAC to get you registered.
• Family problems - In Lake County, contact 211 for referral to proper resource.

Your Coin Helps Vets In Need Through the VAC Not For Profit

Coins are $5.00 and you can pick one up when you come into the office, or you can send a check (make the check out to "Lake County VAC - Not-for-Profit - and mail to the address below) and we'll mail it to you. 

Mail check to:

Veterans Assistance Commission

Hawkston Hall II

1790 Nations Drive, Suite 221

Gurnee, IL 60031

If you're wondering what the VAC and other veterans organizations are doing.

Digital Navigator Program

Get a free laptop - if you qualify for the Digital Navigator Program!



Digital Navigator

Who is a Digital Navigator?

Digital Navigators assist community members with internet usage and resources including:

• Basic Digital Skills Training
• Access to Online Resources
• Internet Safety and Security
• Navigating Government Services

Support for Special Populations

Click to learn more

or to contact a Digital Navigator.

Click Here to determine whether you qualify, and to learn more about the upcoming programs

On Veterans Day 1996, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) unveiled a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., designed to travel to communities throughout the United States. Since its dedication,

The Wall That Heals has been displayed at nearly 800 communities throughout the nation, spreading the Memorial’s healing legacy to millions.

Bringing The Wall home to commu-nities throughout our country allows the souls enshrined on the Memorial to exist once more among family and friends in the peace and comfort of familiar surroundings.

The traveling exhibit provides thousands of veterans who have been unable to cope with the prospect of facing The Wall to find the strength and courage to do so within their own communities, thus allowing the healing process to begin.

The main components of The Wall That Heals are The Wall replica and the mobile Education Center. See the schedule for the Antioch Wall below.  

Click here to become a sponsor for The Wall That Heals

The In Memory Program for the Wall

Since the Vietnam War ended, thousands of Vietnam veterans have suffered due to Agent Orange exposure, PTSD and other illnesses as a result of their service. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) believes all those who served in Vietnam should be honored and remembered for their service. The In Memory program enables the families and friends of those who came home and later died the opportunity to have them be forever memorialized. ​​​​​​​

The plaque on the grounds of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial site in Washington, D.C. that honors these veterans was dedicated in 2004 and reads:  In Memory of the men and women who served in the Vietnam War and later died as a result of their service. We honor and remember their sacrifice. 

In Memory was created in 1993 by the group – Friends of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. VVMF began managing the program and hosting the ceremony in 1999. More than 6,500 veterans have been added to the In Memory Honor Roll since the program began. To see all the honorees, please visit the In Memory Honor Roll.

Click here to learn more and to submit a veteran name to the Honor Roll.

Click here for registration form

Northern Illinois Food Bank

There are three types of resources within NIFB

My Pantry Express

Pre-register at the link and order from list of items - limited locations and times -

See below for all county locations and times, or click on the link below for all the counties.

Mobile Food Pantry and CLC Pop-up Pantry

Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center Monthly Newsletter – The Launch –

Hot Tips from the VA Weekly Newsletters

This Benefits Bulletin provides links for vets to understand benefits they might be eligible for.

Pension Payments for Eligible Survivors

VA’s Survivors Pension program offers monthly payments to qualified surviving spouses and unmarried dependent children of wartime Veterans who meet certain income and net worth limits set by Congress. If you're a surviving spouse or child of a deceased wartime Veteran, find out if you're eligible and how to apply.

Request a Higher-Level Review for Your Appeal

Disagree with VA's decision on your claim? Veterans can request a higher-level review (HLR) This allows a Veteran or their representative to speak directly with a higher-level reviewer assigned to complete the decision review. Learn how to sign up for an HLR informal conference.

Contact the VAC to understand any of these VA Benefits - 847-377-3344

• The 2025 Veterans Benefits Guide is now available!

Have you applied for VA care, benefits and services? Unsure what else you may be eligible for? Don’t miss out on what you’ve earned—check out this handy reference guide to learn more. The handbook contains a comprehensive listing of VA programs, including phone numbers and websites for easy reference. Download today. 

• Personalized Career Planning and Guidance Program (PCPG)

The Personalized Career Planning and Guidance Program is a benefit designed to support the unique needs and goals of Service members, Veterans, and eligible dependents. This program offers education and career guidance, planning, and resources that empower individuals to reach their educational or career goals. Learn more about this program and if you or your family could benefit. 

VA News - 6/4/2025 -

• Helping Homeless Veterans Starts With One Simple Step

Hear from Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D., as he discusses exactly what to do when you see someone on the street holding a sign asking for help. Next time you see that sign, call VA’s National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838.

• Are Money or Legal Problems Getting You Down?

Whether it’s a disagreement with your family about household finances, a potential foreclosure or bankruptcy, or an arrest, money issues and legal problems can be very stressful. If you have money or legal troubles, there are steps you can take to cope.

• Are Money or Legal Problems Getting You Down?

Whether it’s a disagreement with your family about household finances, a potential foreclosure or bankruptcy, or an arrest, money issues and legal problems can be very stressful. If you have money or legal troubles, there are steps you can take to cope.

VA News - 6/11/2025 -

• PTSD: It’s Not That Simple

PTSD can impact your everyday life in more ways than you might expect. You may have nightmares, flashbacks, or feel constantly on guard—but those are just a few of the more common symptoms.

VA News - 6/25/2025 -

• Feeling Lost?

Find your new mission with Vector Accelerator! Take free courses and connect with a community to discover a new purpose and build a clear, confident identity for your next chapter. These resources are open to transitioning service members and Veterans.

• Your Next Mission: Thriving After Service

Many Veterans look forward to life after the military, but transitioning to civilian life may also raise a lot of questions. While going from something familiar to something new can be challenging, there are steps you can take to set yourself up for success.

• Insights from the MOAA

(Military Officers Association of America)

MOAA –6/26/25

• How to Find the Perfect Financial Advisor   

Unsure what type of advisor might be right for you, or considering a change? Get answers to some common questions.

Stars & Stripes -

Have you ever seen the magazine Military.com?

If you are still working and thinking about changing jobs, check out https://www.military.com/veteran-jobs

Recent edition of Veteran Job Insider

• Iron Sharpens Iron: How to Find the Career Mentor You Need on the Job Hunt

Event Information

Host: Jacey Eckhart

Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025

Time: 4pm EDT / 1pm PDT

Location: Zoom

ow

Overview

On your job hunt, you are not looking for a handout. You don’t expect it to be easy. You wish you had a guide who understood where military experience meets market demand. You want someone who can provide clear expectations, have some honest conversations, point out where you are going wrong, and open your eyes to opportunities you might not know exist so that you can do the work yourself. You are looking for a mentor, not a helper. In this 60-minute class, you will learn:

1. What they mean by “mentorship” during the veteran job hunt, and how it can help you get a better job offer.
2. When and how to approach past bosses and mentors in a way that will not be an imposition on them but will benefit you both.
3. How to signal that you would welcome frank instruction on how you appear to hiring managers. 
4. Where to find all the hidden sources of mentorship available to veterans and spouses on the job hunt, especially in Fortune 500 companies.
5. How to shape and conduct your meetings with a formal mentor for optimal benefit to both parties.
6. How to act on advice in a way that spurs even more opportunities.
7. How to identify a certified career coach who can help you with transition.

Go to the online link and register for this class.Go to the online link and register for this class.

Here are links to other recent Military.com articles of interest:

• Why the US Used Agent Orange in Vietnam and What Makes It So Deadly
• The 9 Circles of Networking Hell for Veterans (And How to Escape)
• 5 Terrifying Military Transition Lies You Tell Yourself
• Should You Look for a Job While You’re Still Employed?
• How to Research a Potential Employer Even Before Sending a Resume
• When You Die, VA Will Provide a Free Grave Marker
• 4 Smart Degrees Veterans Should Consider
• 5 Career Mistakes You Could Be Making on Social Media and How to Correct Them
• Supreme Court Rules Unanimously Against Time Limits on Combat-Related Disability Pay

The Supreme Court ruled unanimously Thursday against the federal government in a class-action suit over combat-related special compensation, paving the way for an estimated 9,000 retired service members to receive thousands of dollars in retroactive pay.

+++++++++

There is far too much in the various issues of Military.Com to write or even extract from them. The trick is to find the pieces that are important to you. Therefore, we have provided a graphic that shows the various dropdown choices. As you will see, there is information on general news – with the choice to see the news for your own branch, service benefits, Job and transition support, military life and family issues. I get several versions, and then I’ll scan for titles that seem to be related to me. For example, I decided to try the the Veteran Jobs tab for Lake County. It provided over 400 postings for Lake County and Northern Cook County. See the dropdowns below. Then you can click on military.com to set up a subscription and select versions that you are interested in.

In addition, there are a wide assortment of resource links (including discounts for vets and families) to find other specific information. You might want to give the magazine a look.

James A. Lovell FHCC

To stay in touch with the James A. Lovell FHCC, subscribe to the “Launch”, the Lovell Newsletter.

To get a subscription, – click here. 

Here is a directory of the resources at James A. Lovell FHCC. To access the electronic directory, click here and scroll down to the bottom of the page.

Here are the available hot links to some of the various VA Resources available. The actual hot links can be accessed at the

bottom of the welcome kit.

Click here to subscribe to the Weekly VA Newsletter.

Click here to register for your records in the new FHCC Electronic Records System

 How do you get "Veteran" on your driver's license?



Effective January 1, 2020, it will be easier to get "VETERAN" recorded on your driver's license. To get the “VETERAN” designation, veterans can bring their DD214 or other acceptable discharge document directly to a Secretary of State Driver Services facility.

If veterans choose to add the designation prior to their renewal date, they may obtain an updated driver’s license for $5 and an updated ID card for $10. Veterans over the age of 65 can obtain an updated state ID card at no cost.

A special note - If you are an older Vet and your DD214 was lost in the St. Louis fire in the early 1970's, you can obtain a "certificate" that replaces the DD214. However, for one vet we know, the DMV didn't accept that certificate.

If you need a complete set of your military records



If you need a set of your military records for any reason, you can obtain them by faxing or mailing a request to the National Personnel Records Center. While they will accept a letter (if you get all the right information into it) it is best to use the standard form SF-180 to request it. You can download that form at Standard Form 180

Mail the completed form to:

National Personnel Records Center

1 Archives Drive

Saint Louis, MO 63138.

OR

Fax the form to 314-801-9195

If you need the records in emergency circumstances, contact our office 

Where is an IDVA Office?

 Deerfield - co-located with the 

Illinois Student Assistance Commission

Deerfield Facility

1755 Lake Cook Rd, Ste 1409

Deerfield, IL 60015-5209

847-948-6981 and 847-948-6982

Hours Monday - Friday 

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Palatine - located in the Palatine Township offices at:

721 S. Quentin Rd, Room 102

(847) 485-2772

Hours Monday -Thursday

8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Factual Accuracy and Disclaimer:

Accuracy is important to us. if you believe an error has been made, please email the Lake County Veterans Assistance Commission at veterans@lakecountyil.gov. Use of social media does not imply endorsement on the part of the VAC. Content on these sites is not edited for accuracy and may not necessarily reflect the views of the VAC.