North Shore Veterans Invited To Learn More About PACT Act

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — North Shore veterans are invited to a Sept. 24 meeting of the E.F. Gilmore Disabled American Veterans Chapter of Swampscott and Lynn to learn more about the recently signed PACT Act and how it provides resources for service members exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances during their tours of duty.

The discussion will be at the Veterans Crossing building on Pine Street in Swampscott beginning at 9:30 a.m.

"This bill is a game changer for veterans," said DAV Chapter Commander Jeffrey Blonder. "This bill is the largest expansion of benefits for veterans in 30 years."

The bill provides expanded access to health care and disability benefits for veterans harmed by toxic exposures and burn pits used through wars in Vietnam and Afghanistan. The Department of Veterans Affairs will also be allowed to move more quickly and comprehensively in the future if illnesses are deemed related to military service.

This includes the well-publicized water contamination from Camp LeJeune.

"Importantly, the bill includes the tools and resources to ensure that the VA can effectively implement it," Blonder said. "We also will have service officers available to assist veterans if they need to file claims with the VA."

The meeting is open to all with a complimentary breakfast served. To reserve a spot or to receive further information on the PACT ACT, contact Commander Jeffrey Blonder at 617-967-6892 or e_f_gilmore_dav_chapter64@yahoo.com.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)