Vets gain, too, in NDAA

Statement

Section 621 of the John S. McCain Act gives eligible veterans and their caregivers access to the Saipan Exchange Store and all other military commissaries, as well as to Morale, Welfare, and Recreation facilities worldwide. Eligible veterans are defined as Purple Heart recipients, Medal of Honor recipients, former prisoners of war, and veterans with a service-connected disability. The new benefit takes effect on January 1, 2020. Section 621 is referred to as the "Purple Heart and Disabled Veterans Equal Access Act of 2018." The 2019 NDAA also extends the Military OneSource program from the current 180 days to a full year after separation or retirement from military service. The program helps with the transition from military to civilian life. Active-duty, National Guard, and reserve service members are eligible for the OneSource program, along with their families and survivors.

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