VFA News Analysis: July 18, 2008

Shoddy electrical work by private contractors on U.S. military bases in Iraq is far more extensive than previously disclosed. In one six-month period from August 2006 to January 2007, at least 283 electrical fires broke out damaging or destroying American facilities in Iraq. The Pentagon has reported that 13 Americans have been electrocuted in Iraq, but many more have been injured, some seriously — and some on a near daily basis.

More than 1,600 injured veterans could receive retroactive traumatic injury insurancepayments thanks to a newly released review of Veterans Affairs Department practices.

Despite critics who contend that the new G.I. Bill would help deflate enlisted numbers, a Pentagon finding reveals that the enhanced education benefits of the bill will likely lead to more and better candidates for the military.

Helping our wounded troops reintegrate, holistically.

Bloodshed at home may prompt a new National Guard assignment – patrolling the streets of Chicago.

Minnesota became the first state to formally sign an official National Guard family covenant– which aims to provide better services to help Guard members and their families cope with deployments and their aftermath.

The Air Force’s top leadership sought for three years to spend counterterrorism funds on “comfort capsules” to make their trips on spartan military transport planes more luxurious. Production on the first capsule has already begun.

Living with PTSD, a wife’s perspective.

If they are required to serve extra time in the military, it should mean extra pay.

Veterans’ counselor shares his skills.

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