You’ve heard the saying, “Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country.” Well, now is the time for “all good veterans” to let their country come to their aid.

The recent PACT act has widened the range of areas with presumptive causes of many illnesses. These include burn pit exposure, agent orange, and various nuclear clean-up sites.

With all the fuss on television about Camp Lejeune and the fancy attorney ads, veterans should keep in mind that the VA is the way to go with any claims. The best route for advice is through the Peoria County Veterans Assistance Commission.

This group of people (veterans) is dedicated to cutting through red tape, if necessary, or answering questions and giving directions. The office is located at 3116 N. Dries Lane in Peoria (across the street from Landmark Lanes). Their phone number is 309-681-2554 and their FAX number is 309-681-2558, website is www.vacpeoria.org, and email is [email protected].  Please call for an appointment.

The operations of this office are overseen and advised by a committee made up of members of all the veterans groups in the county: VFW, American Legion, Amvets, Navy Club, Fleet Reserve, etc. Superintendent Mike Brooks has worked tirelessly to mold a cohesive, dynamic operation which has only the welfare of veterans in its sights.

All veterans, especially young veterans, should join some veterans organization and become active. Current membership is rapidly aging and the need for replacements is becoming critical.