Americans recently celebrated the memory of those brave soldiers who sacrificed everything to protect our freedom. In Winston County, a group of vets gathered at the courthouse last Monday morning to lower the flag to half-staff, a Memorial Day tradition. Ironically, many locals, particularly vets and their families, may not know that they have a helpful ally in the Winston County Veterans’ Service Office.
This office is located on Old Robinson Road, and former coach Bobby Bowman is the county Veterans' Service officer. Bowman himself is a Vietnam veteran.
Bowman says his chief duty as the county’s officer is to help veterans file claims. These claims include those for health benefits and pensions. Surviving spouses and children may also utilize the Veterans’ Services office. Bowman assists spouses and other dependents in filing for various benefits as well.
Although Bowman’s position is considered a part-time one, he spends a minimum of 1,000 hours each year in the office assisting local veterans. The office is under the purview of the county’s Board of Supervisors. Locals may find Bowman at the office Monday – Thursday between the hours of 8 – 4.
There are approximately 1,100 veterans in Winston County alone. Bowman said, on average, he assists with filing 150 claims per year.
Speaking with the Journal, Bowman added that simply being considered a veteran doesn’t automatically entitle one to benefits. The office saw a great deal of foot traffic from local vets after the passage of the PACT Act. Bowman said many locals got a letter stating that, as someone who had served, they might be entitled to benefits. The VA has certain requirements in order for a veteran to receive healthcare benefits or pension benefits, and the letters caused some confusion.
Bowman added that the PACT Act also provided for “presumptions,” such as exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam or chemical exposure at Camp LeJeune.
For instance, many veterans may have been in service during peace time. They may have served here in the United States. In these instances, they may not be eligible for benefits through the VA. Bowman stated that while he himself had nine years of service, he doesn’t qualify for certain benefits. Those who served overseas during wartime or those who earned a Purple Heart are more likely to be approved for veterans’ benefits.
Bowman doesn’t shy away from taking questions regarding eligibility, however. He stated that he takes many calls and visits from veterans even if he isn’t able to assist them in filing paperwork for possible benefits.
He also shared that veterans in Winston County are provided a great deal of benefits from the VA each year. In 2021, total benefit compensation for Winston County totaled around $5 million; medical care benefits for the veterans of the county totaled around $6 million. In all, Winston County veterans received $11 million that year in compensation from Veterans’ Affairs.
Bowman takes great pride in assisting the county’s vets. He cited that the VA often encourages vets to file claims electronically or via an app. Bowman is there to help those who may not wish to file in this manner. He is also available to assist in checking the progress of most claims.
The Veteran’s Service Office can also assist veterans with obtaining a medical card; however, Bowman said for those who want a simple veteran’s card (giving proof of service), going to the DMV with one’s discharge papers is the best way to get this item.
Winston County vets in need of assistance may contact the office at (662) 773-9555.
