Operation: Resource Ready Kicks Off Statewide Mission to Connect Indiana Veterans With Support

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Veterans arrived early and filled American Legion Post 492 on Oct. 24 for the launch of Operation: Resource Ready, a statewide initiative connecting veterans and their families with benefits assistance and community resources.

The event combined a benefits presentation with individual service officer assistance, employment information, and VA Caregiving and Suicide Prevention resources. Veterans could ask questions, discuss their circumstances, and schedule follow-up appointments.

Developed through the Indiana American Legion Foundation and The American Legion Department of Indiana, the program aims to bring that assistance to every American Legion district in the state.

Indiana American Legion Rehabilitation Director Bryce Hullett led a presentation on VA compensation, pension, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), a benefit for eligible survivors. The discussion also covered VA health care eligibility and how to navigate the claims process.

The presentation extended beyond benefits for veterans themselves. Hullett discussed assistance for eligible surviving spouses and dependent children, as well as benefits that may help eligible veterans and survivors who need assistance with daily activities.

Hullett also walked attendees through the steps to start a claim, including submitting an intent to file and gathering medical records. He encouraged veterans to work with a service officer to identify the forms and supporting evidence needed for their circumstances.

Department Service Officer Joe Williams provided individual VA claims assistance. Tippecanoe County Veteran Service Officer Susie Brown answered questions, discussed local resources, and scheduled numerous follow-up appointments.

For one veteran and Post 492 member, having assistance available at his own post prompted him to take a step he had been considering. He had never filed a VA claim and had been meaning to learn about the process and submit an intent to file. With Williams on site, he sat down to discuss getting started.

Second District Commander Gene Polly, a member of Post 492, recalled a veteran stopping him and Department Commander Ron Hoaks to thank them for organizing the event after connecting with Williams for assistance.

“A lot of people don’t know about stuff like this,” Polly said.

Post 492 generously opened its doors and provided a meal for attendees, while Legion Family volunteers gave their time to welcome veterans and help them connect with services and resources.

Hoaks emphasized that American Legion service officers provide claims assistance at no cost. Veterans do not need to be American Legion members to receive help.

Hoaks also cautioned attendees about “claim sharks,” describing companies that seek a share of veterans’ compensation for claims assistance.

“Make sure we’re educated on claim sharks out there,” Hoaks said.

He encouraged veterans to seek assistance through accredited service officers.

Employment resources were available through the Department of Workforce Development’s Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program, known as DVOP. VA Caregiver Support and VA Suicide Prevention teams offered additional information and resources for veterans and their families.

Attendees also collected materials to take home and share with people unable to attend.

Hoaks said the event reflected the American Legion’s work in communities across Indiana.

“This is what the American Legion does,” he said. “People forget what we actually do for our communities, not just veterans, for our communities in general.”

Hoaks credited Department staff members with helping spearhead the initiative.

Organizers are working with District commanders to arrange additional events, identify host locations, and connect with local partners. The goal is to reach every district before expanding to additional locations.

The next Operation: Resource Ready event is scheduled for Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at American Legion Post 64 in Indianapolis. Veterans and their families are welcome to attend for benefits education, individual assistance, and information about available services.

More information and upcoming events are available at indianalegion.org/resourceready.