Advancements in Veterans' Support Discussed at V.I. Council Meeting

The V.I. Veterans Advisory Council held its quarterly meeting on Wednesday to discuss veterans benefits, services, and upcoming events.

Council Chair Muria Nisbett provided updates on several initiatives from the Office of Veterans Affairs, including the new veteran discount program that offers discounts at local businesses to veterans who show their Virgin Islands driver's license or ID card with the veteran designation. The council discussed ensuring all veterans receive information about obtaining this updated ID.

Transportation challenges for medical appointments off-island were also addressed. One veteran, identified as R. Phipps, spoke about the difficulties he faced in getting appointments scheduled earlier in the day due to flight times from St. Croix. Flights from the Big Island to Puerto Rico often do not arrive until late morning, but appointments were scheduled as early as 11:00 a.m., he said. Last-minute travel arrangements also cause stress, he noted. Ms. Nisbett promised to work with the Veterans Affairs Office to explore options such as the increased use of charter flights to accommodate travel needs.