When members of the U.S. armed forces transition back to civilian life after serving their country, they must make their own arrangements for health care, insurance, education, finances, and more. They have to work their way through a maze of programs and services to find out what assistance is available and how to apply.
The first section of this minibibliography lists general guides that discuss the needs and challenges facing veterans and their families. The second section presents resource guides that provide specific information about programs. The third section covers the history of those programs.
Recorded titles are available on digital cartridge, and/or the Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD), which allows registered patrons to download digital talking books and audio magazines. Digital braille is also available on BARD.
NLS has also created Resources for Disabled Veterans designed to assist disabled veterans, as well as their families and caregivers.
Contents:
Guides
God Is Not Here
by Bill Russell Edmonds
Iraq war veteran and counterinsurgency expert Edmonds reflects on his experiences training Iraqi forces from 2005 to 2006, the emotional scars it left on him, and his resulting psychological collapse in 2011. Discusses war's toll on soldiers' psyches and ways of coping and healing. Violence and strong language. 2015.
Download DB82722
Modern Warriors: Real Stories from Real Heroes
by Pete Hegseth
A collection of conversations with American troops about what inspired their service, their legacy, the nature of sacrifice, how they have handled loss, and what lessons they would impart to civilians. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. Bestseller. 2020.
Download DB101983
Life after the Military
by Janelle Hill
A guide for veterans leaving the military. Discusses the emotional and psychological challenges of becoming a civilian and ways for families to cope with the change. Includes information on obtaining employment, furthering education, and managing finances. Lists relevant websites. 2011.
Download DB76698
Through Veterans' Eyes: The Iraq and Afghanistan Experience
by Larry Minear
Commentary from post-9/11 veterans collected from the Library of Congress Veterans History Project and supplemented by author interviews. Covers reasons for enlisting; dealing with combat, local populations, and contractors; and living with post-traumatic stress disorder and brain injury. Strong language and some violence. 2010.
Download BR19370
Download DB73626
The Things They Cannot Say
by Kevin Sites
Eleven veterans including the author, an award-winning war correspondent discuss their combat experiences in World War II Europe, Vietnam, and the Middle East. They relate the difficulties of returning to civilian life and dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder. Violence and strong language. Commercial audiobook. 2013.
Download DB76432
After the War Zone: A Practical Guide for Returning Troops and Their Families
by Laurie B. Slone and Matthew J. Friedman
Two experts in post-traumatic stress disorder address the needs of soldiers returning home after their tour of duty. The authors detail the emotional cycle of deployment and common reactions to the trauma of war. They discuss case studies and the effect of community and family support on service members. 2008.
Download DB67380
Resources
The Evil Hours: A Biography of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
by David J. Morris
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is now the fourth most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorder. A former Marine, Morris draws from his war experiences in Iraq, as well as historical examples, to provide an overview of the psychological costs of war and the current state of treatment options. Some strong language. 2015.
"A moving, eye-opening exploration of PTSD. Just as polio loomed over the 1950s, and AIDS stalked the 1980s and '90s, posttraumatic stress disorder haunts us in the early years of the twenty-first century. Over a decade into the United States' "global war on terror," PTSD afflicts as many as 30 percent of the conflict's veterans. But the disorder's reach extends far beyond the armed forces. In total, some twenty-seven million Americans are believed to be PTSD survivors. Yet to many of us, the disorder remains shrouded in mystery, secrecy, and shame.Now, David J. Morris—a war correspondent, former Marine, and PTSD sufferer himself—has written the essential account of this illness. Through interviews with individuals living with PTSD, forays into the scientific, literary, and cultural history of the illness, and memoir, Morris crafts a moving work that will speak not only to those with the condition and to their loved ones, but also to all of us struggling to make sense of an anxious and uncertain time" — Provided by publisher. 2015.
Download BR20844
Download DB81539
National Veterans Golden Age Games: 2024 Visually Impaired Division Rulebook
US Department of Veterans Affairs External
"The National Veterans Golden Age Games (NVGAG) encourages Veterans age 55 and over, enrolled in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), to make physical activity a central part of their lives and support VA's comprehensive recreation and rehabilitation therapy programs. It is a national showcase for the preventive and therapeutic value of sports, fitness, and recreation for all older Americans. The following qualifying procedures and rules of competition for the 2024 National Veterans Golden Age Games are based upon those set forth by the recognized National Governing Body (NGB) for each sport. In the best interest of the athletes, modifications, and variances of these rules and regulations are permitted as outlined in the rulebook." — Provided by publisher. 2024.
Download DB119258
The Next Step: The Rehabilitation Journey after Lower Limb Amputation
US Department of Veterans Affairs External
"This handbook was written by several clinicians and members of rehabilitation teams in the Veteran’s Administration (VA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) who care for patients who have had an amputation of a lower limb. It is based on the VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG), Rehabilitation of Lower Limb Amputation (2017), that describes the best methods for treating veterans and service members with amputation, and is based on the latest research and expert opinion. This CPG guides rehabilitation teams in providing the best possible care and divides the rehabilitation process into 5 stages: 1. Pre-Operative, 2. Post-Operative, 3. Rehabilitation, 4. Prosthetic Training, 5. Long-term Follow-up." — Provided by publisher. 2018.
Download DB110214
Download DBC02993
Within Reach: The Rehabilitation Journey after Upper Limb Amputation
US Department of Veterans Affairs External
"A collaboration of Rehabilitation Specialists and members of Healthcare Teams from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) have written this handbook to help the individual with limb loss through the rehabilitation process and to answer questions about living with an amputation. This book is based on the VA/DoD Upper Limb Amputation Rehabilitation (ULAR) Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) which describes the best methods for treating Veterans and Service members with amputation. This CPG is based on the latest research and expert opinion, and is designed to guide Healthcare Teams in providing the best possible care." — Provided by publisher. 2017.
Download DB110588
Resource Guides
Soul Repair: Recovering from Moral Injury after War
by Rita Nakashima Brock and Gabriella Lettini
Explores the idea and effect of moral injury—the violation of core beliefs—on military personnel following their return from combat to civilian life. Discusses the symptoms, coping methods, and healing techniques to prevent suicide and other mental issues. Highlights four vets' experiences. Violence. 2012.
Download DB75902
Special Needs Families in the Military: A Resource Guide
by Janelle Hill and Don Philpott
Provides advice for military families dealing with special-needs children and adults. Discusses benefits and treatment options and highlights the importance of acting as an advocate for one's child. Includes resources section that lists support groups. 2011.
Download DB72224
The Wounded Warrior Handbook: A Resource Guide for Returning Veterans
by Janelle Hill and Don Philpott
Second edition of a guide for injured U.S. military veterans and their families provides information on medical treatment, rehabilitation, mental-health counseling, family support, and transitioning to civilian life. Details benefits, taxes, and legal issues and discusses bereavement. Includes resources and success stories. 2012.
Download DB75316
Checklist for my Family: A Guide To My History, Financial Plans, and Final Wishes
by Sally Balch Hurme
An attorney working for AARP guides readers through the process of gathering together information about finances, legal documents, online accounts, veterans’ benefits, wishes about medical care, and more. 2015.
"This book guides the reader through the process of gathering in one place your finances, legal documents, online accounts, wishes about medical care, and more. With this one-of-a-kind guide, you'll stay in control of your life and feel satisfied in knowing that if anything happens to you, you and your family will be well prepared." — Provided by publisher. 2015.
Download DB82694
Military Mental Health Care
by Cheryl Lawhorne-Scott
Resource guide for U.S. military veterans and their families provides information on medical treatment, rehabilitation, counseling, transition, and other care needed for mental and physical health. Includes information on traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicide, and other psychological issues. 2013.
Download DB76384
Veterans Benefits for You: Get What You Deserve
by Paul R. Lawrence
"Veterans of the United States armed forces are entitled to a broad range of benefits and services provided by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Dr. Paul R Lawrence, former Under Secretary for Benefits in the Department of Veterans Affairs, provides an up-to-date, comprehensive and accessible guide to all the benefits and services available to veterans of the US armed services and how to make the most of these benefits and services. Guidance and Insights for Veterans, Dependents, and Survivors Include Topics: Basic Health Care Eligibility and Benefits; Hospitals and Clinics; Disability and Rehabilitation; Counseling and Mental Health Care; Employment Assistance; Pensions; Loans and Insurance; Memorial Services; Military Records and Medals; GI Bill, Scholarships and Grants; And much more... Dr. Lawrence will help you fight for the benefits you were promised when you agreed to serve your country!" — Provided by publisher. 2023.
Download BR25080
Download DB115703
Social Security, Medicare and Government Pensions: Get the Most Out of Your Retirement and Medical Benefits
by Joseph L. Matthews
"The rules for claiming Social Security benefits have changed. Find out if you can still choose between your own benefits and spousal benefits. Learn this and more with Social Security, Medicare and Government Pensions completely updated for 2023. Social Security benefits. Figure out how to get retirement, disability, dependents, and survivors benefits, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Decide whether it’s best to claim benefits early, at full retirement age, or not until you turn 70 and how to time your claims so you and your spouse get the best benefits. Medicare and Medicaid. Learn how to qualify for and enroll in both programs, including Medicare Part D drug coverage. Medigap insurance and Medicare Advantage plans. Compare Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans, and choose what’s best for you. Government pensions and veterans benefits. Discover when and how to claim the benefits you have earned. What’s New in 2023? Lower drug costs under Part D; New Medicare costs and Social Security amounts for 2023, and; Changes to some Medigap plans. Whether you’re looking for yourself or helping a parent, you’ll find valuable information here to help get the benefits you’ve earned." — Provided by publisher. 2023.
Download DB114657
Coordinated Services for Veterans Who Are Blind Or Visually Impaired
US Department of Veterans Affairs External
Provides a brief overview of resources that are available for Veterans and eligible active Service Members who are blind or visually impaired. Includes information on outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation centers, research and clinical evaluation programs, and assistive technologies. 2009.
Download DBC02931
Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, and Survivors
US Department of Veterans Affairs External
2016 summary of benefits provided to eligible individuals. Covers health care, service-related disabilities, pensions, education and training, home loans, life insurance, burial and memorial benefits, transition assistance, dependents, and survivors. 2016.
Download DB86254
Download DB72994 (Spanish language, 2011 edition)
History
The GI Bill: A New Deal for Veterans
by Glenn C. Altschuler and Stuart M. Blumin
Discusses the history of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, commonly referred to as the GI Bill, and its 1945 revision. Details the significance of the GI Bill for veterans and the country after World War II. Includes background information on Veterans Administration home loans and on alleged gender and race biases. 2009.
Download DB70331
Best Care Anywhere: Why VA Health Care Is Better than Yours
by Phillip Longman
Economic journalist posits that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals offer services far superior to those in private-sector hospitals. Examines the VA system and advocates giving all Americans its high-quality, cost-effective health-for-life model of care. 2007.
Download DB65594
Vets under Siege: How America Deceives and Dishonors Those Who Fight Our Battles
by Martin Schram
Journalist examined the workings of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and deemed it understaffed and incompetent. Describes the experiences of veterans seeking medical help and highlights the backlog of claims and the denial of benefits. Discusses some improvements, such as state-of-the-art hospitals, and offers suggestions for further progress. 2008.
Download DB67340
Updated 2024
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