A Different Kind of Resolution
BY FREDDY GROVES
If you’ve already broken your New Year’s resolutions, it’s not too late to try again, this time with a different set of goals. None involves dieting, getting more exercise or kicking a vice. Instead, they can be broken into two categories: Getting what you have coming to you and getting organized.

Get what you’re entitled to: —Sign in with the VA to recheck any service-related injury or disability. You might be eligible for an upgrade in compensation. —Would you benefit from education and training? How about vocation rehabilitation? Maybe a bit of counseling or outreach? —Ready to buy a house? Look into VA home loans. —Want to start a business? Check the Small Business Administration, or take a look at VetFran, a program to help you get started in a franchise. —If you’re uncertain whether you’re getting all your benefits, do your homework. Get the American Legion to help out, if necessary. Gather all your paperwork, including separation papers and your final medical records. The American Legion has service officers who will review all your benefits and help file claims.

Get organized: Nobody wants to think about it, but consider what your final wishes are if something happens to you. See an attorney and draft a will, then put it with your military paperwork where your next of kin can find it. Include a copy of your marriage certificate and birth certificates for any children. Make it easy for others to follow your last wishes. If you need to call the VA, here’s the number: 1-800-827- 1000Write to Freddy Groves in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL32853-6475, or send an e-mail to letters.kfws@hearstsc.com. (c) 2006 King Features Synd., Inc.