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I work in the Veteran Center at the University of North Texas and I see people every week who come in and say things like, "I got kicked out of basic training 2 days from graduation for lying on my enlistment papers because I didn't mention my ADHD/Depression/Chronic Back Problem/Injury ....etc....etc." , then they ask, "Am I entitled to the Post 9/11 GI Bill?, or, "Do I have any benefits/money coming from the government?", or, "Do I get the Hazelwood Act?"

It makes me sick, it cheapens the ACTUAL HONORABLE SERVICE of generations of true heros who served and continue to serve, and I feel it disgraces the hallowed ground of the Veteran Center that I run. I swallow my pride, I do my job. I am kind. I point them in the right direction, tell them where they can check to see if they actually have any benefits coming, but in truth...the only place I want to point them is right out the door.

All Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coastguardsmen go through tough battles everyday trying to cope with balancing the commitment they made because of the oath they swore, and the difficulties that having sworn that oath brings into their personal lives. Those who can't find constructive ways to deal with the stresses of military life, who turn to drugs or alcohol and allow their use, even if only recreational, to compromise UNIT READINESS are a liability and should be expelled from the military. After over 5 years of service I've seen numerous people kicked out of the military for UCMJ violations and at that time every last one of them was a dirt bag incapable of adhering to the Army Values. I developed a deep respect for the system when I realized it actually worked.

I, for one, am glad that when a person fails this country by dishonoring that oath, it follows him or her for the rest of their life and after. It boils my blood to see people who lack integrity try and take advantage of a system designed to reward and honor true sacrifice by true American heros.

FWIW....YMMV

Congratulations one remaining drug free for all these years, it sounds like you're remorseful for your less than honorable actions. I wish you the best, but I still can't help but speculate that a lack of integrity is possibly the cause that makes people in your situation think that they deserve the same exclusive benefits reserved for those who truly understand the nature of sacrifice for one's country.

If you would like to know what benefits you possibly qualify for please visit:

For FEDERAL Education Benefits:
https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits- ... eb_vonapp1" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

For Texas STATE Education Benefits:
http://www.collegeforalltexans.com" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

For Medical Benefits:
http://www.northtexas.va.gov/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;