The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, or more commonly known as VA, was established as on July 21, 1930 as an independent agency. As the second largest Federal department, the VA’s mission is to serve America’s veterans and their families, to ensure that they receive medical care, benefits, social support and memorials.
The VACO, or the Veterans Affairs Central Office, is located in Washington, DC, with regional offices located throughout the country, administered by the Veterans Health Administration, the Veterans Benefits Administration, and the National Cemetery Administration.
As of June 2009, the VA has a vast network of 153 hospitals, 995 outpatient clinics, 135 community living centers, 49 domiciliary residential rehabilitation treatment programs, 232 Vet centers, 57 Veterans benefits regional offices, and 128 national cemeteries.
According to the VA Organizational Briefing Book, the VA has five broad strategic goals to improve their services and their department: (1) Restore the capability of Veterans with disabilities to the greatest extent possible, and improve the quality of their lives and that of their families; (2) Ensure a smooth transition for Veterans from active military service to civilian life; (3) Honor and serve Veterans in life, and memorialize them in death for their sacrifices on behalf of the Nation; (4) Contribute to the public health, emergency management, socioeconomic well-being, and history of the Nation; and (5) Deliver world-class service to Veterans and their families through effective communication and management of people, technology, business processes, and financial resources.
If you want to get detailed information on the benefits and services of the VA, just log on to the Internet and visit their website at www.va.gov. You can also call their toll-free number, 1-800-827-1000.