Zimmerman Wanting To Connect With Veterans Across South Dakota

South Dakota’s Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new website earlier this fall and officials hope it is being utilized for the benefit of all vets.  Department Secretary Larry Zimmerman says the website at www.vetaffairs.sd.gov was designed to offer a clearinghouse of valuable resources for veterans and family members of all ages.

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Zimmerman says the department also created a QR code which is displayed on banners and posters, for easier access to the new website through one click from a smartphone or tablet.

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About 75,000 veterans live in South Dakota and Secretary Zimmerman says the department wants to start the process of contacting all vets in the state next year to ensure they are taking advantage of the services and resources available to them.

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Zimmerman says a few weeks ago, a World War II veteran who was due benefits years ago was just discovered and is now receiving resources that he earned.   He says veterans are proud and have a hard time asking for assistance.  Zimmerman says they should step forward and talk to their local county and tribal vet services offices so they get their questions answered and the benefits they are due.