Eddy County introduces Steinbach as new Veterans Service Officer

Eddy County officials hosted a meet and greet to introduce Kathy Steinbach, the new Eddy County Veterans Service Officer, who began her duties on June 1, 2018. Office hours will be Monday through Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the courthouse is open. Jessica Clifton, Stark County Veterans Service Officer, was on hand to orient and mentor Kathy to her new role.

Steinbach's role is to serve as a liaison between veterans and their families in obtaining benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Service officers assist veterans in filing service connected disability claims with the Veterans Administration (VA) and in obtaining benefits relative to VA health care, vocational rehabilitation, home loans, education, insurance, burial benefits and non-service connected pension benefits. Service officers are available to assist veterans from their date of discharge until their death. In many instances, the service officer provides assistance to eligible dependents after the veteran passes.

Steinbach says that the ultimate job of a County Veterans Service Officer is to simplify what can be a very complex undertaking: that of obtaining eligible benefits from the VA. "As a veteran you served your country honorably, and as your local County Veterans Service Officer, I want to say 'thank you' by ensuring you obtain all of the benefits to which you or your family members are eligible and entitled," Steinbach said.

Veterans who want more information are encouraged to call the Eddy County Veteran Service Office at (701) 947-2434 ex. 2023, to schedule an appointment.