VFW HQ Attacks Veteran Online - Special Guest The Fat Electrician

[@the_fat_electrician]

I also was offered that sponsorship and declined it.

[@HurDUR3000]

how are you already here

[@rabidseabee7229]

Smart man.

[@williamsveen2827]

​@@HurDUR3000AC probably let him preview it before he posted it as public.

[@Darkour97]

Hot damn how was your birthday the other day chubby sparkie fella?

[@mynamewastaken06]

Going to go with time traveling electrician from Iowa.

[@VeteranWithASign]

Thank you brother. I will now and forever support Veterans right to choose. If they’ll do this to me, what will they do to you.

[@rxmclaren7]

Keep doing the good work brother! Keep yourself humble as you have been... don't allow some butt hurt individuals rain on your parade...

[@ferallion3546]

Keep up the great work. I had challenges with the VFW years ago when I was trying to get my Gulf War Syndrome claim processed. I headed away from them at flank speed.

[@thatginger1219]

You keep being you brother. You help the community and we all know it.

[@Khozeee]

We've got your back brother, this is bullshit!

[@chainsawsubtlety9828]

You're doing The Lord's work.

[@pdox1990]

The moment I read "-bigoted, racist, and violently charged-" buzz words in the response post from VFW HQ to Zachary, all of my questions were answered.

[@hawk4192]

Spirit of the age will always show its hand.

[@TheKittehboi]

Bingo

[@TechnoEsoterica]

And crying about being marginalised.

[@colestockdale5616]

Those who don't reproduce lose ideologically. Sit back and enjoy.

[@ShiningDarknes]

@@TheKittehboi You too?

[@USMC6976]

Remember, the VFW turned away Vietnam Vets until they realized all their members were dying off.

[@unspokenpoet82]

Now depending on location their turning away Gwot veterans

[@jameskerrigan2997]

Yep, dad joined the legion. Omlets and bloody Mary's in the morning.

[@brianjamesward2150]

If the VFW is so bothered about people paying to get help with the VA paperwork, instead of campaigning to ban that, why don't they campaign for the VA to not be a bureaucratic hellhole where people feel they need to pay for help to get anywhere in a reasonable timeframe.

[@taemien9219]

Because the VFW has been bought. Its just a mouthpiece for washington bureaucrats. VFW stands for Vlue Falcons of Washington.

[@patrickw9520]

They VFW has incentive in shit not getting fixed... why they have always maintained the status quo, and been opposed to most all the improvements in claims processing reform.

[@Absaalookemensch]

I used the American Legion in my town to apply for re-evaluation after being retired for 20 years. My initial paperwork was done through the DAV. I retired before before the current Separation Health Assessment system.

[@czarnynight]

Because them helping is work. And they just wanna paycheck. Taking about higher ups as ik that most of lower and on ground people wanna help.

[@snakeking211]

The VA would be way easier if when they denied you that told you what needed fixed and/or changed to award the benefit. Take me I'm filing for smc s I haven't left my home in over 2 years I cant work I have a doctor say that. I'm guessing it's the word "won't" not can't that caused em to deny my claim. I won't leave my home cuz when I do I have constant panic attacks. If the VA just explained when they deny your claim what evidence you need these bad organizations wouldn't have a leg to stand on

[@v745ti]

The Guard act is hilarious because they dont want us going outside of them for our VA claims... But the ENTIRE C&P process is handled by 3rd party contractors... The VA going outside of itself essentially to handle the evidence gathering portion of the claim.

[@gothamlives4278]

It's funny cuz my unit's third party is lacking funding to actually conduct annual check ins..

[@GTGibbs]

The C&P process is corrupt. After 50 years I’m going through it at present. When a loon like Pocahontas is bringing up this corruption in Congress, you know how bad this process really is. Even Dimocraps recognize it. Elizabeth Warren aka “Pocahontas “ is demanding action?

[@ericsfishingadventures4433]

Hey buddy big daddy gubment has to get their dirty laundry washed too lol.

[@CL053DC45K37]

Yeah it's funny but the doctors the VA outsourced for me actually helped me more than the VA doctors did. They actually listened to what I had to say, looked over the evidence, talked to me about it, asked questions that mattered and really helped me with the claim process by doing their job first. They treated me like a human being and wanted to hear what I had to say! Without the VA outsourcing to these doctors I do not think I'd have gotten the rating I have and I would still be playing the VA's game. What the VA needs to do is when you file a claim and they go over your entire record they need to tell you what else is in your file that you need to file a claim for. The VA goes over your entire record every time you file a claim so if you file 4 individual claims the VA will go over your record 4 times and say you have 2 other issues that you need to file for, instead of telling you hey these 2 issues need to be filed for as well, they just act like those issues do not exist and never tell you a thing. That needs to change. The VA claims to help Veterans but they will screw you over any chance they get and that's complete bs.

[@Absaalookemensch]

I went to the American Legion in our town to apply for re-evaluation almost 20 years after retirement. They we very helpful, informative and through. Most of my evaluations were conducted by VA doctors and 2 by contract PA/NPs.

[@user-lh8ct7zi7p]

Went thru the VFW at the Va. Got assigned to an VSO. Nothing got done for 3 years. Said, screw it, contacted a third party, paid a couple grand and got my rating and pay with 45 days. VSO still calls and tries to get us to come back and attempt to up our rating thru them even though we are more then happy with what we have. The VSO even told me one time to go to the AIMH at our VA hospital and put on the best acting of my life to get the process rolling quicker. He wanted me to pretend I was nuts in the mental ward to process the claim quicker. So much for integrity. He was a Vietnam Vet and when I was telling him parts of my time in, he'd argue with me and tell me, that doesn't happen that way or the Army isn't like that. He spent a few years in Nam, knew it all and my years didn't mean squat. Just an old man trying to pretend he was still someone important. Kind of sad.

[@chriscomer1472]

My local VFW literally has 3 Veteran members... It used to be good, but the owners decided to hire a non-Veteran bartender who invited all her friends from the hole in the wall she used to work at to start drinking there, none of which are Veterans, and jacked the prices up... A 12oz Bush Light can is $4 ... They offer no Veterans assistance at all .. They just enjoy the perks of being called a "VFW" ...

[@Meh-hr7gq]

Or……because theirs not enough veterans they have to have other customers so they can continue to do their charity work? Ever think of that?

[@chriscomer1472]

@@Meh-hr7gq 🤣🤣🤣 not the case around here, or there ... Used to be full of Veterans until they hired her and she brought her friends from the last bar she ran under ... Now those same Veterans go elsewhere .. And again, they do not provide any Veteran services or help.

[@dwightcurrie8316]

The "Veterans Of Foreign Wars" who started it have all died out, and like most things, when their "Founders Disappear, Rapidly Turned To Crap. For proof, Look at Walmart Today, and Walmart when Sam Walton was running things

[@dwightcurrie8316]

@@Meh-hr7gq If they "Don't have enough Veterans" there is a Reason, and it ain't because there is a shortage of Veterans after a 10 year War, followed Closely by a 20 Year War, with "The Powers That Ought Not To Be" Digging Hard to get another War in the Pipeline......You don't think it's because they Give Two Craps about Ukraine, Or Hate Russia, Do You? It's All Because "War Is Big Business, and Very Profitable"", plus there are ever so many opportunity for "Fast Tracking" the Money making Grift, by all sorts of "Bad Actors"(Nefarious Defense Contractors and Greedy Politicians, and Lobbyists, who have never heard a "Shot Fired In Anger' or been Down Range of anything more Dangerous than the office Espresso Machine. It was True 50+ years ago during "My War" in Veeeetnaaam, Republic of, and it's even more true Today. Hell, we gotta fed all them Millions of Dislegal Alien Critters, that are already Bitching about and Demanding "More and Better Freebies, That Can Never End", else they'll Pout and Show Out, by blocking Commerce, Traffic and free movement, Steal everything that ain't nailed down, and Destroy the Rest. Not to mention all the Violent Crimes that have Miraculously Increased, since they started their little "Invasion" funded, Promoted, and Enabled by a Certain Political Party that has been Screaming that they are all about "Helping, Every Day, Working Americans" ever since Lincoln and A Bunch Of Yankee Boys, made them Turn Their Slaves Loose, Back In The day. It was in all the Papers, unless I disremember?

[@jaypressley]

Sounds like a ... what do they call it... scam operation.

[@marlinmealer6506]

Looks left Looks right Communism Communism Communism

[@the_fat_electrician]

Hey stop that

[@AngryCops]

you can't cry wolf

[@the2pointo292]

@@AngryCops free country

[@thetiffanystevenson]

​@@the2pointo292lmfao, we wish

[@Kingrenob84]

The VA is literally a socialist healthcare system

[@itsvalentine7783]

“Based out of Washington DC” I think I spotted the issue my dude

[@jonesy19691]

Yup, there's your problem!

[@stewiegriffin88]

Most factual statement here

[@gladiater56]

Aka rich men North of Richmond

[@hateferlife]

Sloshing around in the petri dish tends to raise the odds of moral illness.

[@jububoobaroo67]

Yea lots of White people in DC totally not a snarky 300lb ladondra behind that account

[@SeanWilliamGeorgeBuc]

I work on hospice as a social worker. The amount of "peacetime" veterans that have tole me they were told they didnt qualify for ANY VA benefits (including basic healthcare) is staggering. I do more VA paperwork now than when I worked for a Veteran social service agency.

[@rssvss]

Thank you for helping!! ❤

[@VeteranWithASign]

Thank you for helping them

[@jameskerrigan2997]

Check LES if they operated in a hostile fire area they qualify. That includes multi national force and observer tour in siani.

[@dwightmansburden7722]

Veterans deserve the absolute BEST this country can give. Thank you for speaking out and standing up for them.

[@commanderunboxd6679]

Agreed but i think everyone involved is on the same team here. Lets not eat each other and focus our energy to help vets.

[@rosseckstein4183]

“You shouldn’t have to pay…..” You shouldn’t have to go through the shit that the VA puts veterans through!

[@ShiningDarknes]

"You shouldn't have to pay" LITERALLY nobody is saying vets should have to pay (except the sharks), it is such a fucking strawman of a platform to run on. No, they shouldn't but guess who is making them _want_ to pay, nay _need_ to pay? That's right, the VFW and their shitty bureaucratic process they apply to the simplest claims. How's about this: you tell vets what hospitals they are pre-approved to go to and then have them defer the payment until you can evaluate the claim. I mean they shouldn't have to pay right? Then just fucking tell them were they can go to get their effectively free health care for minor things or things that are time-sensitive. It isn't that hard, that is literally how most insurance companies operate, they tell you where you can go for essentially no-questions asked coverage and tell you going elsewhere or having certain procedures will require evaluation for approval. I have no idea (I mean I do, we all do, but I am being hyperbolic here) why they cave gone 125 fucking years without implementing at least some of these basic practices in private health insurance. I get it, they are a government institute but they aren't working for the public, they are working for veterans (and immediate families/dependents of veterans). It isn't like medicaid/obamacare where they don't necessarily know who the fuck you are and need to make sure you are not trying to get something you are not entitled to. If veterans "should not have to pay" then why the fuck are you making them pay WITH THEIR TIME? You know, the thing they already gave up years of for their country and now you make some wait YEARS to receive their benefits when they apply for them. Make no mistake, bad actor VFWs are the bad guys. (as stated in the video not all local VFWs are like this, but the main branches/HQs almost all are. I know my boss, who's wife is a vet so he is on her benefits, has had nothing but good things to say about the VA here)

[@jackhathaway35]

PREACHHHHH!

[@ryanrobinson4242]

Reasons why I didn't join the VFW 1. They looked down on me when I went to check it out 2. They turned their back on my wife's grandfather.

[@bkpickell]

Reason I didn't join the VFW. I'm 55 years old and when I walked in the door, I was the youngest person in the room by a long shot. I thought I was in a nursing home. No hate against those patrons. My point is if they want younger members, maybe do things that appeal to younger people.

[@FM-ig3th]

My ( now deceased) Father a WW2 Veteran was denied membership because he served with the US Merchant Marine 1942-1945. Battle of the Atlantic. Dad made a total of 22 Convoy Runs across the North Atlantic dodging Hitler's "Wolfpacks" and survived. Even after the WW2 Mariners received full Combat Vet status in the 1980s ( Honorable Discharge administerd by the US Coast Guard , WW2 Campaign Medals etc) the VFW still denied them membership. But they'll accept me, a Army Vet who never saw a shot fired in anger but because I have a Korea Defense Medal from my two tours there with the Army, I can join...uh..hell no.

[@raptorcell6633]

@@bkpickell They turned their back on Vietnam veterans because Vietnam "wasnt a real war"

[@Hoffmatic]

The posts are alright, cheap beer, but there is a serious sense that they look down on GWOT veterans. Being 29 walking into one feels like I’m volunteering for a nursing home

[@hoffafiles]

I've heard too many times that veterans were told, "You're war is not my war" while not even looking at them to acknowledge their presence, when trying to connect at the VFW.

[@BravoJulietAlpha]

@AngryCops I am the SOA of VFW Post 5396 and I will absolutely make this my mission in life to get to the bottom of this stinky pile of B.S. and get it corrected. Thank you for making this video and making me aware. BravoJulietAlpha OUT.

[@redbasher636]

Any news?

[@KnawedOne]

Wishing you god speed in this task

[@txdude19d]

I know a guy that was fighting with the VA for over 13 years and stuck with a super low (30%) and incorrect diagnosis/rating. He went to multiple VSO's, DAV and a few other organizations over the years and it just wasted his time. He decided to go thru a paid service and within 5 months he had a corrected diagnoses and rating of (80%). The paid service had the EXPERTISE to get it done quickly and effectively. If I recall right, it cost him around $4,000 and he paid $400 a month for 10 months to pay it. He always tells me that it is worth it!

[@chuckgrove8516]

Vet with a sign is recommended officially for a P.O.B. PW submitted

[@jeremyspurlock6636]

I'd stand by that

[@joshjones3359]

POB

[@exploringwithtyler]

Chuck has spoken.

[@mgk1397]

AC specifically mentioned that Veteran with a Sign has gotten zero Pats on the Back for what he's doing.

[@WillMauz]

Seconded

[@phatwcinfrcr]

The VA screwed me over hard and I lost a few years of benefits because I thought the VSO had my back. I went with Vet Benefits Guide, one of those so called sharks. They took care of me, told me what it was going to cost up front, and didn't charge a DIME until I got my rating. How the hell are they a shark if they tell you up front what the costs are and don't charge you until the job is done (they charge based on the rating they get you)? Yes, it cost me a few grand.. but they put in some damn work, answered my questions, guided me, and made the process cake. Worth every penny.

[@davidboyd7773]

Veterans Guardian did the same for me after multiple VSOs ignored me.

[@AP-gk6se]

Same, i also went with vet ben guide. they have a high turnover so i kept getting different reps but only took like 8 months and some of that was waiting on the medical appointment. definitely worth.

[@echohunter4199]

Likewise, the VA pooch screwed my claim for a few years and the Legion was sitting on replies and cared less about what to do next. So I dumped the Legion and used a rep my brother in law recommended and it was like getting artillery support AND a few A-10’s attacking the claim and it went from 70% to 90% then 4 months later, 100% permanent. Yes, it was well worth the couple grand and I’m very grateful for how they improved my life.

[@jasonbeasley2899]

Same deal

[@heinz57channel39]

@@echohunter4199 I’m sure they did the issue is if they are sharks nothing can be done should it be a crapshoot ?

[@xHATEBREEDER86x]

Great video as per usual. VFW used my picture in an ads campaign for years and when I reached out to see if they’d hook me up with a membership since they were using my face, I received a very snide message back about “public use, blah, blah, blah.” Their lack of humor and attitude when addressing me after using me to sell memberships told me everything I need to know about the people in charge of the VFW.

[@MWitt-bw7im]

I went and got a lawyer to help me get mine after 8 years and after 11 years I finally got my disability. I was happy to pay the lawyer out of my back pay. I was about to give up when I found the lawyer she helped me so much! You are 100% correct Angry Cops!! 🍻🍻🇺🇲🇺🇲

[@Justhereforthestay]

I also used one after 10 years and got a rating I had been fighting for the whole time.

[@forthehonorforge4840]

"In case the marines have an issue reading". Actually thank you for reading it out loud. I was taking my boots off and didn't want to stare at your face.

[@nissan300ztt]

I got you some crayons and mre cheese.

[@forthehonorforge4840]

@@nissan300ztt thanks. It's breaktime and I'm hungry.

[@dwightcurrie8316]

LMAO & Semper Fi, Always

[@dwightcurrie8316]

@@nissan300ztt Hey Now! Don't go Doggin MRE Cheese. Just imagine how many cases of "The Runs" they have prevented....sometimes Permanently?

[@noble14]

Respect lol

[@disgruntledgrunt2492]

A private law firm was able to get me my benefits and rating in under 6 months, after a certain VSO dicked around for over 3 years with no progress... Not to stir the pot too much, but isn't the VFW the same veterans group that refused membership to Nam vets until the 90s??? The war may be over, but the battle rages on.

[@cdj4572]

Not defending the VFW for the treatment of Zach at all but my Dad joined as a Vietnam vet when he got back in '69. I don't remember if he joined that year but he was a member in at least the early 70s.

[@disgruntledgrunt2492]

@@cdj4572 I'm glad to hear that your dad found a local that was welcoming. For many, they found signs on the doors "VietNam Vets not welcome". Sadly, a lot of the greatest generation and Korean vets didn't see Nam as a "foreign war". I am very grateful for how the veteran community has come together over the last few decades, but the "Welcome Home" that most Nam Vets received was disgraceful. I saw first hand how my father and uncles were treated, that was still going on when I entered active duty in 89... Groups like the VVA in the 80s are what helped turn the tide. Much love to all the vets out there, our generation stands on the shoulders of giants. Semper Fi!

[@davh73]

I hired a lawyer to handle my VA appeal, yes it cost me 25% of the lump sum for back payments owed to me, but to me it was worth it. Never go with anyone who wants a cut of your monthly payments, that's bullshit.

[@Nell-dr3dn]

​@@davh73my SSI lawyer took 35%, so 25% for dealing with usa.gov was a good deal

[@doxx2265]

Yes they did. The VFW also has this attitude of looking down on GWOT vets (not all posts of course, there’s a diamond in the rough sometimes). It’s difficult to join if you didn’t fight in a “war” last official war was in the 1940s…. Especially if you’re not Army or air force because the “time in conflict” requirement, Naval and Marine Corps missions typically aren’t occupy the same area for extended period of times type of missions. So Sailors and Marines with tons of Sea Time in hot zones but because the typical amount of time in one theater is less than 180 days. You are not eligible for membership. Only exception is if you participated in a campaign. There’s a reason why VFW memberships are plummeting as the old guard dies but American Legion and American Veterans (AMVETS) memberships has steadily risen.

[@leecravens2841]

As a police officer, firefighter, and EMT for 22 years that never had the guts to serve in the military, I appreciate every single veteran's sacrifice. Thank you for protecting my country and my family. I wish our country could pay you back properly and fairly without making you jump through a ton of hoops. By the way, Angry Cops, Fat Electrician, and Unsubscribe are my go-to pages to escape from my own reality. Keep up the great work fellers.

[@trippymlgjunkrat5749]

Ay you hit the trifecta helping people on all sides ya did good man

[@lars7747]

I can't join the army due to having half a working heart so I just tried to be a nurse and an expert in trauma care. If war does break out in my country I'm automatically in an army hospital. You can be ready to serve without serving

[@andrewedelbrock3639]

Any time an organization trys to take options AWAY, they never have your best interests in mind.

[@angeloftheabyss5265]

As a former member of uncle Sam’s misguided children, I really appreciate the additional help with the explanation. You’re almost as good as green crayons

[@nissan300ztt]

Hey now. All true Marines know the Red crayons taste like cherry!

[@jsgun316]

@@nissan300ztt the grape one is up there too

[@nissan300ztt]

@@jsgun316 ive heard!

[@The_Lite]

Did someone say Green crayons?

[@rElliot09]

I fought the VA for six years and decides to use one of these outside sources. It took them three months to get me where I needed to be. The VFW is upset as when it is done right, the VA has to pay out. Sucks for them as "NO" is their favorite word. This place charged me a one time fee, that was it.

[@directsoldier6028]

Drop that name?

[@MrLandslide84]

@@directsoldier6028 I'm curious too, my Uncle was old before he saw his 'nam money. Just wondering how early these services were around.

[@weaponizedrationale6691]

yeah hook a brother up with the name man 😅

[@rElliot09]

@@directsoldier6028 Veteran's Benefits out of San Diego, CA

[@rElliot09]

@@weaponizedrationale6691 Veteran's Benefits out of San Diego, CA

[@joshsullie4003]

I’m pissed. I’m a post commander and I am not on twitter and had not heard of this but I will be bringing this to the post for us to decide what to do about it

[@slol144]

VFW always feels like a bunch of drunk supply sargents telling war stories to widows playing bingo

[@yodog196]

the fact that the VFW HQ can do this type of shit and think they ain't gonna get shit on for it

[@Trump2024asw]

Because they know nothing will happen. They only understand loss of money or physical harm.

[@Marinealver]

Like EVERY member of the Federal Government Bureaucracy.

[@s.kelley9403]

A government organization getting mad at the private sector holing them accountable and getting things done more efficiently? Havent heard that one before. Great collab boys.

[@sarahcouch7874]

The VFW is a private organization

[@peterallen4605]

I realize it's generations ago at this point, but I can't hear VFW without thinking about my dad's interaction with them. When he came back from Vietnam and back to college in 1968/69, one day he and a buddy (just returned marine pilot) decided to head to the VFW in State College to see what it was all about. They were told in no uncertain terms that the VFW didn't consider Vietnam a foreign war, therefore, they were not welcome. My dad had zero interest in the VFW or American Legion after that.

[@bryonslatten3147]

Thanks. I didn't realize that the VFW pulled this kind of nonsense. They owe Zach an apology.

[@Error-30h3]

A guy out of North Carolina who ran a VFW, preyed on hurt women in the mental health forums and got in touch with my ex wife. Proceeded to play on mental health for over 4 months, and convinced her that he was in love. She left me and our two kids, got yelled at by his wife and tried to come back. A fellow veteran doing dumb shit and wrecking my house hold and God knows how many others.

[@killianlile173]

I hope things have improved for you since. I'll never understand people like that who manipulate and take advantage of those suffering from mental health issues.

[@Mercer2024]

​@@killianlile173People with mental health issues are easy to manipulate, that's why they prey on them. I've met too many people like that sadly, not just people who have hurt me but also everyone I know.

[@lemax6865]

@@killianlile173 The prey is easy, the consequences are minimal at most, and the perpetrator has no principles. Evil is shockingly easy to understand, my dude, it's just selfish desire acting without moral character.

[@Marinealver]

I remember back in 2001 volunteering at a VFW for a veterans day meal. There was one old woman who I think was the chair told veterans they couldn't get a meal unless they paid their VFW dues. There were some that got angry, one even said "Here, he can have mine and I paid my dues".

[@randallwillmon8474]

Sounds like our local vfw

[@potatoradio]

Sad to see the VFW go full NRA. Never go full NRA!

[@slartybarfastb3648]

Makes me wonder if the VFW allowed themselves to be infiltrated by Russian agents like the NRA and RNC did? Yes, I have the receipts to prove NRA and RNC did. Sex and cash contributions buys a lot of loyalty in DC.

[@balinorgryffudd2963]

SO MUCH THIS. Original receipt NRA was great, current NRA is degrading weapons safety in America.

[@MikeRehfuss]

Testify, Brother @potatoradio !

[@charletonzimmerman4205]

I agree, NRA, doesn't sponsor veterans, No VET discount @ any function, join "LOWES" instead !

[@doughopkinsjr]

Definitely went hard R.....never go hard R

[@thayes1259]

Sorry, as a retiree; I now refuse to join the VFW and American Legion. I think many of the younger vets feel the same way. The way the individual posts are not offer me anything I need or want. I was a member of both organizations when I retired. Seeing the generational lack of respect between the older members and younger was astounding. Then throwing in the auxiliary members who never served, that was a mix that was too toxic. My old American Legion sold their building as they could not even afford to pay the property tax, electricity, or upkeep. They now meet in someones large garage, about 30 active members and 90% are well over 65. My old VFW consolidated with two other posts in smaller communities within 30 miles just so they would keep a building for events. I am not sure how many members they now have. I know the Auxiliary has more members than actual Veterans. Cheap drinks keep that number high. I am not interested in a smoke pit filled with power drinkers. I do not know of any younger vets who are members. Almost all the Vets I know who are under 60 do not feel either organization offers anything beneficial to them. I like the comparison to the NRA, at one time they served a purpose. The leadership fails to adapt over time so the organizations lose relevance with the younger vets. Unfortunately, that is where we are. Once the Vietnam Era vets are gone I think most posts out where I am in Nebraska will close.

[@TaliXantis]

Not a vet, not a part of this, but you did a great job of laying it all out. Especially in not making VFW posts the villains.

[@stilgaardfremen73]

"We don't live in the land of Shoulda" sounds like the next TFE shirt idea..

[@ozfifer7392]

My grandpa was a Vietnam vet who got his first V.A. check a year after he died in 1999. Keep it up, you guys and gals, you should have more choice than what you do!

[@yboriginal01]

Thank you for sticking up for veterans' right to choose

[@garyhall1153]

As a Army vet I thank you for all you say and do for vets

[@carlhicksjr8401]

As a former tank crewman, that tinnitus sign is **hysterical** Props for that.. As a Civil War reenactor and a veteran, I have very little bad to say about the VFW. A lot of the respect and awareness we get from the public is directly attributable to Veteran Service Organization [VFW, DAV, etc.] activism and advocacy. I bring up the reenactor bit for two reasons: firstly VSOs have been very supportive of historical preservation and secondly VSOs actively assist the Sons of Union Veterans /Sons of Confederate Veterans and reenacting units in our efforts to find the graves of Civil War veterans, obtain markers for them, and connect them with their descendants. Now, Zack Bell has a rep for being a very stand-up guy. So far as I know, his finances are clean and his attitude is 'veteran first, organizations second' and conducts his business with a sense of irony, sarcasm and truth that I appreciate. But if the VFW is fucking the pooch, they deserve to be called out. That's how WE, the veterans, keep the organization honest. And trying to kill the messenger didn't work any better for Sun Tzu, so....

[@nekomakhea9440]

AC: The VFW is attacking some wholesome veteran to gain a legal monopoly on representing veterans FE: *Crashes through the wall* Let me tell you about how this is like that time _The Communists_ joined the fight against Hitler.... _On the side of Hitler!_

[@kevinallies1014]

You can literally do it yourself you big dummy, ergo it isn’t possible to be a monopoly.

[@matthewbeisel428]

I wish the VFW just focused on veterans rather than drama. Keep up posts like this angry cops.

[@freddycraig3676]

I agree with you. Veteran with a sign does not deserve to be attacked by the VFW. Zach is a pillar of the veteran community and we should stand with him

[@johntaylor2441]

The VFW locally doesn't make the VA process any faster or easier. They're really just another level of hassle to go through. It's compounded by the fact that, again locally, the VFW seems to think that nothing after Vietnam is a "real war" and tend be very dismissive of Iraq/ Afghan vets.

[@stillcantbesilencedevennow]

Yeah, the perpetual pissing contests get old. So does the endless blowing smoke up arses. There's nowhere for normal folks who just want a quiet drink on the cheap for past services rendered.

[@FrunkAsADuck]

My local vfw is pretty good about trying to help veterans of any conflict. Would I ever call the head office for help? Fuck no.

[@Zinmar]

I especially feel that way for the Desert Shield/Storm Veterans. I've been told a few times that I wasn't in a real war.

[@barryborton6732]

It was that way just after Vietnam. After I was told I as a soldier lost the Vietnam war I walked out.

[@endless3cho]

​@@barryborton6732if only they knew what happened in Vietnam not what the media told them.

[@OEPYZ]

Wait! Wait! Wait! There are companies I can pay money to in order to help me through this VA claims nightmare?

[@swampcatgaming9062]

Merica!

[@justinbriley2531]

not if the law the VFW supports passes.

[@snakeking211]

Not all will help you I contacted quite a few

[@KilloEightEleven]

I don’t get it, myself and others I knew needed help and I went from 20% to 100% P&T in just three months. I’m a crap advocate for myself like many other vets who just press on. VFW should be directing us to them but it’s a conflict of interest it seems.

[@SgtStutter101]

Yeah I learned this today as well. I'm one of the fortunate ones, but I got a lot of friends who are going through the slog of waiting. Definitely going to be updating then but warning them to be careful.

[@ericyzaguirre2903]

No member of the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) is permitted to defraud any member of the VFW. That is part of their oath!

[@Volvith]

If you weren't aware yet, Veterans are seen as a threat by these people in power.

[@padre2275]

In the 1970"s, the VFW treated returning Viet Nam veterans like a POS with some posts actually denying "Nam vets membership. (That's why they stated the Viet Nam Veterans of America posts) It was only after WW2 and Korean vets started dying off that "Nam vets were welcome. If you don't believe me, ask a "Nam vet. My point is, the VFW has a track record of picking and choosing what horse they want to back. Just another reason why I choose to associate myself with the American Legion. We also have great Veteran Service Officers who work hard on our claims.

[@lordcastellan4735]

I was in a VFW where the Korean vets literally disrespected the shit out of the Vietnam vets. I got sick of it and refused to renew my membership and joined the American Legion instead. I don't know why they would allow that. I mean I was in a dubious war too, and I wouldn't have them shit on me that way.

[@padre2275]

@@lordcastellan4735 I'm sorry that happened to you brother. Welcome home.

[@jeffreyskoritowski4114]

My Dad told me a story very similar to yours.

[@theonlytnargmatt]

I love the idea that Nic just *knows* whenever someone is trying something communist like, which yes does make him the batman of capitalism.

[@williamwest9204]

It's like that robot in Fallout that says "that sounds like sedition citizen" in a happy voice lol

[@Mercer2024]

​@@williamwest9204Best character of that DLC

[@matthewhalsan6459]

I think that is the book chute in big mountain, all those ai's all funny. ​@williamwest9204

[@billabonggolkpr]

Nick is Anticommunist Batman...... Hmmmmmm does that make Phil Labonte from all That Remains Robin?

[@trippymlgjunkrat5749]

​@@williamwest9204nahhh liberty prime duuude

[@TruckWick]

A man with intrgrity will cause the earth to shake.

[@jeffcurrie123]

66 billion going to Illegal immigrants, 9 billion going to our homeless veterans, why the hell?!?!?!?!

[@drshoe8744]

I used to belong to the local VFW, but they ran it into the ground, so I dropped out, but I still get bombarded with requests for donations from the VFW National Office no matter how many times I unsubscribe from their lists, so they can eat a whole bag as far as I care right now.

[@williamwest9204]

I love how when companies and groups attack a veteran who is trying to do good for all other veterans. The KZbin Veteran community stacks up like they are going to breech and clear and come to the defense. Love it!

[@The_Lite]

"Flash out"

[@jamesdegraff]

Every VFW I have ever been in was just old guys getting hammered.

[@markusb6001]

Thank you for standing up for him, both of you. I'm very proud and relieved you're those types of guys.

[@wallaroo1295]

*VetLink - now part of REE got me from 30% to 90%* Yep - I gotta pay them, and they earned it. The Doc who handled my exam was cool AF, very nice dude. So yep... gonna pay them.

[@brandontussing1279]

I am NOT a veteran, my biological Father was a Vietnam War veteran, and my adopted father, Korea, War veteran, and my grandfather, WWII veteran. I was rejected from MEPS when I tried to enlist and it broke my heart at the time. I'm 50 years old now, and based on all my family's experiences with the VA, I'm glad I didn't go in, although I sincerely wanted to serve. Keep up what you and all those like you are doing to support and help veterans. My biological father had so many problems trying to get help after Vietnam and found none, which is why I was adopted. I pray every day for ya'll, and anytime I run into someone in uniform, I thank them. I love you guys with the most patriotic passion possible. This situation with the VFW is most unfortunate because the VFW around me in BFE Ohio does great work for veterans. I've volunteered myself playing music for free at several posts around me. I'm no superstar mediocre at best, but I can entertain and do. Thank you ALL for your service and for taking my place. God bless.

[@EchoAlexzander]

Thank you for bringing light to the corruption, wherever it is happening. Keep up the great work doing good for Veterans 🇺🇲

[@xm8553]

This is crazy. I’m not a veteran, but I empathize with veterans having to deal with the VA. And having a law passed to take away their option to use any health care or services other than government programs is ridiculous. Great job bringing this issue up AC. Doing the lords work!

[@juliagarner2785]

Wish there was a "Love" button for this. My dad, a Korean War veteran, never took anything from the government except to use the ability to get a house loan in 1960's. He finally went to the VA in his late 70's to see if they could help with meds and other things. The man he was having help him suggested that he divorce my mom so he could get more benefits. They were married more than 60 yrs at the time(can't remember the exact date of incident with VA). He stood up and threw the papers on the persons desk and walked out. He passed at 91. Never went back, never received any other benefits. I know this is not about the VFW (which my dad never joined) but it shows some of the crap that gets spouted at veterans trying to get help that they deserve. Thank you AC for standing up for veterans. May God bless you. Love you and your videos.

[@subicstationditosailor4053]

I found that the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs has helped me more than any other organization.

[@freecat1278]

The Tallahassee office has the highest rate of rejecting claims.

[@wnc1129]

Any FDVA offices you recommend?

[@victorpapaavp]

Really? I feel like most of the PCMs at the Gainesville clinic acts like I'm an inconvenience between them and going home for the day... A lot of the schedulers too. My physical therapist is cool as hell tho...

[@nonyabidness1354]

The VFW has been completely irrelevant to me as a vet. If it closed up shop, I couldn't care less.

[@johnbinsfeld9179]

Thanks for bringing this further to light. Despicable behavior by the VFW Leadership 🤬

[@mattstanford9673]

"It's a bold strategy, Cotton, let's see if it pays off for them."

[@aninternetloser5055]

That X post at the end straight up said “if you criticize us you agree with racists” this doesn’t inspire me to go to my local VFW’s next event.

[@jimdandy8119]

This. The language used there is what government stooges always resort to when they know they are in the wrong. Buzz words and self back patting. AC saying there is a cancer in that place is spot on and that reply is absolute evidence of it.

[@jdgoesham5381]

It's like the catch all phrase by someone who doesn't have a good argument to their shitty idea or take. It's an old Marxist trick of getting out of debate they're losing. Label them a racist so that they're spending all their time defending the label instead of taking apart their claim/view etc. It's literally out of Marx's and other Leftist's playbooks. Hegel I think as well and most far Lefties and activist types. I laugh every time now. If it's not "racist" it's some other ist or phobia they claim. It's when you know you won when they pull that out. But to come from a VA is just nuts. I swear some days I feel like I'm in an Outer Limits or a Twilight Zone episode from when I was a little kid. Or like we're in some offshoot existence of the movie Idiocracy or something. Or a mix of them all.

[@bwthomas84]

Marine here, thanks for reading that out loud for us.

[@thegroundpros]

To all you Vets who activly help, Salute!

[@scottjerard1293]

Imagine not needing a 3rd party to get your earned benefits Imagine bro

[@victorpapaavp]

see, that's the problem... that makes sense. The government can't do makes sense.

[@ALovelyBunchOfDragonballz]

You dont need a 3rd party, people want a third party because they have more money than time.

[@justbuggin67]

I mean, military health care is trash, so when we get out and attempt to contact yet another gov agency for help, they know we are used to trash.

[@Lukester132]

I was not expecting a quack bang! "I smell communism... Not in my 'Merica!"

[@jdam936]

It's sad that an entity "intent" on helping veterans would, what feels like, maliciously attack a veteran for wanting freedom of choice.

[@sandynewman5533]

Drill, I am with you 100% and I am going to share this to my, wait for it, my VFW post. As a "Cold" War combat veteran Gen X'er, no, you cannot offend me. Make DS's GREAT again. Preach it my Brother, preach it.

[@CochronHistory]

Almost forgot to thumbs up. Remember, they’re not there to help you. They’re there to make sure the government doesn’t spend too much money on you.

[@216irish]

I used one of the so-called "claim shark" organizations to help me file. They were absolutely great. They were very clear and concise and held my hand through the entire process of filing claims. They absolutely changed my life for the better and I recommended the organization that I used to one of my Buddy's. We both ended up with 100% total and permanent. I initially filed with the disabled American veterans and they were great as well, but they weren't as nearly clear-cut as the paid company that I used. The DAV got my claim to 80% for free and you can't be mad about that.

[@RyanRude]

Love you being loud and righteous as always!👍!👍!👍!

[@David-cv2cz]

Support for Veteran With a Sign is a vote for Congressman Herrera!

[@tetedur377]

Back in the '70s, when I EAS'ed, I ended up going to the VFW because somebody told me that they could help me with the VA. They gave me bad gouge, because neither the VA nor the VFW gave a rat's ass about my tinnitus. From being around jet aircraft on flight decks. Or the 5 inch guns that the Ranger carried on an outboard sponson, just a hatch away from our berthing. And so on and so forth. I wouldn't piss on the VA if they were collectively on fire, but I haven't thought one way or another about the VFW in decades. It sounds like they're a quasi part of the VA, like the Vet Centers used to be before the VA absorbed them. Now, at 68 years of age, with my tinnitus bad enough that not only do I have a high-pitched noise all the time that makes it hard to sleep, but I also have an intermittent pulse in my ears that sounds like somebody walking across a wooden floor in time with my pulse. Fun times.

[@BoSmith7045]

My tinnitus beat sounds like a out of balance dryer. And I just turned 54. VA doesn't care about that or my wrecked back and knees from the flight line.

[@freed991]

@@BoSmith7045 I found that there is types of White noise that I can play that will help tinnitus.

[@Malikyte13]

I have to sleep with white noise on, otherwise the ringing is insufferable. A tower fan on high, my laptop next to the bed with rain/river/ocean/thunderstorm ambience, sometimes both. But the outside noise does help drown out the tinnitus. Try it sometime.

[@Squashylemon]

The sad thing about society is that the only time we tend to treat military members with the respect and kindness they deserve is when we are in a war that directly endangers our society.

[@heritagetanker2937]

Same as it ever was. The Revolutionary War vets had to threaten to overthrow Congress to get their benefits. For it's Tommy this, an' Tommy that, an' Chuck him out, the brute!" But it's "Saviour of 'is country" when the guns begin to shoot; An' it's Tommy this, an' Tommy that, an' anything you please; An' Tommy ain't a bloomin' fool - you bet that Tommy sees! -Rudyard Kipling, "Tommy"

[@Mercer2024]

That's only partially true. Back in the 70s during Vietnam, even the "peaceful" "peace-loving" protestors spat and threw things at them when they came home. Then they ended up poor and on the streets. Veterans of Vietnam were sure as hell mistreated by everyone. Honestly, a shittier part of history.

[@ALovelyBunchOfDragonballz]

Whens the last time we fought a war that directly threatens our society?

[@Mercer2024]

No idea why my comment was deleted by KZbin but this is only partially true. When Vietnam was going on Vets were treated like garbage, being spat on by "peace-loving" "peaceful" protestors, something that shouldn't have been allowed. Most of those Vets went on to be left homeless and poor, society had made them outcasts. It was a shitty time in history.

[@Squashylemon]

@@ALovelyBunchOfDragonballz Gulf war against the Russians when they were positioning themselves in the middle east. We didn't fight them directly but, they were trying to make a tactical move that would have threated our safety in the future. Before that I'd say the Cold war and then before that was WW2.

[@MrTrevorjoseph92]

Can we get more @the_fat_electrician and @AngryCops content please? Y’all compliment each other so damn well

[@paulvamos7319]

Thank you for your service and you are right! While I am not a veteran, I have a lot of veterans in my family and they all complained about how long it takes to get your benefits! You should be able to choose how you get help with your paperwork weather or not you pay for it!

[@Ron_EZ]

I used the "Texas Veterans Commission" to file my claim... Fortunately, I got 100% on the first shot!

[@Awesome_Becka]

DUUUUUDE! I cannot saw enough good things about Hays County's TX Vets Commission! More than anything else than I have space to praise here, they fully educate their folks. For 10 years, my husband did a better job at being his own advocate than any of the sorry ass Veteran's groups we allowed to "assist" us with his claim until TX Vet Com came to our rescue. They were knowledgeable and treated both of us with dignity. With mine, I used a one-time-fee based company after I was able to battle my way to 30%. TX Vet Com was a god send in bumping up the number even further. I served in the Army 30+ years ago. Try getting personal copies of records or proof of ANYTHING before 1990. The National Archives treated me like I never existed. TX Vet Com was able to get aaaaaall of my records electronically (something no other service could do).

[@yulfine1688]

Been fighting the va on claims for a couple years and it's been a nightmare to get anything... any tips to help with the process or where to go, I'm Houston northwest in Texas.

[@Ron_EZ]

@@yulfine1688 Sorry to hear that, I did mine back in 2014, I was at Lackland AFB

[@yulfine1688]

@@Ron_EZ currently stuck with a higher level review that's 1.5 years old, and two other claims that are I think 6 months to a year old. They haven't been updated for a while just sitting in limbo, one is a COD because my service record says honorable but my dd214 says uncharacterized and so that was creating issues so I was told to file so I did. That apparently is holding back my other 2 claims supposedly and I can't get any movement on it.

[@dgoodwin619]

​@@yulfine1688dude, watch the video... The people VFW hates are THE WAY! REE Medical However, it seems Texas may help. VFW, California, Virginia, Maryland, both Carolinas, Florida, and Kentucky were no help for me. About 14 years later, REE had me sorted in less than 90 days

[@brandonhammond2890]

It’s taken me 10 years to get where I’m at in the VA process and had to get an attorney involved after two of those years being bounced around by the VA. @angrycop good on you for having Zack’s back with dealing with this mess!

[@SonOfNone]

Collective Internet: _"Friendly Fire will NOT be tolerated!"_

[@CBarKRanchHomestead]

I've never been offer to sponsor anything lmao my channel is to small but I'm like you I'm very verbal and don't care what people think. I'm a disabled combat veteran and was recently screwed out of a 100% from the VBA. I'm here for my brother's and sisters and will always take a stand for what we deserve.

[@Piaphamu]

Anyone can write a cease and desist letter for anything they want. If I don't like you looking at me, I can send you one. You can also just throw the letter in the trash because it doesn't mean jack shit.

[@individualismincarnate6467]

BLUF: Cease and desists can be legit, but this isn't a cease and desist That's not fully correct, cease and desists (if written as such, by a lawyer for a specific purpose) by themselves mean nothing, but not following them is 99.9% going to end up with you in court at a minimum spending thousands of dollars defending yourself.

[@rcrawford42]

Nah. You have to judge the merits of the request. Asking you to stop promoting a legal business is not legally actionable.

[@thebanneredmare9190]

That gave me flashbacks of the whole "quit touching me" phase while riding in cars with siblings. I should have sent my brother a cease and desist letter

[@Valkyrie0933]

"There might be easier ways to pay for college" "But not cooler ways"

[@Kaspar.C0LD]

Debilitating physical and mental disabilities -- the coolest!

[@devinmcleod3395]

Nic popping in like that Max Headroom TV interupption from back then lmao

[@nicamy8988]

You have support from your aussie brothers and sisters in our veteran community!! VFWHQ has now pissed of vets from other countries...

[@minuteman2547]

"scuse me, I need to go scrape a vinyl sticker off my car, and cancel a monthly contribution.

[@vinnietorres1145]

I've gone to the local outdoorsman show, for the last two years after 5 years of the Corps. Both times the VFW and American Legion were there, the difference VFW- membership, money, money, money American Legion- "no worries just give my assistant a call and we'll help you out, Welcome Home Brother"

[@doxx2265]

There’s a reason VFW memberships are declining as the old guard dies but the American Legion and AMVETS membership has kept up with veteran populations.

[@AnalyticalHeart]

This is exactly why i have yet to do my ratings after 10 years. Id rather pretend the benefits dont exist than go through the headaches and bs.

[@evansargent9301]

I'll never understand ppl who think more government will fix ANYTHING!!!

[@notmedicman]

The VFW who refused to assist me with my disability claim because I never deployed, even though I was discharged for my injuries. The VFW whose Post 371 President called me an embarrassment and an empty uniform. They care about Veterans? I’ve never felt as outcasted or belittled by any group other than my last command. I get that people like me didn’t do as much as others. But I still earned the title Marine. I still took the oath and volunteered to serve. I have received my help elsewhere and will continue the fight.

[@h.johnson]

Perhaps you should have contacted or joined a different service organization, such as the American Legion. In order to belong to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), you must have served on Foreign soil during a time of war or conflict. If you never left the United States then you are American Legion material. Go talk to them.

[@thatginger1219]

Some posts are shit and some do great deeds for the fellow veterans out there. Sucks that you walked into a shit post. Glad you got shit straight though. Keep up the fight and never give up.

[@wolfmlp]

​@h.johnson what does that have to do with how they treated him?

[@firefighter1c57]

​@h.johnson he didn't say anything about joining, he said they refused to assist with his claim... then, obviously treated him like shit. The fact you're quasi defending that is unfathomable...

[@amberhines3979]

Thank you for your service and your willingness to serve. Not all veterans see combat, but the fact that they are willing to be ready when called means alot to the rest of us ❤

[@sasquatchIRL]

I feel bad for mandatory fun day. Dude just recently started doing ads for them and he's sitting there like "Why are you shitting on my friends?"

[@bry10101]

I thought it was ads for the American Legion?

[@RyanRude]

VeteranWithASign is a greater man than most! He's been working hard on many issues for years👍 So happy to see you guys positively responding to injustice👍👍Glad to see AC,FE and MFD support the veterans ❤❤

[@MrSolidshot85]

I used Veterans Guardian. They took me from 50% to 100% in 3 months and walked me thru the whole process and kept me in the loop every step of the way. Meanwhile I used the VFW the first time after leaving active duty and got 50% after 2 years, and had zero communication until it went into effect

[@SMPlyScott]

Totally shocked a VFW PC would run over a fellow vet for being offensive...

[@stillcantbesilencedevennow]

Truly truly shocked. To the core, sir. 😂

[@benjaminhoak9884]

No one notice that the VFW HQ is trying to change how you refer to each other. Now they want you to call everyone comrade.

[@Marinealver]

Don't be a Counter-Revolutionary comrade. Now APOLOGIZE for your FASCIST ACTIONS in the Middle East! Uh I'm a Vietnam Veteran THAT'S EVEN WORSE!!!!!

[@mezmerizer0266]

We've called each other comrade since the beginning, over 110 years ago.

[@stillcantbesilencedevennow]

I prefer "hey you" or "kameradden" if I'm feeling spicy. I mean if you're gonna goose-step, goose-step with the best. Can we get some Hugo Boss uniforms up in here?

[@benjaminhoak9884]

Not sure what was wrong with brothers and sisters in arms, or sir and ma'am.

[@FrunkAsADuck]

​@mezmerizer0266 I've never used the word comrade.

[@rogermartin4104]

This is how we grow as a community, great job! And thanks for dumbing down the legal ease so the Marines can understand it as well.

[@proudpups4652]

Entire court system is already "backed" up. Takes 2 years for a court date. 2 years for an appeal. People die waiting for help everyday.