WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, announced upcoming visits by VA to provide benefits information and claims assistance for Big Island veterans and their families.  VA scheduled face-to-face visits for Kona and Hilo after being prompted last year by a letter from Chairman Akaka to VA Under Secretary for Benefits Daniel L. Cooper.  Akaka expressed his concern that neighbor island visits had been curtailed, asked for an explanation, and encouraged Cooper to reinstate the visits. 

"As the only island state, Hawaii requires a special approach for veterans care and services," said Senator Akaka.  "I extend a warm mahalo to VA for understanding how important it is to provide face-to-face services for Big Island veterans."

Veterans are encouraged to make appointments for assistance during the VA visits to their island.  VA will be using the Kona and Hilo Vet Centers for their visits.  Kona's Vet Center is located 73-4976 Kamanu St., Suite 207; Hilo's Vet Center is located at 126 Pu'uhonu Way Suite 2. 

VA will visit Kona on the fourth Wednesday of every month.  Hilo visits will be on the first Wednesday of every month.  Those dates for the next four visits are:

For Kona:

March 26, 2008
April 23, 2008
May 28, 2008
June 25, 2008
 

For Hilo:

April 2, 2008
May 7, 2008
June 4, 2008
July 2, 2008 
 

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March 7, 2008