We set aside Memorial Day to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Some put their lives on hold, while others lost their lives.
Now, one corporation is honoring their service by providing an education to them and their loved ones.
The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) has announced three new tuition assistance benefits that will go a long way in achieving some semblance of a normal life for returning veterans and their families.
“We honor the sacrifice of New York men and women who have died, are disabled or have put their lives on hold in service to our country,” said Elsa Magee, HESC’s acting president. “The education benefits afforded to veterans by New York State is one opportunity to show our appreciation for their service.”
The Veterans Tuition Award (VTA) will ensure financial assistance to combat veterans returning from Afghanistan, Iraq and other conflicts.
The VTA is available for full or part-time study and may be used for undergraduate, graduate or vocational programs. And if the VTA does not cover all education-related expenses, Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) can help to fill any financial holes.
HESC also has help for the children, spouses and dependents of military men and women. Military Service Recognition Scholarships will help those whose livelihoods depend on people who died, became severely or permanently disabled or were classified as missing in action while at war or in training.
Also announced is the Regents Awards for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans. This program will provide $450 a year in financial aid to students whose parents served in the U.S. Armed Forces during times of national emergency and either died, suffered a disability or were classified as missing in action or a prisoner of war.
Jim McDonough, Director of the New York State Division of Veterans’ Affairs, said that while we must honor the dead, helping the living should also be a priority.
“While Memorial Day is traditionally set aside to honor our war dead, the need to properly serve our returning veterans’ educational needs is critically important today and for the foreseeable future,” said McDonough. “Their education and subsequent employment are the two biggest hurdles faced by our returning veterans from today’s wars.”
To receive any of these NYS awards, veterans or their family members must complete the federal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and the appropriate supplemental application found on HESC’s “Military Corner” page on www.hesc.com.
Visit their web site or call them at 1-888-NYHESC (1-888-697-4372) for more information.
