VA's Video Program for May 2008

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VA Helps Vets Convert Military Experience to Work Place Success
"The American Veteran" Focuses on Opportunities

WASHINGTON (May 9, 2008) - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and
corporate America are working together to provide veterans with the
skills they'll need to rejoin the civilian workforce, enhancing the
Department's traditional programs that help transitioning service
members.

Two important programs available from VA and partnering organizations
are the focus of the May edition of "The American Veteran," VA's monthly
half-hour news magazine.

"With their skills, work ethic and ability to deal with people, veterans
have been a powerhouse in the work-place," said Secretary of Veterans
Affairs Dr. James B. Peake. "These stories spotlight the determination
of veterans to succeed in the business world and the tools offered by VA
and our partners in the business world."

The top story highlights the partnership between VA's Center for
Veterans Enterprise and Little Caesar's Pizza, which provides money and
the training to help veterans own and operate a franchise.

A second feature looks at a program that helps veterans who qualify for
vocational rehabilitation to gain valuable work skills through non-paid
work experience.

In another story, "The American Veteran" visits the Miami VA Prosthetic
center where technology and teamwork combine to create prosthetics and a
lifetime of support to our veterans.

The series is designed to inform active duty members, veterans, their
families and communities about the services and benefits they have
earned and to recognize and honor them. VA's Office of Public Affairs
and the VA Learning University/ Employee Education System (VALU/EES)
produce the program and broadcast it to VA facilities around the world
on The Pentagon Channel and to community cable outlets.

Aimed at veterans of all eras, VA also tells stories of heroism and
sacrifice, and relives moments in history with those who were there,
reminding veterans of the bond of service they share.

The VA Office of Public Affairs offers the program to local broadcasters
and cable outlets and makes it available for viewing on the VA Web site,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs <http://www.va.gov/> . Just click on "Public Affairs" and
then "Featured Items."

"The American Veteran" schedule on The Pentagon Channel is available at
http://www.pentagonchannel.mil <http://www.pentagonchannel.mil/> . The
Pentagon Channel has more than 1 million military viewers and is
delivered domestically via DISH, EchoStar, T-Warner and Cox cable
systems. (Check for service in your area.)

Additional stories on the April edition of "The American Veteran"
include:

* Cheerios Box Champion -- Meet David Fowler, an athlete, gold
medal winner, Cheerios Box Champion and a paralyzed veteran who runs the
Texas chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America.

* Updated edition of the 'Federal Benefits for Veterans and
Dependents" handbook provides information on health care services,
education benefits, the home loan guaranty program, life insurance,
disability compensation and more.

* New, non-invasive technology looks at brain cell
communication patterns that may provide clues to Alzheimer's,
schizophrenia and other neurological diseases.

* VA announces plans to open 23 new Vet Centers in the next two
years.

* VA's mobile pharmacies are prepared for emergencies across
the country.

For information about "The American Veteran" program and how to obtain
it for local programming, contact VA at 202-461-7502.