The State of Florida has one of the highest Veteran populations in the U.S. only behind California and Texas.  From 2021 to 2022, according to the U.S. Government's census, Florida's population increased by 1.9 percent making it the Nation's fastest growing state for the first time since 1957.  Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola was commissioned by the U.S. Navy in 1914 and is referred to as "The Cradle of Naval Aviation".   Escambia County has a large Veteran population as well as active duty community.

The Escambia County Veterans Services Officers (VSO) are experienced and accredited with the VA.  They serve as liaison for local Veterans when seeking VA benefits earned through their honorable military service.   Your county VSO's provide this service at no cost and work to ensure Veterans and their dependents are able to access as many benefits as they may be eligible.  The VSO's serve as a single point of contact for assisting Veterans with accessing federal, state and local benefits.  The office staff supports Veterans activities in the county and connects Veterans to useful resources whether living in assisted living facilities, nursing homes or private residences.

The primary focus is to advise and counsel Veterans and their dependents of the many benefits available from the Veterans Administration.  Further, the VSO will assist with the submission of claims and applications for the following:

• Disability Compensation 
• Compensation for Illnesses related to military service
• Enrollment in VA Health Care
• Death/Burial Benefits
  
• Pension
• Housing
• Appeals to the BVA
• Vocational rehabilitation
• Discharge Upgrade/Character of Discharge Determinations
• Education
  
• Job services
• VA Home Loans
• And many more

Mission Statement

The mission of the Office of Veterans Services is to advocate with purpose and passion for Escambia County veterans and link them to superior services, benefits and support.

The PACT Act facts:

• Signed into law in August 2022
• Stands for:  Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT)
• New law that expands VA benefits for Veterans (and their survivors) who were exposed to agent orange, burn pits and other toxic substances
• Adds new locations as "presumptive" for exposure to agent orange during the Vietnam war.  Now includes:  any military base in Thailand thru June 30, 1976; and Guam or American Samoa through July 31, 1980 and more.
• It is NOT too late to file a PACT Act claim.
• For more information about The PACT Act click here