According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), nearly 6 million Veterans served in the Korean War. VA benefits for Korean War Veterans can include disability compensation, health care, home loans, pensions and vocational rehabilitation and employment. Two such benefits are:
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Benefits for Veterans Who Experienced Cold Injuries
Korean War Veterans are more susceptible to disabilities resulting from exposure to severe cold climates in Korea, because of inclement battlefield conditions that hindered obtaining medical care for cold injuries. Examples include arthritis, cold-sensitivity, fallen arches and skin cancer that developed in frostbite scars. These cold-related health conditions could worsen over time and develop into more serious conditions such as diabetes and peripheral vascular disease.
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Benefits for “Atomic Veterans” and Veterans Exposed to Ionizing Radiation
An Ionizing Radiation Registry health exam and treatment at VA’s War Related Illness and Injury Study Centers is available for Veterans exposed to ionizing radiation or “Atomic Veterans” who participated in radiation risk activities (such as nuclear testing). Veterans in this group may also qualify for VA disability compensation if they have developed certain cancers due to ionizing radiation exposure during the Korean War.
The VA website has more information on benefits for Korean War Veterans and Servicemembers. If you have an elder law attorney who specializes in Veteran benefits, he or she may also have information on these benefits.
