Applications Now Accepted for Persian Gulf Vets' Bonuses

Qualified service members may receive up to $525

Pennsylvanians who served in Persian Gulf Conflict (1990-91) can now apply for a bonus of up to $525, according to Senator Don White (R-41).

Act 29 of 2006, which Senator White strongly supported and helped push through the legislature in his former capacity as Chairman of the Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, allows for compensation to be paid to eligible Pennsylvania veterans, as well as certain surviving relatives of deceased veterans.

"This bonus is a way for Pennsylvania to show its appreciation to its Gulf War veterans and I encourage them to take advantage of this opportunity," Senator White said. "During my tenure as Chairman of the Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, I gained an even greater admiration for the dedication of Pennsylvania's service members. I was pleased to move this through the committee as a way for the Commonwealth to tangibly repay that service and commitment."

Eligible veterans or beneficiaries may receive a one-time benefit of $75 per month for each month of active service, up to $525, for which the veteran was eligible to receive the Southwest Asia Service Medal. Survivors of veterans who lost their lives or died as a result of service-connected wounds, diseases, or injuries may also be eligible for an additional payment of $5,000.

To qualify, the service member must meet the following criteria:

Served with the U.S. Armed Forces, a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, or the Pennsylvania National Guard.
Served on active duty in the Persian Gulf theatre of operations during the period from Aug. 2, 1990 until Aug. 31, 1991, and received the Southwest Asia Service Medal.
Been a legal resident of Pennsylvania at the time of active service.

For more information visit www.persiangulfbonus.state.pa.us

Contact:

Joe Pittman
(724) 357-0151