California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) signed a bill last week that will help LGBTQ veterans discharged under the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy understand how to update their records to access Veterans Affairs benefits, AP reported. When Congress repealed the policy during the Obama administration, DOD cleared the way for those discharged under the policy to receive VA benefits. “But many veterans sadly don’t know or can’t even access this important process,” Newsom said. The new law requires the state’s Department of Veteran Affairs to establish a program that helps impacted veterans update their records to access benefits….

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service cut the ribbon Monday on a newly renovated exchange at Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania, according to a press release. Army War College Commandant Maj. Gen. David Hill, Carlisle Barracks Garrison Commander Lt. Col. Jeannette Molina, General Manager Valerie Bright, PX Department Manager Melanie Morrison and Exchange Northeast Region Vice President Amanda Hartfield cut the ribbon Monday after the $5.2 million renovation. “People will be more likely to shop here rather than outside the gate, which is a good thing because it… helps with the recreation activities on the installation,” Navy veteran and Carlisle Barracks Exchange shopper Lawrence Derr said.

Exchange photo by Curtis Keester