Clay County Veterans’ Services is hosting a Women Veterans Information Session on Friday, July 14, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Clay County Administration Building in Green Cove Springs.

During and after their military service, veterans and military personnel are entitled to make the most of their medical benefits.

“They’ve earned their disabilities – they are not given,” says Community Services Director Gabby Gunn, who oversees Clay County’s Veteran Services, “This information session is to help female veterans openly discuss possible disability claims that they earned in the service that are specific to female veterans.”

However, women veterans may not be using their well-earned benefits to the fullest, especially if they need to claim a disability, according to the Disabled American Veterans Organization.

The Department of Veteran Affairs says there are over two million female veterans in the United States, which is expected to triple by 2040.

As the number of women entering military service grows, so does the need to address their health concerns.

Clay County Veterans’ Services and representatives of Firewatch, Vet Center, and other organizations will provide information and resources to answer questions regarding disease prevention and reproductive health, as well as medical screenings and treatment.

“I want our women veterans to know what benefits and programs are available to them and that we're here to support them during and after their service,” explained Tramika Chatfield with Clay County Veterans’ Services, "[These women] served their county honorably, and Clay County Veterans' Services is here to do the same for them,” she emphasized.

All Clay County Veterans are encouraged to contact the Clay County Veterans’ Services with any questions they have.