Host Trent sits down with DAV Minnesota service officer Tony and VA Service Officer Charles for an essential conversation on VA survivor benefits—centered on Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and how veterans can protect their loved ones long after service. The episode clearly explains DIC’s two qualification paths: the 10-year 100% rule or death from a service-connected condition. It shares powerful real-life stories of amending death certificates to include contributing factors—like back surgery leading to a fatal fall or hearing loss affecting medical care—to secure benefits. The hosts emphasize motivating veterans to act with the message, “This isn’t for you anymore—it’s for your spouse and kids.” They highlight underused benefits including Individual Unemployability (IU), secondary conditions, and Chapter 35 education for dependents, while offering pro tips: add dependents within one year, bring your spouse to appointments, and always use free VSO help.

Join the “Veterans of the North” podcast, recorded live from Iowa City during the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and VA ⁠National Disabled Veterans Golf Clinic.⁠ In this uplifting episode, the host connects with inspiring veterans from across the country to share their experiences at this transformative event. A proud sponsor, the DAV Minnesota supports this clinic, now in its fourth year, fostering camaraderie, socialization, and personal growth among participants.

In this episode of Veterans of the North, host Trent Dilks, at the Magnus Veterans Wellness Campus in Dayton, Minnesota, discusses veteran suicide prevention with Dr. Sean Alderman, a 31-year Army veteran and founder of the Magnus Veterans Foundation. They explore the foundation’s holistic approach to care—addressing mind, body, heart, and spirit—offered free to veterans and families. Chris LaMotte, a Desert Storm veteran, shares his journey from addiction and trauma to hope, now helping others at Magnus. The episode emphasizes community, recognizing crisis signs, and actionable support through membership, volunteering, or donating at magnusveteransfoundation.org.

In this episode of “Veterans of the North,” host Trent Dilks sits down with Andrea Perry and Julia Pawlenty from the VA’s Veterans Suicide Prevention team at the DAV convention. They dive into the ongoing crisis, sharing insights on community outreach, SAFE training, crisis intervention, and practical steps to support veterans at risk. From identifying warning signs and reducing access to lethal means to normalizing conversations about mental health, this discussion highlights actionable ways to save lives and build stronger support networks. Whether you’re a veteran, family member, or community ally, learn how to make a difference. Resources mentioned: Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line.