As more and more applications for veteran’s benefits go online or become QR codes, applying is supposed to be “easier.” Unfortunately for many veterans, that application process has become more convoluted. Jeff Zengerle comes to the rescue and even makes house calls.
In the computer age, Zengerle, the new DeWitt County Veteran County Service Officer, bridges the digital gap to help military service members, veterans, and dependents maximize benefits entitlements.
“Since we are a rural community, there are not a whole lot of (veteran service offices). I fill the void,” Zengerle said.
There are few veteran service offices in the South Central region of Texas. The closest veteran offices to Cuero are within 30 minutes or more in Gonzales, Victoria, Port Lavaca, and El Campo. There are over 1000 veterans encompassing all branches of service in DeWitt County. “Instead the veterans go all the way to Victoria, or even to larger towns, I can file their claims here on the spot,” Zengerle said.
He prefers to visit the veterans’ homes rather than asking them to come into town, making the process more convenient and comfortable for them in familiar surroundings.
“Just because some of the Vietnam and Korean Vets shouldn’t be driving,” he said.
Many of the older generations have difficulties doing transactions online and on smartphones.
“I understand how to fill out forms online. Everything has gone digital. A lot of senior Vets don’t like that. I take a lot of frustration out for them,” Zengerle said. For example, he can make calls for Vets, such as for dental insurance, and explain the matter in understandable terms.
Becoming full-time at the DeWitt County Veteran Office this October, Zengerle was born and raised in Cuero. Serving 24 years in the military, he served in Kosovo as part of the Active Guard Reserve (AGR) within a NATO unit. In Afghanistan, he led the sheep and goat vaccination program as a key member of the Agri-Business Development Team. He also took part in a peacekeeping mission in Egypt and effectively managed logistics operations at Camp Arifjan in Kuwait.
He brings his worldwide experience and knowledge back to Cuero. He is the new VFW Commander at Post 3972 Cuero and is also the first Afghanistan Post Commander.
“I go out to Yorktown to the Vietnam Veteran Association. Try to see them every other month. I have ten or twelve veterans I’m helping in Yorktown. The majority were in the Cuero area. I have a couple in Meyerville. I have some that call in from other counties, just that counties don’t have one (Veteran Service Office). I am not going to turn anyone away,” Zengerle said.
“(I am the) “Middleman” to figure out what you need. How to assist you. I can do benefits and claims. I can also be the resource to find the information that you need,” Zengerle said.
Be sure to check out VA Services at co.dewitt.tx.us/page/dewitt.Veterans Here are some services: Surviving/Military Spouse & Dependents Benefits VA Disability Compensation & Pension
