Many members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and their families appreciate the work being done by The Royal Canadian Legion on behalf of military veterans and their families, but few RCMP members realize the important work the Legion does on their behalf.

The Legion Service Bureau Network has been around since 1926 and has service officers across the country at Legion branches and provincial commands. These service officers can assist former and current members of the RCMP and their families by representing their interests in claiming disability benefits under the Pension Act from Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) and the Veterans Review and Appeal Board (VRAB).

Legion professional service officers provide counselling, assistance and representational services, from a VAC first application to a VRAB appeal, free of charge whether or not you are a Legion member.

Veterans seeking a disability claim often ask if there are any advantages associated with using the services of a command service officer of The Royal Canadian Legion Service Bureau Network. While all advocates bring their own qualities and strengths, we think Legion service officers are a special breed. We are there to serve those who serve.

Indeed, Legion command service officers are former members of the Canadian Armed Forces, the RCMP and VAC, with extensive experience with the Service Bureau Network. We understand CF and RCMP terminology, culture and operational practices. This unique background promotes a good understanding between the veteran and Legion service officer.

Next time you consider submitting a disability claim or an appeal, remember that we care and our services are second to none. More than 3,100 veterans with disability claims sought the help of Legion service officers in 2014.

If you require assistance accessing VAC disability benefits or have a friend or family member who needs help, please contact a command service officer at www.legion.ca or call, toll-free, 1-877-534-4666.