PHILADELPHIA, APRIL 15, 2008 – Pennsylvania veterans who served in the Persian Gulf Conflict can now apply for a bonus of up to $525, according to state Sen. Mike Stack.

“This program recognizes the service and sacrifice of our Persian Gulf veterans, who answered our nation’s call to duty with valor,” Stack said. “I encourage these veterans or their surviving loved ones to apply for this well-deserved bonus.”

Overwhelmingly approved by voters through referendum in November 2006, the Persian Gulf Veterans Benefit Program allows eligible veterans, or beneficiaries, to receive a one-time benefit of $75 for each month of active service, up to $525.

Survivors of veterans who lost their lives as a result of service-connected wounds, diseases or injuries may be eligible for an additional payment of $5,000.

To qualify, the service member must meet the following criteria:

• Served in the U.S. Armed Services, a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces or the Pennsylvania National Guard;

• Served on active duty in the Persian Gulf Theater of operations during the period from Aug. 2, 1990 until Aug. 31, 1991 and received the Southwest Asia Service Medal; and

• Been a legal resident of Pennsylvania at the time of active service.

Applications can be downloaded from the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Web site www.persiangulfbonus.state.pa.us or by calling the Persian Gulf Veterans Benefit Program at 1-866-458-9182. Completed applications should be mailed to Persian Gulf Veterans Benefit Program, P.O. Box 1109, Harrisburg, PA, 17108-1109.

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