Retiring? Separating? DAV is there to help Published July 8, 2008 By Airman 1st Class David Salanitri Keesler Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, MISS. -- Even when Airmen are on their way out of the military, the Air Force aims to set up its warriors for success outside the service. But what if you're injured and getting medically discharged? The transition service office is here to help. The Disabled American Veterans organization has expanded its transition service program, granting 16 transitional officers to major military installations around the country. The transition service program provides a free service to all service members who are leaving the military and will even help them after they are discharged. "We brief members on their earned benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs, help them fill out their claim forms, file the initial claim and answer any questions they may have," said Naomi Kraima, Keesler's transition service officer. Not only does the transition service office help educate military personnel about their veterans benefits, but it also helps members going through the disability evaluation process. "I have a wonderful working relationship with the personnel involved in the disabilities evaluation process at Keesler Medical Center," Ms. Kraima pointed out. "The staff at the Biloxi Veterans Affairs Medical Center and I also work very well together," said Ms. Kraima, a veteran who's experienced the disability evaluation process firsthand. "Together, we try to make the transition as easy as possible for veterans. We work to ensure that they have the health care they need during their transition. "We don't want the veterans or service members to have to go searching for information," she continued. "We try to make this a 'one-stop shop' when it comes to their VA benefits and their transition back into civilian life. Our sole focus is to make sure the member has everything they deserve." The regional VA office is in Jackson, but the local office is located in Room 126D, Sablich Center. For more information, call Ms. Kraima, 376-8518.