Girard & Centonzio Veterans Disability Lawyers

09/14/2026

Staff at an Army medical center in Washington state recently celebrated the promotion of a colleague who, at only 6 years old, has remarkably achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel. In a ceremony in early August, employees and patients at Madigan Army Medical Center on Joint Base Lewis-McChord gathered for the honorary promotion of the facility dog, Earl.

Employees at Madigan Army Medical Center on Joint Base Lewis-McChord gathered for the honorary promotion of facility service dog, Earl.

09/09/2026

A quarter century after the September 11, 2001 attacks, 100 million Americans are too young to remember the day that changed our nation forever. As we commemorate this anniversary, a new generation will learn about the unimaginable loss we experienced and the inspiring stories of bravery, compassion, unity, and service that we witnessed and have rippled through the decades.

Laurie Laychak lost her husband at the Pentagon on 9/11. Twenty-five years later, she wants Americans to remember the kindness that followed.

09/02/2026

Thank you for your unwavering support and loyalty. We wouldn't be here without you! Enjoy a fantastic Labor Day and know that we're grateful for you every day.

07/19/2026

The Republican-led bill has faced backlash from Democrats and divided veteran groups over a key funding mechanism that reduces disability compensation on future claims for tinnitus and sleep apnea — among the most common service-connected medical conditions.

The Republican-led bill has faced backlash from Democrats and divided veteran groups over a key funding mechanism.

07/13/2026

The Take Care of America’s Veterans Act is pitting the nation’s largest veterans groups against one another over its proposal to pay for billions of dollars in new benefits for seriously ill and injured veterans by taking away future compensation from other disabled veterans. The American Legion, Wounded Warrior Project and the Elizabeth Dole Foundation are among more than 20 veterans advocacy organizations that formed a coalition to support the legislative package of 62 bills. Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars and other large veterans groups have announced their opposition.

Opponents of the bundled legislation said the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act because it would slash future benefits for up to 1.5 million veterans.

07/02/2026

Wishing you all a safe and happy Independence Day. The Fourth of July is practically synonymous with fireworks. But what is a dazzling nighttime display for some can spell terror in others' hearts. Veterans and pets are among the groups most likely to be adversely affected by fireworks.

For Veterans with PTSD or Sensitivity to Noise
Fireworks can trigger flashbacks, anxiety, or hyperarousal in veterans who have experienced combat, explosions, or gun violence. The VA and National Center for PTSD recommend:

Avoiding fireworks displays if they are known triggers, or at least planning ahead to minimize exposure.

Using ear protection like earplugs or noise-canceling headphones at events.

Practicing grounding techniques such as box breathing or mindfulness to stay present during loud moments.

Supporting self-care with sleep, journaling, and limiting alcohol before and after events.

Being mindful of timing—ask about when fireworks will occur and plan activities around that.

Offering reassurance to veterans who may feel unsafe, reminding them they are safe in the moment.

For Pets
Fireworks are a major cause of pet distress and runaways, with July 5 being the busiest intake day for shelters.

To keep animals safe:

Keep pets indoors during displays; never leave them tethered or chained outside, as they can injure themselves trying to escape.

Close windows and curtains, use fans, white noise machines, or calming music to reduce sound.

Use calming aids like ThunderShirts, melatonin (with vet approval), or calming music apps.

Take dogs for a long walk or romp before fireworks to tire them out.

For skittish dogs, let them out earlier and bring them back inside.

Keep identification visible—microchip and collar/harness with up-to-date tags.

Never take pets to watch fireworks; they can panic and get lost.

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06/18/2026

Juneteenth marks our country's second Independence Day. Girard & Centonzio Veterans Disability Lawyers L.L.C. will be closed in observance of Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

06/02/2026

The firm was well represented at the Irreverent Warriors Kansas City Silkies Hike on Saturday the 30th. It was cool and cloudy, then it rained, and then it was hot and muggy. True Kansas City weather.

Irreverent Warriors is committed to tackling veteran su***de through camaraderie, connection, and authentic community. Their signature events, hikes and retreats, bring together hundreds of veterans in combat boots and the iconic military “silkies” shorts. These gatherings are filled with laughter, banter, and genuine connection, recreating the sense of platoon brotherhood and sisterhood that so many lose after leaving the service. They believe there is a gap in modern mental healthcare; rebuilding the "emotional safety net" that the platoon provided on active duty.

https://www.facebook.com/irreverentwarriors

05/27/2026

A company violated federal law for acting as a vetted agent and charging veterans fees to help file disability claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs, a North Carolina court ruled this week. The federal circuit court ruling issued Wednesday found that Veterans Guardian VA Claim Consulting, LLC, also referred to as “Guardian” in court documents, ran afoul of federal law. The class action lawsuit brought by veterans also alleges that the company violated North Carolina laws around deceptive trade practices, but the court has not ruled on it yet.

A North Carolina judge ruled that Veterans Guardian VA Claim Consulting, LLC, acted as an accredited agent, even though it wasn't.

05/23/2026

This weekend, people across the United States are honoring those who died while serving their country. It is our duty to support military families, especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. This tribute should not be limited to once a year. We should express our gratitude to those who are currently serving, have served, and have lost their lives in service every day, acknowledging the sacrifices they've made to protect our country and our rights.