Retired Army Ranger & Hall of Famer Still Serving His Own

Lexington veteran Richard “Rick” Barela is being recognized in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Still Serving initiative – www.todaysvfw.org -- that highlights veterans who give back to their community after the military.

A retired U.S. Army Ranger and 2020 Hall of Fame inductee, Barela continues to serve by standing shoulder-to-shoulder with veterans who need help navigating the VA claims process.

“Some veterans are hesitant to start the process because of stigma,” Barela said. “As a fellow veteran, I can talk to them without judgment.”

On a typical day, Barela meets with four or five veterans or family members and says nothing is more rewarding than hearing back from a veteran whose claim was approved.

“I served 24 years and nine months,” Barela said. “I did not do it for money or fame, but for the soldiers, especially, the rangers to my right and left that follow the Ranger Creed — a creed that we live by each and every day, even after we leave the service.”

VFW understands the frustrations that can arise when veterans transition out of the military or file a claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs. The claims process can be confusing and one that service members and veterans shouldn't try to navigate alone. That's why the VFW's National Veterans Service (NVS) was established to help all veterans, service members, their families and survivors.

NVS consists of a nationwide network of VFW Accredited Service Officers and Pre-Discharge Representatives who are experts in navigating VA processes and the key to your success. Don't fall victim to "claim sharks" - companies that illegally represent veterans through the VA claims process and can charge thousands for doing so. Our cadre of highly trained and professional advocates help veterans cut through bureaucratic red tape. VA reports veterans represented by the VFW have recouped $16.2 billion in compensation and pension on behalf of veterans and eligible family members in fiscal year 2025.

VFW Accredited Service Officers are trained experts, helping veterans develop their case with ease by reviewing and applying current law, pertinent legislation, regulations and medical histories. As skilled professionals, we assist in filing for disability compensation, rehabilitation and education programs, pension and death benefits, and employment and training programs. Furthermore, we won’t hesitate to request hearings before the VA and the Board of Veterans Appeals to present oral arguments when needed.

VFW Accredited Service Officers are with America's veterans every step of the way once they're ready to file a claim. This is a service the VFW is proud to offer -- FREE OF CHARGE -- to anyone seeking assistance with the claims process.

To find a VFW service officer near you, visit vfw.org/NVS.