American Indians and Alaska Natives have a rich history in the United States Military, with several Native Americans receiving the Medal of Honor, the military’s highest decoration. Since the Civil War American Indians have had an active role in the military; as code talkers they have ensured secure communications for troops on the battlefield.
“Since the birth of America, [American Indians and Alaska Natives] have contributed immeasurably to our country and our heritage, distinguishing themselves as scholars, artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders in all aspects of our society. Native Americans have also served in the United States Armed Forces with honor and distinction, defending the security of our Nation with their lives.”
President Barack Obama
VA Benefits and Programs for Native American Veterans
Native American Veterans are eligible for a wide variety of benefits. VA benefits include disability compensation, pension, education and training, health care, home loans, insurance, Veteran readiness and employment, and burial.
Native American Direct Loan (NADL) Program
The NADL program helps eligible Native American Veterans finance the purchase, construction, or improvement of homes on Federal Trust Land or reduce the interest rate on such a VA loan. Native American Veterans may use these direct loans to simultaneously purchase and improve a home or refinance another VA direct loan made under NADL to lower the interest rate.
Learn more about the Native American Direct Loan (NADL) Program.
Office of Tribal Government Relations
The VA Office of Tribal Government Relations (OTGR) consults with American Indian and Alaska Native tribal governments to develop partnerships that enhance access to services and benefits by Veterans and their families. OTGR also sponsors regional training sessions for Tribal leaders, Veteran Service Organizations, and Tribal Organizations to increase access to Veteran access to VA Healthcare and benefits through informative presentations and interactive discussions.
Learn more about the Office of Tribal Government Relations.
VA Recognition as a Tribal Organization
VA has regulations governing which organizations can help Veterans and survivors with their benefit claims. Formal recognition allows tribal organizations to expand their support to Veterans within their communities.
Learn more about VA Recognition as a Tribal Organization.
Other Programs for Native American Veterans
Alaska Native Veterans Land Allotment Program of 2019
The John D. Dingell, Jr., Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act of 2019 provides the opportunity for eligible Vietnam-era Veterans or their heirs to select 2.5 to 160 acres of Federal land in Alaska. Veterans or their heirs will have five years to select and apply for land. The program is open to all eligible Alaska Natives who served between August 5, 1964 and December 31, 1971, and it removes the requirement for personal use or occupancy mandated under previous laws.
Visit Bureau of Land Management’s website to learn more about the Alaska Native Veterans Land Allotment Program of 2019.
VA Indian Health Services (IHS) Faculty Leaders Project
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospice and Palliative Care (HPC) program office established the VA Indian Health Services (IHS) Faculty Leaders Program to improve palliative care for Veterans at IHS and Tribal Health sites. The IHS Project Summary provides a description of the project, a summary of outcomes and recommendations for sustaining the nascent training programs.
Access the IHS Faculty Leaders Project Summary.
