New GI Bill grants additional benefits to post-9/11 veterans

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By Margo Rutledge Kissell, Staff Writer Updated 7:14 AM Monday, June 22, 2009

Rob Melhorn just completed his freshman year at Columbus State University. The Army veteran, who spent a year in Iraq, has been going to school on the Montgomery GI Bill.

But come fall, he’ll receive more benefits under a new Post -9/11 GI Bill for those who have enough active duty service since the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

“If I can get more money in any way, I’m all for it,” said Melhorn, 23, who graduated from Kettering Fairmont High School in 2004.

The former Army specialist spent a year in Iraq beginning in October 2005 with Bravo Company, 64th Base Support Battalion, 4th Infantry Division out of Fort Carson, Colo.

Melhorn ultimately plans to transfer to Ohio Dominican University to pursue an education degree that will allow him to become a high school history teacher.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is now accepting and processing applications for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which takes effect Aug. 1. Its web site said individuals can complete and submit an application form available online and will receive a letter explaining VA’s decision regarding eligibility for the program.

Amanda Watkins, veterans affairs coordinator at Wright State University, said she has received approval from the Department of Veterans Affairs for three students so far.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill is for individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after Sept. 11, 2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days.

They must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible. The program will pay eligible individuals:

• tuition and fees directly to the school not to exceed the maximum in-state tuition and fees at a public institution of higher learning.

• a monthly housing allowance.

• an annual books and supplies stipend of $1,000 paid proportionately based on enrollment.

Kristen Benchic, an education services specialist in Area B, Building 50 at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, said beginning Aug. 1, individuals can elect to transfer to or enroll in the Post- 9/11 GI Bill.

There has been so much interest in it that her office has been setting up briefings with squadrons. The weekly classes start today and will continue as long as there is interest, she said. Although the focus is on base personnel, some seats will be set aside for veterans, she said.

For more information, contact Benchic’s office at (937) 904-4801 or send an email to education@wpafb.af.mil.

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