I am the widow of a Retired Air Force Officer. I do receive my SBP benefits and medical, but does anyone know if I am entitled to assistance to go back to school? Truly my SBP pay does not even qualify me to purchase a home!!! He won the DFC in Vietnam, one would think the GOVERNMENT would take care of us left behind. Would appreciate any info. Thank you

I know of no programs for the widow of a retired officer to go back to school. There are some programs for those whose spouses die of service connected illnesses and injuries, but I am sorry to say, I doubt you will qualify.

In the past there where limited programs for the spouses and children of veterans, except those killed in service or 100% disabled receiving VA compensation.

As for left behind, I assume he collected Social Security, and as such you should be able to receive that based on your record or his.

And I guess that I have one question - why do you think that you are entitled to anything more than the SBP payment. The military made a deal. Serve 20 years and get a pension. Get paid while in the service. If you want, go to school on the GI bill.

There are jobs out there to supplement your income. This is a bad period for someone who I guess is in their 60s or early 70s to find a job. Their is competition out there like never before. And the other thing, is I can not see going back to school at that age - I am slightly younger.

One point, there are free programs for senior citizens at many Universities. They allow students to audit classes without tuition. I would look for such a program.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Dave_M,

There is hiring preference for Military spouses when applying for Federal jobs.