California vets with service disabilities, eligible for 'Veterans' Pass'

By Scott Holwell, Veterans Resources
California vets with service disabilities, eligible for 'Veterans' Pass'

Honorably discharged war veterans who are residents of California with an overall/combined rating at 50% or greater service-connected disability, or were held as prisoners of war by forces hostile to the United States, or recipients of the Medal of Honor are eligible to receive the Distinguished Veteran Pass (formerly Disabled War Veteran/Prisoner of War Pass).

This pass entitles the holder to the use of all basic facilities (including day use camping and boating) in California State Parks at no charge. The pass is not valid for group use or sites, special events, commercial use, additional/extra vehicle fees, or for supplemental fees and cannot be used in conjunction with any other pass and/or discount. Admittance and use subject to available space.

To apply, download and complete a Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) application at http://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/737/files/dpr619.pdf. Submit proof of service-connected disability rated at 50% or greater, or provide documentation showing status as a former Prisoner of War or Medal of Honor recipient status along with a copy of the veteran's California Driver's License and a completed DPR Form DPR 619. 

You can also send completed application with required documentation including a copy of Photo ID to California State Parks, Attn:  Distinguished Veteran Pass Program, P.O. Box 942896, Sacramento, Ca 94296-0001.  For questions or more information, please contact the Park Pass Sales Office at (800) 777-0369 ext. 2 or (916) 653-8280 or via email at passinfo@parks.ca.gov.

The Kings County Veterans Service Office can complete the DMV Veteran Status Verification Form for the new California Veteran Designation on your driver’s license and also issues Veteran I.D. cards to honorably discharged veterans.

Contact Scott Holwell if you would like to receive periodic veteran’s information by email.    There are many state and federal benefits and programs available to veterans and their dependents. 

To determine if you are eligible for any of these benefits, call or visit our office.  We can and will assist you in completing all required application forms.  You can get information on the Web from the Kings County Veterans Service Office webpage at www.countyofkings.com/vets.

Scott Holwell, retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, is the Veterans Service Officer for Kings County. Send your questions to the Veterans Service Office, 1400 W. Lacey Blvd, Hanford, CA 93230; call (559)852-2669; or e-mail scott.holwell@co.kings.ca.us.

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