Usually our members make application to Veterans Affairs before they leave. We're giving them a copy of their medical file around the time of their release, but Veterans Affairs certainly wants to become engaged and to be able to evaluate what entitlements they may have before it is time for their release. Members at any time, even if they are not going to be potentially released, can make application to Veterans Affairs for benefits. Particularly, if they have suffered some illness or injury that isn't causing them a great deal of medical problem within a special duty area, they may make application to Veterans Affairs.
On March 10th, 2015. See this statement in context.