SAN ANTONIO -- A pilot program aimed at speeding up disability benefits for wounded warriors will soon roll out into the entire military. Currently, soldiers injured at war often wait months on end for their V.A. compensation. News 4 WOAI spoke with the family of one military hero who is now stretching out paychecks to survive.
"It's really hard," commented Vena Sele, a medically retired Army Staff Sergeant. "Sometimes I just don't want to wake up."
Life will never be the same for the Sele family. While serving in Iraq, Vena was hit with an I.E.D. suicide bomb and suffered severe burns on his face and body. But the wounds to his flesh are not deeper than the wounds to his family.
Vena's wife Leti would have never thought that the men who go off and fight for our country could struggle so hard when they return home.
"I'm going on my second year looking for work," explained Leti.
After four months without any income, her disabled husband's veteran benefits finally kicked in. But it's just over half of what he was earning as an active duty soldier... and barely enough to support their family of five.
Leti has been desperately trying to find a job, without any luck. "My husband didn't get hurt for nothing," said Leti. "My dream is to find a government job. I have college degrees, and I want to use them."
Desite all of the government programs she's reached out to for help, Leti says her inability to find work and the strain on finances is now putting a strain on her family.
"They reach out to the soldier, but they're neglecting the family. I'm just afraid it's hurting our kids in the long run," Leti said, holding back tears.
If you work for a company that is actively hiring wounded warriors or their spouses, we'd like to hear from you. You can send an email to:
melissagarcia@woaitv.com
