SIDNEY — The Sidney Police department will be hosting an informational meeting for all Shelby County veterans on Thursday, Nov. 12, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. to discuss what constitutes a veteran by VA standards. Veterans will also learn about all the benefits that are associated with being a veteran.

Some of the topics to be covered include medical eligibility/hearing loss, Montgomery Post 9/11 GI Bill, compensation/pension plans, spousal benefits, housebound/aid and attendance, homeless benefits, Veterans Justice Outreach, VA Home Loan program and other benefits including residential, utilities and food.

Numerous changes have been implemented in Veteran’s Affairs since 2010, said Ed Ball, Shelby County Veterans Service Officer. One of the changes is the inclusion of Ischemic Heart Disease, Parkinson’s and Leukemia Hairy Cell “B” to the list of disabilities noted for presumptive exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam.

The VA has listed presumptive conditions to include POW, Vietnam veterans and Agent Orange, Atomic Veterans Exposed to radiation and Gulf War Veterans undiagnosed illness.

The police department is located at 234 W. Court St., Sidney.

All veterans are invited to attend the meeting and should RSVP with Ed Ball, Shelby County Veterans Services, 937-498-7282 by 3 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10.