August 12, 2026 – Public Statement from Commission President, Eric Willard
It is my understanding that at our monthly Veterans Assistance Commission meeting this evening, August 12, 2026, a petition will be presented that is signed by concerned Veterans. I have not been given a copy of the petition, so I look forward to hearing from the petitioners.
The first I heard about this petition was a phone call from the media who was preparing news coverage. When caught off guard by their call, even though I told them I had no awareness of this story, I misspoke about how we file VA Claims. Because of my computer background, I misunderstood that it is not only the “click on the button” to file the claim, but any steps in the process that we cannot currently perform. It was more clearly explained to me the following day. The VAC Office has not had a VA Accredited Veteran Service Officer since July 29, 2026 and, therefore, has not been representing Veterans in the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of VA Claims.
- The VAC Staff continues to help all Veterans with financial aid and assistance for housing, utilities and medical bills.
- The VAC Staff has maintained contact with Veterans who are awaiting word from the Veterans Administration about claims they previously filed through our office.
- Veterans who wish to file new claims are being directed to other county VACs or to the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs with a main office in Machesney Park.
- Our current VAC Staff has attended much of the required training as a first step toward becoming an Accredited Veterans Service Officer. On September 28, they will continue that process so they can apply for their VA Accreditation.
I apologize for any confusion my comment that was aired on the new last week may have caused. If the media would like comments tonight, they will have to wait until our commissioners have a chance to discuss whatever we learn tonight.
Thank you,
Eric Willard
Commission President
Veterans Assistance Commission of Winnebago County
My name is Veteran Smith,on the 13th of October I had appointment with the Vac.No idea about what I just read above. I’ve been honorably discharged since nineteen hundred and ninety two hadn’t ever tried to get my benefits and now to read this about Vac and the way everyone treated me like I was at the mian headquarters.I have confidence that whatever they have to do will get taken care as they are the main headquarters I’ve waited 34 years,I know they’ll get me taken care of.Thank you all for dedication and assistance.Keep up the great work!!!
Veteran,Smith