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| For more information on many of the benefits and legislation listed here, contact: Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs 1-800-400-4520 www.in.gov/veteran State Student Assistance Commission 1-888-528-4719 www.in.gov/ssaci |
As our state representative, Russ Stilwell has always supported our military personnel and families. A veteran himself, Russ understands the sacrifices and commitment of those who serve our country as well as the dedication and needs of the families they leave here in Indiana.
Russ Stilwell is a leading voice for veterans, active military personnel and their families. As our voice at the Statehouse, Russ has voted to:
- Establish the Military Family Relief Fund, which provides emergency grants to families facing financial hardships due to someone being called to active duty
- Provide free tuition to Purple Heart Veterans at state-sponsored educational institutions
- Allow family members such as spouses, parents and children to take unpaid leaves of absence when a loved one is preparing to be deployed into active service
- Eliminate state income taxes on military pay for active duty Indiana National Guard and Reserves members
- Increase the maximum state income tax deduction on military pay for veterans, including retirement pay and survivor’s benefits
- Reform a scholarship program that helps Indiana Guardsmen who have seen their education interrupted by active duty service
- Protect the privacy of Hoosier veterans by shielding military discharge records from the public
- Grant high school diplomas to veterans of the Korean War and the Vietnam War who began service before graduation
- Ensure educational opportunities and clarify transfer requirements for military children forced to move every few years
Russ Stilwell served our country in Vietnam in 1969 as a Rifleman in the 4th Infantry Division, Combat Infantry 1/35th
Russ has been a member of the American Legion for over 40 years, Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and a member of Disabled American Veterans.
He was awarded DAV status after returning home from Vietnam for Malaria. He was hospitalized in Vietnam and stateside for Malaria. Benefits were discontinued one year after no further outbreaks of Malaria.
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| Lee Ayers (wounded in action and sent home) left, Russ Stilwell on right. |
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| Russ on patrol | M-60 Machine Gun |
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| Russ in his full combat gear |