Would you like to know more about the GI Bill Comparison Tool, expanded presumptive disabilities for Vietnam War veterans, the latest VA apps for your smartphone, or the lineup for past and current shows on the VA Podcast Network? How about the fact that veterans can conveniently manage their VA appointments, refill prescriptions, and securely communicate with their providers through My HealtheVet? It’s all right there and more in each episode of “the BLUF,” which begins its third season on Valentines Day next Wednesday! 

The program is available on accessible platforms that include the official VA YouTube Channel, other social media, and in select VA Medical Center waiting rooms. It is produced “By Vets, for Vets.” The goal is to approach the veteran as a friend in a short, segmented, fun show with the most accurate VA health and benefits information in a timely manner and on a regular basis.  

Shawn Spitler, “the BLUF” Producer-Director, began making movies at age 15. He then served in Marine Corps Combat Camera (COMCAM) from 2005-10. For the first three years of his enlistment, he served in Twentynine Palms, California and then joined the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit in Camp Pendleton, California.

The program is hosted by Sarah Abdella-El Kallassy, who served as a Marine and spent two year-long tours in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. A Pashto linguist, she was a liaison officer to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, assigned to the Afghanistan Peace and Reintegration Program. During her time in Helmand, Kallassy focused on empowering Afghan women to participate in the peace process and aiding the Afghan government in their efforts to reintegrate Taliban members into local communities.

To access the 36 episodes of “the BLUF” produced the past two years, click here.