Veteran support organizations that help vets abroad

Free programs for veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness or wound co-incident to military service on or after September 11, 2001, and their families. Remote options include WWP Talk weekly phone calls, the Resource Center at 888.WWP.ALUM (997.2586), virtual events and financial coaching. WWP says it offers support abroad, but its international page focuses on Landstuhl, so ask the Resource Center what you can use from your country. See our Wounded Warrior Project guide.

DAV's benefits advocates help veterans and families with VA claims and appeals free of charge, and DAV says you don't need to be a member. Use its office locator to find a National Service Officer, or call 1-877-426-2838.

The VFW's accredited service officers help with disability compensation, pension, education and appeals, free of charge, for anyone seeking claims help. Its service officer directory includes Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Pacific Areas.

PVA's National Service Officers help all veterans and their families with VA benefits, free of charge. It's a strong choice if you have a spinal cord injury or disease, such as MS.

AMVETS offers free help filing VA claims, and says all claims are handled remotely, which works well from abroad. Start with the National Service Officer contact list on its claims page.

The VFW has posts in the Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, Europe and the Pacific, listed in its foreign post locator. Membership requires honorable service and qualifying overseas service, such as a campaign medal or hostile fire pay.

The Legion's foreign departments include France, Latin America and the Philippines, with more than 250 posts outside the continental U.S. Its service officers help with VA claims for free, whether or not you're a member.

A disaster response organization that puts veterans and civilians to work as volunteers called Greyshirts. Volunteers register on Roll Call, pass a background check and complete TR101 training. Most work is in the U.S., but Team Rubicon has sent volunteers on international operations, such as medical missions, through a separate application and vetting process.

A health and wellness community for veterans, service members, military families and supporters. The Team RWB app offers local events, training and virtual challenges, and its chapter finder lists a Team RWB Overseas chapter.

Free lodging for families of service members and veterans getting care at military and VA medical centers. Two houses are outside the U.S.: Landstuhl in Germany and Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham in the United Kingdom. The hospital or installation sets who can stay.

No-cost, confidential mental health care from licensed volunteer clinicians for active-duty, Guard, Reserve and veterans, and in some cases spouses and caregivers. It also runs peer support groups. Its site doesn't say whether it serves people living abroad, so ask when you reach out.

Confidential, donor-funded trauma care for service members, veterans and military families, with in-person and telehealth options and up to 30 eligible sessions fully covered. Fill out its Connect to Care form and it says you'll hear back within 2 business days. Ask whether telehealth is available where you live.

Free, confidential support from the Department of Defense, 24/7. Recently separated and retired service members and their immediate families can use it until 365 days after their end of service or retirement date. Call 800-342-9647 through an internet calling app, or check its international calling options.

More than 250 locations worldwide, many at or near U.S. installations overseas, including in Germany, Italy, Japan and South Korea. USO events are free and open to U.S. military ID card holders and their families. If you don't hold a military ID card, check with the center first.

The Military and Veteran Caregiver Network connects caregivers of all eras and locations through an online community, mentoring, and support groups online and in person. The Red Cross Hero Care Center, +1 877-272-7337, sends emergency messages to service members and their commands around the clock.

Builds custom homes for severely wounded heroes and provides home modifications and mobility devices. It also runs a mental wellness program for veterans and first responders. Its site doesn't mention veterans living abroad, so contact the foundation about your situation.

Membership is open to veterans who served on active duty in Vietnam between November 1, 1955, and May 7, 1975, or anywhere between August 5, 1964, and May 7, 1975. VVA service officers are recognized by VA to represent claimants.

Supports military and veteran caregivers through its Hidden Heroes campaign, the EDF Connect peer support community, and the Dole Caregiver Fellows program. Its Hope Fund offers grants for needs such as medical bills and home repairs.

Case coordination for service members, veterans with at least 180 days of active service, and their families, caregivers and survivors. Its PATRIOTlink directory lists support organizations, with no sign-up needed. Call (571) 418-6339.

Free, on-demand online courses for service members, veterans, families, caregivers and the people who support them. Useful from anywhere with an internet connection, including for a foreign spouse learning about military culture.