Did you know that Veteran's assistance in the United States can date its roots all the way back to 1636? There was a colonial law that was passed that all disabled soldiers who fought the Pequot Indians would be supported by the colony. Since this time the United States has had one of the best, most comprehensive system for its veterans in the world.
In order to establish a Revolutionary guard the Continental Congress established that pensions would be provided for Veterans that were disabled and also guaranteed direct hospital and medical care. These services were provided for by the individual states and communities until 1811 when the first Veteran medical facility was authorized by the United States Government. Also during the 1800's, veterans assistance was expanded so that benefits included pensions for the wives and children of vets.
The veterans benefits took up a new system when the United States became involved in the World War I. This new system included disability compensation, insurance for both active duty and veterans, and rehabilitation for disabled veterans. These benefits were actually administered by three different government agencies. It wasn't until 1930 that the Veterans Administration was formed.
World War II contributed more veterans into the general populous but also resulted in vast expansion of the VA programs and new benefits. Included in these new benefits for veterans was the GI Bill. This bill is said to have had more of an impact on the way of life for Americans since the Homestead Act.
In 1989, the Department of Veterans Affairs became a cabinet-level position. This meant that the VA would report directly to the President and be able to give immediate feedback. President Bush was quoted as saying this about the Department, "There is only one place for the veterans of America, in the Cabinet Room, at the table with the President of the United States of America."