need advice

I know this is not a subject about campgrounds, but in a way it is. As I became a friend of a totally disabled veteran at the McDill campground and seem to be his only friend, as such. I've been informed he's now in the General hospital at Tampa living on a thread. God forbid, and it looks as if it may happen, he has no family, no one close at McDill or surrounding area. I'm not sure he even has any family. If he succumbs to the ailments he has, what course should I take to ensure his remains are taken care of and dealt with properly. I will travel to Mcdill to get this done, but I'm totally at loss as to where to turn. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. And, again, sorry about the subject as I know it's off topic. But, we're all veterans, and there is a bond. It will happen to us all. Tom Wilburn is the individuals name and he's a Tampa General. He's a decorated combat veteran out of Vietnam.

d.bentley

First of all you deserve a word of thanks..You sound like a buddy. I think your best bet would be to contact the Office of Vet. Affairs in Tampa. There is also an office of retired affairs between the BX and the Commissary. Last time I was there they were open everyday during the week. They probably would also be able to guide you in the direction you need to go. Because you are not an immediate family member you may not get a lot of help from Vet Affairs..It would help if you had power of attorney. Other than that I don't think there is a lot you can do other than be the friend that your being.
Good luck

You might contact VFW or DAV or any service organization for advice too - they can contact him directly at the hospital, and can get either a POA, or he can sign authorizations for one of those groups to assist ... That's what they do, assist vets in health and benefit issues and usually know all the procedures.

You sound like a good friend to have - and you're right, we're all brother and sister veterans ...

Thanks for the advice, I'll certainly contact the VA.

I assure you that without a power of attorney, you will get nowhere. You are to be comended for your concern.
Bill

You may have done this already but in case you have not had the time you may want to go to the campground office and ask if they have any personal info on him and explain of course why you are asking. A home address he used on registration might be a starting point and you may find he has family or friends there. Someone in the office may know more about him if he is a frequent visitor to the campground too. If his RV is still in the campground you might ask base security to check inside the unit for any personal info/papers that could be of help, not sure they do this just a thought. Good luck and hope you find the help you need as this is they way we should all perform in the time of need of one who served our country. God bless you!