VFW Statment

WASHINGTON (May 22, 2006) – The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is alerting all members that computer records with personal information on millions of veterans were stolen earlier this month from the home of a data analyst who works for the Department of Veterans Affairs.

In conference calls today with veterans’ service organizations and with members of the national news media, VA Secretary Jim Nicholson admitted that up to 26.5 million names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth and, in some cases, home addresses, disability ratings and spousal information were stolen during what appeared to be a random burglary.

The VA employee, whom the secretary said was not authorized to take the information home, has been placed on administrative leave as FBI and local law enforcement officials continue the investigation.

VFW Commander-in-Chief Jim Mueller called the admission deeply disturbing, but said he would help the VA inform the 2.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliaries. Then he demanded accountability.

“What happened is absolutely unacceptable, but the task at hand is to inform every veteran family so that they can begin taking steps to safeguard their personal information,” said Mueller, who then wants those employees and/or officials who may be at fault to be held accountable for their actions.

“Above all else, we demand accountability from those who work for the people,” he said. “Whether the investigation reveals it was one person involved or includes others in more senior positions who may have given tacit approval, we expect their employment to be terminated immediately. The severity of this incident does not permit second chances.”

Nicholson said the 26.5 million names represent every military veteran discharged since 1975, and possibly earlier if the individual filed a VA claim. He said that there is no indication that anyone’s medical or financial records were compromised, but did acknowledge that the reason he decided to go public with the news was to alert all veterans of the incident and for them to be more vigilant of their personal information.

The VA will send out individual notification letters to veterans to every extent possible. Veterans can also go to www.firstgov.gov for more information on this matter. Additionally, the VA has established a manned call center for veterans to receive information about this situation and to learn more about consumer identity protections. That toll free number is 1-800-FED INFO (333-4636). The call center opens today and will operate from 8 a.m. to 9 pm (EDT), Monday-Saturday, as long as it is needed.

Read More about it:
Veterans Administration Notification Letter
Statement from the Department of Veterans Affairs
Veterans Administration Security FAQ