Reid urges terror war veterans to hit books

U.S. Sen. Harry Reid launched a public service announcement Monday to urge Nevada veterans of the global war on terrorism to take advantage of the 21st Century G.I. Bill of Rights that takes effect Aug. 1.

Any veteran who served at least three months active duty since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks can receive four years of tuition and fees from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the University of Nevada, Reno, and Nevada's colleges.

The new G.I. bill, which passed Congress last year, also includes a housing allowance for rent or mortgage and a $1,000 annual stipend for books and supplies.

"It's really a wonderful opportunity to get an education," Reid, D-Nev., said in a telephone interview.

The 21st Century G.I. Bill of Rights covers veterans in the National Guard and Reserve components who served three months active duty after Sept. 11, 2001, if they were mobilized by the president or the secretary of defense.

Veterans have up to 15 years after they leave active duty to use their educational benefits under the bill.

"This is unquestionably the right thing to do for our troops and the families that support them," Reid said in a statement. "I am very pleased that this support has been expanded for those serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. I encourage all of Nevada's veterans to take advantage of this terrific program."

For more information about the 21st Century G.I. Bill of Rights, contact the Southern Nevada Veterans Center at 702-251-7873, or the Northern Nevada Veterans Center, 775-323-1294.

Contact reporter Keith Rogers at krogers @reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0308.