http://photos.state.gov/libraries/thailand/231771/acs/031312_benefits_webchat_transcript.pdf

I found the above link on the U.S. Embassy Bangkok, Thailand website for the Web Chat Transcript: "Federal Benefits for Americans Abroad" (13 March 2012). Located under "emergency messages and announcements". Great information!

One thing not covered is that a Thai wife of a veteran who served in a war zone is entitled to a widows pension. Any other pension would be deducted from that amount It's only a little over $600 a month but better than a sharp stick in the eye if you have nothing else to leave her.

The current widows pension is $684 per month.

^^Thanks for the information. Do you have a link with the requirements and benefit's for the widow's pension? I have never heard about it before. I do know someone who I think may qualify for it, but I don't know what qualifies you for it.

^^Thanks for the information. Do you have a link with the requirements and benefit's for the widow's pension? I have never heard about it before. I do know someone who I think may qualify for it, but I don't know what qualifies you for it.

Email a VFW post in Thailand. Google vfw Thailand. They will help.

I did not know about the widow's pension? I served in a war zone (on a submarine) but it is still a war zone for benefits purposes. I don't think that I am eligible because my wife is signed up for the "survivors benefits program" so she is entitled to 55% of my Navy pension after I start taking my dirt nap.

Ermmm...(1) does serving aboard the U.S.S. Yorktown during World War II count as serving in a war zone? (not being trying to be facetious but I don't know if they made the rules to be after WWII because---well alot of people served during WWII and there would be alot of claims) (2) can you be a U.S. citizen to claim? (3) does the deceased veteran have to have been eligible for a pension himself (left the service after the end of World War II so not enough time in service)?

You could call the RAO office at JUSMAG, 02 287-1036 and they can give you more info.