A Waco Women Veterans Claims Clinic lends a helping hand as they navigate the sometimes complicated process of filing a claim

Waco, TX (FOX 44) — A claims clinic is an event held to reach out to local veterans to assist in getting the veteran claims process started.

“Women are one of the highest growing veteran populations in the country, and Texas has one of the largest veteran populations. We thought that it would only be a natural fit to host something specifically for our women veterans,” says assistant veteran service center manager, Carmen Massey.

While going to school and working a full time job, Martha Ybarra had dreams of going into The Air Force.

“I had a job, but I wasn’t happy. And I kept telling my dad, ‘I’m going to go into The Air Force, I’m going to go.’ And he said, ‘No, you’re not going. You’re not going.’ I was an adult, but I was the oldest. I was grew up to where we have to listen to our parents,” says Martha Ybarra.

Martha’s uncle, a Purple Heart Recipient, invited her to stay with him one winter. Three days later she joined the Military.

“I joined through the delayed enlisted program up in Syracuse, New York, and on September 15th, 1986, it was my first day of active duty at Lackland Air Force Base,” says Martha.

Only 25 years old, Martha became a medical lab tech.

“Within a year I was a Sergeant. Then by that time I was already at Sheppard Air Force Base as a lab instructor. During that time I met my husband. I have three beautiful children,” says Martha.

Martha retired in 2006 and moved to Waco only to find a job at the VA to help other veterans find out the services available to them.

The VA says they welcome all veterans and service members from every branch. Providers are always here to assist in anyway.