An estimated 3,856 of Oregon Veterans are American Indian, representing the nine federally recognized Tribes around the state. Tribal members have one of the highest An estimated 3,128 of Oregon veterans are American Indian and Alaska Native, representing Oregon's nine federally recognized and non-recognized Tribes. Tribal members have one of the highest records of military service per capita of any ethnic group, and Native American communities in Oregon have a long and rich history of honoring and supporting all Veterans.
Working with Oregon’s Tribes, ODVA continues to appreciate Tribal sovereignty and strong partnerships, providing annual Tribal veteran advocate training while supporting outreach events that honor Tribal veterans and raise awareness of veterans' benefits, programs, and services across the state.
As a result of their military service, Veterans and their eligible dependents may be entitled to state and federal veterans' benefits, such as healthcare, behavioral healthcare, dental care, monetary compensation or pension, education benefits, housing support, etc.
For assistance with connecting with veteran services available at each Tribe, please email ODVA's Tribal Veteran Coordinator at
Tribal.Veterans@odva.oregon.gov or call/text (971) 239-6673.
Resources and Information
The Tribal Reimbursement Program provides a means for tribal
health facilities to receive reimbursement from the federal VA for direct care
services provided to American Indian and Alaskan Native eligible veterans.
For more information: Federal VA: Tribal Health Care Benefits
Through the Federal VA, veterans answer a series of questions to get customized step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a discharge upgrade or correction.
If your application goes through and your discharge is upgraded, you’ll be eligible for the VA benefits you earned during your period of service.
Apply for a Discharge Upgrade
If you're a Veteran, and either you or your spouse is Native American, VA Native American Direct Loan (NADL) program may help you get a loan to buy, build, or improve a home on federal trust land. You may also get a loan to refinance an existing NADL and reduce your interest rate. Find out if you qualify for an NADL—click here for more information.
The STRONG Veterans Act was signed into law in December 2022 and addresses mental health care provided by VA. It contains 27 sections requiring VA to work collaboratively with the Indian Health Service and other partners to begin implementing the plan with a finalization date of December 2030. Click here for more information.