New York State Gives $250 Bonus to WW2 Mariners

American Merchant Marine Veterans Public Relations Director Gloria Flora Nicolich penned a recent article reminding World War II mariners who lived in New York State that they can potentially claim a war bonus. She says that in 1946 many states gave a bonus to returning veterans who were residents. New York State gave $250. The last bonus was given in 1965. Through the years, the New York Legislature would reintroduce the measure but it wasn't until July 2007 that it became law.

Any mariner who resided in New York State during the period 1941-1945 and received his DD-214 for service in the American Merchant Marine may apply for this bonus. It does not matter where the mariner lives now. He must have been a resident of New York State during the period 1941-45.

If the mariner received any remuneration from any other branch of the service he is not entitled to this bonus. Those who served in the Merchant Marine during the Korean and/or Vietnam Wars were not given Veteran Status, and so are not entitled to this particular bonus.

In order to obtain this bonus, please register with

Michelle LaRock
5 Empire State Plaza
New York State Division of Veteran Affairs, Suite 2836
Albany, NY 12223

She will send you an application. Return the application along with copies of all your papers, DD-214, 'Z' number and any other information requested. Widows who never remarried may also apply for this bonus. When they receive the application, they must send copies of their Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, Husband's Death Certificate, Husband's DD-214, and proof of his residence in New York State during WWII.

Please do not phone.

Source:
Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (AFL-CIO)
M.E.B.A. TELEX TIMES, The Official Union Newsletter, March 7, 2008

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