Yes but you are all forgetting that many government workers, civil employees, teachers, etc., don't pay into SS and hence are not eligible for benefits (unless the beneficiary paid a minimum into it through previous employment). It's a tradeoff for what is usually a better, higher paying retirement system.

Petey,
I believe that the VA has changed its position on Agent Orange. I know of some veterans groups I can put you in touch with (PM me). I don't believe that oral cancer is on the list of Agent Orange side effects in any case.