BCLP Marks Veterans Day with Nationwide Pro Bono Training on Military Discharge Upgrades

In honor of Veterans Day (Nov. 11) and National Veterans and Military Families Month (November) in the United States, BCLP recently hosted a pro bono training session that drew enthusiastic participation from lawyers and paralegals across the firm, in partnership with longtime client Citigroup and the University of Missouri Veterans Clinic. The partnership, which began in 2024, is engaged in representing veterans on a wide range of discharge issues.

The virtual training event, held on Oct. 29, brought together 50 lawyers and paralegals from 12 BCLP offices, alongside 16 legal professionals from Citi’s law department, to learn how to assist veterans seeking military discharge upgrades. 

The training was designed to equip volunteers with the knowledge needed to support veterans whose discharge status may limit their access to benefits, employment and housing. Many of these individuals face challenges related to combat injuries, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, military sexual trauma or past discriminatory policies, such as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”

The Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic, a leading advocate for veterans, provided the training and resources. No prior litigation experience was required, making the opportunity accessible to attorneys across practice areas.

“This is the type of pro bono work that’s not only impactful but also manageable for both litigation and transactional lawyers,” said St. Louis Associate David Chambers, lead BCLP organizer. “We’re proud to continue our collaboration with Citi and the Veterans Clinic to support those who’ve served.”

Assisting David were Ed Tjaden, Ketrina Bakewell and Ellen Bonacorsi of BCLP along with Gretchen Wallace, Emily Elam and April Waugh of Citi.

The training reflects BCLP’s ongoing commitment to pro bono service and its dedication to supporting underserved communities, especially those who have sacrificed for their country. We’re proud to partner with like-minded clients like Citigroup to improve the places where we live and work, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans across the US.