Page:The making of a man (1902).pdf/21

 In Writing

Describe your case as clearly and briefly as possible, stating whether amputation is above or below the knee or elbow, when amputated, length and condition of the stump, your age, weight and occupation, whether you have ever worn an artificial limb, if so, how long and what make or makes, and be particular to write your name and address plainly, giving the post office, county and state. Any inquiries that are made on the subject of artificial limbs will be promptly answered to the best of our knowledge, and any information that we can give will be cheerfully imparted.

Artificial Limbs for U. S. Pensioners

Every officer or enlisted or hired man who has lost a limb, or the use of a limb, in the military or naval service of the United States, is entitled to receive once every three years an artificial limb or apparatus. Necessary transportation to the manufactory and return, by the most usual and direct route, will be furnished to those desiring it for the purpose of having artificial limbs fitted, but will not be furnished except for this purpose. Sleeping-*car accommodations will be given upon request.

In March, 1891, the law was amended so as to allow an artificial limb every three years instead of every five as before. The reduction in time took effect in various ways but was to be counted from March 1, 1891. The act operates in three ways:

First. Those who were entitled on or after March 3, 1888, are entitled every three years from such last date.

Second. Those who were entitled between March 3, 1886, and March 3, 1888, were again entitled March 3, 1891, and every three years from that date.

Third. Those who were entitled before March 3, 1886, were again entitled five years from such date, and again every three years.