This week I would like to share a message from Social Security Commissioner Michael J. Astrue. It reads as follows: "With Memorial Day approaching, I think it's important to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. We at Social Security honor the heroism and courage of our military service members and mourn for those who have given their lives in defense of freedom. "It is also important to recognize those service members who are still with us, especially those who have recently been wounded.

"That's why I'd like to take this opportunity to remind readers that military service members receive expedited processing of their disability applications from Social Security. In fact, under an agreement initiated by Social Security, the Department of Defense now transmits information to us that allows us to quickly identify military personnel injured in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

"The expedited process is available for any military service members who become disabled during active duty on or after October 1, 2001, regardless of where the disability occurs.

"Depending on the situation, some family members of military personnel also may be able to receive benefits, including dependent children and spouses.

"If you (or a relative or friend) were wounded while on active duty in the military, find out more about what Social Security can do for you by visiting our Web site designed specifically for you: www.socialsecurity.gov/wounde

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dwarriors. There, you will find answers to a number of commonly asked questions, as well as other useful information about disability benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Pay special attention to the fact sheets available on that Web site titled "Disability Benefits for Wounded Warriors" and "Expediting Disability Applications for Wounded Warriors."

"You'll also find links to useful VA Web sites, such as the "Seamless Transition Home" link, and the "Veterans Online Application" Web site.

"This Memorial Day, join me as I honor those who gave their lives for our nation, and salute those who served as well as those who continue to serve."

For the families of service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice, Social Security survivors benefits may be payable. To learn more about eligibility for survivors benefits, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/survivo rplan.

Reaching age 65 or full retirement age in 2008? - If you will turn 65 or reach full retirement age in 2008 and have not filed a Social Security or Medicare application, we can provide you with information that will be helpful in determining when to file an application. Mail us the following information:

- Your name.
- Social Security number.
- Estimated 2007 earnings.
- Estimated 2008 earnings.
- Complete mailing address.
- Telephone number (both home and work).
-Date of birth.
- If you plan to retire in 2008, month in which you would.
- Spouse's Social Security number.
- Spouse's date of birth.
- If spouse is deceased, give date of death.

Send it to: Your Social Security, Social Security Administration, 3885 Main St., 3rd Floor, Bridgeport CT 06606. Attn: A. Renzoni. Anthony Renzoni is district manager of the Bridgeport office of the Social Security Administration. His column appears every Monday.