Former Reservist Develops AI Tool to Assist Veterans at Local Post

A former U.S. Army reservist has developed a user-friendly AI tool aimed at assisting veterans affiliated with the Downers Grove American Legion Post 80. This initiative was part of Eugene Lee‘s graduate studies at Elmhurst University, where he completed both a master’s in business administration and a master’s in data science and analytics in May 2023.

The tool, named Post80.AI, employs advanced algorithms to provide tailored suggestions based on the individual inquiries of users. Since its launch, over 100 veterans have utilized the platform to navigate the complexities of understanding veteran benefits. Lee, a native of the Chicago area, has a personal connection to the military; he joined the Army right after high school and served as a reservist for over six years, including two years of active duty at the Sierra Army Depot in northern California.

American Legion Post 80 approached Elmhurst University with the idea of collaborating to help veterans access a wealth of veteran-related resources through AI technology. Lee and a team of students designed a survey distributed to thousands of active-duty military personnel and veterans to identify key areas of interest. Mental health resources and family support were highlighted as major concerns among respondents.

Lee noted, “The military offers a lot of benefits,” but many veterans either lack information on how to access these benefits or are unaware of their existence altogether. He emphasized that older veterans often struggle with navigating online resources. “It is a daunting process,” Lee remarked, reflecting on the challenges faced by many in accessing vital information.

Creating the AI tool involved addressing privacy considerations and ensuring the authenticity of the information provided. Lee explained, “We had to set up a lot of guard rails, too. AI can get broken down over time.” The aim was to develop a robust platform that does not merely list websites but rather connects users to relevant information through multiple channels, ensuring that it remains current and user-friendly.

While pursuing his graduate degree, Lee also worked as a credit analyst and participated in wrestling at Elmhurst. He completed his undergraduate studies online at Liberty University while on active duty. “Elmhurst has given me more than I honestly could imagine,” he said, reflecting on his time at the university.

Lee described his journey as challenging yet rewarding, allowing him to feel a sense of accomplishment as he balanced multiple responsibilities. His efforts in developing Post80.AI not only exemplify his commitment to serving fellow veterans but also highlight the innovative ways technology can be harnessed to enhance access to vital resources.