How To Make Money In The Military: Financial Benefits Of Service Explained. The importance of Financial Wellness for Veterans. In Part II of our III Part series titled “Teaching Moments with Dr. Paul Lawrence,” the Former Under Secretary for Benefits at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs discusses “Financial Wellness” with SMA Tilley. Dr. Lawrence, who possesses a Ph.D. in economics, provides unbelievable financial advice that will benefit our Veterans, Servicemembers and their Families.