I think you have a lot of options and certainly use your gov benefits for whatever you can. That being said and in your situation of being a bit older to the aviation professional entrance, which isn't a big deal, I would recommend trying to go immersion style if you could afford to do the training full time for a few months. Look into ATP flight school and do the 100 day program, I saw a VA brochure but didn't look through it since unfortunately I haven't earned that benefit
thanks for your service. Happy Flying!