I'm a peacetime u.s.army vet, and I don't receive v.a. benefits.?

Question

I have more problems than a one legged man in an ***-Kicking

contest. I've tried everything, talking to the D.A.V. (can't help)

tried Vet. Affairs,(can't help) sent letters to the Pres. of U.S.

He sent the photos and letters back with a note, that I

should keep them for my records. I am at my Wits-End.

Is there someone out there that might be able to help me?.

Sincerly, Manny

Answer 1

The Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits depends on length of Service, illness and injuries received during active duty, if you are a combat veteran, if you were a POW. The people who can help you is your State VA Service Officer. Take your DD Form 214, and your Service discharge orders. They know what you can apply for and would also help you fill  them out.

Answer 2

I don't know if you have done this but generally you have to go to the nearest V A clinic or hospital and obtain the forms necessary to apply for VA medical benefits.  If your problems are service-connected (obtained while on active duty) then you need to get copies of ALL your military health records. To do that there should be a Vet's rep in your town unless you live in a really small town.  Contact him for the forms to request your medical records.

You will need a copy of your DD-214 which is your record of discharge - it will list the type of discharge you received.  I believe that if it is other than Honorable or General you are not eligible for ANY VA benefits (sorry, but that's just the way it is).

(It is also a good idea to take your DD-214 down to your local county registrar and have them make and keep a copy on hand.  That way if you ever lose yours you can get a copy from them for free.)

IF you are eligible for benefits and all the above fails, then get in touch with your local state senators and have them go to bat for you.

Good Luck.

Answer 3

What kind of problems? and are they service-related.

If they're determined to NOT be service-related, then you're barking up the wrong tree.