PTSD Diagnosis Helps Widow Win DIC Compensation

A Missouri veteran, “James,” had struggled with PTSD since serving in the U.S. Army in Vietnam. Unable to function in normal life, he was awarded 100% disability in 2016. His service dog provided some relief, but the dog died of cancer in December 2022. 

Early in 2023, the veteran’s sister passed away, and that seemed to be the final straw. On the morning of May 25, 2023, James went outside and took his own life. 

The following day, Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Heart of America Chapter 317 President Randy Barnett received a phone call from James’ wife, “Nancy.” She had no idea where to turn. Used to waking early to keep an eye on her husband, she blamed herself for sleeping late. 

Barnett assured her that the suicide wasn’t her fault. He also assured her that VVA would help in every way possible, starting by filing for DIC compensation so she at least wouldn’t need to worry about money. On Monday, Barnett and VSO Chuck Lear called Nancy to get things started. 

Nancy and James lived in a small community near Lake of the Ozarks, and the local coroner was able to rush a death certificate through. Nancy contacted the VA psychiatrist her husband had been visiting to inform him of James’ passing, and he volunteered to write a letter in support of a claim.

Lear filed Nancy’s claim for DIC in early June, including a letter from the psychiatrist stating that James’ PTSD was a factor in his suicide. The death certificate also stated that PTSD contributed to the veteran’s death.

At first, nothing happened, but Lear was able to get things moving after attending a Missouri Veterans Commission training with VA Pension officials in Springfield, Missouri, in October. Nancy was soon awarded DIC compensation to the original filing date.

Contact a VVA Veteran Service Officer to assist with your claim in states that have a benefits program here, or search for a VSO from another organization through the VA’s website in states where we do not. Enter your ZIP code or city and state, and you’ll see which VSOs serve your area.