Afghanistan Veteran’s Claims Validated 

A United States Marine Corps veteran came to the offices of a Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) veteran service officer (VSO) last year complaining of severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to the loss of a close friend while deployed to Afghanistan. 

He also suffered from service-connected physical injuries that prevented him from deploying, negatively affecting his mental health and sense of self-worth. The veteran had become socially isolated; he avoided group settings, stopped attending church, withdrew from friends and was experiencing marital strain that required family counseling. 

The veteran had previously filed multiple claims for VA compensation through another organization, all of which were denied. Armed with VVA grant money, VSOs worked closely with the veteran to collect vital documentation, organize medical and service records, and document his symptoms and limitations fully and accurately. 

As a result of the coordinated effort, the veteran received a favorable VA decision in just seven months. He was awarded a 70% service-connected disability rating and received a retroactive payment in excess of $7,000. He now receives ongoing monthly compensation of more than $2,000, offering newfound financial stability as well as a sense of validation.

The veteran expressed relief and gratitude for VVA’s assistance. 

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.