Problems

I have been working with a young vet. He is on the TDRL (Temporary Disability Retired List). He is 100% permanent and total with the VA. This young man, with a family refused to put in for TSGLI. He is convinced that if he has any contact (regarding further claims) with the VA or the military his rating will be taken from him. He is a WIA and is good as he is going to get physically or mentally. He will go to medical appointments but absolutely refuses to claim futher benefits. He is terrified that his family will be loose their benefits.

A Vietnam Vet considered putting in for benefits, i.e. Agent Orange and “walked away from it”. He has had explained to him “… presumption …” i.e. he was in country (RVN), a grunt and can doucment it. He is writing off his medical issues (that fit a compensable illness) and compensation claims with the VA. The Vet is disgusted with the complexity of the VA system. He has given up on it and will not consider any follow up with the VA.

Other Vets refuse to obtain a VA medical card. One walked out of the clinic he went to in an attempt to obtain a VA medical card. He simply could not tolerate the forms and questions. Many Vets are very upset with any type or kind of “means test”. For some Vets, they walk away from VA medical care. 

I have previously written that the VA has many very good competent and dedicated people. People that are committed to caring for Vets. The system is however, very complex. I urge anyone with an ability to talk with Vets to get them to apply for benefits. The system will not improve. It has to be worked with. We can not take no for an answer – but at the same time persistence must be within the VA rules. Decisions are ultimately decided on an intrepretation of the rules.

Hang in their folks. Never give up.

Regards

Dale R. Suiter

Dale R. Suiter

Dale R. Suiter served in the United States Marine Corps June 1966 – February – 1970. He served with Ammo Company First FSR, 2nd CAG Q-6 and Q-3, H&S 81’s 3/9 and 1/3. His service “On the Rock” was with Ordanance Schools, Camp Hansen. Following the Marine Corp, he completed a career in public service – prison and jail operations. In addition, he completed a career as a reserve officer with the Michigan Army National Guard. His two sons and two sons-in-law are veterans of the war on terror. The family continues in service to the United States of America.