What did the VA base their denials on?
They said they needed more info/proof. Hell, I was in Laos covertly, no paperwork anywhere and all of my records were burned in St. Louis, Randolf AFB has nothing, the same for Dyess AFB
Who filed the appeal and what was it based on?
The local Vet Center VSO, not an appeal but rather a reopening of the claim.
Did you request a DRO (Decision Review Officer) review or go the traditional route with the BVA?
How do you request a DRO? All I've done is the traditional way, I didn't know there was another way and of course, they failed to tell me.
I think the VSO at the courthouse and the Out Patient Clinic failed to provide the proper service to you and may end up costing you some money. I doubt if their job description is just to pass out forms.
That's all they do, sit on the lazy butts and pass out forms.
Since they are public servants and paid by the taxpayers, you should be able to obtain a copy of their job description and possibly file lawsuit against them.
Where can I find a lawyer who won't charge me an arm and a leg?
If you have copies of the paperwork that was submitted or copies of the denials.
I have the most recent. I went to the court house VSO yesterday and asked for ALL copies of my records, appeals, etc.. The file should have been over three inches thick. He brought out a file that was less than an inch thick. He said the first ones (for over two to three years) were "lost".
If the appeal was not completed properly, you could be waiting for another couple of years and get the same determination.
What a surprise.
The VA plays on wording and they count on the veteran and widow not knowing the rules and regulations. Unfortunately a lot of VA employees don't follow their own rules and regulations.
Ain't that the awful truth. I even contacted my congresswoman and they refused to give her any info except it's being processed. That was over a year ago. I called the Houston office and they hung up on me. I'll never give up until I die and that may not be too long..
