kbodine

Thank you to all...this information has helped and I have been able to set an appointment with local VA to start benefit claim and assistance...I did find out that because i served from 1978 to 1984 with Honorable Discharge that I should be eligible for most benefits, again thanks

I was active duty in US Navy from June 1978 to April 1984 and received an Honorable discharge with a RE-1 code. I re-entered the US Navy in May 1986 and due to substance abuse (alcohol and drugs) I received an OTH in April 1989. Since I served from 1978 to 1984 with no NJP, no issues and an Honorable (RE-1) discharge, am I eligible for VA benefits? I have read various blogs or forums on this website and it appears I would be eligible, any comments, assistance or direction on what I can do would be greatly appreciated

I was in the US Navy from June 1978 to April 1984 on active duty and received an Honorable Discharge at the rank of E-5. In May 1986, I re-entered the US Navy on active duty at the rank of E-5. During that time I suffered from alcoholism, severve depression and uibstance abuse. I had a NJP (Captain's Mast) for alcohol related incident (DUI) and then I tested positive for illegal substance and had another NJP (Captain's Mast) and was given an OTH for misconduct-drug abuse. Since I had served on active duty from June 1978 to April 1984 with no incidents at all, am I eligible for VA benefits (Medical) ? I have been in and out of re-hab for substance abuse and I am looking to seek help from the VA, any response or assistance on this matter would be greatly appreciated.