Just an update........... I called Claims Management 202-273-7453 And after an extended conversation with a nice lady was informed that she would do an in depth inquiry and have the RO contact me. 3 days later the RO (St Pete) actually called back and said there was a discrepency with my claim. Once this was rectified, ebenefits went from gathering evidence to pending decision approval in less than a week. note: The RO never contacted me through any medium to tell me a discrepency was holding up progress on my claim. Moral of the story: Never give up pestering these people. They are overwhelmed and understaffed and probably miss alot of important issues. Its the claimants responsibility to keep on top of them, otherwise they will drop the ball and you will be left holding the waiting game bag. I dont know if claim was approved yet, but either way I know being proactive helped to move it along. Thanks to all who answered my questions and lent their ear and thanks to everyone of you that served. God Bless and good luck in your pursuit of the benefits you deserve.