Thanks Carlie for the info. So much to learn, so much to read. In hindsight, I really wish I would have found this site BEFORE we both filed. After reading more then a few current and previous posts/opinions from the elders on this site as well as other contributers, the various court rulings etc I would have put together the claims much differently. We have been unable to make contact with the VFW rep that "helped" (oh and I do use that term very loosely) my husband put in the most recent claim, after office visits in person and more then a few phone calls, so we are on our own on this for now. One thing I have definitely learned from this forum that WE are our best advocates, it is worth doing as much of the legg-work (compiling medical records/info from SRB, MHR to present, researching court rulings and tieing everything together into a neat bow) BEFORE one files a claim. I take back the comment about us being on our own....this forum and its members are a great source of advice. Thanks again!