Thank you for your responses. To clarify, I hope, my original claim was for retroactive.DIC benefits based on my husbands' long history of heart disease.
I understand now that his HBP and Hypertension while on active duty cannot be considered IHD. He was awarded 0% SC upon discharge in 1975 for these two conditions. He received early SSA in 1995.
He did not file another claim until 2001 for DMII. The VAexaminer noted his by pass surgery in 1995 , old myocardial infarcts and Mets 7 to award the 30% based on his cardiology medical records and 20% for Diabetic neuropathy His further claims were related to renal faiure /amputations due to his diabetes.
In 2004, he was awarded 100% for End Stage Renal disease[related to DM!!], 100% for Coronary Artery , plus special monthly compensation and Aid and Attendance among others.
The atty did mention something abt "substitution" to me but there were no outstanding claims when my hero died. in 2007.
Again, I appreciate your guidance and thank you for directing me in the right path.
VetsWidoFL