Commander Bob

Thanks, Stretch.

Thanks for the heads-up about the Hadit SVR Podcast, this afternoon, Stretch. I'll check it out. Bob *note to new guys... The podcast start button, is located on the upper left side of the page, just above the "topic title" & advert.

I was 11Bravo... I remember the battlefield too. I understand where you are coming from.Hambone11B'. Thanks for your post. I appreciate your thoughts.. Hang in there Brother. You are not alone. Later, Bob

Congratulations, John46. Bob

At times it seems the VA is moving employees, and claims around, to reduce backlog numbers in certain areas. I hope your claim is resolved soon. Best wishes for a successful outcome. Cmdr. Bob

A decade of new wars, & unfinished business from previous wars .... Cmdr. Bob

I have been there... Letting go of it works... If just for that episode. I know it's difficult...(Needing much effort or skill to accomplish, deal with, or understand.)

The reality of it, 'midnight340', is, there is no timetable for a claim or an appeal. All you can hope for are ball park guesses by the VA ,Vet reps or friends and fellow vets that have been through it. JMHO... I know it's not easy, however, try not to torment over it. When your mind drifts to the VA maelstrom churning around in your head, first recognize that you are thinking about it. then make a conscious effort to stop it. If nothing else, just for that moment. Then try concentering on your breathing, feel your lungs fill and breath out, or feel your heart beat. Think about something or sometime, or someone that makes you feel good. Don't get caught up in the "Mailbox Blues". I have been waiting for over 4 years for resolution to my VA case, I know where you are coming from. Please remember that you are not alone. Good luck on finding a hobby. You deserve peace and happiness. Cmdr. Bob

Yes John. I filed in the early 1970s. I was awarded a NSC for an anxiety disorder. Then in the late 70s, it was changed to 10% SC. Diagnostic code 9401,anxiety. Then in 1989 it's code # was changed to 9400. This whole mess happened when I applied for Army CRSC , I found out that my PTSD was not listed as a combat condition. I asked the VA to correct the record to reflect a PTSD Diagnostic code of 9411, It's not the increase in money, $20.00 a month. It's the principle. JMHO, The VA has no time for honor or justice... You ask : "You have your C-File correct?" No, John. I have tried several times. This time, after filing the proper FOIA/Privacy Act request, I have been waiting 4 months for a copy of the c-file. Recently, my NSO told me the request is now missing from the claims file. ??

PS... It is very helpful to an elder or fellow member of Hadit, to read the "Reasons and Bases" of the SOC of a vet seeking direction. I know how frustrating it can be when trying to help a vet with their claim when they don't, or can't post the "Reasons and Bases" of the SOC. I have tried to redact the "Reasons and Bases" of my SOC, so I could post it here, however, because of the VA's numerous logical fallacies that twist throughout the language of the document, I find it impossible to post. After I receive my copy of the c-file, I will get an IMO, and turn it over to a lawyer. Then we'll go from there. Thank you. I am most appreciative and grateful. for the information, direction and camaraderie, I have found here. CB

I agree , or COVA. Thanks, 'deanbrt'. I appreciate your insight.

Thank you carlie, The Reasons and Bases of the SOC consists of 5 pages... There are some key elements of that section of the SOC, which contain controversial and unjustified assumptions, as well as mistakes, presumptions and misinformation made by the VA and the DRO. I don't see how I could publish that on an open Internet forum , at this time, without over editing, to protect my anonymity, and good name... CB

Thanks for your understanding and support, 'retiredat44'. I know that you are going through a lot as well. On top of everything else, I can also understand the injustice and torment a VA appeal will cause, if you let it get to you. It has been a long journey for me. My case has gotten so bizarre and absurd, that I try not to let it cause me any more anguish. It has been said that "...in life, pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional", so I will try to keep pushing forward until i find resolution and peace. My most positive thoughts are with you, our fellow vets and their families. CB (edited for clarification)

I would bet that you are right, carlie... I submitted a FOIA/Privacy Act request for my c-file, several months ago... I should know something more then. * (footnote)... On Feb 9th, 2012, I was informed by my NSO, that the VA computer system shows a FOIA/Privacy Act request was received, however, he now tells me that my request for the copy of my c-file is missing from my claims folder ????

I filed a claim on 07-08-2008. I received an unacceptable decision on 02-19-2009. The VARO claims it received my NOD and request for a "Formal DRO Hearing" on 04-14-2009... On May 4th,2011, I was advised by my VSO that a DRO Formal Hearing was scheduled for later that month, however the VARO sent my "Notice to Appear" to the wrong address. So The VA DRO cancelled the hearing and had to reschedule the Hearing due to the VA's "failure to notify". I was told that a new date would be set and I and my Rep would be notified of the new DRO formal hearing. So, I waited and waited... Then on Jan 11,2012, I received a big legal size brown envelope, with over 30 pages, including a SOC. There it stated that an "Informal Conference" was held on 05-24-2011 (bogus-never happened) ...So, I never received my "DRO Formal Hearing" , and there was never an "Informal Conference" in May of 2011.... Unbelievable... Well, I filed a VA form 9 & BVA hearing request on Jan 17th, 2012. Once again, It looks like I fell through the proverbial cracks at the VARO... I must say it looks pretty dank and dusty down here.LOL. Long story, short ... I waisted almost 3+ years waiting for a DRO Hearing that never happened... Next stop is to climb out of the cracks & shredded paper, and move on down the yellow brick road, to the BVA. Later, Cmdr. Bob

Sounds like your on top of it 'Mil T'. Good luck. I hope your vet pulls through and has the opportunity to experience the win. Does the vet have a spouse or any dependents? Your community is most fortunate to have you there helping the vets. Best wishes with much appreciation for all your hard work. Cmdr. Bob (edited for spelling correction)

Thank you 'Veldrina'. Best wishes,

The GAF info posted in this topic thread will be most helpful to many vets. ~Sorry for veering off topic a little, however, since this came up here, I was wondering if a casual conversation between a Veterans Service Officer and a DRO or VA Rater, could be considered as an official "Informal Conference" and listed in the "Adjudicative Actions" section in a SOC? Thanks for the time and patience of our group, and 'Veldrina', if she is familer with this question. Again, I apologize to 'Moody' and the other contributors, for going off topic, however, It is very important in my case. * ( Edited for spelling error.)

The clock is ticking... You must file your appeal with the RO (Regional Office) within 60 days from the date of the letter containing the "Statement of the Case", or within the remainder, if any, of the one year period from the letter notifying you of the action that you have appealed. Have you filed a VA Form 9 yet? If you need more time to file your appeal, you should request more time before the time limit for filing your appeal expires. See the instructions in VA Form 9, Appeal to Board of Veterans' Appeals, which should have been included in the stack of paperwork you received with the SOC. Are there any Veterans Service Officers in your area that can help you and your friend with this case? Thank you for your service, and for coming to the aid of your friend. Best regards, Cmdr Bob

Yes john999, it feels a little Deja vu to me... This is beginning to appear systemic with certain ptsd Vietnam vet claims. I am amazed how the VA operates with such impunity. It boggles the mind of any reasonable person. JMHO... I feel that asking the RO to reconsider the claim would result in a parroted finding and continued denial. Also, if you have not already requested and received a complete copy of the C-file, I would do so ASAP. Then seek an "IMO" (independent medical opinion) while you wait for a formal BVA hearing. jmho... We need Congress to pass a "Vietnam Veterans Reconciliation Act".... (yet to be written.) Cmdr. Bob

Good morning , vetinpa. We are here waiting with you. I hope you hear something soon. I am taking carlie's advice and trying to keep busy with something positive while I wait for resolution to my case.. . john999, ...LOL. Actually, I didn't know the medicinal purposes of Morning Glories!!! As a child my dad grew them every spring for the shade. I grow them for traditional and aesthetic reasons only. Best wishes to all, Cmdr. Bob

My POA told me that my FOIA/Privacy Act request was received by the VA on Dec. 18,2011,however, no evidence of that request is in the claims folder...LOL

Bingo... Thanks for that very important reminder , john999... Bob

After waiting almost 3 years for a DRO rubber stamped, parroted denial, and SOC, I am now marking my third month anniversary waiting for a copy of my c-file so I can get an IMO... I only wish I there was a form you could file for punitive damages. I would check that box...