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Buddy Statememt

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me.plum

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me.plum Enthusiast

me.plum

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My lawyer said buddy statement would help me because I couldn't find some of the things I said happen . I looked under mishaps , incidents , accidents class A ,B , and C with no luck. What the Hell looked under facebook for my old squadron and found 32 members . Four of them remember the incident , two of the four emailed me what they scene and who they where. Lawyer said no,no, it must be filled out on V.A. letter head with ssn members. The Veterans are scared that it can be used against them and I cant really blame them for feeling that way because of no accountability in V.A.

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Vync

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I could see why they might hesitate to put their SSN on forms. Back when I was in we shouted SSN's daily during basic/advanced training as we reported for chow. Copies of them were also distributed on combined copies of orders. With all of the identity theft scandals going on, I don't blame them for being too careful.

When I submitted my buddy letters, they were on the correct form and included their name, address, contact info, but no SSN. I also had them notarized when signing so there was no question.

Even though your DD-214 may not reflect it, check your service personnel record and service medical treatment records to see if you can find evidence there. The VA is "supposed" to check these, but it does not always happen. I have heard others here recommend trying to get copies of unit Monday morning reports, but I never had any luck finding any for my units. Although the buddy letters can be helpful, the VA sometimes cringes at them. I was successful in my claims due to a combination of personnel records, treatment records, and several buddy statements from friends, family, and others.

"If it's stupid but works, then it isn't stupid."
- From Murphy's Laws of Combat

Disclaimer: I am not a legal expert, so use at own risk and/or consult a qualified professional representative. Please refer to existing VA laws, regulations, and policies for the most up to date information.

 

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Tommywvivid Explorer

Tommywvivid

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Yes my claims rep said, since my SMR is nowhere to be found, they would work and they reopened my claim, administrative review, it was denied. Reason? Lost medical records and, and I qoute" less than credible statements.#1 statement was from the soldier in my company who took me to the hospital. #2 is from now a SFC retired who picked me up from the ER. both I found on Facebook. Could not believe it!

Thomas H Frank

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