Do you know a vietnam veteran? There are numerous medical conditions that are now automatically attributable to the Veteran’s service in Vietnam. Substantial benefits may be available.
The VA previously denied claims for compensation by Vietnam vets who claimed injury or illness from exposure to Agent Orange. In 1986 Vietnam veterans and their survivors filed a class action lawsuit against the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which was referred to as the “Nehmer decision.” These plaintiffs alleged that the VA had improperly denied their claims for service-connected compensation for disabilities caused by exposure to the herbicide Agent Orange. Ultimately, it was decided that not only were benefits available to the vets, but if the vet was previously denied benefits, he or she may be entitled to retroactive benefits. For some, the retroactive benefit goes back many years, and the monetary payment is very substantial.
There are numerous “presumptive illnesses” associated with exposure to herbicides used in Vietnam. This means, if you have the condition, it is “presumed” to have been caused by the exposure. Certain kinds of cancers, Type 2 diabetes, B-cell leukemia’s (such as hairy cell leukemia), Parkinson’s disease, and ischemic heart disease are a few examples.
It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of Vietnam veterans and their survivors who were previously denied service-connected benefits are now entitled to retroactive compensation (and on-going monthly compensation) based on the Nehmer decision. Unfortunately, most of these individuals do not know that they should pursue these unpaid benefits.
There are also “presumptive conditions” for Gulf War Veterans, as well as atomic veterans exposed to ionizing radiation. Many veterans, young and old, are improperly denied VA benefits based on a service-connected disability or illness. These Veterans are simply not aware of their rights, the VA process, or how to pursue their claim. The result: the VA goes unchallenged and the deserved benefits go unpaid. If you or someone you know falls into this category, it may be time to learn the options available.
Jane M. McNamara is an accredited attorney with the Veterans Administration. For more information, please visit www.VAbenefits4seniors.com, or call the Law Office of Jane M. McNamara at 661-287-3260.