Camp Lejune first 6 months of 71. The VA to me at this point in time is absolutely useless! HMC, FMF, USMC, USS America [CVA66]. Im giving this one last try. He was 32 years old when he died and left me with our two children, Colleen, 4 1/2 and John, 15 months old. Im a child of a deceased Vietnam vet. He died of pancreatic cancer in 2010. Young. Veterans Agent Orange Exposure Equity Act, IRS begins making final stimulus payments from American Rescue Plan, GAO: VA suicide prevention teams need evaluation amid caseload growth, burnout, Woman's DDT exposure may affect granddaughter's health, study says. VA has had me Synthroid for decades, she again said sorry. Both are tumors in the thyroid caused by AO. Anyone out there know anything about vets and scleroderma? File a claim for DIC at va.gov or find a good VA advocate to help you. Treasury sanctions three Russians for imprisonment of opposition leader. Ancestry.com has a military lookup feature, and there is a website called vetfriends.com. Hey Angel, Im in the same boat Vietnam 68-69.. 50% disability for same disabilities. I applied for Agent Orange disability, but the VA denied my claim. My poor wife is growing old befor her time as she struggles to keep up with my medical bills and having to tap into our meager savings in order to pay for personal care providers not covered by either the VA or Medicare. He got a double whammy being a Vietnam vets son and then whatever was going on with the poison that was Anniston, good ol Monsanto strikes again :-( And of course, we never knew about that until it was decades too late. I was at a base camp in South Vietnam when after taking a short shower, ( limited water ) a chopper flew overhead and spraying Agent Orange in the tree lines when I got another shower, Agent Orange! The review board keeps telling me this every time I refile after a new presumptive condition gets named, all five of them as of this writing. Turner hassupported similar legislationin the past. Between the Benzine in the JP4 that I breathed, the Asbestos and Oils on the Tuluga, and the God knows what on the other ships it is a no wonder that I have COPD. My brother in law, a brother since I was little, proud marine, two tours Vietnam, didnt see his first born until she was six months old, died recently of a heart attack brought on by extreme pain and after suffering for years with a brain deteriorating disease caused by AGENT ORANGE. "Our veterans are heroes and deserve to be treated as such. But we did. That has been appealed with the help of the Dept of Veterans Affairs. I guess the VA doesnt believe the wind blows, Skinner said. VA Adds Atypical Parkinsonism to List of Agent Orange-linked Illnesses My submitted medical paperwork included my Bladder Cancer, but I was told it could not be included with my Prostate Cancer claim because it was on the list for approval, but had not been approved. Also, the investigation found less use in Thailand and the DMZ then previously reported. It should be no different in the case of the Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange," Cartwright said in the same statement. Los Alamitos and ElToro. Im not convinced the toxic exposure will ever be gone. The VA did well with him in his final years. How long until a decision is made on an agent orange applied November 2019. I filed in 1980 at the age of 31 for esophageal cancer due to exposure to Agent Orange. My three sons and some of the grandchildren are at risk and indeed have some unusual conditions. Im grateful for the be befits our service members now receive as my husband a twenty year retired war veteran does, but these Vietnam Veterans suffered through decades up against the brick wall that was the old VA. and last updated 2021-02-08 21:35:02-05. . Never wait to be notified. I FILED AND ALL THE RECORDS ARE LOSTED SO I WAS DENIED. Preserving Our History Im proud, its just too hard to pass on anything good to say about serving your country. The process seems so slanted as if to prevent the possibility that higher-ranking people bear the burden of responsibility. What a VA. He had me late in life . The Virus can no longer be used as an alibi. Thank you for allowing me to vent. It seems that most veterans who submit paperwork will get denied the first time regardless of their condition or supporting evidence. Often fence lines were sprayed to kill vegetation that may have hid the presence of enemy soldiers. VA Adds Bladder Cancer as Potential Effect of Agent Orange Exposure My electronics van had inch thick dust in it and all kinds of Vietnam paraphernalia hidden away on it. I lived in Okinawa in 1967-68, then was in Navy in Vietnam from What about soldiers that did not serve in the Republic of China but was assigned to combat engineer units that were in Vietnam, and brought back equipment used in the jungles of Vietnam, exposing soldiers to that equipment whom started experience such problems as boils and other unusual respiratory problems in early to mid 70s. They call me to cancel an appt. Also have had severe sinusitis problems since serving in the Air Force. It only affects less than 1% of the population. Doctor told me heart ( VA has me on meds, surgery in 2002) not in AO conditions. Ive had issues with my hands shaking for a long time. Came home on a Bipap and directions to use an oxygen concentrator and had to have tanks exchanged every month, I believe. This can never happen again! from 9/67 to 5/68, we had 2 helicopter Squadrons home Based on our ship. This is from a person who has zero family history of hypothyroidism. Later I would receive bills for the co-pay and my insurance at work was charged $1,800.00! Are they eligible for Agent Orange benefits? But he sought (and seeks) compensation for pain and suffering. There should be a 1-800-827-1000 number or something similar. Why wont the VA properly recognize my 100% physical disability obviously caused by exposure to Agent Orange for the last 40+ years??!!!! A few months later, they removed my thyroid. Official websites use .gov Ive got my fingers crossed. The airplanes flew over and sprayed us without warning, Ive complained for years with no results. Is this true? I finally got FULL VA bendfits 45 years later only because I met a VET in Allentown, pa area and he GUIDED my through the process and actually took me to the Allentown VA and showed me where to go and what to expect when I had to see the PROFESSIONALS. I already lost my prostate over this. THAILAND, AGENT ORANGE - Veterans Law Office of Amy B. Kretkowski About 10 years ago I filed with the VA and brought my medical records from my own doctors. Saw VSO last month. 100 percent service connected. It was the best move I could have made. My self I got a bloody nose and sore throat. Why isnt high blood pressure approved as a presumptive under Agent Orange? The VA hasnt even approved private therapy to assist me with my exceedingly difficult situation. I asked about skin conditions she laughter and told me only after exposure, I showed he phots by military hospital of neck, she said to late! Be aware (request a copy) of your DBQ exam as I did mine and one of the examiners did not completely fill out the questions that were asked of her and for some reason referred to me as a STREET PERSON, get a copy ASAP so that you will know what they said, its in your best interest. He battled with many service connected medical/neurological issues including Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) until he died in 2017. The condition affected my right leg, mostly, causing numbness where I had to rely upon a cane in order to walk. The Va clinic says, I dont know what your talking about. My disability claim was denied. Every sickness he had was documented in his medical records stating the main cause was due to Agent Orange and Other Health Factors. You can file as a widow for spousal benefits. It took 5 years before I got anything from the VA. Dont give up! I have no idea if there is any support for children of Vietnam vets, but I hope there is. Sudden come down with Hypothyroidism -Hashimotos version With leaky gut! I served in Thailand at the end of the war as a crew chief on F-4s. My dad served the US Airforce in 1952 through unknown date due to his records was burned in the 1973 fire. Tom had wished for years that he could find his friend. If your location and time frame is on the list and you were previously denied disability based on herbicide exposure compensation, you can file a supplemental claim. have hearing loss, VA plans, budget, finances, and performance. After many years of dealing with the VA in Iowa City, I got him in to Danville, Illinois VA. They (the VA) will grant it, (or) theyll grant it partially, (or) theyll deny it, which is probably about 80 to 90% of the Thailand veterans, they have been denied. What about veterans in operation restore democracy who were exposed to shit burning details? Google agent orange diseases and symptoms breakdown. Luckily I havent had any problems other than PTSD. As a 30 year retired United States Air Force Disabled Veteran, I have prayed for this day to come. I spent a lot of time in those training areas and it would certainly explain my diabetes and kidney disease with no family history of either. But, the side affects still exist and the damage is done and on going. I filed for agent orange exposure I have been diagnosed by my Doctor with peripheral neuropathy and stinging and tingling in my extremities. However, there was a terrible consequence: Exposure to Agent Orange resulted in cancer, birth defects, and other significant ailments. VA will not make them wait any longer. 2021, which came back approved on March 22, 2021.) However, VA's adjudication manual (M21-1) does recognize Vietnam-era veterans whose service involved duty on or near the perimeters of military bases in Thailand anytime between February 28, 1961 and May 7, 1975 may have been exposed to Agent Orange and may qualify for VA benefits. This should be examined by the V.A. Important Agent Orange Information for Those Who Served in Thailand Should we reopen his case for this? I was checked out by a so called doctor at the va clinic for hypertension my reading were 185/95 and the va doctor told me it was ok because of my age which is 70 I myself believe thats a lot of bull crap. When I read that the Blue Water Navy was getting this it upset me so if you were off the coast of Vietnam you can get it. To access the menus on this page please perform the following steps. I remember those days. They deserve relief for the pain and hardship this has caused for them and their families.". Too late. I do have one subjection: STOP starting wars. Got out at 100% and dropped down to 10% in a year thanks to our wonderful government. The only problem is we the wife take care of them but once they pass they give us very little money as surviving spouse . They should know and be able to assist. They helped us a lot. But somebody reviewed my application almost immediately (a good thing and to be commended) and determined that the request could proceed. I submitted my additional medical documents and completed my medical exam. Thats why I ask, is there anybody left? These, mostly men, werent thanked for their service, werent cheered as they arrived home. Makes no sense. Why doesnt the VA recognize those of us who served in Thailand. Sinusitis is already covered. your claim. They were swimming in it while working on them, not realizing what it was, only to develop symptoms years later but they dont get consideration for benefits because they were never IN COUNTRY. Well Im still kicking. Why do our veterans have to prove so much when agent orange was such a poison. THANKS FOR POSTING THIS FOR THE VETERNS IN NEED OF HELP. If you have a copy of his DD214 and / or know the unit he was in you have a starting point. The VA has gradually expanded coverage for Agent Orange-related illnesses in the decades since. I suffer from hypothyroidism, neurological issues, and have had several episodes of Transient Global Amnesia. It would most likely be cheaper and distinctly faster to approve every damned request for benefits. However, hes also had renal cell carcinoma, benefits reduced, and has now been diagnosed with cold agglutinin/MGUS. So sorry. Hey, they can keep it and put it you know where. I need help! But they dont seem to have to jump through hoops to get help. I was at mountain home afb 1975 to 1980. Be well, Bobby. Finally in 2020 he was dx with PSP. I have hyperthyroidism from agent orange. Offspring of AO exposed veterans often get tumors. Skinner said the denial was frustrating. Paula Im with you, daughter died 18 months neuoblastoma, brother 44 brain cancer, sister breast cancer and ovarian cancer, i have had lung cancer, leiomysarcoma, soft cell sarcoma, pre colon cancer, I recieved the MUTATED TP53 gene, i dont care what any say the agent orange is a direct reflection of so much death and pain in my family. Im in pain everyday now, had 3 amputations, and not given any pain meds because it could be habit forming! He had prostate cancer. A locked padlock I was a combat Marine Vietnam 68-69. I had such a bad case of PTSD starting in 1969, I spent 6 weeks in a Navy mental ward at Millington NAS. Today I live with one lung because of my exposure to AGENT ORANGE. I think a diagnosis of prostate cancer from agent orange means an automatic 100% disability rating. Parkinsons? Lois I suggest staying on this as eventually it will become clear it was used in Korea, as well as was it ever stored anywhere he was present such as Scoffield Barracks ?? I feel there should be some consideration into this matter due to the suffering of many veterans. Shannon Brewer, Senior Attorney Updated: August 12, 2013. Go see a VA service representative. H.R.2569 - Veterans Agent Orange Exposure Equity Act 117th Congress (2021-2022) Bill Hide Overview More on This Bill Constitutional Authority Statement CBO Cost Estimates [0] Subject Policy Area: Armed Forces and National Security View subjects Summary (1) Text (1) Actions (3) Titles (2) Amendments (0) Cosponsors (14) Committees (1) They can never repay me for my loses or my daughters! We all suffered mentally and physically and are still suffering. U.S. Bases in Thailand During the Vietnam War and Agent Orange He has to apply and use a catheter twice a day, something he expects to do for the rest of his life. I am so glad bladder cancer will be added to the list. VA says Prove it. The VA refuses to acknowledge any of my service-connected disabilities. Thats where my father was and how I know he died! Is there any advantage to further filings?? I am angered that a vary large number of us who have suffered from hypertension were left out, even though there is more than ample evidence to support presumption of agent orange linkage. I installed telephones and all associated equipment in outline areas. They are deservedly receiving help for diseases as a result of the exposure. I was in Vietnam during the year 1970. Im an ex-Marine who was stationed at Camp LeJeune (and Camp Geiger) for a total of seven months in 1972. Aside thought it would go away as it did some times at night after battle .talk to me V A . Make an appointment with your nearest VA representative. PDF Agent Orange in Thailand - DAV Add high blood pressure to the list of presumptives. They will help you with your compensation claim. Rhodes joined the military in 1968. How can I get information sent to me for adding the disability due to Hypothyroidism? Go online and look for the name of your state and VA rep and it will pop up with a list. At around 60 I took on the fight which took 14 months of going through their hoops, fighting for assistance. At least Korean and Vietnam combat veterans should be 100%, eliminate the bureaucracy. I wish they would provide some care or help for my brother and I. Weve fought very hard through chemo and our cancer. My husband served 20 years in the USMC and served in the Vietnam War in 1968. Is someone here have the truth? I had a much smaller exposure than your father and I have lots of Autoimmune diseases as does at least one of my children. My late husband was a mess sergeant and somehow field combat training. The residue that was on them ? The one we had before was worthless! Can i get VA assistance? The VA took his money back, told me he was dead and wouldnt need a check anyway and his children could not receive anything from his estate nor file for compensation. Ive literally suffered for over 40 years with serious digestive problems, heart & breathing problems. For the past several years, the VA has acknowledged that veterans who served in the Republic of Vietnam (including "brown water" veterans who served on the country's inland waterways) were exposed to tactical herbicides such as Agent Orange and that such . Hodgkins Disease Now it should be noted that when the chemical was sprayed one could not help but be exposed to it as the only way to the barracks was by military bus and if one wanted to eat one had to walk to the Mess Hall. NOT a great idea sending him to the coastline and semi-jungle conditions back into death and destruction, but thats Uncle Sam for you. the va dont care about vets !!! ABF3 USS HORNET (CVS-12). You are eligible. The VA will take about three to six months reviewing I have had sinus surgery and have to use inhalers to breath. Big deal! Too bad this wont help my father or my family. Rob Portman is listed as a co-sponsor of Senate Bill 657, which would modify the presumption of a service connection for veterans who were exposed to herbicides while serving in Thailand. We feel your pain, we also got no benefits for a funeral when my father in law died from Agent Orange. Currently, the Department of Veterans Affairs mandates that veterans who served in southeast Asian countries other than Vietnam during the war provide evidence of exposure to the herbicide in order to qualify for benefits. Semper Fi . They knew in advance the water was contaminated and allowed us to drink it, bathe in it, swim, buffaloes it and even transport it on ships headed out to Mediterranean. I have been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease. McDonough (Agent Orange exposure in Thailand) This case involved a US Army veteran (1967 to 1971) who was seeking service connection for hypertension, congestive heart failure, Type II diabetes, stroke, and atrial fibrillation due to agent orange exposure in Thailand during the Vietnam war. I also have a rare cancer of the blood called Polycythemia Vera, VA says PV was not caused by AO. Fortunately, I finally learned that the best way to deal with PTSD was to have a vigorous workout every day! Its a shame that it has taken this long for bladder cancer to be recognized that it can be caused by the deadly exposure of Agent Orange. I was around that Agent Orange. I was told agent orange was used in Guam to clear foliage at the end of the aircraft parking area and runway to make room for fuel bladder systems. It took a period of time because, at that time a US Navy Viet Nam veteran had to prove in country service connection. In Thailand, Agent Orange was used to clear the jungle around bases, as a means to enhance security. I do believe that those who RUN / ruin the VA truly dont care and are pencil pushers who are only there for that government paycheck.