Question:
Jim—I am a Vietnam era Navy Veteran—served from 1965–1968. I have hearing loss and tinnitus. I applied for VA Disability in 2010 and was denied because the VA says there is nothing in my medical records to prove it is service related. I served as an Electronics Tech for 2 years and my work location was right next to a 5inch gun mount, which was fired constantly and we were never given ear protection. How can I pursue this?
Jim's Reply:
This is typical of how VA handles hearing loss and tinnitus cases. You get denied, you appeal, you win the appeal. Unfortunately, if you were denied in 2010 you're years too late for an appeal. If I were you I'd apply again and this time submit evidence stating clearly the circumstances of your hearing loss. Good luck.