5 things that I have learned about the VA Claim Process

[@CombatCraig]

🔵 It’s Time To Get Serious About Your Veterans Benefits! ❇ SUPERCHARGE your VA CLAIM! 🤠 Sign up for Boot Camp www.combatcraig.com

[@tennesseecopperhead7874]

Gotta say brother, you really put out great info. I'm a vet 100% disabled. Former Navy SEAL ST-2 BUD/S class 204. I was in from 1994-2000. I suffered a spinal injury from a demo accident. I have followed and watched your videos for a while. I have several brothers that I sent to your videos and channel for info, and they won their appeals and disability cases off of info you gave. Not here to blow smoke I just wanted you to know that the info you are giving out truly does help Vets. So, take heart that your time is not wasted with these videos.

[@CombatCraig]

I appreciate the kind words man🇺🇸

[@eQuariuz]

The fact that they needed "appeals" itself is bullshyt.

[@davidkist77]

Thank you 4 your service

[@alexanderyoung6037]

@@CombatCraig I have been listening to your content. I definitely need help. I realize that they take shortcuts to not want to effectively pay or give benefits. They just gave me 10% for Rhinitis and 0% for sinusitis. I am 70% percent overall . My PTSD rating is 70%. They have denied a lot of other claims.

[@alexanderyoung6037]

@@eQuariuz I agree with 100%

[@deckapedon8427]

Man, you are still tops in my book. I didn't file a claim until 16 years after Honorable Discharge. I reached 100% P+T, 25 years later. 41 years of me dicking around, for the most part. Once I subscribed to you, I went from 60% to 100% within two (2) years time. 100 percent p+t since December 2019. Anyway, thanks again for your help, Combat Craig.

[@applejellypucci]

You seemed so nervous in the beginning, I just wanted to give you a hug through the screen. Thank you Craig, we know it's not easy putting yourself out there like this. Thank you for helping us in the fight against the VA.

[@CombatCraig]

I haven't done one of these in awhile and I know I that I will go in 30 different directions at once so I am always like that. In normal videos I am able to cut those parts out but not on livestreams. Thanks so much for the kind gesture April👍

[@surfacenavy6412]

Yes, I noticed the nervousness from CC in the beginning of the video too. Nevertheless, great valuable information put out.

[@antoniowade3318]

CC, I really appreciate how much you care, I can hear it in your voice. May the Lord help you on your Journey.. God bless the Veteran.. Wade Out..

[@reggiereg4180]

Veterans, educate yourselves and make filing and winning your claims easier. I just went a 100% P&T after only 2 and a half years of filing claims. Formula is 3 things... 1. In service event... 2. Current diagnosis... 3. Medical Nexus or "link" between your claimed condition and military service. Wash, Rinse, Repeat.....

[@CombatCraig]

🔥🔥

[@charlesyoung2035]

You are the man! I am trying to do the best I can as a DAV service Officer in Arizona. Keep putting out good poop. I am learning from you and I appreciate your great information.

[@troyvessey7984]

Combat Craig.... Great video. I'm a boot camp member and grateful I am. The most important thing I took from this is you have to treat this as a business. So that's what I did. I studied, learned and watched videos. I put together a fully developed claim and I just went from 40% to 80% with just one claim. Thank you for being here for all us Vets!

[@CombatCraig]

Ah I like that much better. I make references like treat it like a job but that's actually not the greatest example. Treat it like a business you own and operate is much better!

[@1968-b3n]

Good Job Troy

[@jeremyslade4178]

Awesome start working on some secondary claims to get you to 100 Congratulations... Be sure to share this channel with other fellow Veteran's

[@chadarmstrong3381]

I am a 100% disabled vet. I wish I had advice like this the first time I went to the VA. After I went and got 60% with multiple surgeries and deployments, I was pretty discouraged. Craig. you helped me out and I got 100% the second go around. I now pay it forward to friends and friends of friends and assist them through their process. You've helped a lot of people and the trickledown effect helps even more. Appreciate what you do! I'm always tunning in!

[@CombatCraig]

Yeah I wish this info was around in 1991 man. I'm glad that I finally learned how to play the game and teach others👍

[@elmocotton3078]

All these years I was told dont waste your time it'll never work etc. After watching you motivated me to demand my benefits I know i deserve. Thanks Craig

[@CombatCraig]

Your welcome man🤠

[@egressoutlaw7286]

I am 50 years old and I finally got tired of their bullshit and have been watching your videos to help me file what I need to file. They really do not care, so now I really do not care and will take everything they owe me. Thank you and keep pumping out your videos!

[@Jasonb4012]

It is sad but absolutely the truth. It’s like anything else in life you have to go get it and the VA makes you jump through every hoop and leaves no stone unturned for proof.

[@SouthernHiker]

Love your work Craig, you're awesome! Former Marine and AF security forces officer here. Also worked at the VA crap show for 6 years as a clinical social worker before that place put the finishing nail in my coffin, and I went out on disability retirement. I can attest to much of what you say about the VA. One of the primary reasons that VA clinicians leave information out of the vet's records or tweak what the vet reports is to attempt to make it seem that the veteran is doing better than he is. They do this in hopes of trying to make it appear that the treatment is going better for when the clinician's work is reviewed, as well as to try to take some liability off of the clinician should the vet become involved in an adverse event, like a suicide, homicide, robbery, etc. This is because VA clinicians often have crappy management that do not hesitate to throw staff under the bus to make themselves and the VA look better.

[@CombatCraig]

💯☝️💯☝️

[@Corvetjoe1]

Just maddening and sad. Ugh!

[@SouthernHiker]

@@Corvetjoe1 it sure is

[@danielallman6616]

I'm at 93%, and I find myself more at the VA getting treatment than anything else that's a full-time job as it is as much as I have to go up there trying to prove other claims and protect them at the same time

[@elinino5275]

Dude you're right at the door step! Get'em tiger!! 🤘😎

[@usmc0311]

I appreciate the info you give CC. I got 100% a couple years ago and it was hell going through it. I was 20% when I got out in 2002 until I met another veteran in 2013 that helped me get 60%. After that I just did what he told me and I got 100% in 2019. OORAH

[@eQuariuz]

Congrats Devil Dog.

[@MrSilas-xo9np]

Semper Fi............

[@msknucb1762]

Awesome...congratulations!

[@markrodriguez2059]

I want to thank you for educating me and directing me in the right direction. 37 Years it took me to get 100% P&T and a very, very nice back pay. Hill & Ponton took me to the next level which only took a year. It was a long fight, actually gave up on the VA for 10 years. All I can say is Don't Give Up. Thanks Again.

[@CombatCraig]

🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@incognegro2315]

😳😳😳😳 I know you’re a damn millionaire after that back pay

[@CombatCraig]

@@incognegro2315 💰💰

[@gregjon2260]

Compensated and treated fairly should be the minimum. We still spend almost a Trillion on Defense a year and we can't take care of those that got us here. Thank You Craig, you really are a hero.

[@CombatCraig]

I agree 100% Greg!

[@LuckenbachTexas7499]

I've heard all of this scary talk about how bad the VA disability process is and the same bad things about the SSDI process. For me, the process for both VA disability and SSDI went very smoothly and quickly. It's simply all about having a winning strategy/attitude and knowing CFR 38 and the DBQs for the disabilities that one is applying for. This worked so well for me that I was at 100% VA disability and on SSDI right out of the chute without having to struggle through appeals or getting a lawyer. I wish the very best to everyone here that is having to go through this process.

[@CombatCraig]

It works for some of us🤠

[@copiouscat]

We’re you in the Medboard process? I am right now and was told to apply. And advice for SSDI portion?

[@BeautyWithTiffy]

Exactly. I actually had service connected disability and they denied it in 2013 and only and now finding out about it because I was homeless. Not a druggie not an alcoholic. There was some insinuating situation or circumstance that some idiot did to me because they didn’t want me to be financially successful like they wanted me to be impoverished with being the living dead girl. So anyways no it is not easy and even if you have all your ducks in a row they still can and will just night. I think it’s kind of bossy to say that they’re all of us you know 98% of us are doing our VA claims wrong. Signing off Bulldog

[@BeautyWithTiffy]

*just deny

[@LuckenbachTexas7499]

@@copiouscat No for the Medboard. My conditions were brought about by the burn pits and I just recently ended up being one of the first veterans covered by the PACT Act of 2022. Because of the severity of my conditions, my case was brought to the direct attention of President Biden by a nurse and a doctor at the VA in Temple TX. I currently have four types of cancer that were directly linked to burn pit exposure and they are rated at 100% each. As for SSDI, you must have a condition that totally precludes you from gainful employment.

[@JCtheMusicMan_]

Your content is tremendously helpful! I need to watch this over and over because I got the tinnitus but everything else has been in “Appeal Docketed status.” I’ve been too broken to work and too broke to live for over two years. Until they get better at taking responsibility for their used up veterans, I will not recommend serving to my children.

[@waynesmith4386]

Combat Craig, thanks for your educational support and honesty discussing the VA disability claims process, please continue to fight for and educate us on this difficult process.

[@wardchristman1723]

I've not had the negative experiences described here. I did 20 years 6 month & 7 days, two wars retired as a First Sergeant and get treated better at the VA Medical Center than I do in the civilian medical places Ive been. I've had great assistance with the Benefits side as well.

[@CombatCraig]

Glad to hear that the VA is working for some of us.

[@SEEPHUS1]

I agree 💯 I’ve had nothing but good experiences with my VA Doc and processes and prefer them over any Civilian doc I’ve visited. My primary care Doc sits at Walter Reed, my VA doc is just as good and with somethings, even better than my primary. Even my claim process has gone well and going fast. It’s still in the investigation stage but my VES went well so I’m hoping/praying decision comes soon.

[@Corvetjoe1]

I retired after 21 years in the AF Security Police/Forces and although I’ve been low-balled for 20 years now, I do receive good priority 1 care at the VA hospital in my area. I do feel they seem to pay better attention to retirees than other veterans who may have served less than 20 years and that’s disheartening. We all served and deserve VA care and benefits especially as we get older years after our service because that service often is the beginning of our medical (physical and mental) issues which, only get worse over time.

[@michaelholland761]

Combat Craig you are in my top 5 for KZbin educational videos for VBA benefits, thanks for keeping the videos flowing. Thanks for serving our beloved USA in 2 capacities , 1st as a soldier , 2nd as a veteran that helps other veterans!

[@CombatCraig]

Right on Michael!

[@jasonb7862]

I thank God I found your videos. I'm waiting on my decision packet in the mail now. i have the same mind set as you preach I feel like I'm at war with the VA and I'm never giving up. Thank you for all you do.

[@CombatCraig]

👍🔥🇺🇸💯

[@jasonb7862]

Well my decision packet went back to evidence gathering. Can't stand the waiting.

[@goldenstoolchild6495]

God bless bro. The VA 21-4138 Personal Statement is a very powerful in that it alllows you to exercise your freedom of speech and document your medical correspondence.

[@CombatCraig]

🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@adamstorer5717]

Just now looking into these things. 21 years, 5 deployments, and I've done it with Motrin & duct tape. 🤣 Starting to schedule medical appointments finally, but these videos are helping me get through the stigma of FINALLY going to the med facility. Thank you sir!

[@Appalachistan_store]

Ty for all the videos, you have helped me get from 70 to 100. It took a couple years, but it was easier with your help. Don't stop doing God's work. 🙏

[@CombatCraig]

🤠🔥💯🇺🇸✅

[@lengreg1326]

Love your candor brother. Thanks for your service and thanks for this information.

[@CombatCraig]

🤠🤠

[@mikeylicksit]

Great to see you live, Craig. You hit on something which I've noticed over the past dozen C&P exams they are NOT standardized. Two days ago, I had an appointment which the examiner told me "I'm unsure of exactly why you're here today". He caught up with notes and we discussed the "why" before what ended up being two hours of Q&A. Two weeks prior to this in another appointment the C&P examiner was afraid to continue after my blood pressure was read out of fear (yea, I have high blood pressure, kid). She talked about my high blood pressure extensively and only asked me a few questions regarding my CFS which is what I was there for. Argh.

[@CombatCraig]

Yup they are all over the board for sure man!

[@ragtopdeluxezl1]

My disabilities I feel are more complicated than the usual experience level of VA doctors, so I usually have a checkup, hearing aids, Eyeglasses, and flu shots at the VA. I do have disabilities and they were documented when they occurred, so it seems I had a different experience in total! I did need an advocate to help me with the records as they had been sent in several directions. My county VA advocate treated me very well and secured a secret clearance to access them all. The VA advocate was at my hospital bed telling me to sign up as soon as I was discharged from the service. I have had a good relationship with medical staff but now realize I should be wary about my comments and demeanor. Thanks!

[@ronstewart1704]

Salty! But what you are doing and giving is sweet! Thank you Craig for helping me get on track to deal with the VA Benefits process. I've done a lot of research and you are BY FAR the best source of real help!

[@CombatCraig]

Thanks🤠

[@barberschoicestudio7686]

I’ve been watching these for a while. The amount of knowledge you share is incredible. Life changing for those who pay attention. I’m in the middle of my claim process and for the first time I feel confident in knowing what is going on. I’m also confident in the way of not backing down this time. I got out in 2003. And you opened my eyes to a lot. After reviewing my old records I noticed flaws. Appreciate you sir!

[@CombatCraig]

🤠🤠

[@chipplylar7006]

It's been life changing listening to your videos.

[@CombatCraig]

🤠🤠

[@upshift2690]

This really did mess me up in the beginning, it is horrible that when you go to your exam you might feel good at the time but on the way there you where having a panick attack or your back was in extreme pain. But you say one good thing and it is all over. Thanks for all you do CC

[@CombatCraig]

Your welcome!

[@superfluous5480]

I’ve heard you say it 100 times!! I still got greeted, “how are you?” And instinctively responded, I’m okay.

[@michaelltnv6741]

Hello Craig I am new to your channel. I appreciate your help,with the videos helped me get increased another 20%. It was my second appeal. 5 spinal surgeries,double hip replacement,and now working my shoulders. Failed spinal surgeries caused all the other surgeries. The surgeon that did my hips that the falling caused the hip issue's. Then the shoulders. Trying to prove it my fight now. Medical data shows they keep fight me on it. They keep denying it. Another Veteran i met Reno VA hospital, has told me to keep quite ,and only talk about my medical issue's during my eval. Thank you again Craig.

[@CombatCraig]

Your welcome man🤠

[@roderickday170]

thanks Craig, you helped me very much to get from 40% to 90% as of 1 Dec.2022. i will still continue to fight to 100%. my next step is PACT ACT for my ASTHMA. and a few secondaries for my conditions.

[@CombatCraig]

You got this! 👍💯✅🚀

[@carykern6079]

GREAT VIDEO!! Got my 70% PTSD last week thanks to you and Second Strata. not in Hundo club but still have 3 open claims.

[@CombatCraig]

Right on man ✅💯💰🇺🇸

[@leniaprik3996]

What was you evidence to 70% ptsd ?

[@CombatCraig]

@@leniaprik3996 social, and occupational impairment with deficiencies in most areas of your work and social life👍

[@towdjumper5]

I just want to say thanks for all you do for us. I appreciate you brother.

[@CombatCraig]

Your welcome👍

[@towdjumper5]

You care about us, that’’s why you do what you do. We care bout you .It may be silent at times … but we care about you . But because of you, we know that the “Fuk’n VA Maggots’”, don’t give a shit about us.Stay’n in the fight because of you brother.. Thanks and “ Airborne, All The Way!”

[@CombatCraig]

@@towdjumper5 🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@user-ym9wb2mk5e]

Subbed. My VSO (AM Legion at county) screwed me over by not giving me sound advice; didn't explain what a Nexus letter is, nor about sending in Buddy letters (friend, spouse, coworkers), and YOU MUST send in exacerbations explanations to help support your claim. She basically just filled out the same form I could. READ the specifics for each issue and WHAT they are looking for. If you don't, you will lose time and have to do a Supplemental. Lesson Learned! My original claim in the 90s for Gulf War was denied, and now are 80% of the Pact Act list, lol. They denied me AGAIN!!!! So your advice is true, they don't care!

[@CombatCraig]

💯💯

[@vernonl134]

Holy cow, this video is LOADED with useful information! Thanks!

[@CombatCraig]

Glad it was helpful!

[@maverikregime9888]

thank you for these videos brother 🙏🙏🙏, i'm almost a year out and im just finding all this info out with no help i appreciate you god bless u brother🙏

[@CombatCraig]

Glad to help 🏅✅💥💰💵

[@vtxdaryl]

I drove 1 hour 15 minutes to the VA Dentist and was told my appointment had been cancelled and moved to another day. Another 1 hour 15 minute trip back home. When I got home my wife told me the VA had called to cancel my appointment. When the clerk told my wife my new appointment time, the clerk told my wife I needed to be there two hours early because there would be a long check in line. The VA has gotten worse over the last 10 years to where I feel I am getting uncaring treatment.

[@ruizhou9612]

Oh here is some info for PTSD Claim Veterans. When you go to the VA for labs and you have an open claim the VBA will request a 21 panel drug test. This will be hidden from you and you will never see this report portion. I found out by accident, when the Doctor took a long time and my lab had a "high creatine" reading. So I figured the Doctor's report might have a better explanation so looked at her clipboard. I noticed pages of drug testing that were done. When she came in I asked her about it she said "The VBA orders drug testing on those with pending PTSD claims." The reasoning was they could use drug use as a reason for issues and deny your claim. Of course, I don't use drugs but some Vets might self medicate with Medical Marijuana and this would be used against you. I thought this was pretty sneaky and shitty but this is how the VA operates. So Vets beware.

[@CombatCraig]

Yeah they are not going to catch me with THC in my body until they recognize it at the federal level👍

[@JamesfromtheAlamoCity]

Craig, Awesome info, video, straightforwardness. Great job. This will help me with my claims submissions. Am at 50 percent now. Was in from 1994-2000. Army. Thanks for your service brother. 🙏 Keep up the great work and be safe. Happy holidays.

[@jesusantonio2200]

Great video and thank you for everything you do. This is sad, but the hard truth.

[@CombatCraig]

💯💯

[@werewolf1251]

Excellent as always Mr. CC. Sorry I missed the live show. Happy Angry Orchard:30! 🐺

[@CombatCraig]

💯✅🏅🤠

[@msknucb1762]

Youre right about the doctors misrepresenting symptoms. Ive experienced this, smh. Ive also found others info in my records to...ridiculous!!!

[@CombatCraig]

It sure is!

[@TexpatVet]

"Private doctors operate differently [than VA doctors]." Absolutely! Like you say, it's all about the money. Private doctors know, I (the patient) have a choice and can change doctors after every visit. VA doctors know that I (the patient) have very little say and choice who my doctor will be. It's like when we were on active duty and our bosses knew we couldn't quit and they acted accordingly.

[@CombatCraig]

Exactly and its strait-forward as well. You pay money and ask if the doc can help. If not you move onto the next one and none of that gets in your VA medical records unless you put it there

[@BeautyWithTiffy]

100% correct combat Craig! I become very sick the VA hospital argued between treatments. The one doctor said nothing was wrong with me so I was vomiting and was gray. It damaged my liver. She said nothing was wrong with the ultrasound. I went to another place 1500 miles away yes you heard that right 1500 miles away to another VA hospital and they’re like you have damage to your liver because you develop diabetes. Well something was wrong because I couldn’t keep any food down. They all played games at the VA hospital including the managers and one manager asked me what I wanted them to do about it. It was sickening. Call the White House complaint line told They couldn’t do anything about it told I had to call my senator and I told them absolutely under no conditions was that VA Hospital to ever call me again because they started to harass and attacked my disability items because I had turned them into the White House complaint line for being inept at their job. If I would’ve stayed there I am 100% sure I would’ve died because I would either of committed suicide or I would literally have died. I was in bed like 14 to 16 hours a day I was so sick. It was bad my health deteriorated super quick. They just don’t give a shit because they get money from the government when they take away her disability they get patted on the back and we die in a tube or nobody cares there’s no flag flown. I actually thought I should write a book on this for people leaving active duty and what they can do and all the bullshit and see I found it because I confront people on there in moral or criminal activity against another human being you know I’m talking black and human dignity when I say morals. Treat others the way you want to be treated. Absolutely truth absolutely truth. I don’t know how they’re practicing medicine with the way that they treat people. I would not take my pet my for family to see one of them. And while standing in line I have been disrespected waiting to check in for an appointment and had to have the Vietnam vet stand up for me. Thank you brothers were actually not part of the corrupt system. According to them apparently we’re not heroes we’re nobody’s even though we busted our ass broke our bodies down to serve the people that we loved in our homeland. Only to come back and find out we don’t have a home. It’s all a game and listening to the ministers talk shit that we’re all going to hell. Which by the way I tell them I will see them in Valhalla. We all know it’s wrong and leader ship knows it’s wrong and they’re not changing it because they hope we kill ourselves or die for them not taking care of what needs to be done. And yeah always go bitter with the VA. Because they really don’t care and they will find anything anything to destroy your life because they’re getting something back from it. And I sometimes wonder if those in the VA have a hidden agenda or if they just like they’re like Gaslighter‘s in narcissist and they love to eat off the pain of someone else I don’t know how anybody can live a life like that being proud of themselves knowing that they’re abusing another human being. That they’re gaslighting somebody and then laughing and thinking it’s funny when you just shattered their hearts. Sorry this is so long guys but this just triggered me this video. I had was privilege to a conversation from a woman who said they are mandated to go out and take all the homeless vets off of the streets for the holidays and then they go out and count who’s left. We are nothing but a numbers game we need to stop tearing each other down. And if we have things that we seen while we were in and people working with governors to destroy our second level background checks then we all need to stick together and do something to fight us because as long as we stay separated and look down our nose at each other we’re not ever going to make it. So while I was doing this to translator it continually changes things and move things around just FYI that’s another thing that’s just gone down the drain

[@BeautyWithTiffy]

This is my last comment hopefully. I was majorly triggered I went to do Veterans Day dinner for myself alone. And I had to hear a man who was so loud that half of Olive Garden could overhear his conversation. The things he said about active duty and veterans and he was a vet himself. It was so disturbing and the way he talked about veterans who were homeless because you really don’t know their situation everybody out there is not an alcoholic or addict and honestly with what happened to me I don’t know how I did not become an alcoholic on the streets. I was a fighter on the streets trying to become better and trying to figure out what had been done which what had been done to me was mentioned in the previous comment I made. Nevertheless no one knows what crosses people are carrying and no one brothers and sisters and sisters we’re sisters in arms to cause I’ve gotten a lot of shit from Veteran men that it’s just not acceptable. We need to start looking out for each other Instead of trying to play the corrupt system

[@MissouriOzarkHillbilly]

Combat Craig! You were right about keeping on top of provider's notes. I just read through a few recent visits. My VA psychiatrist failed to mention my MDD has increased lately to include suicide ideation. I'll make sure this is corrected at my follow-up next week. I'm in talks with 2nd strata to get my Nexus. MDD secondary to lumbar pain.

[@CombatCraig]

☝️☝️

[@Guffy01]

Thank you so much for putting yourself out there to help us, that’s a hard thing to do. I truly appreciate everything you do. Your advice has helped me so much. I’m still fighting with the VA but your videos have really helped me. Thank you so much.

[@lavery0365]

Patience Grasshoppa, GREAT INFORMATION observe, watch, & LEARN from the VA process.

[@CombatCraig]

💯💯

[@dominickbinetti3876]

Another great topic for me. I have been dealing with them for just a couple of months and it’s just nuts. My primary was so terrible it got me hurt worse and when I read her a letter of complaint I had written to the Va about it and she told me that she quit. Had to involve my congressman right away. Now I’m in a civilian hospital waiting on emergency surgery because of this bs. I wish I had never gone down there but it’s a rollercoaster I can’t get off of.

[@JC-jcarlisle]

I have put in claims but denied and still have issues that are valid. I am going to try again. You’re right about the VA and it’s awful.

[@CombatCraig]

💯💯

[@mixflip]

I felt like I didn’t need to file a claim in my 30s because I felt like I was able bodied when I got out. I’m slowly falling apart now and regret not filing a claim the day I got out.

[@CombatCraig]

You and me both!

[@blackant51]

Same here brother. I got out in 93 and was always told to be tough not weak. I just filed after 30 years and I'm so pissed I waited this long and let my body fall apart.

[@CombatCraig]

@@blackant51 ☝️☝️☝️

[@spiritoftheoceanheartsofna9292]

@@blackant51 Same here, got out in 94 and just started the process...I hope and wish everyone luck !

[@georgemaxwell3467]

​@Spirit Of The Ocean & Hearts Of Nature got out in 94 too and just started the process last November!! Got rated at 10% so far but filing more claims now... stay the course Brother...

[@sweetsuite498]

The note about checking your health record hit me this year. I have multiple spine injuries, but two of these are listed as strains.

[@CombatCraig]

☝️☝️

[@rcrogers6]

The Durham, NC VA Hospital is filled with professionals who care. The nurses are excellent and most of the doctors are Duke Hospital Attendings, Residents and Fellows. The quality of VA hospitals is largely attributable to the contract they have or don't have with a nearby teaching hospital. The VBA is a different story.

[@FirstLast-pl7lc]

THANK GOD I'VE FOUND YOUR CHANNEL. I'M A FORMER US ARMY GRUNT. NOW I HAVE 4 SCREWS AND 2 RODS HOLDING MY SPINAL CORE UPRIGHT. HOAL!!!!!!

[@pharpester]

I appreciate the info CC, I have been thinking about it alot (what you are talking about, everything you say is evidence and they are looking to reduce you.) I have decided to be careful in what I say to them.

[@CombatCraig]

Great idea 💡☝️🔥💯

[@elinino5275]

I learned one thing last week. I filed a claim for insomnia. I'm rated 50% mental. My exam for insomnia evaluated ALL my mental, not just insomnia. I wasn't aware they did this. I think it went well but for others they could be bumped down

[@edmatos2897]

I don’t know what kind of people you got watching you but you are NOT salty in the slightest. You don’t give off anger issues to me. You’re a straight shooter and I see nothing wrong with that

[@CombatCraig]

🤠🤠

[@ben_dovers]

Good morning , great video! Never fails

[@CombatCraig]

🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@rockbay79]

Craig it sure seems as though you have had a difficult time with the V.A. My personal experience has been very different. I joined the USAF in Feb 1982 and retired March 2002. A total of 20 years on Active Duty. I had way more issues staying in the USAF after injuries than I have had with the V.A. During my time in I was involved in 3 separate operations. As a result, when I retired and filed my V.A. conditions here is what was evaluated: Left ankle broken in 3 places, right hip broken, both wrists broken, four ribs on left side broken, 6 teeth knocked out of my mouth, minor concussion, hypertension and panic disorder. After submitting this information, I was awarded 100%. I collected all my information, no one helped me at all. Something that has bothered me is that I have had others come to me and ask what "tricks" did I use to get approved? There were no tricks! After the first time I was injured, I was in a bed in traction for 4 months and it took another three months to walk normal again. My broken hip progressed with really bad arthritis after I retired and on 31 May 2022, I had a complete hip replacement performed at my local V.A. Hospital. This replacement was very helpful, I no longer need a cane to walk. I assume my injuries are easy to verify, just look at the x-rays and scars on my body. I really do enjoy your channel and I feel you are helping many veterans.

[@CombatCraig]

Yup 27 years of denials has made me salty. Going forward the VA is not going to be able to to get away with it as easily anymore!

[@HobbitHomes263]

I am so thankful for you doing this! You make me think about my own behaviors over the past 50 years and makes the connection to my time in service

[@modoc852]

U da man , man, me well I’m still watchin and learnin and filin till I graduate. My hunderd % notification will be my diploma. Hope I live long enough!

[@CombatCraig]

Keep the education going. Knowledge about the VA claims process is powerful!

[@LIFEwithBAVAN]

I hope all veterans are reading their blue button reports 3-5 days following any VA visit to read docs notes. Keep up with it!

[@CombatCraig]

Yup you have to watch these assholes like a hawk because they constantly lie in our records!

[@noahbrowning3312]

Where can I see that?

[@KRYSTALDAVIS71]

100% Facts!!!

[@MrRealtalk84]

Combat Craig, great job as always with the videos and the information. You are so correct with the Verbatim notation they do, especially when you get treatment in military.

[@CombatCraig]

👍👍

[@HobbitHomes263]

In the VA the word Doctor does refer to a job as a healer. It refers to doctoring records

[@nealsmith1140]

You help everyone find a way to say what it hurts, get that in Medical records, and after that check and get diagnosed. then start the claim.

[@TexpatVet]

"It's just a whole other Slothy organization"...great description. I LOVE it!!!

[@CombatCraig]

😆😁😅

[@charlesyoung2035]

You are the man!

[@GroundRatt]

Best advise, treat your appointments like a cop interactions, and I always respond to how are you feeling today with: Well other than my already reported issues I am no better or worse….well unless things did get worse.

[@CombatCraig]

Exactly!

[@mimiandjoepruitt8806]

You are 100% accurate. Because they are The “ VA” . I thought that they were there for me. I could not have been more wrong. I should have known better, but when you are begging for help, what else do you have but the “ VA”. I actually thought that the VA had veterans there to help. That they were just like me, we actually cared for each other. Boy was I wrong.

[@dewightmays4186]

thanks so much I've been dealing with the VA a lot lately the system is bad so thank you for the info and wisdom.

[@CombatCraig]

Your welcome🤠

[@airbrushken5339]

The worst was when Jimmy came in ... my DOD Boss was a retired Marine Col. and asked procurement/supply to set up housing on base for "Draft Dodgers" who came to Michigan from Canada... I protested (A lot) he said you're the best guy that knows the base so make room as we will be getting them from the Boarder/State Police ... the Army Education center called me (I was the property book officer then) and had me organize desks and equipment for them, as the Carter administration was doing "Job Training" help for the runners find employment???? A side note here, if the draft board called your number, you didn't go, they just went down the list and took the next guy! And we reward that runner with a job? I mean trying to get a job as a VN (Baby killing) Veteran! The press had painted us not as patriots, but as crazed killers ... even my mother told me my father was afraid of me? Something I will never forget or forgive!

[@Andres-sr7uv]

On point brother. ❤. Similar situation on telegraph groups. They downplay and use sample templates on all veterans for their sessions and mention all the great things they talk about and even say you’re doing great and attentive and all that bs when you know it’s lies. I’ve called them out on it and they said it would take too much of their time to actually write everyone’s summary. I opted out of it because of it.

[@CombatCraig]

Thanks for sharing

[@dwaynejones1555]

Lol I was armed with 38 CFR, even stated the specific regulation & was denied. Had better luck with HLR & denied. Now going to Board Direct Evidence lane, they. "messed with the wrong marine."

[@reneramirez690]

I helped my uncle with this tactic. He was in a special AF unit that would chase the enemy in the bush in Vietnam. He told me about a bombing inside the wire when he was heading back. I used that case to nail down the date and timeline. After only 10% for years they rated him 100% for ptsd, 100% for ischemic heart disease, and 100% for another issue due to agent orange exposure. He is happy and enjoys life, but he lives in hell to this day. All those that gave of themselves deserve to be compensated fairly

[@justchilling_.]

Thanks for the education.

[@andrewfinley6804]

My first mental health C&P exam (LHI - Oct 2021) was telehealth and it was terrible. She was late to the exam, had her sound turned off the first three minutes until she figured it out, didn't silence her cell and desk phones (rang three times during the exam), questioned me having an copy of my civilian psychologist evaluation on my desk in front of me that was uploaded to my claim (he diagnosed me with MDD and SSD and linked (nexus) to my lumbar service connected disability) and she never reviewed it, questioned my wife being present, allowed me input at the end of the exam but never entered any of my narrative on the DBQ, and she was just a total bitch. I filed an inadequate exam with the VBA. They scheduled another one with VES for telehealth. I called VES and refused a telehealth and requested an in-person C&P exam and they are making it happen (yes, the VBA moves fast). Note: both my civilian and VA Health psychologist strongly recommend that my wife accompany to and during every medical exam. I have short and long term memory loss. I forget shit. During my first three LHI C&P exams, my wife was not allowed in during the exam; denied on one and low balled (rated) on the other two. Yes, Craig, the VBA and their contract C&P exam companies suck!

[@cpresourceslessonsforlife2349]

I know about paperwork actually being paper. It tok me a LONG time to actually find my medical records so i can then have the proof to show them.

[@gmone4dhonies]

The best thing I did to help myself was also reading the M21-1. I filed in Feb and received 70% in Aug and still have 3 claims deferred.

[@CombatCraig]

☝️☝️☝️

[@gregjon2260]

Nah man, your tone, attitude, etc. Is all correct for someone that's been dealing with any govt. Agency especially, VA. Former Marine 1982 - 2002, been fighting them since. Have worked for the govt. For over 40 years, military and contractor. Any and all govt. agencies run like VA or worse. Salt, venom, you'll need them.

[@CombatCraig]

I agree!

[@royporoto5268]

Just want to say Thank you Sir.

[@CombatCraig]

Your welcome🤠

[@MrTonyFantastic]

Combat Craig, it's funny you mentioned burial benefits. For a period of approx 3 years the West Tennessee Veterans cemetery denied my request for burial benefits. I served less than 180 due to a hardship, so when I requested burial benefits they kept citing the requirement to serve at least 180, and it made no difference to them that the va.gov website clearly stated (which I pointed out to them) that hardship discharges are one of the exceptions to that "time-served" rule. Some 3 years later I finally received a letter stating that my wife & I are both eligible, accompanied by a half ass apology. Like you said; deny, deny, deny until you die. If I had not seen this through, my wife never would have. She would have accepted the 1st NO as law.

[@CombatCraig]

It doesn’t surprise me that they tried to screw you on those as well!

[@DRMegaone]

“I need convictions” Faaawk yeah brother. God bless you.

[@mmmotives7452]

Thank you CC.....you are the best advocate!

[@JosephORourke-tq9tj]

Love ya brother, thanks sooo much for all you do and give back!! Appreciate you!!!! Sincerely Joe ORourke

[@CombatCraig]

Thanks Joe!

[@dougtexas9075]

Your tips are very useful !!!! Keep them coming !!!!!

[@CombatCraig]

I will🤠🤠

[@jjb0894]

I’m so glad I ignored my Drill Sergeants (and other NCOs at my permanent units) and went to Sick Call anyway. It made some of my claims so much easier.

[@joelweinstock2993]

This man has his shit together , so helpful and I plan to join the club soon Joel weinstock❤

[@darylglover7037]

Your brothers and sister veterans do care keep your head up.😢

[@garygorgo3600]

Your information is great. Keep up the great work. I had been Discharge from the Army because I developed high blood pressure while I was in active duty. I filed a claim several years after I left, because had to have quadruple bypass from years of high blood. I was denied any benefits for blood pressure, because it wasn't from service, even though I was discharge from active for it? Does that sound right to you?

[@Rarjona74]

I believe you; it happens to me, believe it or not. I broke my wrist, and the government was closed, so I was forced to get surgery by an Lt Col Air Force; after two surgeries from him, it took 16 surgeries to correct it a bit; he destroyed my hand in one broken wrist; now I'm 100% P&T for me; it was easy, I got that DR in trouble they force him to retired and I got medically retired as well, my dominant hand, my left hand. I have been out for about seven years to outside doctors every month and taking tons of med. I told you I never knew they were supposed to help me more because I'm practical with my hand unable to move. I returned to school and got my MBA, and here we come, the VA. Now, after seven years, I got a Degree, wait for I lost two kids in less than two months, and I go to two mental health appointments plus my med for PTSD; you are acting like I'm having the best time; I go to work. I was NO, and the doctor said YOU seemed better; I was; how? I forced myself into school because I was not doing drugs, but he still got mad and said well, I see pain med and mental health. I was so you telling me I been in Disneyland after deployments and all the sexual harassment, broken wrist, etc? I suffer-defending this country; I have one last appointment in Jan because the excuse is the damn COVID, wait everyone is working, so I started looking for jobs because I have a feeling with them, they DON'T CARE. The DR tried to be my friend for what? We all know, but I'm tired of the BS; I'm glad I was 42A, so I know all these. I helped plenty of my VETS brothers& sisters get their 100% now mine is in danger. My outside DR told them she is not better at all, now worse, but I have to wait till Jan for a final answer; the VA never listed they messed my hand; I was 100% for all other stuff, not my broken, destroyed hand. I regret saying YES to that paperwork because they lie like no business. I want it a correction. It could take five years; I took it and bounced. Learn the lesson; never agree they DON'T CARE.

[@CombatCraig]

☝️☝️☝️

[@Nobamaable]

Great info and great resources CC. I read through some of those claim denials on the VA site you provided and it appears most claims were denied for lack of a documented service connection. Since I was in the service most of my whole life (30+ years) I should be okay on my outstanding claim I'm currently waiting on since my 1 October retirement date.🤞 Thanks again for the great work you do!

[@CombatCraig]

It’s always about the medical evidence man🤠

[@Nobamaable]

@@CombatCraig Yep... I've got that in my record, too 👌

[@andrewfuiten7124]

Sucks when you feel terrible every day when ya got kids wife house and job to maintain. I have vertigo so bad I’m about to lose my job cause taking sick days. I went to va yesterday but feel like these symptoms leave ya like a rock in hard place. Is there anything I can do to let my employer know about certain things? Or if ya have any videos that could help with vertigo knowledge? Anything helps, thank you

[@DWN4MYN2]

I am a Desert Storm veteran. I recently got an increase up to 40%. I suffer from intense PTSD and injuries from being airborne. I dont agree with my rating but how do I get a civilian Dr to say my knees ankle and back injuries from 1990? I'm thoroughly frustrated.

[@CombatCraig]

Yeah, it’s pretty hard to get a doctor to blame something on injuries that happen 30 years ago. I’d look in the secondary claims instead.🤠

[@anitaboddington4837]

I am under the VA healthcare system because I am poor. I cannot afford a private doctor. If it weren’t for the VA healthcare system, I would not have healthcare and I would already be dead because I am an insulin-dependent diabetic.

[@reneramirez690]

When you go to the BVA website, after the keyword and you select a case....instead of reading the whole thing do a CTRL-F and find "tinnitus" and review the sentences to see what is helpful. Same thing with every website once you pull up the article.

[@CombatCraig]

☝️☝️

[@LarryBrooks-cf9qp]

A vba employee called me, told me my claims would not be approved. Told me they were trying to get my records from archives. I said, i saw my records on a monitor at a c&p exam. He paused then said, we have your records.

[@charlesbilger9646]

Happy Memorial weekend to all fellow Veterans.

[@CombatCraig]

🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@familyfarms9791]

Craig you are so correct.

[@CombatCraig]

🤠🤠

[@derikcivilla5457]

Let the salt flow brother, let it flow. The videos are awesome man. Folks listen to what CC is saying he speaks nothing but facts. I went from 40% to 92% currently by watching his videos and doing my own research. Combat Craig can lead you to water but he can’t make ya drink,😂. Have to have a goal in mind and go after it. And remember the VA is not your friend.

[@CombatCraig]

💯🔫🇺🇸👍🔥✅