Real Cases That Show Why Persistence Matters
Veteran claim appeals are often long, emotional, and frustrating. The VA system can be complex, inconsistent, and slow. But when Veterans fight back with strong evidence and skilled advocacy, life-changing results are possible. This blog highlights real case studies from Veterans who refused to give up, proving that persistence, accurate evidence, and solid legal strategy can turn denials into approvals.
Dan’s Twenty-Year Fight for Justice
Dan, a Vietnam Combat Veteran, suffered severe back and leg injuries after catching a falling piece of machinery on his ship. He pushed through decades of pain to work—until the injuries made it impossible to continue. In 2004, Dan applied for VA benefits, including total unemployability. The VA denied him, relying heavily on a VA doctor’s opinion that Dan “could work.” But that doctor wasn’t qualified to assess employability, and three other medical professionals supported Dan’s claim. Dan appealed to the US Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. His case was sent back to the Board three times before the VA finally corrected its errors. In 2024—20 years later—Dan was awarded total unemployability, raising his rating from 40% to 100%.
This aligns with the Court’s ruling in Jones v. West (1999) that medical experts cannot testify on employability unless qualified to do so. This legal precedent helped Dan achieve the justice he deserved.
Mike’s PTSD Claim Finally Recognised
Mike, another Vietnam Veteran, survived a deadly Navy ship fire that killed many of his crewmates. His PTSD worsened over the years, limiting him to only marginal work with his son. When Mike applied for PTSD benefits in 2015, the VA denied him, claiming there was “no evidence” the ship fire happened. Even after Mike obtained a newspaper article proving the incident, his claim was denied again—this time because a VA psychologist insisted he had “no PTSD symptoms.” Mike secured two independent psychological evaluations confirming the severity of his PTSD. He appealed his case to the CAVC, arguing the Board improperly weighed the evidence and mischaracterised key facts. The Court agreed.
In 2020, Mike was finally granted his benefits, with back pay going all the way back to 2015.
Clay’s Path to 100% PTSD and Unemployability
Clay, a Vietnam-era Veteran, applied for benefits in 2016 for PTSD and total unemployability. Although the VA granted him 30% PTSD, they denied unemployability. Clay appealed, adding a detailed medical evaluation showing the true severity of his PTSD symptoms. In 2025, the Board agreed that the evidence supported his claim. Clay was awarded 100% disability, with back benefits to 2016.
His case proves a critical truth: The VA often underrates mental health conditions until challenged with strong medical evidence.
The system can take years, but strong advocacy, medical evidence, and persistence can turn a denial into a life-changing victory. If you or someone you know needs help with a VA claim or appeal, contact us or book a consultation.
