Alternatively, you can go through your local Senator or Representative Office to request the change. An area where enemy engagement is documented is also taken into consideration, and this geographic designation becomes extremely important when determining if a veteran is eligible for a retroactive award. VBA has access to classified records. Basically anyone doubting the validity of an award is calling the integrity of the service itself into question. West Asia Sevice Medal with 1 sevice star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal", Copyright 2023 | Hadit.com | Hadit.com is exempt from federal income tax under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3). VA Benefits for Combat Veterans - What They Are | CCK Law Rephrase the question: I was involved in a traumatic incident on base in 1974 and have had nightmares ever since, but I did not go to mental health while enlisted. The more documentation you possess, the less likely your disability claim will be denied. They will backdate wait, SHOULD backdate the claim to the date you got treatment started. it is my understanding to qualify for the CAB you have to actually engage in an action against the enemy not just be in the hazardous duty area things like taking down doors searching the villages, IEDs etc but with the new rules dated 13 July 2010 almost anyone in a hazardous duty area that felt fear of losing their life etc should have an easier time getting a PTSD claim thru the system I am not holding my breath on this as I expect the VARO's are still not going to be passing out comp checks like candy on Halloween they will find a way to make it difficult to get a PTSD claim adjudicated I hope I am proven wrong but I don't think the new rules are going to change anything. The evidence must show a service member was engaged in direct combat, not indirect or in an area where combat is occurring; mere presence in a designated combat zone does not qualify a service member for the award.[5]. MILITARY AWARDS GUIDANCE FOR THE 2021 PERMANENT