How can I help my neighbor get his military medical benefits?

His documents are missing from a file due to a fire they said occured in 1973. He has all his records to prove he was active and honorably discharged from duty. Our local office had him fill out paperwork that he can't answer all the questions to since he can't remember. He left service over 40 years ago. They gave him a 30 day deadline before they close the file. He has 5 days left. In the meantime, he needs help paying for prescription drugs. Without the drugs, he will die.

What is the route I should take. He has been going around and around with this for a long time. Thank you,

http://www.archives.gov/veterans/militar...

Thank you, just an FYI. I found this site that even goes as far to guide people through the process when records were burned in '73. To those who answered with concern, thank you so much.

Contacting your congressman and alerting him/her to the specific situation never hurts, and in many cases helps solve problems in a more timely manner when dealing with the military. Also, going directly through the regional office instead of the local branch office is often a better route to take. I wish I could give you a more direct answer, however, in this specific case I am not educated well enough on this issue. Also, I know it sounds ignorant, but showing up to a local VA hospital with the paper work in hand and trying to get into the system that way is another possibility.

You can go to the VFW and see the Department Service Officer he will be able to help.

If his files really did burn up in the 1973 fire there is a way to obtain a record. This person also should have in his possession something that showed he was in the service. Orders for awards, duty stations etc...if not then you can write to the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis, MO.

I guess you've already been to the Veterans Administration.

Try calling your local senators office. They have staff who are helpful with red tape things like this. They should at least be able to get an extension on the deadline.

He should also tell his doctor he can't afford the drugs. A lot of drug companies will donate or sell at cost drugs if they know you truly can't afford them.

I don't believe your story. If there had been a fire that destroyed military records and vets were about to loose all benefits this would be all over the news 'cause it'd be happening to a lot of people, not just your neighbor. I mean, '73 was awhile ago, how has he made his claims since then?

Local veterans service officer will probably be able to help him. If not have him try any of the service organizations such as the American Legion.