![]() ![]() Most of these statements will come from fellow service members.įor example, for disabilities incurred or aggravated during active duty combat, if service records do not show that the Veteran was involved in combat and the Veteran knows a fellow service member who witnessed his injury, a buddy statement can be written to corroborate the Veteran’s claim. What Should a Buddy Statement Include?īuddy statements for service-connection claims should include content focused on the incident that happened in service causing the disability. ![]() These close friends or relatives can provide information on difficulties with day-to-day activities noticed during that period, which would help fill in gaps in medical records. In these situations, if credible statements can close the gap on dates of treatment that are missing due to unavailable records, it can help tremendously with your claim.įor example, many veterans returning from war may experience symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but frequently fail to seek treatment until urged by a loved one who witnesses changes since their return from service. Most medical facilities destroy medical records after 7-10 years. Why are Buddy Statements Important in Developing Your VA Claim? The fellow service member can write a statement of what they witnessed and this evidence must be considered by the VA when determining service-connection. Let’s say a Veteran suffers an injury or event in service but no record is available as evidence but a fellow service member witnessed the event. If a Veteran’s records lack sufficient evidence, the VA must consider lay evidence, such as buddy statements, which support the veteran’s claim. Under the Veteran’s Claims Assistance Act of 2000 (VCAA), the VA has a duty to assist veterans in developing a claim for a service-connected disability. In order to get started, you will have to use VA Form 4138 for your buddy statements. These statements can be extremely helpful in situations where records were lost, destroyed, or never existed. They provide important information corroborating or backing up, the veteran’s claim. What Are Buddy Statements?Ī buddy statement is a written statement from an individual who has knowledge about the Veteran’s sickness, disease, or injury.īuddy statements are often written by the Veteran’s spouse, family members, friends, or fellow service members. This guide will break down the basics of buddy statements, how to ask for one when making your VA disability claim, and how to write one for another veteran. ![]() ![]() When seeking disability benefits through the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans need to prove that their injury or illness is connected to military service.Īn important source of evidence that can be gathered by veterans fighting for service connection or an increased rating is buddy statements.īuddy statements, or buddy letters, provide firsthand information about the incident that caused the disability, as well as the disability itself.Ī substantial buddy statement can be critical to a veteran’s VA disability benefits.
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