Department of Veteran's Affairs

Veterans Administration

Department of Veteran's Affairs

Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions concerning the Veterans Administration:

• How can I get a copy of my military records (discharge, medical, etc.)?
• How can I get the medals I was awarded during my service but never received?
• How can I get my VA claim or appeal processed faster?

Military Records

How can I get a copy of my military records?

Most military records are stored at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis, Missouri.

Visit the National Archives web site

This is also an area where a congressional office can really help. If you are trying to get records from your military service, or that of a family member, feel free to contact my office. I will need your written permission to help with this issue. Please complete my Privacy Authorization Form and fax or mail it to my Norwich  office. If you have any questions about this process or military records in general, please feel free to contact my office.

Medals Awarded

How can I get the medals I was awarded during my service but never received?

Military medals are also an issue handled primarily through the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis. In most cases, it is faster to get medals if you work through a congressional office. If you are owed medals from your service, please complese my Privacy Authorization Form and fax or mail it to my Norwich office. Once I receive this information from you, I will follow-up with you regarding any additional paperwork that may be required to submit a request to the proper officials.

VA Claim 

How can I get my VA claim processed faster?

The Veterans Administration currently has many claims pending for various types of benefits. Because of that, many veterans feel that their case might be overlooked or handled improperly.

I am always glad to help in these situations. At my request, the VA will "flag" a particular case and keep me updated throughout the process. However, it is important to know that I cannot act as the "representative" on a person's VA claim. You may still want an attorney or veterans representative to help you with this. My actions will not affect the work done by the person you select as your representative.

If you would like my help with a claim or appeal, please complete my Privacy Authorization Form and fax or mail it to my Norwich office.