Drafted in '65 and sent to Germany

Remembering Jim

Jim Strickland was a Vietnam era Army veteran and nationally recognized expert on VA disability benefits who was also editor and webmaster of the popular VA Watchdog website. Jim wrote extensively about VA and Social Security disability benefits. Before his recent passing, Jim was kind enough to answer questions from visitors on StatesideLegal.org here in Jim's Mailbag. This page is dedicated to Jim and to his efforts to assist every veteran who called upon him.

About Jim's Mailbag

Jim's Mailbag is a regular column where veterans, servicemembers, and family members can find answers about their VA and Social Security disability benefits. Although we are not accepting new questions at this time, you can browse all of the previous Q&As and search Jim's Mailbag for helpful answers to your specific VA issue.

December 11, 2019

Question:

Hi Jim, I got drafted in late 1965. After ally training I was sent to Germany during the Vietnam war. Does that classify me as a Vietnam vet? Thanks for ur response'

Jim's Reply:

I'll be darned, I was in Germany soon after you in 1967 and I served out my obligation there until 1970. You and I are not Vietnam vets, we are Vietnam era vets. Other than agent orange presumptive ratings, our benefits are much the same since we all served as we were told to.