The term Buddy Statement may seem informal and of little significance. However, these supporting statements, called Buddy Statements by the VA, can play a large role in developing and validating an open VA disability claim.
What is a Buddy Statement?
A Buddy Statement is a letter of support from an individual with first hand knowledge of facts surrounding the veteran’s claim. This knowledge can come in many forms and may support or develop the claim in a variety of ways.
knowledge of the injury itself
knowledge of the veteran’s behaviors and capabilities before and/or after the injury/incident
confirmation of date or location of unit or event
corroborating details of a stressful event
confirmation that a veteran was ‘engaged in combat’ in situations which are unclear
How do I obtain a Buddy Statement?
If a veteran has remained in contact with another service member, then obtaining a Buddy Statement may be as simple as asking. But, it isn’t often quite that easy. There are, however, lots of ways to locate and obtain Buddy Statements.
A Google search for veteran related sites will yield an assortment of websites dedicated to sharing veteran contact information. Search by name, service branch, location, or unit assignment. You can also try searching Facebook and LinkedIn for unit names, or names of ships. Very often, you will find that you are not alone in looking for fellow service members.
If a veteran’s claim is entirely dependent upon contact with the fellow service member, the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis, Missouri, can assist with a free forwarding service.
If the person you are searching for is in active duty, you can contact the branch’s locator office, and they will offer assistance. However, in this instance, you’ll need to know some very specific details about the service member including: full name, date of birth, and social security number.
I have a Buddy Statement, now what?
You’ll want to submit your Buddy Statement in support of your open veterans disability claim. You can submit the statement either informally as a letter or via Form 21-4138 Statement in Support.
If you have questions, I would be happy to talk to you. Setting up a free veterans disability consultation is normally the best way to discuss those questions. If you would like to find out more about how a free consultation works and what you will learn, please take a look at this short article that explains it in more detail.
Travis Studdard is an attorney who focuses on representing veterans in VA disability compensation claims. He regularly writes about issues that are important to veterans and their families.
You can subscribe to his Veterans Disability channel on YouTube.
I saw Travis on some YouTube videos. It was the way he worded things, I just felt compelled to contact them about my situation, he seemed trustworthy. Travis told me he thought he could help me. I was hesitant, but proceeded. The claim process was long, but my claim was granted. They are organized and punctual. Jessica and Travis are a strong team. I feel the Lord led me to Perkins & Studdard. I consider Travis an advocate and friend. ThanksCorby Reese
It has been a pleasure working with Jason and firm, very knowledgeable and professional, He did awesome job to get settlement that I need for my workmen comp case which was fair in my case, cause the insurance company was trying low ball me and not give me nothing but Jason fix that ….I truly recommend Perkins&studdard any workmen comp case that you have and also want thank Tina also for helping me along this process
Thank you Perkins&studdardjahbari swint
Thank you Jason and Tina for everything you've done.
Much appreciated.
Great law firm! Great results!! Thank you!!!
(Austin and Valerie)Valerie Mellinger
Travis and the team working on my VA claim are awesome. I’m happy with their integrity and diligence on working on my claim.Chris “Greybeard” Mullennix
I can't express enough how great it was to work with Perkins Studdard. They are extremely knowledgeable, professional and keep you aware of everything happening with your case. Very friendly from the front office to Mr. Perkins. I would HIGHLY recommend Perkins Studdard!James Strickland
I recommend Travis for an Veteran that has been dealing with constant denial with claims. He also , cover cost for my nexus letter when I ran into financial troubles , that helped me win my case.edwin Cook
I highly recommend Travis Studdard to represent anyone looking to help with VA claims. The VA is very difficult to deal with when attempting to get benefits from service connected injuries, at least that's my experience. Travis and his team knows the VA system and the legal procedures to help you get what you deserve. Travis was kind and passionate with me throughout this process and therefore, I highly recommend this law firm to represent DAV's.Terry Hembree
Such an awesome team. They spoke to me like a person and helped me through every decision with knowledge.Kevin Collett
Highly recommend this firm. Did exactly what they said they were going to and fairly timely.
The VA is sometimes extremely difficult to navigate but this took all the leg work away from me and got me the result I thought was fair.Andrew Boone
Amazing staff, very informed along with excellent communication. Within just a few weeks of work, Mr Studdard was able to make things happen that normally take years! Highly recommendJacob Sylvester
I understand you want your VA claim to be done as quickly as possible. But remember the ultimate goal – to win your VA disability compensation claim.
You may eventually get there on your own, but it may be after a series of decisions by the Regional Office and Board of Veterans Appeals. Sometimes claims are appealed and remanded several times, which can cause a claim to drag on for years. If you are interested in avoiding unnecessary delay in your claim and want to do everything you can to maximize your chances of success, it is probably a good idea for you to consult with an accredited veterans disability attorney.
We would be happy to talk to you. If you would like a free consultation with our Perkins Studdard veterans disability attorneys just click here or give us a call to begin the process.
