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Q225: Spent 23 yrs. in the military. Radio Telegraph Operator attached to Heavy Artillery Unit for 3 1/2 yrs. On, in and around 155mm, 8" Howitzer self propelled on tracks with loud noises from firing shells, and loud engine noise. Working on communications inside/ directly outside of gun compartments while firing. Working inside Fire Direction Control wearing ear phones sending and receiving msgs. by voice and by morse code. Later assigned to Fire/Crash Rescue in Illinois Air National Guard and California U.S. Air Force Reserve responding to Aircraft emergencies, constant training with loud fire truck engine noise, sirens, sending and receiving radio transmissions and constantly around prop/jet engine noise on flight lines and takeoffs. Have had (4) tubes inserted in left ear by civilian Dr. Diagnosed by civilian Dr. as having hearing loss. At the request of the VA, civilian Dr. provided medical record and documentation confirming that I have hearing loss. VA then concurred by providing me with a hearing aid which resulted in minimal improvement as I still experience difficulty in hearing during normal conditions. Yet, the VA will only allow me 10% for tinnitus and nothing for hearing loss. I serve as the Post Commander, District Jr. Vice Commander of (1) VSO and a member of (1) other. Will I have to hire an attorney? Please advise. test
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A1: Hi. I, too, have 10% for tinnitus and nothing for hearing loss. In my 3+years as a Chapter Service Officer, I haven't seen anyone get more then e 10% for tinnitus and most of the hearing loss awarded by the VA is 0%, but with medical, equipment and supplies for your ears. Not sure if spending money on an attorney will be worth it, because for one, it all depend on type of hearing loss -(we're all different when it come to that) and unless you had a piece of shrapnel in your hear, you're not gonna get an increase from the VA. However, if your hearing loss is getting 'extremely' worse, then you should submit for an increase providing you have 'new' evidence. Good luck, brother. (JL) 12/20/18
A2: As far as VA is concerned, your hearing is cured because of the hearing aids that they gave you. VA awarded you 10% because there is no test for Tinnitus. If you were in Vietnam (or Korea) working on those Big guns as they were firing at the enemy, submit a claim for PTSD. That would be a good start...Don't give up. Good Luck, My Brother! (RA) 12/20/18