SERVING
Those That
SERVED
A good "Buddy Statement" for veterans seeking to prove a service-connected condition should include the following main elements:
Personal Information: The statement should include the full name, contact information, and relationship to the veteran (e.g., friend, family member, fellow service member).
Credibility: Establish the writer's credibility by mentioning their own military service, if applicable, or relevant experience that gives them insight into the veteran's situation.
Observation of Events: Describe specific incidents or experiences witnessed during service that relate to the veteran's condition. This might include details about combat situations, exposure to hazardous materials, or incidents leading to injuries.
Description of Symptoms: Include observations about the veteran’s symptoms or behavior changes since their service. This can include physical, emotional, or psychological impacts.
Timeline: Provide a timeline of events, linking the veteran's service experiences to the development of their condition.
Affirmation of the Veteran’s Claims: Clearly state support for the veteran’s claims and affirm the connection between their service and their current health issues.
Signature and Date: The statement should be signed and dated to authenticate it.
Including these elements can help strengthen the veteran's claim by providing personal, credible testimony about their experiences and the impact of service-related conditions.
Elements of a Buddy Statement Letter
John Doe
123 Main St.
City, State Zip Code
Email: johndoe@gmail.com
Phone: 123-123-1234
June 1, 2024
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
123 Main St.
City, State, Zip Code
Subject: Buddy Statement in Support of Joe Smith’s Claim for PTSD
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing this letter to support the claim of my friend and fellow Marine, Joe Smith, who is seeking service connection for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) resulting from his time in the U.S. Marine Corps. I had the honor of serving alongside Joe Smith in the 2nd Marine Division at Camp Lejeune North Carolina from 10 Sep 91 to 1 Oct 95.
During our time in the Marine Corps, we experienced multiple traumatic events that have had a lasting impact on Joe Smith. One significant event occurred on 30 Mar 92 while we were deployed to Saudi Arabia.
Our unit was involved in a serious combat situation, where we both witnessed multiple casualties. I vividly remember the chaos we felt during that time, and I saw firsthand how deeply it affected Joe. He was visibly shaken and struggled to cope with the aftermath of that horrible event.
After returning from deployment, I noticed changes in Joe’s behavior. He became increasingly withdrawn and exhibited signs of anxiety. We would often talk, and he expressed feelings of hopelessness and nightmares related to our experiences in Saudi Arabia. These symptoms have persisted for a long time and affects his daily life and relationships.
I have seen Joe work hard to seek help for his problems, but the impact of his experiences continues to weigh heavily on him and prevents him from carrying out the help he needs. I believe it is crucial for the VA to understand the depth of his struggles and the connection to our time in Saudi Arabia. I have no doubt that the traumatic events we endured together have played a significant role in his current mental health challenges.
I wholeheartedly support Joe's claim for PTSD and urge you to consider this statement as part of the evidence of his service-related conditions.
If you need any further information or clarification, please feel free to contact me at 123-123-1234.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
John Doe
EXAMPLE: Buddy Statement Letter