3rd CRSC denial letter in Combat Related Special Compensation (CRSC) Forum

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3rd CRSC denial letter

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CEckelberry	3rd CRSC denial letter		Lead	[-]
Posts: 8 Jun 9 12 12:54 PM	I just received my third denial letter from CRSC this morning. My last appeal involved making a second copy set of my medical records, MEB/PEB findings, VA documentation, etc. and highlighting every statement that reflects the combat-related event; writing a cover letter that encompassed all of the documentation included. I am beyond understanding what is needed further to substantiate this event. I have followed all of the guidelines set forth on the CRSC website; have read forums; and provided everything asked for. Is there an organization that can assist with this process from this point or should I consider obtaining counsel? I was medically retired from the army for PTSD @ 50%. The VA has recently raised that percentage to 70% for the PTSD. Overall, I am 90% disabled in the VA system. I was retired January, 2011 as a CPT with 10 years of service. Thank you for your help & guidance with this situation! Christi Integrity ~ Never separate the life you live from the words you speak....
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JesseJames		#1	[url]	[-]
Posts: 152 Jun 9 12 1:54 PM	What was the stated reason for denial?
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CEckelberry		#2	[url]	[-]
Posts: 8 Jun 9 12 2:45 PM	With all of the documented proof, statements and records, this is the reply that I received: Your PEB/MEB narrative does not specifically describe the accident or injury which caused your PTSD condition. There wasn't any supporting documentation in your claim which confirms the PEB/MEBs determination that this disability is attributed to a specific combat-related event. Please submit supporting documentation that links your PTSD to a specific combat-related event under the criteria of Armed Conflict, Simulating War, or Instrumentality of War as defined by CRSC program guidance. As I sit here and read this, I have to truly question if the 19 highlighted pages of documentation was even read. Following are examples from my last submitted appeal that resulted in this denial letter: PEB Proceedings (DA Form 199) states: "...Psychiatrist attributes PTSD symptoms to combat stressors encountered during Iraq deployment." The statement goes on to describe the encounter as a specific mortar/rocket attack that resulted in another Soldier being wounded for which I was present at, witnessed and was on-site for the aftermath. "10A/C is awarded for PTSD condition which is directly related to armed conflict in Iraq..." "10A - The Soldier's retirement is based on disability from injury or illness or disease in the LOD as a direct result of armed conflict or caused by an instrumentality of war and incurring in the LOD during a period of war as defined by law." "10C - The disability did result from a combat related injury as defined in 26 U.S.C. 104." There are numerous other documents including the Department of VA Rating Decision (Reason for decision), MEB, AHLTA medical records, Department of the Army retirement orders and Department of VA rating increase that all specificially detail this same information. I just do not understand what else could be needed to establish this claim. Again, thanks for any help, direction or guidance with this situation! Christi Integrity ~ Never separate the life you live from the words you speak....
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nmfxstc		#3	[url]	[-]
Posts: 25190 Jun 9 12 4:06 PM	CEckelberry wrote: With all of the documented proof, statements and records, this is the reply that I received: Your PEB/MEB narrative does not specifically describe the accident or injury which caused your PTSD condition. There wasn't any supporting documentation in your claim which confirms the PEB/MEBs determination that this disability is attributed to a specific combat-related event. Please submit supporting documentation that links your PTSD to a specific combat-related event under the criteria of Armed Conflict, Simulating War, or Instrumentality of War as defined by CRSC program guidance. As I sit here and read this, I have to truly question if the 19 highlighted pages of documentation was even read. Following are examples from my last submitted appeal that resulted in this denial letter: PEB Proceedings (DA Form 199) states: "...Psychiatrist attributes PTSD symptoms to combat stressors encountered during Iraq deployment." The statement goes on to describe the encounter as a specific mortar/rocket attack that resulted in another Soldier being wounded for which I was present at, witnessed and was on-site for the aftermath. "10A/C is awarded for PTSD condition which is directly related to armed conflict in Iraq..." "10A - The Soldier's retirement is based on disability from injury or illness or disease in the LOD as a direct result of armed conflict or caused by an instrumentality of war and incurring in the LOD during a period of war as defined by law." "10C - The disability did result from a combat related injury as defined in 26 U.S.C. 104." There are numerous other documents including the Department of VA Rating Decision (Reason for decision), MEB, AHLTA medical records, Department of the Army retirement orders and Department of VA rating increase that all specificially detail this same information. I just do not understand what else could be needed to establish this claim. Again, thanks for any help, direction or guidance with this situation! Christi Integrity ~ Never separate the life you live from the words you speak.... Other than the subjective information you told the shrinks, do yo have any unit reports that directly pace you in that attack? That could be the issue....no clear and convincing proof you were there and involved at the time...you can relate anything, placing you there, via unit records, may be missing (Hey...yu may have been on R&R, deployed elsewhere, on leave, etc.)....just a thought. Fillean meal ar an meallaire.
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JesseJames		#4	[url]	[-]
Posts: 152 Jun 9 12 4:31 PM	They want independent proof beyond DA Form 199 - Block 10, that your disability was caused by a combat related injury. Specifically, that the mortar attack is the direct cause of your PTSD. In all of those pages of documents does it say that? You need to prove that a specific incident caused your PTSD. Does your officer evaluation report say anything about combat related injuries? If yes, that might help.
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nmfxstc		#5	[url]	[-]
Posts: 25190 Jun 9 12 4:48 PM	JesseJames wrote: They want independent proof beyond DA Form 199 - Block 10, that your disability was caused by a combat related injury. Specifically, that the mortar attack is the direct cause of your PTSD. In all of those pages of documents does it say that? You need to prove that a specific incident caused your PTSD. Does your officer evaluation report say anything about combat related injuries? If yes, that might help. I know, I nkow...it's "political", but GWB used it and got away with it when he said, "I was there.....I know there is no proof, but I was there"! Fillean meal ar an meallaire.
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Cheyenne		#6	[url]	[-]
Posts: 2976 Jun 9 12 4:49 PM	Your PEB/MEB narrative does not specifically describe the accident or injury which caused your PTSD condition. OK, the PEB/MEB is not in enough detail, so it's up to you to provide what they're looking for. There wasn't any supporting documentation in your claim which confirms the PEB/MEBs determination that this disability is attributed to a specific combat-related event. The CRSC Board is asking for very specific information: For example, date and approximate time of event, specific place (in garrison or in field), kind of attack (which you have already presented), number of wounded, layman's description of types of wounds, your involvement (helped medic stop the bleeding, etc), names, organizations, other witnesses, official documentation (orders, citations, medical records, etc)—you get the picture, flood them with details. The information you provide the Board does not have to be in response to a specific line item of Form 2860. Add a separate sheet, describing in narrative form exactly what it is that makes your claim a combat-related event.
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nmfxstc		#7	[url]	[-]
Posts: 25190 Jun 9 12 5:01 PM	Cheyenne wrote: Your PEB/MEB narrative does not specifically describe the accident or injury which caused your PTSD condition. OK, the PEB/MEB is not in enough detail, so it's up to you to provide what they're looking for. There wasn't any supporting documentation in your claim which confirms the PEB/MEBs determination that this disability is attributed to a specific combat-related event. The CRSC Board is asking for very specific information: For example, date and approximate time of event, specific place (in garrison or in field), kind of attack (which you have already presented), number of wounded, layman's description of types of wounds, your involvement (helped medic stop the bleeding, etc), names, organizations, other witnesses, official documentation (orders, citations, medical records, etc)—you get the picture, flood them with details. The information you provide the Board does not have to be in response to a specific line item of Form 2860. Add a separate sheet, describing in narrative form exactly what it is that makes your claim a combat-related event. Yeah, and after three denials, you should know what they need. Fillean meal ar an meallaire.
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CEckelberry		#8	[url]	[-]
Posts: 8 Jun 9 12 5:18 PM	Thanks for all of the replies and input; it's greatly appreciated! I do have documentation from the doctor downrange that documents all of this and I included it in with all of the other documents. I know this is one of those situations where there must be substantial proof as to the event that caused an injury, illness, disease, etc. but it is so frustrating when you give them everything you've got. I did not want to be medically retired; it was the army that made that decision based on the medical records that they had. No, my OERs do not say anything about combat injuries mainly because I wasn't even aware what was happening to me for the longest; I was in denial. I felt that I was too strong of an individual and leader to succumb to something like PTSD. But as time went on, it became more apparent and I could not deny it any longer. I began seeing BH on my own without my unit knowing and then, it was advised that I attend an Intensive Outpatient Program. Suddenly, my unit was informed of everything: my clearance was gone and my career as an Intelligence Officer was gone. I was released from my unit, tranferred to the Wounded Warrior BN and then ultimately retired. They had enough evidence to retire me at 50% and the reasoning stated that it was combat related but now it's not enough for CRSC. I do not want anything that I am not entitled to or deserve but I don't understand what else I could provide beyond what I already have to substantiate this. I'm just frustrated... and I know there must be many, many others that are in the same position. Again, I thank all of you for your help and expertise in this area.
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nmfxstc		#9	[url]	[-]
Posts: 25190 Jun 9 12 5:23 PM	Exactly what is it you were medically retired for...exact;y! MDD, personality disorder, anxiety....what? Fillean meal ar an meallaire.
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CEckelberry		#10	[url]	[-]
Posts: 8 Jun 9 12 5:40 PM	Post Traumatic Stress Disorder associated with chronic major depression, adjustment disorder and secondary insomnia ~ This is on all of my documents as the diagnosis...
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nmfxstc		#11	[url]	[-]
Posts: 25190 Jun 9 12 5:45 PM	CEckelberry wrote: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder associated with chronic major depression, adjustment disorder and secondary insomnia ~ This is on all of my documents as the diagnosis... And, lastly...are yu rated, and if so, at what percentage, by the VA? Fillean meal ar an meallaire.
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CEckelberry		#12	[url]	[-]
Posts: 8 Jun 9 12 5:49 PM	Rated by VA at 70% for PTSD and overall at 90% (PTSD, knees, surgeries, etc.).
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nmfxstc		#13	[url]	[-]
Posts: 25190 Jun 9 12 5:57 PM	CEckelberry wrote: Rated by VA at 70% for PTSD and overall at 90% (PTSD, knees, surgeries, etc.). Then I don't get it either....maybe Cruiser can chime in, or one of the others that understands CRSC a bit more? Fillean meal ar an meallaire.
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CEckelberry		#14	[url]	[-]
Posts: 8 Jun 9 12 6:31 PM	nmfxstc ~ I know... It doesn't make any sense to me either and this is why I'm wondering if I should seek some type of outside assistance but I don't know who to turn to... Subjectively reading the requirements and all of my documents, I don't know what else could be required. Again, thanks for your help!
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JesseJames		#15	[url]	[-]
Posts: 152 Jun 9 12 7:23 PM	Good luck with it! Edited 1 time by JesseJames Jun 9 12 7:31 PM.
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Cavtrooper088		#16	[url]	[-]
Posts: 235 Jun 9 12 11:29 PM	CPT--I can't add a lot to this except to wish you good luck as you travel down this path, and I agree that Cruiser would be your best bet. I don't believe that buddy statements have much impact, but I wonder if you former chain of command might be willing to help? Perhaps comments from your rater or indorser? Thanks for your service, and don't give up. I started down this path in 2006 after I had been retired 15 years. Finally this year I reach 100% P&T VA as well as 100% CRSC. Another old vet gave me a great trip several years ago. That tip was to never give up, and keep appealing. Cav
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Ron91		#17	[url]	[-]
Posts: 1104 Jun 10 12 6:44 AM	I've never contacted the Army's CRSC board other than through the submittal of my application, but they do have a listed telephone number as well as an email address. You might consider contacting them and requesting further explanation of the denial. That, and following Cheyenne's recommendations might facilitate the approval. The telephone number: 1-866-281-3254 opt.4 The email address: usarmy.knox.hrc.mbx.tagd-crsc-claims@mail.mil FAX: 502-613-9550From the CRSC (Army) website: The most common reason for denial of CRSC is because the documentation lacks evidence indicating HOW the injury occurred from a combat-related, or training-related accident. Establishing a link between the disability and the specific accident or event is the focus when it comes to awarding CRSC. For a condition to be awarded under CRSC, there must be clear evidence in the supporting documentation which shows how, what, when and where your injuries occurred as related to combat or training. There is a certain criteria to what CRSC considers a training-related injury and what is not considered training, like being injured on an obstacle course during PT. CRSC does not award conditions for common injuries incurred in a combat-zone. The injury needs to be a result of direct enemy action, or as the result of operations against the enemy. Good luck, Ron Edited 1 time by Ron91 Jun 10 12 7:30 AM.
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Cavtrooper088		#18	[url]	[-]
Posts: 235 Jun 10 12 8:36 AM	Ron91 wrote: I've never contacted the Army's CRSC board other than through the submittal of my application, but they do have a listed telephone number as well as an email address. You might consider contacting them and requesting further explanation of the denial. That, and following Cheyenne's recommendations might facilitate the approval. The telephone number: 1-866-281-3254 opt.4 The email address: usarmy.knox.hrc.mbx.tagd-crsc-claims@mail.mil FAX: 502-613-9550From the CRSC (Army) website: The most common reason for denial of CRSC is because the documentation lacks evidence indicating HOW the injury occurred from a combat-related, or training-related accident. Establishing a link between the disability and the specific accident or event is the focus when it comes to awarding CRSC. For a condition to be awarded under CRSC, there must be clear evidence in the supporting documentation which shows how, what, when and where your injuries occurred as related to combat or training. There is a certain criteria to what CRSC considers a training-related injury and what is not considered training, like being injured on an obstacle course during PT. CRSC does not award conditions for common injuries incurred in a combat-zone. The injury needs to be a result of direct enemy action, or as the result of operations against the enemy. Good luck, Ron Ron is right. I routinely talked with the CRSC folks at FT. Knox and they were helpful. Much easier to reach than the VA number. Cav
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dally7777		#19	[url]	[-]
Posts: 3220 Jun 10 12 9:47 AM	CEckleberry - The reason you keep getting denials is because CRSC can not use your personal statements as evidence. On the Army CRSC website there is a form letter for a VA or MTF doctor to use as a guideline. Have them review the letter and then review the documents that you sent to CRSC. I stress, do not have them write a letter, CRSC will not accept it as evidence. The doctor's comments must be placed in your medical notes. He/she can say she reviewed your military med records, PEB proceedings, NARSUM, and any other documents and then they must state that in their opinion the current VA SC conditions are combat related.
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dally7777		#20	[url]	[-]
Posts: 3220 Jun 10 12 9:51 AM	https://www.hrc.army.mil/tagd/claim%20resources Website Link https://www.hrc.army.mil/...C_Carr_VA_MTF_Letter.pdf Letter example Link
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