🎖️ VALOR

Robin Olds: The Maverick Ace Who Led From the Front

Robin Olds was born on July 14, 1922, in Honolulu, HI, the son of Robert Olds, a pioneering Army Air Service pilot who served alongside Billy Mitchell. After his mother’s death when he was four, he grew up around Langley Field, Virginia, where aircraft and aviators filled his imagination and set the course for his life.

In 1940, Olds entered the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he became an All-American football player known for his toughness and discipline. He graduated in June 1943 with his pilot wings and was soon flying combat missions in Europe with the 479th Fighter Group. At just twenty-two, he commanded a squadron of P-38 Lightnings and later P-51 Mustangs, earning twelve aerial victories and destroying more than a dozen aircraft on the ground. His natural leadership and unshakable composure made him one of the youngest aces of World War II.

After the war, Olds remained in the newly formed U.S. Air Force and helped usher in the jet era. He became one of the first American pilots to fly the P-80 Shooting Star and later led an exchange tour with Britain’s Royal Air Force, commanding No. 1 (Fighter) Squadron. Over the next two decades, he served in key command roles and helped refine the tactics that would define modern air combat. Known for his candor and intensity, he was a reformer at heart, never afraid to challenge complacency or bureaucracy.

When the Vietnam War escalated, Olds was chosen to command the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, the “Wolfpack”, at Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base in 1966. He revitalized a demoralized unit by leading from the front, flying dozens of combat missions in the F-4 Phantom II. On Jan. 2, 1967, he masterminded Operation Bolo, a bold deception that tricked North Vietnamese MiG-21s into attacking what they thought were bombers. The result was one of the most decisive air victories of the war: seven enemy jets shot down, no U.S. losses, and a shattered MiG force.

Olds personally downed four MiGs in Vietnam, making him one of the few “triple aces” in U.S. history with sixteen confirmed victories across two wars. His awards included the Air Force Cross, four Silver Stars, six Distinguished Flying Crosses, and forty Air Medals, testaments to a lifetime spent on the edge of battle.

After returning home, Olds served as Commandant of Cadets at the Air Force Academy, inspiring a new generation of pilots to think boldly and fly with purpose. He retired as a brigadier general in 1973 and later became a sought-after speaker and advocate for strong leadership in the Air Force. 

Robin Olds passed away on June 14, 2007, in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Remembered for his signature handlebar moustache and fearless individuality, he embodied the fighting spirit of the American airman, a leader who proved that courage, ingenuity, and character are as vital in the skies as they are on the ground.

Honor veterans like Robin Olds and watch more stories on our YouTube channel.

⚖️ EXPERTS

When VA Requests a Reexamination of Your Disability 

VA Reexaminations for Disability Ratings 

Veterans receiving VA disability compensation may be required to undergo a reexamination if the VA believes their condition has improved, the original evaluation was incomplete, or the disability was not considered permanent. These Compensation and Pension (C&P) exams are used to determine whether the current disability rating should increase, decrease, or remain the same. 

Reasons for Reexamination 

The VA may request a new C&P exam when: 

• Evidence shows the veteran’s condition has improved. 

• The original exam did not establish a permanent level of disability. 

• The medical condition was expected to improve over time. 

Typically, reexaminations occur within five years of the previous review, unless the disability is long-term and stable. 

Exceptions to Reexamination 

The VA generally does not require reexaminations for: 

• Static Disabilities: Permanent conditions not expected to improve, such as limb loss. 

• Older Veterans: Those age 55 or older, unless there is clear evidence of improvement. 

• Stable Conditions: Disabilities unchanged for five years or longer, unless new evidence indicates improvement. 

When Static Disabilities Are Reviewed 

Even veterans with static disabilities may face reexamination if: 

• The VA scheduled a Routine Future Exam (RFE) when the condition was first rated. 

• New medical evidence suggests improvement. 

• Errors or insufficient evidence were found in the original rating decision. 

Preparing for a Reexamination 

If you are scheduled for a new C&P exam: 

• Attend the appointment. Missing it can lead to benefit reduction or termination. 

• Bring updated medical documentation and treatment records. 

• Provide clear, honest details about your symptoms and how they affect daily life. 

Protections Against Unnecessary Exams 

Under 38 CFR § 3.327, additional C&P exams are not required when: 

• The disability is static or has a minimum rating. 

• The condition is permanent and unlikely to improve. 

• The veteran is over 55, except under unusual circumstances. 

Veterans who believe a reexamination request is unwarranted may appeal the decision. Contacting a veterans’ advocate or legal representative can help ensure that your rights are protected and your benefits remain secure. 

If you’re facing challenges with your claim and need assistance, reach out for a free case evaluation.

🦅SUPPORT

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Join us to get your questions about VA disability law and the claims process answered by our legal team. Comments open 1 hour prior to the Livestream starting, so get there early to get your question in. We try to answer as many as we can!

Were You Exposed to Asbestos During Military Service?

Many U.S. veterans were exposed to asbestos during their time in service, often without knowing the risks. Years later, this exposure has led to mesothelioma and other asbestos-related lung cancers for countless veterans.

If you served in the military and have been diagnosed, you may qualify for compensation. Our firm proudly helps veterans and their families pursue the benefits and justice they deserve.

Act now. Contact us today at (855) 494-1298 to learn more about your options or to begin your claim. You’ve served your country; let us serve you.

🗺️ TACTICS

Successful C&P Exam Tips 

In this video, Hill & Ponton’s video producer Nate Flemming shares four essential tips to help veterans prepare for a successful Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. 

Nate explains that C&P exams can feel intimidating because they play a major role in how the VA evaluates your disability and assigns your rating. His first piece of advice is to come prepared. Review your medical evidence and Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) ahead of time so you know what information the examiner will look for. Preparation helps you stay calm and confident during the evaluation. 

His second tip is to bring someone with you who can support your statements. A spouse, family member, or caregiver often notices symptoms or limitations you might forget to mention under pressure, helping the examiner understand the full picture of how your disability affects daily life.  

Third, he urges veterans to be thorough and complete when answering questions or filling out forms. Incomplete or rushed responses can lead to lower ratings, while detailed explanations of your limitations help ensure your condition is accurately evaluated.  

Finally, Nate emphasizes the importance of being authentic. Do not downplay your symptoms or try to appear stronger than you are. “If you’re struggling to get out of bed, don’t feel pressured to dress your best,” he explains. “This isn’t the time to ‘suck it up.’ Be honest about how your disability really affects you.” 

He concludes by reminding veterans that the C&P exam is their opportunity to show the VA the true impact of their service-connected condition and that honesty and preparation are the best ways to secure the rating they deserve. 

Need Help with an Appeal? Hill & Ponton is Here for You

At Hill & Ponton, we specialize in helping veterans navigate the VA appeals process to secure the benefits they rightfully deserve. Whether you're facing a denied claim, an appeal for a higher rating, or need assistance gathering critical evidence, our team is ready to advocate for you.

Use our VA Disability Calculator to see if your current rating aligns with your level of disability and explore potential increases based on any secondary conditions you may have. Calculate Your VA Disability Rating Now!