🎖️ VALOR

Fighting for Recognition: A Veteran’s Battle with Agent Orange Exposure

For decades, the VA only acknowledged Agent Orange exposure in Vietnam, leaving thousands of veterans stationed elsewhere to fight for recognition—including Army veteran Charles Corn. Serving from 1967 to 1969 on a nuclear missile site in Korea, Corn was exposed to the toxic herbicide and has since battled severe health conditions, including diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and myelofibrosis, a rare bone marrow cancer. Initially dismissed by the VA, Corn’s persistence—backed by military investigators and legal advocates—helped substantiate his claims and secure the benefits he deserved. 

Corn’s story is a testament to many veterans' struggles when navigating the VA’s claims system. With the help of Hill & Ponton, he successfully obtained a 100% disability rating, ensuring he could focus on his health without financial uncertainty. His journey underscores the critical role of legal advocacy, the long-term effects of toxic exposure, and the importance of fighting for the benefits veterans have earned. If you or a loved one are struggling with a VA claim, know that help is available—your service and your health matter.

⚖️ EXPERTS

Inside the Joint – Breakdown of Knee Anatomy, Injuries, and VA Criteria

For many veterans, knee injuries aren’t just a nuisance—they’re the result of years of grueling physical demands. Ruck marches, heavy loads, and high-impact training take a toll, leading to chronic pain and mobility issues that don’t just go away after service. Despite how common these injuries are, navigating the VA system for knee-related disability benefits can be frustrating, especially when multiple conditions or secondary issues are involved.

The VA recognizes various service-connected knee conditions, from degenerative arthritis to ligament damage. But ratings vary depending on how much the injury affects your mobility and daily life. A knee that won’t bend fully might get 10%, while the total removal of a kneecap could be rated at 60%. Understanding how these ratings work—and how to document your condition correctly—can make all the difference in securing the compensation you’ve earned.

Maximizing Your VA Rating

• Multiple Ratings Are Possible: If a knee injury causes distinct impairments, it may be rated under multiple diagnostic codes.

• Secondary Conditions Matter: Back pain, hip problems, and even mental health struggles linked to a knee injury can increase your overall rating.

• Temporary Ratings for Surgery: A 100% disability rating is automatic for four months after a total knee replacement, then a 30% rating thereafter.

• TDIU and Knee Injuries: If knee pain makes steady work impossible and you meet the rating thresholds, you may qualify for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU).

Filing a Strong Knee Injury Claim

• VA Form 21-526: Start your disability compensation application.

• Medical Evidence: Get a VA-approved diagnosis and track symptoms over time.

• Service Records: Prove your injury is service connected.

• Lay Statements: Testimony from family, fellow service members, or medical providers strengthens your case.

Knee pain can impact everything—from mission readiness to everyday mobility. If your injury stems from military service, don’t leave your benefits on the table. Document your condition, seek support, and file a claim to get the compensation you deserve.

To learn more about VA ratings for knee disabilities, visit our more extensive article

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

🦅SUPPORT

Attention: Join us today at 1400 hours EST for a new Livestream with our legal team!

Join us to get your questions about VA disability law and the claims process answered by our legal team. Comments open 30 minutes 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 “Forever Chemicals” in Your Water Supply?

PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” are synthetic substances widely used in firefighting foams, water-resistant products, and industrial applications. These chemicals have been found in dangerously high concentrations in some water supplies, including on or near military bases. Learn if your military base was impacted using our Toxic Exposure Map.

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to severe health conditions, such as:

• Testicular Cancer

• Kidney Cancer

• Ulcerative Colitis

• Liver Cancer

If you or a loved one lived or worked in areas with PFAS contamination and have been diagnosed with any of these conditions, you may qualify for compensation.

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

Navigating the VA Claims Process: Insights from Attorney Melanie Williams

The VA claims system can feel like a minefield—slow, frustrating, and full of bureaucratic red tape. In this candid discussion, VA attorney Melanie Williams breaks down the biggest challenges veterans face when filing for benefits and how to increase the chances of a successful claim. She highlights the importance of filing early, staying persistent despite denials, and seeking legal representation when necessary. 

Williams doesn’t sugarcoat the shortcomings of VA resources—pointing out that VA.gov often provides incomplete or misleading information on claim statuses. She urges veterans to trust experienced advocates who understand the system inside and out. Her dedication to helping veterans, particularly those affected by military sexual trauma, reflects the emotional and legal commitment required in this field. 

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!