Veteran Dale Wysocki, 73, was born and raised in Las Vegas. He now lives in Pahrump, Nevada, with his wife of 20 years, Susan.

Wysocki was in the Army from 1969 to 1975, including a year in Vietnam when he served as a helicopter crew chief and door gunner.

"I enlisted at the age of 17 because I wanted to do my duty during the war," he said.

Wysocki was exposed to Agent Orange in Vietnam. He experiences a series of health complications because of it.

"I suffer from severe apnea, cardiomyopathy, acid reflux, diabetes, diverticulitis, a deteriorating spine, tinnitus, middle ear damage, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and several other ailments," he said. "This has affected my whole life."

For years, Wysocki did his best to manage his conditions on his own. Eventually, he connected with VFW Accredited Claims Consultant Debra Johnson through VFW Post 10054, where Wysocki is a Life member.

"Her assistance changed my whole life," he said.

When they met, Wysocki had a 10% disability rating for his hearing. Johnson helped him submit a claim for several ailments. Today, he has a 100% disability rating.

"Now, I receive excellent care from the VA, including treatment for my PTSD, which has caused a huge change in my personality," Wysocki said.

"I strongly recommend that any veteran with a claim contact their VFW and let them go to bat for you."

Learn more about the VFW's National Veterans Service (NVS) program.