Howard, Do you have a copy of your service records? You have to specifically request medical, performance reviews, all orders for promotion, permanent change of station etc. when you file your request. It took me five (yes, 5) tries and everything still was not there. I was lucky I was able to prove my claim without them. Also, can you contact anyone from your time there that can vouch that you did augmentee duty and could provide a "buddy letter"?

I also hope you immediately filed a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) with the VA upon your denial. Use the maps, buddy letters in your appeal and request a hearing so you can look the DRO in the eye. Do not quit and your word is something, after all the person reviewing your claim was not there, you were. The most important thing I can tell you is to not give up!!!! Most of us are denied at least once. LouB.