Compensation
If certain conditions are presumptive from Gulf War Illness, then the VA should compensate veterans immediately - similar to that of Agent Orange of the Vietnam era. If the veteran was there, received the Southwest Asia Medal and/or Combat Action ribbon, they should receive a minimum of 30% compensation. If the veteran shows signs of additional conditions at a later time, they file a claim for compensation and should get additional compensation. I am currently at 70% disabled due to PTSD and sinusitis. From these 2 conditions, I have high blood pressure, sleep apnea (using a CPAP), erectile dysfunction, sleep disturbances, and panic disorder. All these are secondary conditions attributable to PTSD. Yet I am still awaiting compensation from the VA for these secondary conditions - over 2 years. Social Security Administration says I am unemployable due to my PTSD and panic disorder - yet the VA has yet to say I am unemployable. I have not worked since early 2010, and have relied solely upon compensation and retirement pay. When a veteran files for conditions and secondary conditions for Gulf War Illness, it should take precedence over other claims for compensation - just like the claims for Agent Orange additional conditions and illnesses. It is taking way too long for the VA to process claims and appeals - this is bad customer service and we as veterans deserve the best service available.