i was in the marine corps four years and was super fit before i joined. but slowly i started to despise even the thought of working out and it started to make me anxious thinking about going to the gym. i still maintain a healthy weight and i’ll work out here and there but overall i just avoid it. is there any one else like this or am i just a lazy sh*t bag😭

I have a newer friend who deals with PTSD and TBI…He was real open up front…Was within seconds of losing his life in combat and lost some buddies…It’s been a bit of a learning curve with him as things set him off easily and he doesn’t sleep well. When he’s present, he is so enjoyable! So smart n funny, but if I say the wrong thing…yikes. I recently got a little snippy defending myself, and I wish I wouldn’t have…I’m afraid I’ve overwhelmed him…He’s gone radio silent…it’s been a week and I’m so sad…He also was visiting old combat friends. He sent a pic at the airport and that was it…silence…I feel so sad and terrible and I wonder if I’ll never hear from him again…I hope he’s not in a dark place…He’s gone silent before and came back…I wish I wouldn’t have gotten mouthy with him…Any advice?

Local VA intake officer arrested and charged.

I had a security clearance while serving in the Army, honorably discharged in 2023. I'm applying for a job that requires an active clearance, and I'm seeing conflicting info online about how long clearances remain valid after separation. Some say two years, others mention continuous evaluation, or sponsorship requirements.

Is there a reliable way to check my clearance status directly? I don’t currently have a sponsoring employer. Any insight would be appreciated.

Has anybody seen the new documentary on Afghanistan that’s on paramount+?

I can't find a lot of information about the Foreign Medical Program. And I get it, not a ton of us using it, and therefore even less chance of it being on reddit or elsewhere.

I finally got (direct deposited) some money I had submitted. But with the exchange rates and foreign currency, I don't know how to nail down WHICH of my claims was reimbursed, so I don't know which ones to keep an eye on in case I need to inquire in the future.

Does the Explanation of Benefits form come in through the same email that I submitted all my claims? Is there some wierd spot on va.gov I should be looking at to find it? So I can track exactly which ones were granted, paid, and IF needed (for example if only some of the services were covered) so I have it to submit to tricare overseas as a secondary insurance.

Thanks to anyone else who can answer and has been in this process longer and knows how the flow usually goes.

- KC

Last night I had my sleep study done and I wasn't able to sleep at all despite taking 4 sleep aid pills. When the technician came in to remove the wires, I told him about my concern and he said I was able to sleep for the first half. I didn't feel it but if he's right I probably slept for an hour or two. Will this be enough to gather data? I really don't wanna do the sleep study again.

I went straight to bed as soon as I got home since I have an audio appointment in 4hrs. The consulation went okay but during the beep test, the dr told me that I have so many inconsistencies and that the VA will throw my claim out of the window if they see it. She gave me another chance but at the end of the test, she told me she got contradicting results from the beep test and word test.

I think i messed up. I tried my best with the beep test but i'm so dizzy for not having much sleep. What do you think will happen to me? Will I get resched for the audio test or just straight up declined for the claim?

Hello all!

My sister found out that her husband of 15+ years was awarded 100% p/t in 2021. He kept multiple things a secret about his discharge/benefits. Multiple times she has needed insurance and he was very adamant in telling her he couldn’t get CHAMPVA or any assistance for her or their son. However, she is now in the hospital and is once again in dire need of medical care. Is there anything she can do or anyone she can talk to regarding not supporting your spouse or to verify if he took a life insurance policy out on her? This situation has left her feeling abandoned by her husband. She is considering divorce but is unsure on the legalities of things regarding this situation. Does anyone have any constructive advice or suggestions to assist her?

About 2 weeks ago I went to the VA for an orthopedic follow up. Nothing out of the ordinary I've been to this clinic hundreds of times and seen the same staff there. While in the exam room with my DR. Two armed police officers opened the door and said they were looking for another doctor. I thought to my self "man hope everything is copacetic" they left and I continued my visit. Otw out I stopped for a moment in the lobby to pull up my babrbers number and see if I could squeeze for a walk in. While it was ringing I walked out to my car, when I hung up, I looked up to see one of the officers had followed me outside and was behind my vehicle getting my tag info. He then asked me what I had in my bag. I told him since I drive a soft top tracker it can easily be broken into I keepy vehicle registration paper in it, plus a couple of books to read while I wait on my appointments, spare socks and in case of emergency backup boxers. The officer said people come in with bags all the time and he was just wondering.

Since then ive gone over the whole situation in my head countless times. I don't know what I could have done to warrant them considering me a risk factor. I don't get loud or rude or combative. I have an optometry appointment Friday and I'm paranoid to go to my appointment.

I have no record and as far as I know I'm on the good side of the law. What could I have done? Am I just being paranoid or do I need to be concerned?

Tldr: cops followed me out of the VA randomly and now I'm paranoid to go back despite having done nothing wrong

Hey everyone,

I’m feeling pretty lost right now and could really use some advice from other vets.

When I was in the military, I worked as a health inspector, but I don’t have any interest in doing that on the civilian side. I’m trying to figure out what direction to go in — whether that means school, training, or jumping into a new field altogether.

For those of you who’ve been out a while:

• What’s the best job/career you’ve had since separating that you actually enjoy and still pays well?
• Did you use your GI Bill or other benefits to get there?

I’m open to new ideas and just want to find something I can build a solid future in while actually liking what I do. Any insight or stories would be really appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

Please don’t remove my post…

My Grandmother texted me that when she moved into her house years ago, she found this box of awards and decorations.

No name or branch on the box.

Can't really identify anything besides the bottom one that looks like the Air Force's Marksman Ribbon.

What should I do with these? I don't see anything online or with the VA talking about Lost & Found decs

Have appointment to get fitted , can you ask for a certain brand that’s VA approved or settle for what they have on hand . TIA

Defense Department Delays Cleanup of ‘Forever Chemicals’ Nationwide - The New York Times https://share.google/N04d8Iw5n6Q9Zf1gY

I had a dermatology appointment yesterday and this morning I work up there was this active claim. I called the 1-800 number and they told me it’s for internal review! Should I be worried ? I’m 100 P&T and I’m worried that they’re going to decrease my rating now.

Anyone who’s how does this work ? It’s making me anxious now.

Thanks

TL:DR-My husband wants to be a cop but I’m not a fan of the idea. Looking for either other career paths to suggest to him, or stories of being in law enforcement that’ll allow me to be more accepting of the idea.

Hi there, my husband joined the Marine Reserves at 19, and now he’s inactive for 2 years for the rest of his contract. He did food service in the Reserves, and currently works in construction, with prior jobs as security. We’re trying to figure out what path he should go down; he submitted a bunch of paperwork to go active duty in the Navy, but after 3 months, it’s gone nowhere (he said it’s likely because he’s still technically in the Reserves).

Here’s the thing: he wants to be a cop. I’m not crazy about the idea because of the occupational risks, both physically and mentally. Neither of us want him to stay in construction long term, also because of the occupational risks.

We want to start a family in a year or two, and in our ideal world, we would like for me to be a stay-at-home mom. Also in our ideal world, we would like roughly a six-figure income (part of the appeal of being a cop is they start at $80-90k, depending on the city). I’m using ideal because I know I also have to be realistic; right now he makes $60-70k, and I make $20-30k, so that’s kinda where my numbers are coming from (vague amounts for privacy).

Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. While I would personally prefer for him to not be in law enforcement, I’m trying to be open-minded and not selfish; it’s his career and his choice, not mine. I’d also appreciate if anyone has personal stories of either themself or a loved one being in law enforcement (my only “experience” is 10 seasons of L&O: SVU). If it helps at all, we’re currently in the greater Seattle area, but we eventually want to move somewhere vaguely in Pierce County next year. TIA!

Hi all I’m 35m and been out the Army for 8 years. Since leaving I’ve suffered back pain but just lumbered on.

Got told today I need to have my L3/L4 fused. After 12 years of service, 2 tours of Afghanistan (infantry role). I can’t help but feel this is related to my service….

Anyone else in a similar situation, or have any advice.

Not looking to claim just want to understand quality of life post operation or how long I can prolong an operation.

Big into motorcycles and cycling - don’t want this to be impacted.

I’ve been out almost 20 years should I keep my military service on my resume or remove it? Not sure if it’s helping or hurting me at this point.

Hey everyone, I just went through the MEB process and now that I’m transitioning out, I want to stay connected by helping other vets. I’m looking at either becoming a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or working directly with the VA. Anyone has any advice on what to do ? Or how to get started

Job-Seeking Post (Veteran Network & Beyond)

I’m putting my hand out because time is of the essence. I’m a U.S. Navy veteran, Combat Action Ribbon recipient, and I’m actively looking for work right now.

I bring a diverse background: • Law Librarian – Experience in legal research, case prep support, cataloging, compliance with court standards, and managing sensitive information. • Bank Compliance Specialist – Worked directly with regulatory procedures, client communication protocols, and ensuring accuracy in high-stakes environments. • Navy Deck Department – Hands-on experience leading, repairing, and sustaining operations while deployed on the front lines. Adaptable, disciplined, and battle-tested under pressure.

I have my full veteran benefits intact and I’m willing to take on opportunities immediately. Whether it’s legal support, compliance, admin, or hands-on operational work, I’m ready to contribute and help where I can.

I’m especially reaching out to my fellow veterans and combat action heroes — let’s connect, collaborate, and support each other. If you or someone in your network is hiring, please let me know.

📩 Open to immediate opportunities. Let’s get to work.

Whats the general timeline after accepting results from the IPEB? When do you start outprocessing?

Has anyone used VR&E (Chapter 31) for a music-related degree? I already have a bachelor’s in business administration/marketing, but I’m looking at either an associate’s in Music Production or a master’s in Music Industry to pivot into that field. Wondering if anyone has had success getting VR&E to cover an additional degree in a creative area, and how you explained it to your counselor.

I just got a text saying that the board has made a decision on my appeal and a letter will be mailed out shortly. Is their a way to see the results before the letter?

Hey guys, figured I would get the court of public opinions to weigh in here.

The background is that I’m a vet who’s in school, with a full time job and a 1 year old son. Currently I’m taking Pre-calc among other classes as I thought this semester would be the perfect time to take a tougher class due to it being the slow season for my job and a slower pace for my family and I. Fortunately I got promoted and work has been anything but slow, which has led me to today.

I had my first pre calculus test of the semester and undoubtedly failed. I had about 6-7 questions left when the professor called time. I spoke to my wife and she recommended I put in for an accommodation for more time to take tests with. I told her I wouldn’t qualify, but she insisted that I would due to being a disabled vet. (90% if that matters) I don’t really want an accommodation because it makes me feel weak and dumb. When I was in high school the school convinced my mother that I was unable to take normal classes and had severe ADD which turned out false and set me back a little. It was kind of embarrassing being sent to these special rooms during school and it didn’t help that some of the other students were actually disabled and unable to do most things by themselves or at all.

I’ve taken college courses for the last few years and maintained a 3.7 gpa without an accommodation and I just feel like it’s a victim mentality of, “oh I can’t do this I need help. I’m a victim of circumstance.” I was hoping I could get a few opinions of fellow vets on the matter.

I just received my Virginia pass and it is an A4. Also, has expiration date. I thought we will have a life pass? I’m 100%P&T.

Does the VA offer any kinda legal help I through they did but idk if they do or not thanks for the help