Does a Veteran injured with a brain injury from a road side bomb deserve a Purple Heart?

PO2 Mark Saffell — Fri, 11 Sep 2015 06:46:28 -0400

My son-in-law was injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq. The VA has determined he has a permanent brain injury due to the bomb. Does he receive a Purple Heart and how does he get the Army to award that?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2015 6:58 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 Sep 2015 06:58:37 -0400

If he is Army, for soldiers who want to be reconsidered for the medal, instructions for applying retroactively for the Purple Heart medal were issued in Milper Message 11-125 and were expected to be posted soon on the Army Human Resources website at: http://www.hrc.army.mil.

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Sep 11 at 2015 10:14 AM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Fri, 11 Sep 2015 10:14:29 -0400

You would need a before and after MRI / CT scan to prove it.
I have a 1/4 hole in my head from an RPG and VA keeps turning me down for TBI and I did get a Purple Heart.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2015 10:15 AM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 Sep 2015 10:15:41 -0400

PO2 Mark Saffell, Why not?

Response by SGT Jonathon Caldwell made Sep 11 at 2015 1:44 PM

SGT Jonathon Caldwell — Fri, 11 Sep 2015 13:44:33 -0400

Yes he can be awarded the PH from congress. That is how I received mine. There are several factors which would be needed in order to be awarded it. The biggest one is the SF 600 from theater when he was treated by medical personnel other than a combat medic i.e. physician assistant or more qualified stating a concussion that was treated for greater than 48 hrs. for his signs and symptoms. Full requirements needing to be met can be found at http://www.hrc.army.mil/tagd/purple%20heart
I do not know however how to have one submitted once discharged. You can check with your local chapter of Military Order of the Purple Heart, VFW or American Legion and they could point you in the right direction to file for it or help file for it if all requirements are met. Hope this helps and GOOD LUCK.

Response by SGT David Felten made Sep 15 at 2015 12:28 PM

SGT David Felten — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 12:28:27 -0400

He better receive a Purple Heart or the Army sucks!

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Sep 15 at 2015 12:31 PM

SGT Craig Northacker — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 12:31:59 -0400

I have great respect for those getting injured in combat. Some of my hard core friends also have private thoughts on some of those "injuries". Anytime anyone is significantly injured while serving active duty should be recognized - while PHM is reserved for combat theaters, it has also now been issued Stateside because of an act of terrorism. Others who were not in a combat theater who sustained serious injury should be given a separate recognition, if only to assist later on with interminable combat with the Veterans Benefits Administration - which also developed another cause of PTSD.

Response by MSgt Scott Gaston made Sep 15 at 2015 1:19 PM

MSgt Scott Gaston — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 13:19:04 -0400

The injury is documented by the VA, his medievac and triage should be documented as well. Statements from those present should be easily obtained and whoever was in command should have noted it and recommended the award as it was a direct result of combat action in a combat theater sustained while engaged with the enemy. I would contact his base public affairs officer and if I didn't like their response, send copies of your documentation to his Senator and Congressman to initiate a Congretional Inquiry! I'm a retired Air Force First Sergant, but my Son is in the Army and you can damn sure bet if I contacted the Pentagon over all the letters being returned that I wrote him in basic to keep up his morale, I 'd have them asking "What Fresh Hell is This" if he were treated like that! I'm sure my Brothers and Sisters in Arms (regardless of branch of service would feel the same)!

Best Regards,

Scott A. Gaston, MSgt, USAF (Ret)

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Sep 15 at 2015 1:22 PM

MAJ Ronnie Reams — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 13:22:21 -0400

As I remember you have to have bleeding. Did the medics record any bleeding, perhaps from the ears, etc?

Response by SSG Bruce Hartman made Sep 15 at 2015 1:31 PM

SSG Bruce Hartman — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 13:31:46 -0400

Yes he is eligible for the PH. His unit should have put him in for it when the injury happened via a DA 4187.
Injury caused by enemy bullet, shrapnel, or other projectile created by enemy action
Injury caused by enemy placed mine or trap
Injury caused by enemy released chemical, biological, or nuclear agent
Injury caused by vehicle or aircraft accident resulting from enemy fire
Concussion injuries caused as a result of enemy generated explosions
Mild traumatic brain injury or concussive severe enough to cause either loss of consciousness or restriction from full duty due to persistent signs, symptoms, or clinical finding, or impaired brain functions for a period greater than 48 hours from the time of the concussive incident.

Response by MSG Jon McLean made Sep 15 at 2015 1:33 PM

MSG Jon McLean — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 13:33:53 -0400

Often these situations can be difficult but that is intended to protect the integrity of the award. I suggest the following.

Read the detailed information the official Army HRC website

https://www.hrc.army.mil/tagd/purple%20heart

Read MILPER Measage 11-125. (This more exclusively covers MTBI and concussions). This is not the Army's website but is a state gov. This has better instructions for veterans where as the HRC website is more for active duty.

http://www.maine.gov/dvem/bvs/mtbi/Milper-Message-2011-125.pdf

.

Response by SSG Daniel OBrien made Sep 15 at 2015 1:39 PM

SSG Daniel OBrien — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 13:39:06 -0400

The VA rep should have a POC to send the required information to. It's a pain and doesn't happen overnight. Good luck.

Response by MSgt Charles Baum made Sep 15 at 2015 2:00 PM

MSgt Charles Baum — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 14:00:30 -0400

I would say yes if documentation proves that it caused it...

Response by Cpl Anthony Pearson made Sep 15 at 2015 2:12 PM

Cpl Anthony Pearson — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 14:12:04 -0400

HELL. YES.

And if he didn't, let us know. We will raise holy hell.

Response by SGT Bryan O'Reilly made Sep 15 at 2015 2:18 PM

SGT Bryan O'Reilly — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 14:18:47 -0400

Absolutely!

Response by A1C Lisa Casserly made Sep 15 at 2015 2:30 PM

A1C Lisa Casserly — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 14:30:10 -0400

I'm not sure how you start this process. My daughter was severely injured in Afghanistan back in 2013, and before she was even back in the States, they had awarded it to her. In fact, she wasn't even CONSCIOUS when she got it, the Army had sent her brother/my son back with her from Afghanistan, and he accepted the medal for her. I am profoundly grateful for this, as I am former military, worked in Personnel, and I know that they did not have to take him out of his unit, give him a release from theater, and allow him to accompany her to Germany, and then on to Walter Reed. He stayed with her for nearly 6 months before they returned my son to his Unit.

I would say off hand, that you either contact someone at your closest VA about this, and if they cannot point you in the right direction, contact your congressman. And, I caution you about the Congressman, as a former military personnel clerk! - because the military hates having a Congressional Inquiry. But it is an option, and they will jump to answer it.

Response by SSG Sean Knudsen made Sep 15 at 2015 2:39 PM

SSG Sean Knudsen — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 14:39:36 -0400

Absolutely 100% Damn right they earn a PH for injuries to the brain from IED blasts!

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2015 2:45 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 14:45:06 -0400

Well hell, why wouldn't he?

Response by SSG Taafulisia Brown Tilo made Sep 15 at 2015 2:45 PM

SSG Taafulisia Brown Tilo — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 14:45:28 -0400

SSG TBTILO 100/442 INF
Yeah he should get a PH. I know a few of my buddies who got IED beside their vehicle...... Definitely deserve it......Bulldog all the way whooo yahm

Response by PO3 Dennis Bullard made Sep 15 at 2015 2:50 PM

PO3 Dennis Bullard — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 14:50:09 -0400

They should have already awarded him his purple heart. Unless, he did not identify himself as injured during the blast. Was the damage unnoticed at the blast scene?

Response by CPL Howard Conover made Sep 15 at 2015 2:57 PM

CPL Howard Conover — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 14:57:46 -0400

I not sure of the wording for a soldier to receive the Purple Heart Medal but it seems that if the soldier was serving especially in a "hot spot" then logically that soldier would be eligible for the Purple Heart Medal.

Response by A1C Melissa Jackson made Sep 15 at 2015 2:59 PM

A1C Melissa Jackson — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 14:59:36 -0400

He absolutely deserves it. He was wounded in the line of duty.

I would get in touch with a service org to help you with the steps to get that medal for him!

Response by SPC Andre Smith made Sep 15 at 2015 3:12 PM

SPC Andre Smith — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 15:12:58 -0400

Indeed!

Response by SPC Chad French made Sep 15 at 2015 3:28 PM

SPC Chad French — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 15:28:22 -0400

He deserves the Purple Heart and probably then some! He without a doubt should receive it, if not take it to the next level just like when we served, go through the "chain of command." I would suggest keep climbing that chain until he gets what he deserves and then break the chain off if need be to get what he is due!!

Response by Cpl Barry Goodson made Sep 15 at 2015 4:04 PM

Cpl Barry Goodson — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 16:04:27 -0400

That is not an easy question to answer, Mark. Since your request in stemming after the fact, I would imagine that you will need to pursue the Purple Heart through your Congressional Representative, who would in turn forward a request through the proper channels. In respect to you son-in-law deserving the reward, according to the Military Order of the Purple Heart, "The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the armed forces of the U.S. who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy and posthumously to the next of kin in the name of those who are killed in action or die of wounds received in action. It is specifically a combat decoration" (purpleheart.org, 2015, para. 1). Therefore, since the VA already recognizes the TBI issue and has declared such as Service-Connected then one would expect that the request for the Purple Heart would be readily accepted. I have to assume that your son-in-law received no other physical injuries, which would have warranted immediate award of the Purple Heart. However, TBI is obviously a physical injury as well, although the determination of the existence of TBI may not be determined until years following the actual event. I wish you the best and encourage your son-in-law to press forward with the request for the Purple Heart. He definitely deserves it even if the surface scars are absent.

Kindest Regards,
Barry Goodson
CAP124 Vietnam 1968-1969
USMC

Response by LtCol Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2015 4:09 PM

LtCol Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 16:09:46 -0400

Absolutely. He was wounded in combat. the least his country owes him is a Purple Heard and decent post-service medical care.

Response by Sgt Tom Vaughn made Sep 15 at 2015 4:32 PM

Sgt Tom Vaughn — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 16:32:20 -0400

Yes he should get one ,
My son was wounded the same way when his driver drove over a 2.5 Russian anti tank mine , the Marine Corps Denied him a Purple Heart, he had a class 2 and 3 concussion .
The next tour had a suiside bomber do the same again
Then in Afghanistan , he was knocked off his feet from the explosion of an RPG7. He rolled 100 feet down s hill , again concussion only this time his head , neck and shoulder were swollen , he was medi vac out of Helmand province. To an Army hospital , then when stable go the U.S. AirForce hospital in Germany

Response by LCpl Mark Voorhees made Sep 15 at 2015 4:47 PM

LCpl Mark Voorhees — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 16:47:35 -0400

Yes 100%

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2015 4:47 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 16:47:48 -0400

The criteria for the PH is not branch specific, the policy is DOD. Therefore, if he meets DOD criteria then he should recieve it.

Response by PFC Janice Mayer made Sep 15 at 2015 5:08 PM

PFC Janice Mayer — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 17:08:35 -0400

What if the soldiers records show nothing??? My son served TWO tours in Iraq as a Calvary Scout with TWO different units. No CAB from first unit- he most definitely saw combat- and discharged immediately upon return from deployment with second- enlistment was up. He had FOUR concussions while in Iraq from IED's with the second unit. His medical records while deployed show nothing...they were "lost" He had numerous blood clots removed from his head at VA, 2 years after discharge, and VA confirmed TBI and PTS.

Response by MSgt J D McKee made Sep 15 at 2015 5:22 PM

MSgt J D McKee — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 17:22:02 -0400

Hell, yes. I would make a case that it's a worse injury than many for which the PH has in fact been awarded. It's a frakkin' brain injury and therefore has to be much worse than a minor wound from say a grenade fragment or the like on your forearm. In my very inexpert medical opinion.

Response by SPC Richard Montalvo made Sep 15 at 2015 6:00 PM

SPC Richard Montalvo — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 18:00:31 -0400

hell yes he does get the medal with everything else pay/treatment/

Response by Cpl Tommy Loyd made Sep 15 at 2015 6:31 PM

Cpl Tommy Loyd — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 18:31:19 -0400

Yes he should. but getting it awarded is another thing. I have tried to get a PH awarded since I was a Marine in Vietnam. 46 years ago, I was knocked unconscious by a Grenade, Next Morning I collapse with a Seizure for which I am still receiving Disablity from VA. I even had my Congressman look into it with no luck. I still have my tag that my Corpsman put on me when I was Medevac out of the Combat Zone.

Response by CPL George M. Taff made Sep 15 at 2015 8:25 PM

CPL George M. Taff — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 20:25:16 -0400

Without a doubt!

Response by AN Anthony Vazquez made Sep 15 at 2015 8:59 PM

AN Anthony Vazquez — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 20:59:24 -0400

I cannot believe this is even a question... yes he absolutely deserves a PH Medal its not like he bumped his head climbing into a humvee... hope all is taken care of appropriately... we salute him...

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Sep 15 at 2015 9:13 PM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 21:13:06 -0400

I believe so...

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Sep 15 at 2015 9:26 PM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 21:26:36 -0400

Is the Pope a Catholic? I mean come on now. Of course he/she does. WTF!!!! Why would there even be a question?

Response by SSG Justin Sabo made Sep 15 at 2015 10:15 PM

SSG Justin Sabo — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 22:15:23 -0400

Yes, he is eligible. This almost same situation occurred with me. I didn't receive my purple heart until 10 years afterwards. I was already out of the military so it took quite a bit of correspondence on my part, but I finally figured out the exact order in which the award must be submitted. If he is currently serving then he needs to contact the US Army Human Resources command with the appropriate paperwork and submit it. If he is no longer serving you should contact your local Veterans Service Officer rep and they, in conjunction with the Military Order of the Purple Heart will help him submit the appropriate documentation first to u.s. army Human Resources Command. If, upon review, they sent it, as they did me, then submit to the army records review board which has the final say in awarding or upgrading of military records and awards. The army records review board however will not review the case unless it has already been seen and denied first by the US Army Human Resources command. It took me approximately 2 years in this process to finally be awarded my Purple Heart for a concussion received from an IED in Iraq in 2005. Good luck to your son, and if he has any questions he can certainly send me a message.

Response by SFC Jay Needham made Sep 15 at 2015 10:27 PM

SFC Jay Needham — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 22:27:47 -0400

Yes SSG Hartman is absolutely correct.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2015 10:38 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 22:38:57 -0400

I was injured in Afghanistan by an IED explosion just as the service member in question. I did not suffer any blood injuries, but did have numerous medical issues that resulted in getting reccommended for a Purple Heart. My unit of assignment failed to properly follow through with the paperwork (We were attached to a larger unit & therefore our specialty team was treated as bastards). Long story short, I received a copy of the DA 4187 & the sworn statements just as I was being shipped out for medical treatment. I later resubmitted the sworn statements, a new 4187, my statement, and a photo of the actual incidente.

I received my Purple Heart.

Response by SPC Lester Abele made Sep 15 at 2015 11:23 PM

SPC Lester Abele — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 23:23:12 -0400

Go to DOD forms management - form# DD-293 [review of discharge] submitted to Army Review Board in Alexandria, VA. Once the DD-214 is corrected, it will be amended w/a DD-215.
Best wishes - yours in veterans service....Veterans First [FED EIN 27-0135068] a 501.c.3

Please have paperwork reviewed by DOD agency to correct active duty records

Response by SPC Rob Robinson made Sep 16 at 2015 1:41 AM

SPC Rob Robinson — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 01:41:02 -0400

Quick answer One: Of course, he's entitled.

Quick Answer Two: Light up you House of Representatives Member.

I was burned because a Vietnamese that we were training [47 years ago] dropped a lit cigarette into mortar increments [highly flammable] and took out the entire command group [five men] of our Mortar Platoon. He was the only one, of about six Vietnamese, that ran. He was killed by our gunfire after he got about 100 meters out into the paddy.

The Army said it was an accident because he was, on paper, one of ours. I think it was a "hit".

I have just recently begun to get another reading on it from the Army. I will submit my inquiry to the Army and carbon-copy my House of Representatives member with names, addresses and phones of whoever I talked with.The Army initially sent back some medical records that weren't mine, either part of a delaying tactic or incompetence.

Good luck. Pray.

Response by SGT Carl Tyson made Sep 16 at 2015 4:36 AM

SGT Carl Tyson — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 04:36:23 -0400

Yes, any injury doing war is awarded the purple heart , his unit should have put him in for it, if not go to your local va administration and talk to them about it, or write your congressman .

Response by CPL Bryan Claeys made Sep 16 at 2015 12:10 PM

CPL Bryan Claeys — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 12:10:40 -0400

I was awarded one for a TBI.

Response by 1SG William Svoboda made Sep 16 at 2015 12:14 PM

1SG William Svoboda — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 12:14:25 -0400

Agree with Cpt LaFlame and if their ever was an opportunity to enlist the assistance of your under worked over paid senator or congress person, this is it. I also agree VA is not the place or the people to help you rather along with or instead of I would recommend your service organizations, http://www.veteransnetwork.net/directory.php. They are great at advocacy and breaching doors.

Veteransnetwork.net

Response by CW4 Bob Hardy made Sep 16 at 2015 1:19 PM

CW4 Bob Hardy — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 13:19:20 -0400

It is time to enlist congressional support. Contact them and provide as many specifics as possible. They will run it down and provide the heat to get it done. Of course, this is if you have already pursued this through his chain of command. Give them a chance. Best of luck.

Response by PO2 Leonard Anderson made Sep 16 at 2015 1:25 PM

PO2 Leonard Anderson — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 13:25:33 -0400

I WOULD THINK SO.

Response by FN George Woodruff made Sep 16 at 2015 2:21 PM

FN George Woodruff — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 14:21:46 -0400

He certainly does deserve it.

Response by SPC Paul Webber made Sep 16 at 2015 2:32 PM

SPC Paul Webber — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 14:32:59 -0400

I would think so. How long ago did it happen, and is he still in the service?

Response by CPL Paul Kumli made Sep 16 at 2015 2:40 PM

CPL Paul Kumli — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 14:40:25 -0400

His CO should have put the request in following the indecent. You, should get the VA to document everything, to his injuries that was related to the explosion. Once, you have the proof submit it to DOD. Keep pushing until you get your results you want.

Response by MCPO Paul Davis made Sep 16 at 2015 2:51 PM

MCPO Paul Davis — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 14:51:49 -0400

DAMN RIGHT

Response by SPC Donald Moore made Sep 16 at 2015 3:20 PM

SPC Donald Moore — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 15:20:57 -0400

I guess that everyone can have a different opinion here, but the way I see it is, this is a combat injury. It may not be a "wound" but it should qualify for the Purple Heart. It is just as serious and debilitating as any other wound suffered in combat.
Final answer, YES. Just my two cents.

Response by SGT Reyes Molina made Sep 16 at 2015 3:43 PM

SGT Reyes Molina — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 15:43:17 -0400

yes

Response by SPC Theresa Pierce made Sep 16 at 2015 4:05 PM

SPC Theresa Pierce — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 16:05:34 -0400

Wow... have to be sensitive in answering a question like this. First of all, my deepest gratitude to your son's service and for the sacrifice he has given for our country. I do not know how it is determined for a case such as your son's - whether the soldiers involved in that situation / war zone are deserving of a Purple Heart. I know it has to be recommended by his senior NCO's and approved by his unit commanders - and I am sure all the way up to Congress / The White House. It is a harsh reality though, that not all injured combatants will be deemed as qualified to receive the medal. Many times, an evaluation may show that he or she will get an award, but not necessarily the Purple Heart or Medal of Honor. Whatever the outcome of your endeavors, please do not be disappointed should you get less than what you expect he deserves. Please know that they are not discounting your son's contributions for this war, or the sacrifice of the injuries he sustained. You must know that the people that review these recommendations see so many come through - and they have to pick the most heroic actions given and portrayed at that time, in the battlefield. It is an arduous road you'll embark on to make this request - and I wish you well on your journey for the Purple Heart for your son.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2015 4:36 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 16:36:50 -0400

YES

Response by SPC Christopher Perrien made Sep 16 at 2015 7:52 PM

SPC Christopher Perrien — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 19:52:41 -0400

This is the responsibility of the unit he was in. You may want to contact DIAG. If that don't work try congressman /senators.

Response by CW5 Joe Tygart made Sep 16 at 2015 9:44 PM

CW5 Joe Tygart — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 21:44:37 -0400

ALCON: Address your questions and applications to U.S. Army Human Resources Command, Awards and Decorations Branch. You must submit official documentation, i.e. evidence. IAW Army Directive Memo 2011-07, the guidance relating to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is only retroactive to September 11, 2001. This appears to be politically motivated, judging by the restrictions and date of the Directive. I'm an 80% retired combat vet with (TBI) and permanent brain damage, having stayed at Walter Reed for 5 months in the Veterans Head Injury Program. So, it's NOT an easy acquisition. Received my response yesterday: "Your request can not be processed" - but, Thank you for your service..... As usual, Vietnam and Desert Storm era combat injured veterans are forgotten and unqualified. (BOHICA)

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2015 9:51 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 21:51:54 -0400

By regulation he is entitled.

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made Sep 16 at 2015 9:52 PM

SSG Ed Mikus — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 21:52:49 -0400

Yes, and furthermore, it will affect him more than most bullet wounds.

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Sep 16 at 2015 11:59 PM

SGT Joseph Alanzo — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 23:59:32 -0400

YES YES and YES and MORE YES

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2015 12:11 AM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 00:11:13 -0400

I understand your pain. But be Happy your son is alive. Why cause all the havoc for an award? Be blessed you can still see your son. I know several men and women who are blessed to be alive and the awards matter nothing to them

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2015 12:13 AM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 00:13:29 -0400

We all sign knowing what the possibilities are. But my deepest condolences for your son

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Sep 17 at 2015 12:15 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 00:15:23 -0400

Absolutely

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2015 9:13 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 09:13:10 -0400

PH is something that is somewhat of a sensitive topic for me. Because I have seen many REMF and Fobbits wear them after deployment - perhaps very well deserved, while small units like the one I was in have many that should have received one, but we were so under-strength that no papers were ever filled out for most injuries. We couldn't see a doc, and we sure wasn't gonna travel to see one. We were on our own. Holding down the fort. Injured or not.

But to the topic - yes, of course someone should be able to receive a PH for a blast.

Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Sep 17 at 2015 11:39 AM

MSgt Michael Smith — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 11:39:38 -0400

Yes and Yes.

Response by SCPO Edward O'Donnoghue made Sep 17 at 2015 12:23 PM

SCPO Edward O'Donnoghue — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 12:23:18 -0400

Of Course. I new guys who got shot in the butt in Nam while in the latrine get purple hearts.

Response by CPO Andy Carrillo, MS made Sep 17 at 2015 1:58 PM

CPO Andy Carrillo, MS — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 13:58:48 -0400

The veteran did not receive a Purple Heart, believes he or she is eligible for a Purple
Heart, but military records do not reflect that he was awarded a Purple Heart. The
veteran must complete the Application for Correction of Military Record (DD Form 149, Sep
2007) and send it to:
Army Board for Correction of Military Records
1901 South Bell Street, 2nd Floor Support Division, St Louis
Arlington, VA 22202-4508
I would also include copies of all VA medical records documenting the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in support of your son-in-law's request for correction of military records. Good luck, and here is a link for information: http://www.purpleheart.org/Downloads/Bank/ServiceProgram/MissingDocumentsAndMedalProcedures.pdf

Response by CPO Andy Carrillo, MS made Sep 17 at 2015 2:01 PM

CPO Andy Carrillo, MS — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 14:01:27 -0400

http://www.purpleheart.org/Downloads/Bank/ServiceProgram/MissingDocumentsAndMedalProcedures.pdf. Include copies of all VA medical records documenting his TBI. Good luck and be patient.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Sep 17 at 2015 2:10 PM

1SG Michael Blount — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 14:10:46 -0400

IMHO, your son in law qualifies for a Purple Heart. He would have to get his Commander or anyone with personal knowledge of the incident to prepare and submit a DA 638 through his chain of command.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2015 2:12 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 14:12:53 -0400

Yes

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2015 2:51 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 14:51:19 -0400

He should definitely be awarded it, but it should have been put up by his unit at the time. It's not too late, and both the original unit or a higher echelon can correct it and put in the award.

Response by SP5 John Anderson made Sep 17 at 2015 4:55 PM

SP5 John Anderson — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 16:55:25 -0400

I received 2 PHM'S during my 18 months in Vietnam and I say absolutely, without any doubt.

Response by AA Charles Grammer made Sep 17 at 2015 5:23 PM

AA Charles Grammer — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 17:23:53 -0400

yes I stand with SSG Bruce Hartman he is correct

Response by Cpl Moe Montoya made Sep 17 at 2015 6:33 PM

Cpl Moe Montoya — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 18:33:43 -0400

Yes call army administration and thay can point u in the right direction.

Response by SCPO Penny Douphinett made Sep 17 at 2015 8:40 PM

SCPO Penny Douphinett — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 20:40:08 -0400

Since he is now a veteran, I would call your Senator. They have people on staff to help you. This is the kind of thing they are eager to do because they get a great photo op out of presenting the medal when it is approved.

Cynical? Yes, but probably very true.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2015 10:19 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 22:19:21 -0400

PO2, If the TBI is medically verifiable, yes. I realize too many times personnel fake injuries, but if the documentation backs up the claim, then the service member deserves the PH.

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made Sep 17 at 2015 10:21 PM

Cpl Rc Layne — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 22:21:49 -0400

My personal thought would be yes.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Sep 17 at 2015 11:15 PM

SGT Rick Ash — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 23:15:10 -0400

PO2 Mark Saffell,
If he doesn't qualify for a Purple Heart I don't know why not! And now I see the Purple Heart threads over here on the right. I'll certainly go look but are they related to your son-in-law?
Thanks,
Rick

Response by LCDR Jeffery Dixon made Sep 18 at 2015 11:31 AM

LCDR Jeffery Dixon — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 11:31:30 -0400

Is that really in doubt? Wounded by enemy action in a combat zone.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Sep 18 at 2015 1:46 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 13:46:32 -0400

When I was in Afghanistan all road side bombs injured soldiers were submitted for Purple Heart, there were some cases in which some commanders refused to honor their obligations to their soldiers, if your son in law is one, he needs to use his Congress rep.

Response by SPC David S. made Sep 18 at 2015 1:55 PM

SPC David S. — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 13:55:53 -0400

Yes he deserves to be awarded the Purple Heart. Get it documented and reach out to the local DAV chapter - http://www.dav.org/veterans/find-your-local-office/

St. Louis, Missouri
VA Regional Office
400 South 18th Street, Rm 119
St. Louis, MO 63103
[login to see]

DAV Local Offices - Find NSO and TSO location information here.

Locate a DAV office, Get a ride to the VA, and learn about how the DAV can assist with

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Sep 18 at 2015 2:13 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 14:13:04 -0400

http://www.maine.gov/dvem/bvs/mtbi/Milper-Message-2011-125.pdf

Response by SGT Robert Schaefer made Sep 18 at 2015 3:58 PM

SGT Robert Schaefer — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 15:58:47 -0400

It's alright my unit would not have gave me one anyway.

Response by SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD made Sep 18 at 2015 4:56 PM

SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 16:56:02 -0400

I believe he is entitled to it. He was serving his country, and received the injury by enemy actions. Bless him. I thank both of you for your service.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2015 5:29 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 17:29:38 -0400

I would contact Your son-in-Laws local Senator or Congressman. He will assign someone from his staff to gather all the information in order to get it awarded. I would make sure he has his LOD (Line of Duty) Is complete and he has all the documentation regarding this incident to include the names of personnel with him that day. I am a Human Resource NCO and know that they will need all of that to build a case that has to go all the way to the Pentagon. Hope this helps.

Response by SPC Chad Harris made Sep 18 at 2015 10:18 PM

SPC Chad Harris — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 22:18:12 -0400

Im no expert! but I found this
http://www.army.mil/article/140723/

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2015 11:33 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 23:33:15 -0400

Hell, yes. That is unquestionably a combat-related battle injury...no Ifs, Ands, Buts, or Maybes!!!

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Sep 19 at 2015 5:03 AM

PV2 Glen Lewis — Sat, 19 Sep 2015 05:03:20 -0400

I'd have to say absolutely and wonder why it hadn't been awarded him yet. I read some of the posts that contain criteria for the medal. I don't see where he doesn't fit anywhere. Must be paperwork that hasn't been put in or something of that nature. I'd check into that because injury incurred certainly merits the medal.

Response by SGT Jerrod Sieberg made Sep 20 at 2015 10:50 AM

SGT Jerrod Sieberg — Sun, 20 Sep 2015 10:50:35 -0400

As far as I know, any wartime injury, or injury suffered due to combat with an enemy, deserves to awarded with the purple heart. I agree with a lot of the post here. If he has not been awarded the purple heart we should raise holy heck about it.

Response by PO2 Gerry Roberson made Sep 23 at 2015 7:51 PM

PO2 Gerry Roberson — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 19:51:10 -0400

That's a question???? WOUNDED IN COMBAT??? Give it to him!! Or else!!!! Active duty? Wounded? C'Mon, kids! Pull your heads out and get it in gear!

Response by FN George Woodruff made Sep 24 at 2015 5:37 PM

FN George Woodruff — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 17:37:00 -0400

Sure. My brother-in-law was a paratrooper and was on Omaha Beach on D-Day. He was bending over to pick a tomato out of a garden patch and got shot in the butt by a German. He received a Purple Heart. He also jumped into the Battle of the Bulge so we didn't kid him about it. At least not to his face.

Response by PO2 Nick Burke made Sep 28 at 2015 6:10 PM

PO2 Nick Burke — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 18:10:32 -0400

Yes he should. As to how? IDK.

Response by SPC Cory Mitchell made Oct 2 at 2015 12:50 PM

SPC Cory Mitchell — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 12:50:00 -0400

If it was in Iraq he should have received the award. But it's going to need the date, location time of blast with medical documents saying he was seen that day or in the next couple days for a concussion

Response by CPL Ken Madrid made Oct 2 at 2015 12:54 PM

CPL Ken Madrid — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 12:54:58 -0400

Yes they do deserve the Purple Heart, It's COMBAT.

Response by PO1 Cliff Heath made Oct 8 at 2015 4:15 PM

PO1 Cliff Heath — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 16:15:42 -0400

I DO NOT KNOW HOW TO GO ABOUT IT MARK BUT HE SURE AS HELL DESERVES IT MAYBE IF ENOUGH OF US GET TOGETHER WE CAN GET IT DONE.

Response by CPL Ken Madrid made Oct 21 at 2015 8:34 PM

CPL Ken Madrid — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 20:34:02 -0400

Sure he does , it's combat.

Response by Cpl Tommy Loyd made Oct 22 at 2015 7:30 PM

Cpl Tommy Loyd — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 19:30:46 -0400

Any Veteran who is in a combat area, and was Wounded from direct Enemy Contact. I had a Marine in my Unit who broke a tooth and pushed the tooth through his lower lip. the only Fire was the Marine firing at the Enemy. the doc put a bandaid on it and we continued on with the operation. He was awarded the PHM, and I have no problem with that because he was bleeding. I do believe that any one who was wounded by a Concussion, Lost Consciousness and had Seizure's from that contact, should be Awarded the PHM.

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Oct 22 at 2015 8:23 PM

SGT Joseph Alanzo — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 20:23:20 -0400

YES

Response by SGT William Howell made Oct 27 at 2015 1:53 PM

SGT William Howell — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 13:53:50 -0400

PO2 Mark Saffell Unlike some medals the Purple Heart can be awarded for anytime in the past. Your son meets the qualifications and should be awarded it. My 1SG put me in for mine and it was denied twice by my command. I called my Congressman and next thing you know a Full Bird shows up to give me the PH. A congressional investigation that proves wrong doing is a career killer.

Have all you ducks in a row. Med paperwork, witness statements, LOD paperwork. If you need help contact the Military Order of the Purple Heart. They have a lot of pull and once your son gets his PH he needs to join. They are a great Group to work with.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2016 6:33 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 18:33:59 -0400

Absolutely! PO2 Mark Saffell

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Aug 4 at 2016 4:39 PM

SGT Joseph Alanzo — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 16:39:35 -0400

yes,yes and yes and more yes

Response by PO3 Dennis Bullard made Aug 18 at 2016 2:06 PM

PO3 Dennis Bullard — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 14:06:18 -0400

If they did not, given the scientific understanding that we have now of head injuries, it would simply be a bureaucratic means of cost saving that I personally find disgusting.

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Aug 19 at 2016 1:40 AM

SGT Joseph Alanzo — Fri, 19 Aug 2016 01:40:51 -0400

oh hell yes,yes and yes and yes and then 1.000.000yes and more yes

Response by SPC Ryan Tooher made Nov 7 at 2018 1:25 PM

SPC Ryan Tooher — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 13:25:56 -0500

Yes, I received mine due to a pretty bad tbi.

Response by SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez made Nov 7 at 2018 1:28 PM

SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 13:28:31 -0500

Huh? Why is this individual doesn't have it? This is crazy!

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Oct 18 at 2019 6:18 PM

Capt Daniel Goodman — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 18:18:40 -0400

I found that a really interesting question, honest...I've obv got zero clue to suggest beyond what others here far more knowledgeable and/or experienced might offer (I never deployed, I'm afraid), other than to of course send everything to all three Congress ofcs for him, as well as maybe submit the whole thing to the Army BCMR, or whatever it's called now, as well as seek out the major vet groups and/or law school vet law clinics (just an idea, I'm sure that obv must've occurred to you as well, certainly)...I just mention that as, typically, in stuff I've read, things like that involving retroactive decorations often need correction boards to fix, I've gathered...though, as others also point out here, if properly documented, one would certainly tend to think so, as also mentioned elsewhere on here, at least to my mind, by all means...honestly, I have nothing to suggest beyond that, truly, I'd just figured to send that, merely to offer those thoughts for whatever good they might be, if nothing else, that's all, honest....

Response by LCDR Michael Pumilia made Oct 18 at 2019 10:48 PM

LCDR Michael Pumilia — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 22:48:57 -0400

Hell Yes ! You earned the right to the medal. Always put in for anything you think you are entitled or believe you might be entitled. That includes medal, VA disability compensation, and other VA benefits like vocational training, housing adaptation, clothing for a disability, etc. Check with your state for their unique benefits such as disability parking license plates and/or placards, free admissions to state parks, etc.
You can check anytime you think you are eligible for further benefits for any reason.
My late stepfather never put in for VA stuff despite being a reserve Navy Capt in the Merchant Marines. He had all sorts of medical issues during his career and after he retired. He was called to active service for WWII, Korea, Lebanon, Suez Crisis, Korea, Haiti, Cuban Missile Crisis, Vietnam. Oh, forgot Formosa. He had decades exposed to asbestos in ships enginering spaces,too. He thought "his money" should go to other vets

Response by LTC Ken Connolly made Oct 19 at 2019 11:13 AM

LTC Ken Connolly — Sat, 19 Oct 2019 11:13:15 -0400

In my book he is. Soldiers have received Purple Hearts for far less combat injuries. During WW II soldiers, especially officers, would cut themselves as their plane flew over a combat zone in order for them to get a Purple Heart.