My Friends Dad is a Vietnam’s vet he was 25th ID. He’s 75 and never applied for benefits he’s disgruntled and getting old/unhealthy and needs healthcare/ benefits. He can’t find his DD 214 and I’m trying to help him get enrolled in the Va. I pretty much have to do the work/ drive him to appts.

Start by immediately filing an Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966) to establish an effective date for potential benefits, then simultaneously request his DD-214 via the National Archives' eVetRecs system or Standard Form 180. While awaiting his service records, compile a list of all current health conditions and gather any private medical records, focusing on those potentially linked to Vietnam service like Agent Orange-related presumptives (e.g., diabetes mellitus II, ischemic heart disease, Parkinson's disease) under 38 CFR 3.309(e). His service with the 25th Infantry Division in Vietnam satisfies the "boots on the ground" requirement for these presumptions, easing service connection. For mental health concerns like PTSD, you would need to establish a stressor, but his combat service may facilitate this under 38 CFR 3.304(f). Given his age and health, request an expedited processing due to financial hardship or advanced age, and immediately apply for VA healthcare enrollment using VA Form 10-10EZ, which can be submitted even before a disability claim is decided to access basic services. Consider consulting a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) from organizations like the DAV or VFW for claim preparation; they are accredited and can significantly assist. The foundational legal principle from *Savage v. Shinseki* emphasizes the VA's duty to assist, which is crucial here given missing records. **Disclaimer: This is educational information for claim strategy and does not constitute legal or medical advice; for personal guidance, consult an accredited attorney or claims agent.**