Embedded Files
Supporting a Veteran’s Disability Claim
Supporting a Veteran’s Disability Claim
Group 1 – Facts about your Veteran
You are assisting Staff Sergeant Marcus Taylor, a U.S. Air Force veteran who served four years (2004–2008) on the flight line at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina. During his service, he worked as a crew chief, routinely exposed to loud jet engines and aircraft maintenance operations without consistent access to hearing protection—especially during quick-response deployments.
Marcus had no history of hearing issues prior to his enlistment, and his military occupational specialty (MOS) is well-documented to involve hazardous noise exposure. Since separating from the military, he’s experienced significant hearing loss and tinnitus, which have negatively impacted both his job performance as a warehouse manager and his quality of life at home with his family.
Recently, the VA denied his benefits claim, stating there was "no direct evidence" linking his hearing loss to military service. He is seeking help to appeal the decision, and you've offered to help him draft an appeal letter that communicates the context, urgency, and justification for reconsideration.
Potential Prompt Using the RICCE Framework for Prompting
Potential Prompt Using the RICCE Framework for Prompting
Role: Act as a veterans’ benefits lawyer who specializes in VA disability appeals, with experience writing persuasive appeals related to hearing loss and military occupational noise exposure. Include references to VA regulations or legal precedents where appropriate.
Instructions: Draft a persuasive appeal letter challenging the VA’s denial of a hearing loss claim. The letter should include justification for reconsideration, based on military service conditions.
Context: The veteran served 4 years on the flight line in the Air Force (2004–2008), had no hearing issues prior to service, and now experiences hearing loss and tinnitus. The claim was denied due to “no direct evidence.
Constraints: Keep the letter under 500 words. Use formal and professional legal language appropriate for a government or regulatory audience. Include legal citations such as where applicable.
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