The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for residuals of gunshot wound to the right lower extremity was denied, and his initial compensable disability rating for bilateral trench foot was granted.
The deciding factor: The evidence did not support a higher rating for the GSW due to lack of severe impairment, while the trench foot met criteria for a 20% rating based on symptoms including arthralgia, numbness, cold sensitivity, and tissue loss.
- Claimed conditions
- residuals of gunshot wound (GSW) of the right lower extremity, bilateral trench foot
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- April 24, 2019
- Citation
- 19131832
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
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- Dismissed
The veteran's appeal has been dismissed due to his death.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
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