Senator Rosen Speaks with Nevada Veterans Her Office Helped Secure VA Disability Benefits

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke with Nevada Veterans including Steve Pappas — a former soldier in the United States Army, who, with the help of Senator Rosen, was successfully able to file a service-related disability claim, access VA health care, and receive over $17,000 in earned back pay – and Norman Johnson – a Pulitzer Prize-nominated journalist and former member of the United States Air Force, who, with the help of Senator Rosen, was able to reverse his wrongly denied VA disability claim, resulting in over $61,000 in back pay and monthly benefits from the Veterans Benefits Administration.

“Our nation’s servicemembers and veterans are pillars of American heroism,” said Senator Rosen. “However, too often, these patriots do not receive the proper care they deserve after serving our country. Some of the most important work my office does is to help our state’s brave servicemembers, veterans, and military families – those who have done so much for all of us. Whether it’s assisting with service-related disability claims, navigating the VA health system, or connecting veterans with the programs and resources they may need, my office will continue to be accessible to our nation’s heroes who call Nevada home.”

“I was injured during my time in the Army. Thirty years have gone by and I still have not been able to receive the help I needed. The VA kept putting me on the back burner,” said Steve Pappas. “Senator Rosen’s office knew exactly what to do and was able to help me through the paperwork process that was preventing me from receiving assistance. This support means so much to me and to my family. Veterans in need shouldn’t wait a second to call Senator Rosen’s office for help.”

“In 1951, I was assigned to a top-secret mission guarding an Air Force bomber, and during my assignment, I was exposed to a nuclear blast at Area 51. Since then, I’ve suffered from recurring bladder cancer, and have faced long-term difficulties with getting help or even a response from the VA,” said Norman Johnson. “Senator Rosen’s office came through big time and were able to have my claim expedited. They kept me constantly updated and advised throughout this process. They don’t just take phone calls, they get to work!”

BACKGROUND: If you are a Nevada veteran in need, you can contact Senator Rosen’s offices in Las Vegas (702-388-0205) or Reno (775-337-0110) and speak to a team that is ready to listen and help.

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