A TV station in Biloxi, MS, WLOX, is reporting on its investigation into challenges experienced by veterans who are seeking disability benefits. The station began working on the story in part because of many phone calls and emails from frustrated and confused veterans.

In a recent installment of the story, the reporter interviewed several veterans to learn about their experiences with the VA benefits process. One older veteran, who spent 24 years in the military, has been separated from military service for 18 years, reported that getting benefits has been "one difficult task after another." Currently, he's been trying to obtain compensation for exposure to Agent Orange while in Vietnam.

An Air Force psychologist told the reporter that because many veterans already have post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of their military service, having to fight the VA can be especially difficult. Because of their PTSD, many veterans do not cope well with frustration and stress, and having to deal with roadblocks is not something these veterans do well.

Unfortunately, many veterans just give up. Some believe that this is exactly what the VA wants them to do. Others find an attorney or other advocate to help them navigate the maze that is the Veterans Administration.

Source: WLOX.com, "WLOX Investigation: Veterans battle to secure VA benefits," by AJ Giardina, Feb. 2, 2012.