Hey, I’m just checking to see if my husband, who was in Vietnam on the USS Repose hospital ship during the time Agent Orange was being used, ever received any benefits for that. He passed away back in September 2014, and I was wondering if he was ever eligible for a check or some kind of compensation for being exposed to Agent Orange. Anyone else dealing with something similar?
Sorry to hear about your husband. I think he would’ve needed to be in a location where Agent Orange was actually sprayed, like in-country or closer to shore. Have you checked with VA about his eligibility?
@Andi
Yeah, if he was off the coast, it might be tricky. I know they’ve updated the rules recently, though. Maybe he qualifies now?
Adley said:
@Andi
Yeah, if he was off the coast, it might be tricky. I know they’ve updated the rules recently, though. Maybe he qualifies now?
I think he did go inshore with the Marines. Does that change anything with eligibility?
It can be a bit complex. I read that if he served within 12 miles of the shore, he could be eligible for benefits now. Maybe try the link the lawyer gave you? 
Merrill said:
It can be a bit complex. I read that if he served within 12 miles of the shore, he could be eligible for benefits now. Maybe try the link the lawyer gave you?
Exactly! I’ve heard the same. If he went ashore at all, that’s a big factor.
Sorry, I’m a little confused. What exactly is the eligibility based on? Is it just proximity to shore, or do they need to have been exposed directly to Agent Orange?
Frost said:
Sorry, I’m a little confused. What exactly is the eligibility based on? Is it just proximity to shore, or do they need to have been exposed directly to Agent Orange?
I think it’s both, actually. They need to have been in an area where Agent Orange was sprayed and also have a health issue related to it. The VA has a list of qualifying locations.
Frost said:
Sorry, I’m a little confused. What exactly is the eligibility based on? Is it just proximity to shore, or do they need to have been exposed directly to Agent Orange?
Yeah, and if they were on the ship but went inshore, that could help prove exposure. They’ve been pretty strict about it until recently, though.
So, is the link they gave you to the VA website the best place to start? I know they have info on this stuff.
Jess said:
So, is the link they gave you to the VA website the best place to start? I know they have info on this stuff.
Yep, that’s the one they gave me! I’ll go through it and see if there’s any more info about his service details. Thanks for the help!
Just wanted to add: if you’re unsure about the details, the VA might need to confirm with records, so don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Hope you get some clarity soon!