If you were IN-Country, and your records are not "lost" in Missouri, then you'll have no problem. If you spent less than 180 days (Tdy), and Missouri "lost" your records, you better get on the Net and start looking for your unit buddies to provide statements. You better start looking for evidence you were there (love letters, pay records, etc.). But what about my Vietnam medals on my DD-214? Well, these were given out like candy - to anyone who flew over, or was on a ship off-shore. You see, for Agent Orange you must have set foot in the country of Vietnam. I know, I was infuriated when I learned this, and felt hopeless. But that's the law as it stands now. I'm one of those who spent a few days shy of 180 days in Vinh Long & Can Tho before going to Thailand. I'm also one of those whose overseas duties for some reason are missing from my records. Sound familiar? So now I have Social Security Payroll records for which I paid $37.50 for, 3 buddy statements who saw me there, still waiting on IRS form 4506 to hopefully prove my exempt status. I've spent close to $300 doing my own search, because, believe me, you must help yourself. The DAV VSOs and the like are wonderful people and they will help. But you must also show an interest in your case. This has been the worse scenario. Hopefully, your case will be easier to prove. Good Luck.
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