I served in the U.S. Army for over a decade as an Infantryman, including a deployment to Iraq and assignments at Schofield Barracks and Fort Hood. During that time, I learned what it meant to show up—no matter how hard things got.
Now, I carry that same mindset into my work helping other Veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA is supposed to provide compensation and care for injuries and conditions connected to military service. But the process is often slow, frustrating, and full of red tape.
That’s where I come in.
As part of the Mission Corps at Berry Law, I support Veterans from all over the country—those just beginning their disability claim and those who’ve already been denied or underrated. I’m going through the VA process myself, so I know how confusing it can be. Even when things go smoothly, it still takes persistence and patience.
I talk to a lot of Veterans who feel unsure about asking for more benefits. They think it’s selfish or that someone else needs it more. But here’s what I always say: You already earned it. You signed up. You followed orders. You sacrificed more than most people will ever understand. This isn’t about taking—it’s about getting what’s rightfully yours.
The VA system makes it easy to get lost or discouraged. That’s why having someone in your corner matters. I don’t see this work as paperwork—I see it as standing up for those who stood up for something bigger than themselves.
If you’ve filed a claim and the decision doesn’t reflect your service, don’t stop there. You deserve to be heard. And we’re here to help make that happen.
| Facility | Address | What They Offer |
|---|---|---|
| Killeen VA Clinic — Dr. Godwin Nkwocha | 1001 E Veterans Memorial Blvd, Killeen, TX 76541 Lat 31.115088, Lon -97.721460 |
Outpatient primary care, mental health, labs, beneficiary travel support. |
| Olin E. Teague Veterans’ Medical Center | 1901 S 1st St, Temple, TX 76504 Lat 31.091, Lon -97.343 (approx.) |
Full-service VA hospital: inpatient/outpatient care, ER, specialty clinics. |
| Organization | Location | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Heart of Texas Defense Alliance (HOTDA) | 2916 Illinois Ave, Killeen, TX 76543 Lat 31.091550, Lon -97.709890 |
Regional nonprofit supporting Fort Hood and defense industries. |
| Veterans Service Alliance of Central Texas (VSACT) | Greater Fort Hood Region | Coalition connecting Veterans to local resources and services. |
| American Legion Post 573 | 208 S Park St, Killeen, TX 76541 | Community programs, advocacy, and Veteran support. |
| VFW Post 8577 — Olan Forrest Smith | 301 Wolf St, Killeen, TX 76541 | Support services, community events, and advocacy for Veterans & families. |
Apply online at VA.gov/health-care/apply or in person at the Killeen VA Clinic (1001 E Veterans Memorial Blvd) or Olin E. Teague VAMC in Temple. Bring your DD214 and personal info.
It’s a tax-free monthly payment for service-connected injuries or illnesses. You qualify if evidence shows your condition was caused or worsened by service.
File online at VA.gov/disability, work with a local VSO (American Legion, VFW, DAV), or mail your claim. Include medical records, service documents, and nexus evidence.
VSOs help file claims and navigate benefits at no cost. In Killeen, contact American Legion Post 573 or VFW Post 8577 for VSO assistance.
Yes, if eligible (e.g., retirees). They’re separate systems—coordinate care between them to avoid billing issues.
VA Home Loan requires a COE; GI Bill covers tuition, housing, and books. Mental health care is available at Killeen VA Clinic and Temple VAMC; for immediate help, dial 988 then press 1.
Want help with a claim or decision review? I’ll connect you with the right resources and walk you through next steps.
Our monthly newsletter features about important and up-to-date veterans' law news, keeping you informed about the changes that matter.
