veterans Helping Veterans Consulting
Brought to you by Rev.Dr. Dimitri L. Sims, founder and owner.
The primary objective in addressing the process involved in obtaining VA benefits is to help ensure that the veterans I serve can have a smooth transition with adequate benefits that will provide a better quality of life for them and their families. An important step in reaching out to veterans and clergy is to devise a method by which to reach the intended participants. Veterans are not very open people when it comes to their personal issues. Not only that, church leaders can be very territorial. Challenging barriers do exist, especially within the ministry. While the church is God’s house for providing worship and needed services to the community, as a minister, I feel that too many congregations fail to branch outside the confines of their physical space to actually take care of their community. The project program is based on God’s principles of service, faith, hope and love of fellow man (veterans).
While the oath of enlistment seems to be duty, honor, service and love of county, every war and/or combat assignment brings about different challenges. To gain a better understanding of what has changed and why things for today’s veterans are presenting far too many physical and emotional issues, I had to research materials regarding past wars and veterans’ military experiences. My research showed that the men and women who served in the global war onterrorism in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria have come home experiencing more significant and unique challenges than the veterans of WWII and prior due to the following reasons:
1) These wars are the first in which our soldiers have had to undergo multiple deployments to war.
2) They are the first wars in which women have been directly exposed to combat. Women now women make up 17.5 percent of the US military forces. In addition to the physical and mental tolls of combat, women serving in the wars of Afghanistan and Iraq have been subjected to sexual abuse during their tour of duty.
3) Viet Cong guerrillas shared the goal of creating a unified, communist Vietnam. In Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria, the United States is fighting several groups that have different agendas, often fighting each other, and sometimes blending in with the civilian population.
Therefore, upon their return from the war zone, today’s veterans experience a higher rate of mental health problems, such as PTSD, than veterans of previous conflicts.
While the oath of enlistment seems to be duty, honor, service and love of county, every war and/or combat assignment brings about different challenges. To gain a better understanding of what has changed and why things for today’s veterans are presenting far too many physical and emotional issues, I had to research materials regarding past wars and veterans’ military experiences. My research showed that the men and women who served in the global war onterrorism in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria have come home experiencing more significant and unique challenges than the veterans of WWII and prior due to the following reasons:
1) These wars are the first in which our soldiers have had to undergo multiple deployments to war.
2) They are the first wars in which women have been directly exposed to combat. Women now women make up 17.5 percent of the US military forces. In addition to the physical and mental tolls of combat, women serving in the wars of Afghanistan and Iraq have been subjected to sexual abuse during their tour of duty.
3) Viet Cong guerrillas shared the goal of creating a unified, communist Vietnam. In Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria, the United States is fighting several groups that have different agendas, often fighting each other, and sometimes blending in with the civilian population.
Therefore, upon their return from the war zone, today’s veterans experience a higher rate of mental health problems, such as PTSD, than veterans of previous conflicts.
In 1984 while serving in Korea I suffered a knee injury that required surgery. Twenty years later I re-enlisted in the Army and served two tours in the Afghanistan War. During that time, I was shot at and caught up in an explosion. Although God spared my life and allowed me to return home, I did not return whole; I no longer felt like myself. After many months of feeling like I was just existing, I made the decision to go to the Atlanta VA Hospital for help.
Once there I was scheduled several appointments with various doctors over a period of 18 months that finally led to diagnosis of hearing loss, memory loss, PTSD, and migraines due to the explosions as well as other underlying medical conditions. During treatments consisting of medications, numerous doctor’s visits, and counseling sessions, I felt as if the doctors were not really taking care of me and my needs. And, believe it or not, my applications for disability benefits were denied several times. It took four long, frustrating years of applying for me to be awarded 60% disability.
At that point I realized that for me to receive full benefits I had to become my own VA advocate. To eliminate any further doubts and delays in the process I began to complete my own application paperwork and resubmit it via hand delivery to the VA administrators. To my surprise, once all requested documentation was submitted, thirty (30) days later I was awarded 100% full disability benefits. I share my personal experiences with you the reader and my fellow veterans because it was the catalyst that led me to the purpose in this project. The ups and downs I went through then and sometimes still experience in dealing with the VA seemed to be more stressful, at times, than my PTSD.
It took me a total of nine (9) years to receive 100% VA disability compensation and in the end, I asked myself “why”? After many talks, much anger, prayers and frustrations, God laid it on my heart to devise a program that will help eliminate other veterans from having to endure the same stumbling blocks I did while simply trying to cash a check that Uncle Sam issued to in the form of benefits for service to our Country.
Once there I was scheduled several appointments with various doctors over a period of 18 months that finally led to diagnosis of hearing loss, memory loss, PTSD, and migraines due to the explosions as well as other underlying medical conditions. During treatments consisting of medications, numerous doctor’s visits, and counseling sessions, I felt as if the doctors were not really taking care of me and my needs. And, believe it or not, my applications for disability benefits were denied several times. It took four long, frustrating years of applying for me to be awarded 60% disability.
At that point I realized that for me to receive full benefits I had to become my own VA advocate. To eliminate any further doubts and delays in the process I began to complete my own application paperwork and resubmit it via hand delivery to the VA administrators. To my surprise, once all requested documentation was submitted, thirty (30) days later I was awarded 100% full disability benefits. I share my personal experiences with you the reader and my fellow veterans because it was the catalyst that led me to the purpose in this project. The ups and downs I went through then and sometimes still experience in dealing with the VA seemed to be more stressful, at times, than my PTSD.
It took me a total of nine (9) years to receive 100% VA disability compensation and in the end, I asked myself “why”? After many talks, much anger, prayers and frustrations, God laid it on my heart to devise a program that will help eliminate other veterans from having to endure the same stumbling blocks I did while simply trying to cash a check that Uncle Sam issued to in the form of benefits for service to our Country.
I dedicate this project in memory of my mother, Hester C. Sims, who in spite of her own illnesses and struggles in her life, was always there to encourage me through the good, the bad and the ugly experiences in my life. To my grandfather, the late Reverend John Robert Sims, who taught me that the word “can’t” does not exist, he said “that old man “can’t” died before his father did.” In other words, he was assuring me that I could do all things through Christ who strengthens me. To the late Reverend John Pace who said “Sims you are a Baptist preacher” before I even knew and accepted my calling to the ministry. To my late grandmother, Mercury L. Sims, who taught me to walk with my head up because there was nothing on the ground.
I also dedicate this project to my aunt Gwendolyn S. Barber who has encouraged me to continue on the Lord’s path for He will guide my footsteps. To my wife Linda G. Holland-Sims who has the spirit of supporting, of loyalty, the spirit of commitment, the spirit of wisdom and love. To my children whom I dearly love, Sandra Crumbley Sims, Jocquill L. Sims, and Iyeshea N. Bagger, who has supported their father through his ups and downs in this journey of life. I thank God for all of these women who truly love me and believe in me.
Finally, I dedicate this project to the Ancestors who have kept me standing firm on this journey as I have cried the tears of help and they came in a spiritual way to guide me through this valley. Whose songs of old have lifted me up when I was down, whose prayers have carried me when I wasn’t able to walk. Who believed in me, when I didn’t believe in myself. To those whose blood was shed as slaves, and beaten just because they were Black, I thank you for your help and above all your sacrifices that have brought me thus far.
I also dedicate this project to my aunt Gwendolyn S. Barber who has encouraged me to continue on the Lord’s path for He will guide my footsteps. To my wife Linda G. Holland-Sims who has the spirit of supporting, of loyalty, the spirit of commitment, the spirit of wisdom and love. To my children whom I dearly love, Sandra Crumbley Sims, Jocquill L. Sims, and Iyeshea N. Bagger, who has supported their father through his ups and downs in this journey of life. I thank God for all of these women who truly love me and believe in me.
Finally, I dedicate this project to the Ancestors who have kept me standing firm on this journey as I have cried the tears of help and they came in a spiritual way to guide me through this valley. Whose songs of old have lifted me up when I was down, whose prayers have carried me when I wasn’t able to walk. Who believed in me, when I didn’t believe in myself. To those whose blood was shed as slaves, and beaten just because they were Black, I thank you for your help and above all your sacrifices that have brought me thus far.
First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to Ms. Sandy Allen-White. Your encouragement, support and assistance throughout various stages of my educational journey defines true friendship. Thanks to your professionalism you made this possible by guiding and giving advice that carried me through all the stages of writing my project. I am forever grateful to you, for you and, for your friendship. Continued blessings to you always.
Though the road was not easy, I want to say thank you to Rev. Carlos Towns for getting me involved with the Doctoral Program. To Rev Michael Price, my home Church Shoal Creek Baptist Church, family and friends thank you for grooming me and allowing me to serve. My foundation in Christ is so much stronger because of you. To Rev. Ernest Colvin of New Big Springs Baptist Church family and friend, thank you for your continued leadership in Christ and above all for entrusting me to serve alongside you. Your support during my studies has been immeasurable and steadfast and for that I am truly grateful. Thank you Deacon Charlie (Catfish) Colvin who said “I knew it was in him,” Deacon Willie Taylor and Sister Theresa Harris for constantly encouraging me.
I offer much gratitude to the 516th American Legion 4th District Chaplain, to my Commander Larry Head, 4th District Commander Danny Powell and other Legionaries with whom I serve and give of my time in appreciation for their service and commitment to our Country. You are not just fellow veterans you are family. And to me, family is truly everything.
To my brothers Rodney Sims, Phillip D. McMullen, and Harold A. Graham as well as Benjamin “Capone” Mathis and Leila Valley. You have challenged me in so many ways through the years and I would not have it any other way. Your love and support mean more than you will ever know. I am grateful to my in- laws: the Thomas/Iola Holland and family for supporting me as well as Wilbur Whitfield (Uncle Jr), and to Corey Holland who said that “I was consistent.” They say that some friendships may last a lifetime. I am so blessed and hold so much love, respect and gratitude for my good, good friend Deacon Marlon Zachary, Mike Brock, and Elder Kenneth Washington. You are always there for me, no questions asked. We are truly Bad Boys for Life!
Last but not least, I am filled with so much gratitude for all of my leaders, professors, and cohorts who have taught me and guided me throughout my educational journey; Dr. Joe Martin of Atlanta Bible College for getting me started in biblical studies; Dr. Francis Githieya at Saint Leo University for your time and patience; to the ITC Dr. Carolyn McCrary, Dr. Keith Slaughter, Dr. Mark Lomax for teaching and preaching class; to the Baptist Morehouse School of Religion, Dr. Temba Mafico, to the Care and Counseling Center of Georgia (CPE), and to Grady Health Care Chaplain Ms. Cora Saunders, Dahl Moss, Rev. Ali Holiness-Rolland, Rev. Felica Outlaw, and Diago Allen. There aren’t enough words to express my love and appreciation for all of you and all that you all have done to get me to where I am today. To God be the glory.
Though the road was not easy, I want to say thank you to Rev. Carlos Towns for getting me involved with the Doctoral Program. To Rev Michael Price, my home Church Shoal Creek Baptist Church, family and friends thank you for grooming me and allowing me to serve. My foundation in Christ is so much stronger because of you. To Rev. Ernest Colvin of New Big Springs Baptist Church family and friend, thank you for your continued leadership in Christ and above all for entrusting me to serve alongside you. Your support during my studies has been immeasurable and steadfast and for that I am truly grateful. Thank you Deacon Charlie (Catfish) Colvin who said “I knew it was in him,” Deacon Willie Taylor and Sister Theresa Harris for constantly encouraging me.
I offer much gratitude to the 516th American Legion 4th District Chaplain, to my Commander Larry Head, 4th District Commander Danny Powell and other Legionaries with whom I serve and give of my time in appreciation for their service and commitment to our Country. You are not just fellow veterans you are family. And to me, family is truly everything.
To my brothers Rodney Sims, Phillip D. McMullen, and Harold A. Graham as well as Benjamin “Capone” Mathis and Leila Valley. You have challenged me in so many ways through the years and I would not have it any other way. Your love and support mean more than you will ever know. I am grateful to my in- laws: the Thomas/Iola Holland and family for supporting me as well as Wilbur Whitfield (Uncle Jr), and to Corey Holland who said that “I was consistent.” They say that some friendships may last a lifetime. I am so blessed and hold so much love, respect and gratitude for my good, good friend Deacon Marlon Zachary, Mike Brock, and Elder Kenneth Washington. You are always there for me, no questions asked. We are truly Bad Boys for Life!
Last but not least, I am filled with so much gratitude for all of my leaders, professors, and cohorts who have taught me and guided me throughout my educational journey; Dr. Joe Martin of Atlanta Bible College for getting me started in biblical studies; Dr. Francis Githieya at Saint Leo University for your time and patience; to the ITC Dr. Carolyn McCrary, Dr. Keith Slaughter, Dr. Mark Lomax for teaching and preaching class; to the Baptist Morehouse School of Religion, Dr. Temba Mafico, to the Care and Counseling Center of Georgia (CPE), and to Grady Health Care Chaplain Ms. Cora Saunders, Dahl Moss, Rev. Ali Holiness-Rolland, Rev. Felica Outlaw, and Diago Allen. There aren’t enough words to express my love and appreciation for all of you and all that you all have done to get me to where I am today. To God be the glory.
