A Veteran must file an Agent-Orange related disability claim before VA will conduct research on a specific ship not on VA’s ships list. This requirement also applies to suvivors and children with birth defects. VA does not have the capacity to research ships when no compensation claim is filed.
Find out more about disability compensation, survivors' benefits, or benefits for children with birth defects and how to apply.
Not filing a claim
If you think your ship should be on the list and you are not filing a claim, you may conduct your own research and submit documentary evidence to VA.
Documentary evidence includes deck logs, ship histories, and cruise book entries. You may obtain ship deck logs from the National Archives at College Park, Maryland.
This evidence must show the ship entering the inland waterways of Vietnam, docking in Vietnam, or otherwise sending crew members ashore. A ship that anchored in an open water harbor, such as Da Nang Harbor, is not sufficient evidence for the presumption of Agent Orange exposure.
You must scan your documentary evidence and email it to the Veterans Benefits Administration's Compensation Service at 211_AOSHIPS.VBACO@va.gov. Emails sent to this email address are not secure. Please do not include personal data.
Connect with Us
Veterans Health
Other Exposures
Contact VA
- Agent Orange & Ships
1-800-749-8387 (Press 3) - Disability Compensation
1-800-827-1000 - TDD (hearing impaired)
1-800-829-4833
