How to Write a Winning PTSD Buddy Letter (With Examples)

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A well-crafted VA buddy letter can greatly enhance the likelihood of a successful PTSD claim by offering essential lay evidence to strengthen the veteran’s case.

A buddy letter is a written statement from someone who served alongside the veteran, providing firsthand accounts of the traumatic event(s), the veteran’s behavioral changes over time, and the current impact of PTSD symptoms.

To write an effective buddy letter for PTSD, it’s important to focus on the specific stressor events that triggered the condition and clearly explain how the symptoms affect the veteran’s daily life, work, and social interactions.

In this high-value blog post, VA disability expert Brian Reese shares a step-by-step guide to crafting a winning buddy letter for PTSD, complete with pro tips and real-world examples to help you succeed.

Let’s begin!

Summary of Key Points

• A VA Buddy Letter Enhances a PTSD Claim: A well-crafted VA buddy letter can significantly improve the chances of a successful PTSD claim by providing crucial lay evidence that supports the veteran’s case. It offers personal insights that medical records may not fully convey, adding weight to the claim. Buddy letters are especially helpful to validate a stressor event for service-connection for PTSD.

• Buddy Letters Should Include Specific Details: A buddy letter should provide firsthand accounts of the traumatic event(s), observable changes in the veteran’s behavior over time, and current PTSD symptoms. Focusing on the veteran’s daily life, work, and social functioning helps demonstrate the impact of PTSD.

• Lay Evidence Plays a Vital Role in VA Disability Claims: While medical records and expert opinions are essential, lay evidence such as buddy letters can fill in gaps and offer a personal perspective on the veteran’s condition. These statements are especially helpful when service records lack detailed accounts of the PTSD stressor event(s).

• Follow a 4-Part Template to Write a Strong Buddy Letter: To create an effective buddy letter, use a structured approach: explain how you know the veteran, describe what you witnessed, detail the veteran’s current PTSD symptoms and their impact, and sign and certify the letter along with your leaving your contact info. This template ensures the letter is clear, factual, and compelling.

The Importance of Lay Evidence in PTSD VA Claims

While medical records and independent medical opinions are crucial components of VA disability claims, lay evidence can also play a vital role in the success of a PTSD claim.

Lay evidence refers to non-expert testimony from people who have direct knowledge of the veteran’s condition, such as family members, friends, or fellow service members.

This firsthand perspective helps fill in gaps in medical records and provides valuable insight into how the veteran’s condition affects their work, life, and social functioning.

Buddy Letters, also known as Buddy Statements, are a type of lay evidence submitted by individuals who served with the veteran or witnessed their symptoms and struggles.

These statements can confirm:

• The in-service event or incident (stressors) that caused the PTSD.

• The veteran’s mental state during service.

• Any changes in the veteran’s behavior or ability to function after the traumatic event.

• The veteran’s current PTSD symptoms

Buddy letters add a personal dimension to a claim by providing additional context that medical evidence alone may not convey.

They are especially helpful when the veteran’s service records do not include detailed accounts of the events leading to PTSD.

What is a Buddy Letter for PTSD?

A buddy letter for PTSD is a written statement from a fellow service member, who can provide insight into the PTSD stressor events and the impact on the veteran’s mental health over time.

These letters serve as lay evidence to support the veteran’s VA claim by detailing the onset of PTSD symptoms and changes in behavior because of the traumatic event(s).

Buddy letters should be:

• Clear, detailed, and factual: Focus on specific in-service events or incidents (stressors) you directly witnessed.

• Compelling and narrative-driven: Tell a true story that illustrates the veteran’s struggles with PTSD, their current mental health symptoms, and negative impacts to their work, life, and social functioning.

• Written by firsthand witnesses: Someone who experienced the events alongside the veteran as a direct witness.

When is a Buddy Letter for PTSD Most Helpful?

Buddy letters can be particularly beneficial in cases where:

• Service treatment or personnel records lack detailed documentation of the PTSD stressor events (this is very common).

• The veteran experiences delayed-onset PTSD symptoms that became noticeable after service.

• There is a need for additional support to establish the severity of symptoms or the connection to service.

How to Write a Winning VA Buddy Statement for PTSD

This 4-part template can be valuable for witnesses when writing a VA buddy letter for PTSD. 

Part #1: Explain How You Know the Veteran 

In part 1, explain how you know the veteran.

“My name is John Doe, and I served with veteran [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME] in Afghanistan from 2010-2011. We were deployed together for nearly a year. We worked in the same unit and interacted with each other nearly every day. I have firsthand knowledge of everything in this buddy statement for PTSD because I was there, went through it, and saw it all with my own eyes.”

Part #2: What You Witnessed or Are Witnessing

In part 2, you should explain in detail what you witnessed or are witnessing about the event, incident, or veteran’s condition over time.

“During our deployment to Afghanistan, we were regularly exposed to indirect fire, including frequent rocket and mortar attacks. I remember several occasions when rockets and mortars hit nearby our location, causing explosions and sending us scrambling for cover. These attacks happened without warning and often multiple times a week, leading to constant fear of death and spiking our anxiety. I saw [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME] react to these situations by becoming increasingly anxious, jumpy, hyper-alert, and withdrawn. He confided in me that he was suffering from severe insomnia, anxiety, and depression, because of these repeated incidents. It was clear that the stress from these repeated life-threatening incidents was taking a significant toll on him. The impact of these events continued to grow more noticeable as our deployment went on and got even worse upon our return to the United States.”

Pro Tip: You do not need to explain every detail. Be brief but thorough.

Part #3: The Veteran’s Current PTSD Symptoms and Negative Impacts

In part 3, you should explain the veteran’s current symptoms of PTSD and negative impacts to their work, life, and social functioning.

“Since returning from Afghanistan, I’ve noticed significant changes in [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME]’s behavior. He suffers from chronic insomnia, including vivid nightmares about the rocket and mortar attacks, often waking in panic. He’s easily startled by loud noises, which bring back memories of explosions, keeping him in a constant state of anxiety and hypervigilance. He frequently isolates himself, avoiding crowds and social situations due to feeling on edge and unsafe. His ability to concentrate has declined, and he’s more irritable, leading to frequent angry outbursts. These PTSD symptoms, including periods of severe anxiety, depression, and emotional numbness, have severely impacted his daily life, work, and relationships.”

Part #4: Sign, Date, Certify, and Leave Your Contact Information

In part 4, you must sign and date the form and certify that your statement is true to the best of your knowledge and belief. Also leave your contact information including email address and phone number.

“There is no question in my mind that [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME]  current combat-related PTSD is due to the rocket and mortar stressor events he experienced in Afghanistan. Please feel free to contact me about this buddy statement if you have any questions. I CERTIFY THAT the statements on this form are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.” 

Part 1: Explain How You Know the Veteran

My name is Jane Doe, and I have known [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME] since we served together in the U.S. Army from 2011 to 2013. We were stationed at Fort Bragg, where we worked in the same unit and became close friends. We spent a lot of time together both on and off duty, and I had firsthand knowledge of the events and situations [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME] experienced during that time.

Part 2: What You Witnessed or Are Witnessing

During our time at Fort Bragg, [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME] confided in me about an incident of sexual assault that occurred while on duty. I saw the immediate impact this traumatic event had on her, including sudden mood changes, withdrawal from social interactions, and signs of intense anxiety and distress. She began to avoid certain people and places, especially when they reminded her of the incident. Over time, I noticed her symptoms worsening, with frequent panic attacks, sleepless nights, and visible signs of depression. She also started missing work more often, citing overwhelming stress and an inability to cope with the trauma.

Part 3: The Veteran’s Current PTSD Symptoms and Negative Impacts

Since leaving the military, I’ve continued to stay in close contact with [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME] and have seen the ongoing effects of PTSD related to the MST. She suffers from chronic insomnia and recurring nightmares about the assault, waking up in distress and often unable to return to sleep. She is hypervigilant, easily startled, and always on edge, especially around unfamiliar people or in crowded places. She frequently avoids social situations, feeling unsafe and anxious in public. Her emotional state is often numb, and she struggles with feelings of shame and worthlessness. These symptoms have taken a significant toll on her personal relationships, daily life, and ability to maintain employment.

Part 4: Sign, Date, Certify, and Leave Your Contact Information

There is no question in my mind that [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME]’s current PTSD symptoms are directly related to the MST she experienced during her military service. Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional information regarding this buddy statement. I CERTIFY THAT the statements on this form are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Signed,
Jane Doe, October 24, 2024
[YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS]
[YOUR PHONE NUMBER]

PTSD Buddy Letter Example #2 – Non-Combat Related Incident

Part 1: Explain How You Know the Veteran

My name is Mark Smith, and I served with [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME] aboard the USS Arlington from 2015 to 2018. We worked in the same division and spent a lot of time together during that period, including during deployments and shipboard duties. I have firsthand knowledge of the events that occurred during the hurricane incident and the effects it had on [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME], as I witnessed much of it myself.

Part 2: What You Witnessed or Are Witnessing

While aboard the USS Arlington, we encountered a severe hurricane while at sea. The ship was caught in the storm for several days, with powerful winds and massive waves battering us. I remember seeing [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME] struggling during the worst of the storm, as the ship’s violent rocking made it hard to move, sleep, or perform even basic duties. The constant fear of capsizing and the chaotic environment left many of us shaken, but I noticed that [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME] seemed particularly affected. After the incident, he began avoiding situations that reminded him of the storm, such as being near the water or in enclosed spaces below deck. He expressed feeling intense anxiety whenever the weather turned bad, and I saw him grow increasingly withdrawn, jumpy, and visibly anxious in the months that followed.

Part 3: The Veteran’s Current PTSD Symptoms and Negative Impacts

Since leaving the Navy, I have kept in touch with [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME], and I’ve observed continued struggles with PTSD symptoms related to the hurricane incident. He experiences frequent nightmares about the storm and wakes up in a panic, unable to fall back asleep. Sudden loud noises or changes in the weather can trigger flashbacks, causing him to feel as if he is back on the ship during the hurricane. He avoids boats, water, and even heavy rain, as these situations trigger intense feelings of dread and anxiety. He often appears tense and on edge, finding it difficult to relax or concentrate. These symptoms have made it challenging for him to maintain a stable routine, affecting his daily life and ability to work.

Part 4: Sign, Date, Certify, and Leave Your Contact Information

There is no question in my mind that [INSERT VETERAN’S NAME]’s PTSD symptoms are directly related to the traumatic hurricane incident we experienced aboard the USS Arlington. Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional information regarding this buddy statement. I CERTIFY THAT the statements on this form are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Signed,
Mark Smith, October 24, 2024
[YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS]
[YOUR PHONE NUMBER]

VA PTSD Buddy Letters: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is a PTSD Buddy Letter?

A PTSD buddy letter is a written statement from someone who knows the veteran well, often a fellow service member, friend, or family member. The letter provides lay evidence to support a VA disability claim by describing the veteran’s symptoms, changes in behavior, or experiences related to the traumatic event that caused their PTSD. Buddy letters can be especially valuable when official military records lack detailed accounts of the events leading to PTSD.

Do I Need a PTSD Buddy Letter to File My VA Claim?

No, a PTSD buddy letter is not mandatory, but it can be highly beneficial. Buddy letters help strengthen your claim by providing firsthand accounts of your symptoms and experiences, especially if there are gaps or limited documentation in your service records. Including a well-written buddy letter can improve the likelihood of a favorable decision, particularly in cases where it’s difficult to prove a connection between your PTSD and military service.

Who Can Write a Buddy Letter for PTSD?

A buddy letter can be written by anyone who knows the veteran and has observed their condition, including family members, friends, fellow service members, or other acquaintances. However, letters from those who directly witnessed the traumatic event or served with the veteran carry more weight. The most effective buddy letters come from individuals who can provide specific details about the incident and its impact on the veteran. Therefore, the best buddy letters for PTSD are typically from someone who served with the veteran and directly witnessed the in-service stressor event(s).

How Many Buddy Letters Should I Submit for My PTSD Claim?

While one strong buddy letter is often sufficient, including multiple letters from different individuals can help corroborate various aspects of the veteran’s experience. It’s important to avoid overwhelming the VA with excessive documentation, so aim for quality over quantity. Typically, two to three well-written letters that provide unique perspectives are more effective than a large number of general statements.

What Information Should Be Included in a Buddy Letter?

A strong buddy letter should include the following:

• Explanation of How You Know the Veteran: Describe your relationship with the veteran and how long you’ve known each other.

• Details of What You Witnessed or Are Witnessing: Provide specific examples of the events or symptoms observed. If you directly witnessed or experienced the traumatic event(s) wiht the veteran, be sure to explain that.

• Description of the Veteran’s Current PTSD Symptoms and Negative Impacts: Explain the veteran’s current PTSD symptoms and any negative impacts to their work, life, and social functioning.

• Sign, Date, Certify, and Leave Your Contact Information: Certify that the information is true to the best of your knowledge and belief and leave your contact info (email address and phone number).

What VA Form Should I Use to Write a Buddy Letter?

The form itself is less important than the quality and content of the buddy letter. You can write your buddy letter using a Microsoft (MS) Word document, a PDF file, or submit it using VA Form 21-4138 (Statement in Support of Claim) or VA Form 21-10210 (Lay/Witness Statement). Regardless of the format, make sure the letter is clear, detailed, and includes specific information about the veteran’s experiences, symptoms, and the impact of their condition.

Can a Family Member Write a Buddy Letter for PTSD?

Yes, family members can write buddy letters, and they can be highly effective because family members often have intimate knowledge of the veteran’s current behavior and symptoms. However, the VA may give more weight to letters from fellow service members who were present during the traumatic event or who observed the veteran’s condition during military service. Including a family member’s perspective alongside a letter from a service buddy can strengthen the overall claim.

Do Buddy Letters Need to Be Notarized?

No, notarization is not required for buddy letters submitted to the VA. While having a buddy letter notarized can add credibility to the statement, it is not a mandatory step. The key is to ensure that the letter is signed, dated, and includes a certification that the information is true to the best of the writer’s knowledge.

Should Buddy Letters Be Typed or Handwritten?

It is recommended to type the buddy letter to ensure legibility and a professional appearance. If the letter must be handwritten, make sure the writing is clear and easy to read. Regardless of format, the letter should include the veteran’s identifying information (full name, VA file number, or Social Security number) to ensure it is properly filed with the claim.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid in Buddy Letters?

Common mistakes include:

• Being too vague: The letter should include specific examples of the veteran’s PTSD symptoms and experiences you witnessed or participated in directly.

• Overly emotional or speculative statements: Stick to facts and firsthand observations rather than opinions or assumptions.

• Failing to certify the letter: Always sign and date the letter, and certify that the information is true to the best of your knowledge.

Can I Submit a Buddy Letter After My Initial VA Claim Is Filed?

Yes, you can submit a buddy letter at any time during the claims process, including after your initial claim is filed or during an appeal. If new information becomes available or if you need additional evidence to support your case, submitting a buddy letter can help strengthen your claim.

How Do I Submit a Buddy Letter to the VA?

Once you’ve written your buddy letter, we recommend you email the completed form back to the veteran so he/she can upload it to VA.gov in support of their claim.

Can Buddy Letters Be Used for Non-Combat PTSD Situations?

Yes, buddy letters are useful for supporting non-combat PTSD claims, such as those involving accidents, natural disasters, or military sexual trauma (MST). In these cases, the buddy letter can help establish the occurrence of the traumatic event and document how it affected the veteran’s mental health, especially if official records do not provide sufficient detail.

What If the Veteran’s PTSD Symptoms Started Long After Service?

Buddy letters can be particularly valuable in cases of delayed-onset PTSD. The letter can help establish a timeline of symptoms by explaining how the veteran’s behavior and condition changed over time. Statements from individuals who knew the veteran before and after the traumatic event can be especially helpful in these situations.

How Does the VA Use Buddy Letters When Evaluating a Claim?

The VA uses buddy letters to corroborate evidence in the veteran’s claim file. They are considered alongside medical records, service records, and other documentation. While a buddy letter alone is not typically enough to win a claim, it can provide important context that supports other evidence and helps the VA better understand the impact of the veteran’s PTSD.

What Else Should I Submit Alongside a Buddy Letter?

To strengthen a PTSD claim, submit the buddy letter along with other supporting documents such as:

• Medical records showing a PTSD diagnosis.

• Private psych eval results making or confirming a diagnosis of PTSD, nexus statement for service-connection, and current severity of symptoms.

• Service records that confirm the occurrence of the stressor event (sometimes service treatment and personnel records won’t have this information and that’s okay).

• Personal statements from the veteran.

Are Buddy Letters Helpful for a PTSD Increase Claim?

Yes, buddy letters can be helpful for claims seeking an increased PTSD rating. The letter can provide evidence that the veteran’s symptoms have worsened over time or have resulted in a higher level of impairment, which can support a request for a higher disability rating.

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