After a Decades-Long Fight, Local Veteran Finally Receives Full Disability Benefits

Anza, CA– Today, Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-36) announced that Larry Thurner, an Anza resident and veteran of the Marine Corps with a medical condition that rendered him unable to work in 1975, finally received his deserved 100% Individual Unemployability. The news comes after Congressman Ruiz's office stepped in to resolve the issue that was pending since 1975.

"I am thrilled to have helped Mr. Thurner secure the benefits that he deserves and earned long ago,"said Dr. Ruiz. "This is good news for Mr. Thurner today. If you or someone you know is a veteran who needs assistance obtaining their benefits, care, or backpay, please contact my office. There is no excuse for these benefits being delayed decades, and I will continue to fight on behalf of the thousands of veterans in my district."

"After 50 years of being ignored by the VA we have finally received a favorable resolution with the help of veterans advocate Ronnie Imel and Congressman Ruiz and his staff,"said Larry Thurner."Thanks for all the hardwork!"

Larry Thurner was rated at 100% fully disabled from the United States Marine Corps in 1971 when he left service due to a medical condition. In 1975 and with a full-time job, that medical condition hospitalized him while he was acting as a caretaker to his family. It wasn't until 2021 that the VA recognized Mr. Thurner's disability and awarded him 100 Percent Individual Unemployability.

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