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In this episode of M.M.R.E.S. (Mortgages, Military, Real Estate & Stuff), hosts Joshua Mayer and Beatriz Villalobos sit down with Michael Zehr — a U.S. Army Veteran, DAV-certified service officer, and one of the most dedicated volunteers at the Warrior Healing Center. Michael has made it his mission to guide fellow veterans through the often-confusing world of VA disability claims, benefits, and resources.
From filing your very first claim to appealing a denial, Michael breaks down the process in plain language, sharing insider tips on how to prepare a fully developed claim that gets processed faster, what documents you’ll need (and why a DD214 is just the start), and how to avoid common pitfalls that can slow down or even reduce your rating.
We dig into:
- How Michael went from front desk volunteer to full-time benefits advocate.
- The importance of documenting everything during service — and what to do if you didn’t.
- Understanding service-connected vs. non-service-connected disabilities.
- Why tinnitus claims might be changing soon.
- How to file for an increase years after your initial rating.
- What to expect from the appeals process.
- The truth about PTSD claims, employment concerns, and security clearances.
- Benefits for surviving spouses and dependents, including DIC.
- What resources are available for homeless or at-risk veterans — and why local help often beats the federal system for speed and results.
Michael also shares powerful real-world stories from veterans he’s helped — moments that keep him motivated even on the toughest days. From Vietnam vets finally receiving long-overdue benefits, to younger service members who thought they didn’t qualify, to survivors of military sexual trauma finding the courage to file — his passion for helping shines through in every conversation.
Whether you’re a veteran wondering where to start, a spouse trying to understand what’s available, or someone looking to support veterans in your community, this episode is packed with practical, actionable information.
About Michael Zehr:
Michael served in the U.S. Army from 1977–1980 and has been a tireless advocate for veterans in Cochise County, Arizona. As a DAV-certified chapter service officer, he helps veterans file claims, navigate the VA system, and access benefits they’ve earned. He’s also deeply involved in multiple community organizations, including the Warrior Healing Center, the DAV, the Knights of Columbus, and the Elks.
Resources Mentioned:
- Warrior Healing Center – Sierra Vista, AZ
- Disabled American Veterans (DAV) – Chapter 14
- VA.gov – Benefits & Claims Portal
💙 Join the Mission — $22 a Month for 22 a Day
Every day, an average of 22 veterans take their own lives. At the Warrior Healing Center, we believe that number is unacceptable — and preventable. For just $22 a month, you can help us connect veterans to the community, services, and support they need to rebuild their lives. 100% of donations go directly to our mission, and as a Qualified Charitable Organization (QCO code 22467), Arizona residents can receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit.
📲 Learn more and make your impact today: 22toE
🎧 Stay Connected
📍 Recorded at the Warrior Healing Center in Sierra Vista, AZ
🌐 Learn more or get involved: www.warriorhealingcenter.org
💥 Support the mission: www.22toend22.com
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Warfighter Tested. Warfighter Approved. Warfighter Recommended.
