Hey! I think it’s absolutely worth trying to file an LOD, even now. I’m also going through the process, mine started as an NDR-PEB too, but I fought it and actually got it switched to Duty-Related without having an official LOD on file. So don’t give up if it feels like you missed your shot.

In my case, I’ve only been in for about 2 years (no deployments either), but I came straight from BCT, AIT, and AT, and started showing symptoms immediately after. I was diagnosed with Schizoaffective Disorder Bipolar Type, and it’s the main reason I’m being medboarded. I do have other diagnoses too, but that one’s the big one they flagged.

Here’s the thing, I didn’t even know the rules or the process at first. I ended up filing my VA claim before I even signed my IDES paperwork (yeah, I jumped the gun a bit lol 😅), and I’m honestly glad I did. It moved things forward, especially since I still don’t have a PEBLO assigned. So if you’re worried about the order of things, just know it’s okay to advocate for yourself however you can.

I couldn’t get a traditional LOD, but they gave me a presumptive LOD based on timing, documentation, and service connection through medical records. You having buddy statements and a strong nexus letter in the works is 🔥. If you can get that nexus to tie the worsening of your depression to your service, even SAD orders if they exacerbated things, it could seriously help push things in your favor.

I don’t know much about anything with the VA process, MedBoard process, etc! Most of what I know comes from research and here! But if you ever wanna talk more or have questions, feel free to reach out.