To Whom It May Concern,
It has come to my attention that questions have been raised regarding my credentials and qualifications in assisting Veterans with VA benefits and claims. I am providing the following information to ensure the record is clear, accurate, and complete.
Professional Credentials
I am a VA Accredited Claims Agent, formerly a Veterans Service Representative (VSR) with the Department of Veterans Affairs and a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) with an accredited Veterans Service Organization.
- VA Accredited Claims Agent
Accreditation Number: 59993
POA Code: KPU - Veterans Service Officer (VSO)
Catholic War Veterans of the USA
VSO Number: 46361
Service Period: May 2018 – May 2021 - Veterans Service Representative (VSR)
Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
I successfully completed the 16-week Veterans Benefits Administration Academy in Denver, Colorado, graduating on October 14, 2016. This program trains VA employees responsible for adjudicating Veterans’ claims.
My professional background includes:
- 12 years as a VA employee
- 1 year as a VA Veterans Service Representative
- 1 year as a VA Legal Assistance Specialist
- 26 years of honorable service in the United States Marine Corps
- 100% Service-Disabled Veteran
From May 8, 2018, to May 5, 2021, I assisted 9,286 Veterans with claims and benefits-related matters.
My VA accreditation can be independently verified through the VA Office of General Counsel Accreditation Search by selecting “Claims Agent” and entering my name. The accreditation examination is the same examination required of attorneys seeking VA accreditation and is administered twice per year.
Clarification of Roles
For clarity:
- A Veterans Service Representative (VSR) is a VA employee who completes extensive training and adjudicates VA claims.
- A Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is employed by an accredited Veterans Service Organization, with training requirements that vary by organization.
- A VA Accredited Claims Agent must pass the same examination required of attorneys for VA accreditation and is authorized to represent Veterans before the VA, subject to federal regulations.
In every case, I ensure that Veterans understand these distinctions and are free to choose whichever representative they believe best serves their needs.
Recent Personal and Medical Circumstances
Over the past several months, I have experienced a series of significant personal and medical challenges.
In September 2025, my wife was involved in a serious automobile accident. While she thankfully recovered, the vehicle was totaled. Shortly thereafter, a service-connected injury temporarily worsened, significantly limiting my mobility.
At the same time, I was asked by the City of North Las Vegas to volunteer at the Veterans Resource Center to assist Veterans with VA-related questions. Beginning October 1, 2025, I provided extensive support—often 8 to 12 hours per day, seven days a week—to ensure Veterans continued receiving assistance during a period when other offices were unavailable.
In November, I lost my younger brother to kidney cancer related to Agent Orange exposure from his service in Vietnam. I traveled to Hawaii to handle his VA matters, assist his widow, and manage burial arrangements. During that time, I was hospitalized twice due to serious medical complications.
Upon returning to Las Vegas, further testing confirmed that I too have kidney cancer related to Agent Orange exposure from my own service in Vietnam. My initial treatment began in January.
Despite medical guidance to limit my workload, I have continued assisting Veterans to the best of my ability. I regret any delays that have occurred and appreciate the patience and understanding of those affected.
Closing
My commitment to Veterans has always been, and remains, unwavering. I respectfully ask for understanding during this temporary period of reduced capacity due to serious medical treatment.
Thank you to those who have shown patience and support during this time.
Respectfully,
Daniel Kalahoolewa Kamanao
VA Accredited Claims Agent
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran (retired)
100% Service-Disabled Veteran
Email: Dan.Kamanao@va.gov
