Buddy Statement
VA Terminology Definition
Plain English Definition
A written statement from someone who knows about your condition - a fellow service member, family member, coworker, or friend who has witnessed your symptoms.
Why This Matters
Buddy statements are powerful evidence, especially when medical records are incomplete. They can verify in-service events or describe current symptoms.
Example
A fellow soldier writes: 'I served with SGT Smith in Iraq in 2007. On March 15, 2007, I witnessed him injure his back when our vehicle struck an IED.'