Veterans Sue Navy for Improper Discharge After 9/11

A federal class-action lawsuit is being brought against the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps despite attempts by the defendant to dismiss claims of improper conduct. The original claim was filed in 2018 by a Naval veteran who was not discharged under honorable conditions following his 2003 deployment in Iraq.

The plaintiff, Tyson Manker, was demoted and removed after admitting to the use of marijuana in order to decrease the effects of his post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This case is a good first step in holding the U.S. military accountable for the damage that it has caused to its veterans.

More than 13,000 of the veterans were discharged from the military for misconduct associated with traumatic brain injuries, PTSD, or other disorders. These types of discharges dramatically affect veterans’ ability to re-adapt to civilian life—losing GI benefits and access to VA health care is just the start. The emotional toll of this level of discharge may be very great for someone who spent so many years defending the country, especially for those already affected by mental health issues caused by military experience.

After being discharged, Manker claimed there was no follow-up by the Marine Corps regarding his PTSD. They did, however, make sure to continue the investigation regarding his use of marijuana. This reflects a pattern of carelessness on behalf of the U.S. military toward its former servicemembers. Manker, who was inspired to become an attorney himself, is fighting for the rights of veterans with mental illnesses to receive a fair discharge.

The lawyers at VetLaw are passionate about fighting to protect veterans’ rights. Former servicemembers deserve the utmost care and attention to their cases, that’s why it is so important to have an experienced attorney to stand up for you. If you’re a veteran and feel as though you’ve been improperly discharged like Tyson Manker, reach out to the professionals at VetLaw for a free case review today.