I read an article about agent orange and the attempted cover up and denial of veterans for compensation. in my opionion the reason they made als a military related illness is too avoid the rehap of millions of gallons of chemical exposure conflicted in ww1, ww2 and vietnam that they claimed to be harmess as well as experimental vaccines they deem nessessary distributed to troops in deployment. chemical exposure is rated # 1 most likey cause of this disease. Maybe they dont want you to get the help you need to survive to long enough to create awareness. I dont know just a thought. Conspiracy theory. My dad has als and va hasnt helped much as far as medical resources. but on the otherhand they were very prompt in giving 100 % disability immediately after diagnoses, then forced retirement which was a blessing for sure. its happening so fast.......