Blog Archives
On Azimuth LLC Achieves SBA Certification as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
Windermere, FL — July 1, 2026 — LOUJSWZ INC proudly congratulates On Azimuth LLC on achieving official certification as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) on June 30, 2026.
Led by Lieutenant General (Ret.) David Wilson, U.S. Army, On Azimuth LLC provides strategic leadership, organizational strategy, executive advisory, and global logistics consulting services to federal and commercial clients. This certification allows the company to compete for federal set-aside and sole-source opportunities reserved for eligible veteran-owned businesses, including additional contracting opportunities through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Reflecting on the achievement, LTG (Ret.) Wilson said:
“I did this with the encouragement of my Citadel classmate, Louis J. Schwartz, who helped me see that pursuing this certification could give my business a competitive advantage because certification differentiates your business. Instead of competing against thousands of firms, you may compete against only dozens—or even fewer—for veteran set-aside opportunities. That significantly improves your probability of winning contracts.”
He also encouraged fellow veteran entrepreneurs:
“Don’t be shy about reaching out to your networks and seeking assistance. It can be a true difference maker. If you’re certified as a VOSB or SDVOSB, you become eligible for additional opportunities with the Department of Veterans Affairs under the Veterans First Contracting Program—opportunities unavailable to companies without certification.”
Louis Schwartz, President of LOUJSWZ INC, added:
“Helping fellow veterans build successful businesses is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. Every veteran-owned company that earns SBA certification expands opportunities not only for that business but also for federal agencies seeking experienced, mission-focused partners.”
Congratulations to Lieutenant General (Ret.) David Wilson and the entire On Azimuth LLC team on this outstanding achievement.
About On Azimuth LLC
On Azimuth LLC is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) providing strategic leadership, organizational transformation, executive advisory, and global logistics consulting services. Founded by Lieutenant General (Ret.) David Wilson, the company leverages decades of senior military leadership and enterprise logistics experience to help government and commercial organizations improve operational readiness, strategic execution, and organizational performance.
About LOUJSWZ INC
LOUJSWZ INC is a veteran-owned consulting firm specializing in SBA certifications, federal registrations, and government contracting readiness. The company has helped numerous veteran-owned businesses successfully obtain SDVOSB and VOSB certification while also assisting veterans in pursuing the VA disability benefits they have earned through military service.
Don’t Leave a Service Member Behind: Empowering Veterans to Navigate VA Disability Benefits
Most of my veteran clients come to me the old-fashioned way: through referrals and word of mouth.
I am not currently accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs, although I began that process nearly three years ago. About a year ago, the VA contacted me to ask if I was still interested. I told them absolutely. Since then, I have been waiting to hear back.
In the meantime, veterans continue to need help.
Recently, a veteran over the age of 50 was referred to me. He was rated at 60% disability but was afraid to file any additional claims because he had heard a common myth: “If I ask for more, the VA will take away what I already have.”
After reviewing his file, we discovered that a bilateral condition had never been properly claimed. The issue wasn’t that he was asking for something new—the original rating simply wasn’t correct.
Within two weeks, his rating increased from 60% to 80%.
We then identified several secondary conditions that were directly related to his service-connected disabilities. Within two months, his rating increased again to 90%.
But the most important part of this story is not the rating increase.
Throughout the process, I taught him how the VA disability system works. I explained evidence requirements, secondary conditions, effective dates, and how to build a strong claim.
Armed with that knowledge, he continued the process himself.
Today, he has achieved the correct rating of 100%.
That is success.
Not because I helped him. Because he learned how to help himself.
The Numbers Tell the Story
There are approximately 6 million veterans who have never been evaluated for VA disability compensation. Many left military service before programs such as the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) process became common.
At the same time, there are only about 2,000 accredited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) across the country.
Let’s do the math.
Assume:
- A compensation claim review takes an average of 135 days (midpoint between 120 and 150 days).
- A VSO works 40 hours per week.
- A VSO works 50 weeks per year.
Even if every VSO could somehow manage one complete compensation review every 135 days, the system could only process about 5,400 veterans per year nationwide.
At that rate, it would take more than 1,100 years to review 6 million veterans.
Even if we assume far greater efficiency, the reality remains the same:
There are far more veterans needing assistance than there are professionals available to help them.
The Solution: Veteran Helping Veteran
We cannot solve this challenge by relying solely on VSOs, attorneys, claims agents, or consultants.
We must empower veterans.
Every veteran who learns how the system works should help another veteran.
Every veteran who successfully navigates the process should teach someone else.
Every veteran who receives benefits they earned should encourage a fellow service member to get evaluated.
The goal is not dependence.
The goal is education.
The goal is confidence.
The goal is ensuring that every veteran understands the benefits they earned through their service.
The veteran in this story did exactly that. He overcame fear, learned the process, achieved the correct rating, and is now in a position to help others.
That is how we create a force multiplier.
One veteran helping another.
Then another.
Then another.
Because at the end of the day, we all swore an oath to leave no one behind.
That principle should not end when military service does.
Don’t leave a service member behind. Help them get the benefits they earned. Teach them how the process works. Empower them to help the next veteran.
Danny’s Success Strategies Achieves Veteran-Owned Certification
LOUJSWZ INC proudly congratulates DANNY’S SUCCESS STRATEGIES LLC on officially attaining both Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the General Services Administration (GSA).
This achievement represents far more than a designation. It validates the company’s ownership, governance, operational integrity, and eligibility to participate in federal programs specifically designed to increase opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs who have served and sacrificed for our nation.
Across the United States, there are millions of veteran-owned businesses, yet only a relatively small percentage complete and maintain the formal federal verification and certification process required for official SDVOSB recognition. Because of this, attaining certification is a meaningful accomplishment that demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and readiness to support government and commercial customers alike.
For DANNY’S SUCCESS STRATEGIES LLC, this certification creates significant opportunities, including:
- Eligibility to compete for federal SDVOSB set-aside contracts
- Increased visibility within federal procurement systems
- Enhanced credibility with prime contractors and teaming partners
- Greater access to supplier diversity programs
- Recognition as a verified veteran-led organization committed to service and excellence
The benefits also extend directly to customers and partners. Organizations that work with certified SDVOSBs gain access to highly motivated, mission-focused businesses that often bring leadership, discipline, adaptability, and operational resilience developed through military service. Federal agencies and large corporations additionally benefit by meeting important small business and supplier diversity objectives while supporting the veteran community.
At a broader level, every successful SDVOSB certification strengthens America’s commitment to those who served. Veteran-owned businesses continue to play a vital role in the U.S. economy by creating jobs, supporting local communities, and bringing values-based leadership into both the public and private sectors.
LOUJSWZ INC is honored to have assisted in supporting this effort and remains committed to helping other veteran entrepreneurs navigate the often complex SBA and GSA certification processes. From organizational documentation reviews and eligibility guidance to SAM.gov alignment and strategic positioning, LOUJSWZ INC helps businesses better understand the importance of official federal certifications and how to leverage them for long-term growth and opportunity.
We congratulate DANNY’S SUCCESS STRATEGIES LLC on this important milestone and look forward to their continued success serving customers with the professionalism, integrity, and leadership that define the veteran business community.
The Missing Millions: Why So Many Veterans Still Lack Disability Ratings
In the United States today, a significant portion of the veteran population remains without a service-connected disability rating—even though many receive ongoing care from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This gap affects millions and stems from long-standing structural issues and common misunderstandings.
How Many Veterans Are Unrated?
Recent federal data shows:
17.8 million veterans currently live in the U.S.
Only 5.2 million (about 30%) have a service-connected disability rating.
That leaves roughly 12.5 million veterans without a rating, including an estimated 6 million who separated before disability assessments became part of the mandatory out-processing process.
Before the mid-1990s and early 2000s reforms, the DoD did not require a disability evaluation as part of separation or retirement. Millions of veterans left service with no assessment and never filed later simply because the process was unclear or unknown.
Two VA Systems — and They Don’t Communicate
A critical fact many veterans do not know:
VA Healthcare and VA Disability Compensation are completely separate systems.
Receiving VA medical care does not create or update a disability rating.
Diagnoses, imaging, or treatment inside VA healthcare records are not reviewed for disability compensation unless a veteran files a claim.
No condition—primary or secondary—moves into the disability system automatically.
Many veterans assume that being treated for chronic pain, orthopedic injuries, sleep issues, or mental health conditions means their disability file is being updated. It isn’t. Only a formal claim triggers review.
The Impact on Veterans
Millions of veterans who never filed a claim at all.
Veterans with worsening conditions who never requested rating increases.
VA healthcare patients with serious diagnoses that were never evaluated for service-connection.
Missed compensation, lost benefits, and reduced access to programs tied to rating thresholds.
A single misconception—“VA healthcare updates my disability rating”—can cost a veteran years of deserved benefits.
What Every Veteran Should Do Now
To ensure disability benefits reflect current health conditions, veterans should:
1. Review their conditions regularly
Check for new diagnoses, worsening symptoms, or secondary conditions.
2. File new or supplemental claims
Use VA.gov, mail, or accredited submission channels to request evaluation.
3. Understand the system
VA healthcare records do not update disability ratings. A claim must be submitted.
4. Track secondary conditions
Issues like sleep apnea, depression, migraines, radiculopathy, GERD, or joint degeneration often stem from service-connected primaries.
Veterans who separated before mandatory disability evaluations around 2010 are especially vulnerable because many were never informed of the modern process.
Closing the Gap
With only ~30% of veterans holding a disability rating—and millions eligible but unrated—awareness is essential. Understanding that VA healthcare and VA disability compensation operate independently is the first step toward ensuring every veteran receives the benefits they earned through service.
Need Help Understanding Your Claim Path?
If you or a veteran you know is unsure about eligibility, secondary conditions, or how to properly file, guidance is available. Filing a claim is not automatic—but it can be straightforward when you understand the rules and requirements.
How to Add Evidence to Your VA Disability Claim
I have been getting the title of the this alot.
Yes, you can add evidence to a VA disability claim after it has been submitted, as long as the claim is still open (not yet decided). Great example, is you decide to have a provider complete the VAs DBQ as your medical evidence is limited and it was after you already pressed submit. Some claims take several months so you shouldn’t worry about not submitting it.
Here are your options depending on the stage of your claim:
✅ If the claim is still in progress (Pending / Under Review):
You can submit additional evidence directly via:
- VA.gov (log in → go to your claim → “Upload documents”) Only method I recommend
- Mail to: Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
(Use a VA Form 21-4138 or 20-10210 to explain what you’re submitting) - Fax: 844-531-7818 (for domestic) or 248-524-4260 (international)
- Mail to: Department of Veterans Affairs
Be sure to include:
- Your VA file number or SSN
- The specific claim it relates to
- A clear description of what the evidence is and why it’s relevant
If a decision has already been made: (you got your claim letter back from the VA)
You cannot just “add” evidence—you’ll need to take one of these steps:
| Scenario | Action | Form |
|---|---|---|
| You’re still within the 1-year appeal window | File a Supplemental Claim | VA Form 20-0995. do it online and your lay letters don’t have to be on the official form |
| You think a clear error was made | File a Higher-Level Review | VA Form 20-0996 do it online and your lay letters don’t have to be on the official form |
| You want a hearing with a judge (last last resort) | File a Board Appeal (18 months!) | VA Form 10182 do it online and your lay letters don’t have to be on the official form |
In all three cases, you can submit new evidence (except during Higher-Level Review, where no new evidence is allowed).
Hope this helps folks out there!
VA Disability Claims: Clear and Simple Support
Filing for disability compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can be a complex and frustrating process. I provide a straightforward service designed to make it easier for veterans to receive the benefits they have earned.
Here is how I work:
- Payment only if benefits are awarded. My fee is twenty percent of the initial back payment from the VA. If an appeal is needed, the same structure applies. After that, the veteran owes nothing further.
- Based on federal standards. Because the VA does not set rates for consulting, I align with the Social Security Administration’s guideline of twenty-five percent and reduce it by five percent. This keeps my fee at twenty percent, below a recognized federal benchmark.
- No long-term obligations. Veterans can stop working with me at any time after providing notice. There are no hidden commitments or recurring fees.
- Everything in writing. I use a simple written contract that explains all terms clearly, in plain language. Veterans know exactly what to expect before we begin.
- Who I work with. Most of the veterans I serve are those who have had bad experiences with Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) or firms, those who have grown frustrated with the VA, and those who may not believe they deserve this benefit from a grateful nation.
My goal is to provide a fair, transparent, and effective path through the VA process, with clear terms and no surprises.
If you are a veteran who would like help filing for VA disability benefits, contact me at lou@loujswz.com
or 706-332-6005.
Winning Proposals for Veteran-Owned Businesses
I just submitted my very first proposal to the State of Florida—and I have to admit, I didn’t think I stood a chance.
This wasn’t some minor RFP. Florida is recompeting its Management Consulting Services Consolidated Schedule, and I chose to compete in Service Category 4: Executive Leadership Development and Customized Training—one of nine powerful categories, all dominated by big-name firms with deep pockets and armies of employees.
But here I am. A veteran, a founder, a team of one, pushing through multiple websites, platforms, registrations, certifications, documents, file formats, and yes—those relentless character count limits—just to be considered viable. To even get a seat at the table.
And I made it.
It was not easy. The process was time-consuming, mentally exhausting, and filled with moments of doubt. But it was also one of the best learning experiences I’ve had as a business owner.
And here’s what I want other small businesses—especially my fellow Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs)—to know:
If you don’t try, you can’t win.
The State of Florida spent over $82 million on management consulting services last year alone. That’s not just a number—it’s an opportunity. One that we, as small, capable, values-driven businesses, can pursue. If you have the right NAICS codes, the right mindset, and the willingness to navigate the process, there’s a real path forward.
Yes, the back-office requirements are real. But compared to the federal government, the state-level procurement process is far more accessible. You don’t need a team of ten compliance officers. You just need to be intentional, organized, and committed to understanding the rules of the game.
I don’t know if I’ll win this one. But I do know this:
- I now understand how the process works.
- I can replicate and refine my submission.
- I’ve proven to myself—and maybe to others—that I belong at the table.
- And I’m ready to bring in some of the most mission-driven leaders I know to serve with excellence.
To anyone else out there feeling like a one-person army going up against giants: keep going.
The journey matters. The learning is real. And your impact—when your moment comes—will be undeniable.
Thinking About Filing for VA Disability? Read This First.
If you’re reading this, someone probably told you, “You should file a VA claim.” Maybe they’ve been saying it for years. Maybe it’s the first time you’re thinking about it seriously. Either way, I’ve been where you are—wondering if it’s worth the time, energy, and vulnerability.
Let me tell you something I wish someone had told me sooner: it’s okay to ask for help. And it’s okay to want clarity before you step into the process. So let me walk you through the VA disability claims journey—step by step—with free resources I personally trust, and some rough timeframes to expect.
🛠️ Step 1: Determine If You Qualify
Timeframe: Immediate – 1 week
You need a current diagnosis, evidence that the condition was caused or worsened during military service, and a “nexus” connecting the two.
Free Resources:
- VA Benefits Eligibility Tool
- VA Lay Statement Guide
- HadIt.com Forums (veteran-run discussions, peer guidance)
- DAV.org Help with Claims
If you’re not sure, connect with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). They work for you, not the government.
📄 Step 2: File Your Initial Claim (Intent to File First)
Timeframe: 1 hour to prepare + VA average: 125–150 days
Start by submitting an Intent to File. That locks in your effective date while you gather evidence. Then you file the full claim.
Free Resources:
- VA Intent to File Tool
- VA Form 21-526EZ (Application for Disability)
- Vets Guardian (for-profit but offers free consultations; good for complex cases)
🔍 Step 3: Evidence Gathering & Adjudication
Timeframe: 4 to 5 months average (can vary)
The VA reviews medical evidence, service treatment records, and may schedule a C&P exam (Compensation & Pension).
Free Resources:
- VA C&P Exam Guide
- Military Service Records Request (NPRC)
- Veterans Law Blog – C&P Exam Tips (private site but very educational)
🧾 Step 4: Decision & Rating Letter
Timeframe: Included in the 125–150 day total (Step 2)
The VA issues a decision: denied, granted, or partial. You’ll get a rating decision letter explaining why.
Free Resources:
🔁 Step 5: Appeal or Supplemental Claim (if denied or underrated)
Timeframe: Varies greatly – 4 to 18 months depending on option
You can:
- Request a Higher-Level Review (125–150 days)
- Submit a Supplemental Claim with new evidence (125–150 days)
- Appeal directly to the Board of Veterans Appeals (average: 12–18 months)
Free Resources:
- VA Appeals Process Overview
- NVLSP (National Veterans Legal Services Program) (Nonprofit legal help for appeals)
- Wounded Warrior Project – Benefits Services (free help from trained staff)
🔒 Step 6: Sustainment – Updates, Increases, Secondary Claims
Timeframe: Ongoing (review every 3–5 years or as conditions worsen)
Disabilities change over time. You can request increases, add secondary conditions (like depression caused by chronic pain), or file for TDIU if you can’t work.
Free Resources:
- VA Form 21-526EZ (Again – for increases)
- Hill & Ponton Guide to TDIU (for-profit legal group with helpful blog content)
- Veteran Appeals Resources – The American Legion
🎯 Final Thoughts
Starting a VA claim is a personal decision—one that can stir up emotion, old memories, and self-doubt. But you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to a VSO, or me and get educated, and move at your own pace. There are people—like me—who once hesitated too. And we’re all better for finally taking that step.
You’ve served. You’ve earned this. And your well-being matters.
Maples Staffing is Now a Certified SDVOSB
Today marks a proud and transformative moment in the journey of Maples Staffing Group, LLC. After years of perseverance, commitment, and growth, we are thrilled to announce that the company has officially been certified as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This recognition places us in an exclusive group of businesses dedicated to excellence and proudly owned by those who have served our nation.
This achievement is more than a label; it is a testament to the rigorous standards of governance, validation, and integrity required to attain such a certification. It symbolizes a commitment to maintaining transparency, accountability, and adherence to strict SBA guidelines. To reach this point, Maples Staffing Group demonstrated:
Veteran-Owned Leadership: The business must be majority-owned, controlled, and operated by a service-disabled veteran.
Proven Capability: A track record of operational excellence and adherence to industry standards.
Verified Governance: Extensive documentation and validation to ensure compliance with federal regulations, including the maintenance of up-to-date records with SAM.gov.
The story behind this milestone is as inspiring as the achievement itself. At one point, our founder, Mr. Robert Maples, didn’t even consider applying for VA benefits—his pride as a veteran and focus on serving others often outweighed personal recognition. But through reflection, encouragement, and the understanding that embracing these benefits serves both his family and the greater mission, he took the steps necessary to honor his legacy and his service. This certification is as much about perseverance and personal growth as it is about business success.
For those seeking to partner with a certified SDVOSB or to learn more about our services, Mr. Maples can
We extend our deepest gratitude to our community, clients, and partners who have supported us along the way. This is a new beginning filled with opportunities to continue serving with the same integrity, dedication, and passion that defines Maples Staffing Group.
Together, we honor service, embrace growth, and forge ahead with pride.
An Effective Way to Boost Your Companies Customer Base
“At LOUJSWZ INC., we understand the unique challenges faced by veteran-owned small businesses. Our mission is to guide you through the intricate process of obtaining Federal Certification as a Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) by the U.S. General Services Administration. Our team, comprised of veterans like you, leverages deep expertise and shared values to streamline your path to certification. This partnership will not only enhance your competitive edge but also open new opportunities in the federal marketplace. Start your journey towards certification and sustainable growth with us at loujswz.com. Let’s achieve great things together.”
