Your story is one of thousands brother. Many of the things you mentioned are exactly what has happened to other vets. They submit claims and hear nothing. Records get lost and filed incorrectly. It has been a mess! I feel confident though that things are going to change. Love or hate the Trump administration; they have rattled some cages and policies are changing. However, by the time the process gets to where it needs to be, many of our brothers AND sisters will have passed away or become so frustrated they simply fall off the radar. This is why veterans have to help other veterans. The first word of advise is to make copies of every record old and new. Everytime you go to the VA, before you leave the facility, go to personnel records and get a copy of what took place that day. Make it habit. So, next time they say they don't have a record of your appointment, you can pull it out of your file. I have battled injuries myself. It has been a process of healing that has lasted nearly 20 years...like you. Thank you for your service.