If you are military veteran with a service-related disability you may qualify for over $3,300 in monthly benefits. These benefits are paid to veterans who have injuries or diseases that happened while on active duty, or were made worse by active military service. It is also paid to certain veterans disabled from VA health care. These benefits are tax-free. The following is a summary of VA Disability Compensation:

    VA Disability Compensation Eligibility
    VA Disability Compensation Amounts
    VA Disability Compensation Application Process
    VA Travel Reimbursement
    Disability Compensation Tables
    Special Monthly Compensation for Severe Disabilities

So it's likely that this man is refusing taxpayer help, or is simply lying about being a Vietnam vet.  We do take care of our disabled vets.