Thanks to a U.S. congressman, help is on the way for a retired World War II veteran.

Earlier this month, retired U.S. Marines Staff Sgt. Carl Diekman was told by the Department of Veterans Affairs he would no longer receive his $84 a month veterans check.

Diekman was also told if he didn't repay the government about $3,900, his case would be turned over to a collection agency.

"You've served your country. You've done what you think is right, and they turn around and jeopardize whatever money was you (were) getting. It's terrible," Diekman told KNBC's Doug Kriegel on Monday.

KNBC aired Diekman's story Monday.

On Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Buck McKeon of the 25th District of California called Diekman and said the outstanding balance would be waived.

Diekman, who lives on an income of less than $15,000 a year, said he should be getting a confirmation letter in three or four days.

"I can sleep tonight. Don't worry," Diekman said.

The retired Marine was in Iwo Jima on Feb. 23, 1945, the day the iconic Mount Suribachi flag-raising photo was taken.

Diekman, who is a skilled woodcarver, also served in the Korean War, Kriegel reported.