I hate mailing stuff. So when you went in person did you get you license that day?I retired sometime in 2005 and don't remember exactly when.
I simply took my DD 214 (and a $400 check) to the local DNR office, which for me was in Gainesville.
I didn't have any issues, and I'm sorry to read that it is becoming a challenge in your case.
Just remember that you're dealing with a government beaurocracy: you are expexted to be patient and have a few roadblocks thrown in front of you