Hi Jim. Not being able to understand speech in noise is the biggest problem for most people with hearing loss. Hearing aids do help but you'll still have difficulties. Its best to utilize communication strategies to keep from going crazy. Move away from the noise source. You'll find that most people do not have a problem with moving outside the noisy environment. This is not always possible. For instance, when your sitting in a restaurant. A pass-around microphone or personal FM system may help.
Your reasoning for learning ASL was the same reasons that I tried using it. Unfortunately, unless your communication partner knows ASL, it does not help. It's excellent tool to exercise the brain though.
You may want to reach out to the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA). They formed a group dedicated to veterans. You can find information here: https://www.hearingloss.org/hearing-help/communities/veterans/
Tony in Michigan