So I'm not personally locked into CDMA vs gsm, its just that the carrier appears to be. The exact quote from the device page is
"[US Version] Compatible with GSM Networks including AT&T, T-Mobile and MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) who utilize AT&T and T Mobile networks. This device is not compatible with CDMA Networks such as: Verizon, Sprint and US Cellular"
Looking at it more, it sounds like the problem is specifically the 13 band not being supported by the device.
Verizon. It sounds like they specifically don't have the 13 band.