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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Medical Discharge
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My husband joined the AF in September of 2006. We just found out that one of the discs in his lower lumbar is completely gone. They thought it was only herniated, but after seeing a neurologist and taking MRIs they realized that it wasn't there at all. He hasn't seen the orthopaedic surgeon yet, but they are pushing surgery because there has already been slight nerve damage. He has been out of work and on quarters for a month. We have been hearing tons of different things. I just wanted to know if this was means for a medical discharge and how likely it would be to happen?
Alot will depend on what he will be able to do after the surgery. If he can still do his job and still remain deployable and still pass the PT test every year...chances are that he will be fine. He needs to imply to his surgeon and his doctor that he wants to remain on active duty.
Now if they docs decide that its not in his best interest to remain on active duty , then they will board him out on a medical disability. the percentage will depend on what the docs decide he can do and how much of that was a service connected disability.
For the time being I wouldnt worry too much about the medical board....get thru the surgery and the rehabilitation and see what he can do first.
HW
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Answers by Expert:
Howard Lorenz
Expertise
I have spent the past 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, 3 years was assigned as an Enlisted Accessions Recruiter. I have been deployed various times to several locations. If it is a career in the military you are looking for or thinking about I most likely have the answer. I still have contacts with in the recruiting field and if I don't know the answer then I have folks who do where I can find the answer. I am very blunt and straight forward and will make no attempts to BS you. I will give you the best information that I possible can can. If you think that you cant handle the answer that I give you, then don't ask the question...... If you are planning on joining the military, your number 1 decision factor in making this kind of move is that you need to be more concerned about serving your country than your country serving you!! All the benefits are the best that you can find. Education is at a premium right now and its the most rewarding thing that you can do. If I dont answer right away probably means that I am busy, but have patience, I will get to you.
Experience
Air Force Recruiter for 3 years, Air Force Career 21 Years
Organizations
Veterans of Foreign Wars
Education/Credentials
Community College of the Air Force, International Air Academy, Allied Business Schools, Embry Riddle Aeronautical College, Defense Acquisition University
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