Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 4/25/2009

Question
I saw a posting for administration jobs in the Navy and wanted to find out what kind of jobs they were and submitted my contact information.  A recruiter contacted me and after speaking with him, I am very interested in learning about career opportunities with the Navy.  I am scheduled to meet with him on Monday and would normally wait and ask him these questions but would really like to find out before-hand if possible.  I would like to know if medical (vision requirements actually) are the same for everyone who applies to the Navy regardless of the type of job they are seeking? I am not seeking active duty.  I am 28 years old and have a BS in Business Management and experience in HR and Legal (I am open to opportunities in other areas as well though).  I know that everyone has to go through basic training, or "boot camp".  My question is, would I even be considered for any job whatsoever if I have Nystagmus? I was born with this condition and it is extremely mild, almost unnoticeable now.  My vision is correctable to 20/30 in one eye and 20/40 in the other.  It has never caused me any issues.  I didn't even think of it when the recruiter asked me if I were healthy or I would have asked right then.  I will be sure to ask him if I don't hear back before Monday.  Thank you so much for your time!
Sara Pool

Answer
Sara,
As I'm sure you already know, in most cases, nystagmus is irreversible.  Which means you're stuck with it.  It sounds like your problem isn't quite as bad as others, but unfortunately some people do have severe eye jerking which can cause momentary loss of focus and can be a safety hazard.  In the military, you routinely work with multi-million dollar equipment and also some very large, dangerous, equipment.  So they're worried about the safety of yourself and others.  I know it sounds unfair, but they deal with thousands of cases daily so they have to set some guidelines, or rules.

You're probably aware that it's impossible for a person with horizontal Nystagmus to pass the "horizontal gaze" test when stopped by a traffic cop for suspected DUI.  Then it's quite a hassle to prove you're innocent.  Same thing.  The laws are made for the majority of the people.

Since you have a Bachelor's degree I assume you're wanting to enter as an officer. (you'd be crazy not to).  Since you have such a mild case it may be possible to obtain a waiver.  Explain this to your recruiter and see what he thinks.  Can you get a letter from your family doctor saying it doesn't cause you any problems?  If so, the recruiter can include that with his paperwork that he submits to apply for a waiver.

It's worth a shot.  You've got nothing to lose by just trying.
Best of luck and I appreciate your willingness to serve your country in uniform.
Colonel H