Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 8/5/2011

Question
Good evening sir,

I would like to apologize in advance for such a lengthy post and question. As of now, I have completed one semester of AFROTC and I am roughly three weeks away from beginning my second semester. Unfortunately, I learned about the ROTC program a little late in the game. I should be graduating with a B.A. within two semesters. However, since I want to stay in ROTC, I have to basically delay my graduation to continue as a full-time student for the rest of the program. Because of this delay, I have made some drastic changes in my life, including transferring universities. I have also been spending lots of money on test prep. books, flight lessons, and everything else I can find that will help me reach my ultimate goal and only dream in life as a fighter pilot.

My problem began during a high school football game. I tore my meniscus in my left knee. I had the corrective surgical procedure hoping to move forward from this. Unfortunately, I wasn't so lucky. I just received word today that I tore my meniscus again and need the corrective surgery. This tear now brings the count to FIVE left knee meniscal tears. When I joined ROTC, I had only four tears, all of which were corrected. My knee was in great shape at that point and I was cleared by my doctor to participate in all and any activities. It has been roughly 11 months since the fourth surgery. With word of my upcoming fifth surgery, I am now contemplating a total withdrawal from the ROTC program.

I spoke to the cadre at my detachment and I was told I might be medically disqualified from the program. However, I will not find out for sure for about two months. My question to you, sir, is whether or not you have any personal stories or knowledge regarding a situation similar to the one I am in. I had big dreams of becoming a pilot for the USAF and I was devastated when I heard about this new tear. Do you think I am wasting my time and money chasing my dream as a pilot? I know the medical clearance to become a pilot is extremely tough to successfully complete. I also knew coming into the program, I might be at risk of being disqualified for having four arthroscopic surgeries. Not only am I worried I will never see the cockpit of a plane for the Air Force, I am also extremely nervous that a career as an officer for the Air Force is no longer an option for me.

If you can offer any insight I will greatly appreciate it. I would like to thank you in advance for taking the time to look over my question.

Very Respectfully,
Jay Mauer

Answer
Jay,
If you can still flex your leg that had knee surgery straight out to 90 degrees then you'll have no problem.

If I were you I would admit to having surgery, just don't mention you've had 5 of them.  Five makes it sound like you have an incurable problem.  We gotta get you in the AF first, then worry about being a fighter pilot.  Hopefully you're not too tall because they go by "sitting height" for fighter pilots.  They measure your butt to the top of your head. (so the canopy won't touch your head).  Long legs are OK but not a long torso.

Good luck.
Colonel H