Expert: Rod Powers - 10/29/2006

Question
It is not a ROTC scholarship, I am active duty going full time to a university; I do not do drills or any of the things that they make the ROTC kids do. But I guess my question becomes how can I ensure that my superiors allow me to take the option that I want to take (getting out of the military) and repaying them their tuition? compared to being relocated within the US?
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I am a junior in college and get full pay to go to school; so I am treated as if I am a typical enlisted member but I am different as well.
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I am in an officer commissioning program but I signed a four year obligation to service that I would have to complete if I do not fulfil my obligations for my officer commission program; I have suffered from severe back pain and have been seeing a doctor since August and I have had to withdraw from half my courses thus making me not fulfil the requirements for the program. I do not want to have to relocate and finish my time as a nonrate and want to pursue a medical discharge if applicable or a 180 day sepeation... how do I go about this? how can I make sure that I get a discharge instead of relocating given that this medical stuff is not in the best interest for the military or for me (a nonrate who has been on light duty for more or less 3 months sounds like a liability to me...)? Thank you!!
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Hi Ashley,

Because you use the term "non-rate," I assume you're in an officer commissioning program for the Navy (or Coast Guard)? Are you in ROTC, either through a scholarship, or in your Junior or Senior Year?

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com

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Hmm.....Sounds like it may be an ROTC Scholarship?

If so, you need to present your medical problems to your unit officer. It's most certainly possible to be given a medical discharge from the program.

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com


Answer
Hi Ashley,

You visit a military medical facility, and get examined. They will decide whether or not your medical condition is inconsistent with military service, and -- if so -- initiate a Medical Evaluation Board. For details, see my article at: http://usmilitary.about.com/od/theorderlyroom/a/medseparation.htm.

If the MEB determines that medical discharge is appropriate, you will not be required to reimburse tuition.

In other words, it's not your choice. It's the medical officials' choice, after examining your medical condition (If it was easy, then everyone would do it).

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com