I have been working with my recruiter to get an 18x contract. I needed to get a medical waiver for surgeries I had in 2004 (ankle - 3 screws retained) and ACL reconstruction in 2011. I was able to obtain the medical waiver. However, when going back to MEPS I was informed 18x contracts can not have a medical waiver as MEPS is unable to qualify anyone with a medical waiver for Airborne. Despite this, I was told that I could still get this contract through a memorandum which allows 18x candidates to have the Airbone screening waived at MEPS. My recruiter said this would be done after OSUT and I could not get screened prior to this time.
According to AR 40-501 it should be a non-issue for enlistment. The criterion, as follows, for Airborne, Ranger, and SF are more stringent:
"Retained hardware that is integral to maintaining fixation or stability, or presents a risk to mobility or a risk of further injury by its presence."
I have been to civilian PTs to have range of motion testing done and civilian orthopedic specialist to examine x-rays and give full clearance for all activity for my previous injuries.
With that, has anyone seen in recent times someone with retained hardware able to attend Airborne or is this basically a 5 year guarantee for "needs of the Army?"
According to AR 40-501 it should be a non-issue for enlistment. The criterion, as follows, for Airborne, Ranger, and SF are more stringent:
"Retained hardware that is integral to maintaining fixation or stability, or presents a risk to mobility or a risk of further injury by its presence."
I have been to civilian PTs to have range of motion testing done and civilian orthopedic specialist to examine x-rays and give full clearance for all activity for my previous injuries.
With that, has anyone seen in recent times someone with retained hardware able to attend Airborne or is this basically a 5 year guarantee for "needs of the Army?"