Can Medically Retired Military Be Recalled?
The United States military has a long history of service members being called back to active duty, even after they have been medically retired. This can be a complex and controversial topic, with many factors at play. In this article, we will explore the possibility of medically retired military personnel being recalled to active duty, and what it means for those who have served their country.
Direct Answer: Can Medically Retired Military Be Recalled?
Yes, medically retired military personnel can be recalled to active duty under certain circumstances. According to the Department of Defense (DoD), a medically retired service member can be recalled to active duty if they are deemed fit for duty by a medical evaluation board (MEB) or a physical evaluation board (PEB). This can happen if the service member’s medical condition improves, or if they are cleared to return to duty by a medical professional.
Reasons for Recalling Medically Retired Military
There are several reasons why a medically retired military personnel may be recalled to active duty:
- Medical improvement: If a service member’s medical condition improves, they may be cleared to return to duty.
- Newly diagnosed condition: If a service member is diagnosed with a new medical condition that is not related to their original medical retirement, they may be recalled to active duty.
- Change in medical policy: Changes in medical policy or procedures may result in a service member being recalled to active duty.
- National security needs: In times of national security crisis or conflict, the military may recall medically retired personnel to meet operational needs.
Process for Recalling Medically Retired Military
The process for recalling medically retired military personnel is as follows:
- Initial notification: The service member is notified by their branch of service that they are being considered for recall to active duty.
- Medical evaluation: The service member undergoes a medical evaluation to determine their fitness for duty.
- Board review: A medical evaluation board (MEB) or physical evaluation board (PEB) reviews the service member’s medical condition and determines whether they are fit for duty.
- Recall to active duty: If the service member is deemed fit for duty, they are recalled to active duty.
Consequences of Being Recalled to Active Duty
Being recalled to active duty as a medically retired military personnel can have significant consequences, including:
- Loss of medical retirement benefits: If a service member is recalled to active duty, they may lose their medical retirement benefits.
- Potential for further injury: Medically retired personnel may be at risk of further injury or exacerbation of their medical condition if they are recalled to active duty.
- Impact on personal life: Recall to active duty can have a significant impact on a service member’s personal life, including their family and career.
Table: Consequences of Being Recalled to Active Duty
Consequence | Description |
---|---|
Loss of medical retirement benefits | Service member may lose their medical retirement benefits if recalled to active duty. |
Potential for further injury | Medically retired personnel may be at risk of further injury or exacerbation of their medical condition if recalled to active duty. |
Impact on personal life | Recall to active duty can have a significant impact on a service member’s personal life, including their family and career. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, medically retired military personnel can be recalled to active duty under certain circumstances. While this can be a complex and controversial topic, it is important to understand the process and consequences involved. Service members who have been medically retired should be aware of their rights and options, and seek guidance from their branch of service or a military attorney if they are notified of a potential recall.
Additional Resources
- Department of Defense. (2022). Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) and Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) Process.
- Military.com. (2022). Can You Be Recalled to Active Duty After Medical Retirement?
- Veterans Affairs. (2022). Medical Retirement Benefits.
References
- Department of Defense. (2022). Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) and Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) Process.
- Military.com. (2022). Can You Be Recalled to Active Duty After Medical Retirement?
- Veterans Affairs. (2022). Medical Retirement Benefits.