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AN OFFICIAL ARMY FAMILY AND MWR SITE

Soldier and Family Assistance Center (SFAC)

What is the Soldier and Family Assistance Center (SFAC)?

SFAC services are tailored and responsive to the needs of the WT and their Families. Most services are present in each SFAC location in order to maximize the convenience to the WTs and their Families. Other services requiring less than a full-time presence will be brought forward to the SFAC at designated times. Still other services will be provided through priority off-site appointments coordinated by the SFAC staff. SFAC sites provide a warm, relaxed environment where Soldiers and their Families can gather to foster physical, spiritual and mental healing.

The services identified to date to be present or coordinated in the SFAC are:

  • Entitlement and Benefits Counseling
  • Military Personnel Services, such as ID cards
  • Educational Services
  • Transition/Employment Assistance
  • Social services to include financial counseling, stress management, translator coordination and Exceptional Family Member services
  • Travel pay for Family members on Invitational Travel Orders (ITO)
  • Substance Abuse information and referral for Family members
  • Coordination of Legal and Pastoral Services
SFAC Locations

Ansbach

Katterbach Kaserne Bldg. 5817-A

DSN: (314)467-2146 Civilian: +49 (0)9802-83-2146

 

Baumholder

Smith Barracks Bldg. 8505

DSN: (314)485-9150 Civilian: +49 (0)678-36-9150

 

Bavaria

Rose Barracks (Vilseck) Bdlg. 165

DSN: (314)476-3164 or (314)476-3165 Civilian: +49 (0)9662-83-3164 or +49 (0)9662-83-3165

 

USAG Rheinland-Pfalz & Landstuhl Regional Medical Center

Kleber Kaserne Bldg. 3210, Room 226/227

DSN: (314)483-7344 Civilian: +49 (0)6314-11-7344

 

Vicenza

Caserma Ederle Bldg. 108

DSN: (314)634-7500 Civilian: +39 (0)444-71-7500

 

Wiesbaden

Clay Kaserne Bldg. 1201

DSN: (314)337-6059 Civilian: +49 (0)6117-05-6059

Warrior Transition Battalion - Europe

Warrior Transition Battalion (WTB) Europe

The Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe will provide Mission Command and administrative support to Soldier’s requiring complex care; co-ordinate and synchronize care, treatment, and services through the Triad of Care multidisciplinary team (Primary Care Manager, Nurse Case Manager, and Squad Leader); and promote readiness for the Soldier and their Family to transition back to the force or civilian life. 

LTC_Burns.jpg

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LTC Lawerence Burns
Battalion Commander

CSM Lee Perry
Battalion CSM
Benefits

The Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offer a number of compensatory programs for wounded Servicemembers.

These entitlements and benefits have different purposes:

  • To provide pay during a portion of the rehabilitation time from wounds, in juries and illness incurred in combat;
  • To provide payment for traumatic injuries that result in severe losses; or
  • To compensate you for the reduction of your military retired pay due to the receipt of VA compensation.

This webpage presents an overview of the many types of compensation available for injured Servicemembers:

NOTE! Laws change frequently so always refer to the Web sites referenced for up-to-date information.

Education

The Army Education Center offers a wide variety of educational programs and services in the following areas:

  • Assistance in planning your educational program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Earning a degree or credential
  • Enrolling in college classes
  • Money for college
  • Scheduling for tests

Each Education Center on the installations can offer more indepth information on colleges and programs they work with. Some of the colleges are:

Other websites that offer educational assistance are:

The Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs

The accreditation database is brought to you by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Postsecondary Education (OPS). The Secretarty of Education is required by law to publish a list of nationally recognized accrediting agencies that the Secretary determines to be reliable authorities as to the quality of education or training provided by the institutions of higher education and the higher education programs they accredit. The goal of accreditation is to ensure that education provided by institutions of higher education meets acceptable levels of quality.

GoArmyEd

GoArmyEd is the virtual gateway for all eligible Active Duty, National Guard and Army Reserve Soldiers to request Tuition Assistance (TA) online, anytime, anywhere for classroom and distance learning. It allows Soldiers to manage their education records including college classes, testing, on-duty classes and Army Education Counselor support.

GoArmyEd is also the virtual gateway for Army Civilians to apply for their Civilian education, training, and leader development events.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs- GI Bill

MyCaa

The My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) Scholarship Program is a workforce development program that provides up to $4,000 of financial assistance to eligible military spouses who are pursuing a license, certification or Associate’s degree in a portable career field and occupation.

Family

Here are a series of links to Websites that will provide access to accurate and timely information about a variety of topics to family members, especially those who are difficult to reach.

Information

  • Army FRG is your direct connection to Command information for your unit. Register today for your unit's Virtual FRG site and get connected to all of the pertinent information and resources you need to stay informed and connected.
  • Military OneSource Whether its help with child care, personal finances, emotional support during deployments, relocation information, or resources needed for special circumstances, Military OneSource is there for military personnel and their families... 24/7/365! Whether you live the military lifestyle or support those who do, you'll find what you need!
  • ArmyOneSource/My Army Life Too serves as the web site of choice for Army Families. It is sponsored by the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command (FMWRC) Family Programs Directorate whose mission is to maintain the readiness of individuals, Families and communities within America's Army by developing, coordinating and delivering services which promote resiliency and stability during war and peace.

Leisure & Travel

  • Edelweiss Lodge and Resort, Germany Long revered as one of the most desirable destinations in the Bavarian Alps, the Garmisch-Partenkirchen area is an idyllic location nestled at the foot of sweeping Alpine vistas and home to the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort.
  • SATO Vacations Europe SatoTravel is the travel division of Carlson responsible for soliciting and managing travel for U.S. military and government clients. Check out this site for various travel tips and tricks or t
  • Military in Germany has lots of ideas for traveling and adventure all throughout Germany. In addition to travel ideas, the site links to several other helpful sites such as The Find It Guide, The Classifieds, and much more!
  • Europe Morale, Welfare and Recreation Keeping our Military ready to fight for the freedom we enjoy takes more than hard work and training. Service Members and Family Members need a balance between work and play. Leisure time offers opportunities for relaxation, rejuvenation and recreation.
FAQs

When is a Soldier unfit to continue military service?

A Soldier is unfit to continue in the Army when the preponderance of evidence demonstrates that one or more physical and/or mental condition(s) significantly interferes with the Soldier's ability to perform the duties of his/her office, grade, or rank. The PEB makes the decision on fitness by balancing the extent of a Soldier’s condition, as shown through objective medical and performance evidence, against the requirements and duties that the Soldier may reasonably be expected to perform in his/her branch/MOS and grade. The mere fact that one or more medical conditions exist does NOT constitute an unfit determination.

The inability to deploy CANNOT be the sole basis for determining unfitness per DoD Instruction.

Typical medical evidence used by the PEB includes:

  • A narrative summary written by the Medical Evaluation Board (MEB).
  • History and treatment of the specific injury or illness.
  • Results of laboratory, x-ray, MRI, CAT scan, and other specialized tests.
  • Current Physical Profile
  • All referrals to physicians, specialists, and sick call (health record).
  • Type and frequency of medication.
  • Results of physical exam completed within past six months.

Typical performance evidence includes:

  • Memorandum from the Soldier’s Commander addressing current ability to perform duties in MOS and unit.
  • Evaluation Reports
  • APFT
  • Approved Line of duty investigations.

I’ve been seriously hurt; what happens next?

The priority for a Soldier suffering an illness or injury is to ensure that he/she receives proper medical attention. If the Soldier’s condition improves to the point that he/she is able to return to full military duty, he/she is returned to his/her unit.

However, if the treating physician believes that the Soldier is unable to perform full military duty or is unlikely to be able to do so within a reasonable period of time (normally 12 months), the Soldier is referred to a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) at the Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) where treatment is being provided.

Medical Evaluation Board (MEB)

If the Soldier’s physical condition falls below medical retention standards, the attending physician refers the Soldier to the Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officer (PEBLO) to start a MEB. The MEB is an informal process comprised of at least two physicians who compile, assess, and evaluate the medical history of a Soldier and determine how the injury/disease will respond to treatment.

The MEB documents the extent of the injury or illness and decides if the Soldier's medical condition is severe enough to question his/her ability to continue serving in a full duty capacity.

The attending physician does this by relating the nature and degree of the medical impairment of the Soldier to retention standards and the duties that the Soldier may reasonably be expected to perform in his/her office, grade, or rank.

If the physician believes the Soldier will be able to return to full military duties within a reasonable period of time, and the Soldier meets medical retention standards, then a MEB is not required.

Referral to PEB

The MEB normally contains all of the medical and nonmedical evidence described previously. The Soldier (or his/her next of kin if the Soldier is not deemed competent) is required to review and sign the MEB and is given an opportunity to comment, as desired, on the complete content of the MEB before it is referred to the PEB.

How can I ensure the PEB has information necessary to render an accurate determination in my case?

When a Soldier is informed by his/her medical care provider or a representative of the Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) that he/she is being referred to the PEB for a fitness determination, it is important for the Soldier to become familiar with how the disability evaluation system process works.

The Soldier’s primary counselor and information resource is the PEBLO. The PEBLO is the Soldier’s advocate, counseling him/her on MEB/PEB findings and related rights and benefits. Note that the PEBLO works in the Patient Administration Division (PAD) of the MTF and NOT for the PEB.

The Soldier will have an opportunity to review and comment on the medical and non-medical information referred to the PEB. A Soldier must ensure that all medical conditions are accurately and completely listed on the forms provided during the physical examination. The examining physician will address those additional conditions, document findings, and, if appropriate, refer the Soldier to additional specialists for further evaluation that MAY result in additional medically unacceptable conditions being referred to the PEB.

To ensure timeliness in this processing through the PDES, it is in the best interest of the Soldier to: - Attend all appointments – contact counselor if you can’t make an appointment. (No shows will be reported to your Commander) - Provide copy of Leave and Earning Statement (LES), Enlisted/Officer Record Brief (ERB/ORB), last three evaluation reports (OER/NCOER) - Provide copies of approved retirement or separation orders - Provide copies of orders for recent promotions or demotions.

A Soldier will be permitted to review the narrative summary (NARSUM) and any addenda regarding a medical condition that has been prepared for referral to the PEB. After completion of the MEB, the Soldier will review the findings and recommendations. If the Soldier disagrees with the MEB or feels there is information missing or not adequately addressed, he/she will have three working days to submit a rebuttal. The Soldier wants to remain in the Army, he/she can use this opportunity to provide documentation on their ability to continue to perform their duties despite their medical condition(s). The rebuttal is referred back to the original physician who will address the issues contained in the rebuttal and make changes as appropriate. The reviewing physician receives the rebuttal and can decide to let the MEB stand as written, send MEB back for further medical information, or forward to PEB with attachments or additional notes.

The reviewing physician’s final disposition of the MEB can result in the following:

  • If the Soldier meets retention standards within the limits of his profile, he/she is returned to duty in his/her MOS.
  • If the Soldier does not meet retention standards, the case will be referred to the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) for further disposition.
  • If the MEB is a MOS/Medical Retention Board (MMRB) directed MEB, the case is forwarded to the PEB regardless of the MEB findings/recommendation.

The Army has three PEBs located at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington DC; Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX; and Ft. Lewis, WA. Each of the MTFs that conduct MEBs is aligned with one of these three PEBs. This alignment determines which PEB will adjudicate the case.

How is the PEB structured?

The PEB is comprised of two types of boards, informal and formal. A board (Informal or Formal) is composed of a three-member panel trained on adjudication standards and procedures. The Presiding Officer will normally be a Colonel (sometimes a LTC); in addition each board has a Personnel Management Officer (normally a field grade officer or civilian equivalent) and a Medical Member (normally a DA civilian physician). Almost all of the civilian board members at the Army PEBs are retired military with significant experience. By law, all PEBs considering a Reserve Components (RC) Soldier will have an RC member.

Informal PEB

The MEB is initially reviewed by the Informal PEB. A Soldier does not appear before the Informal PEB. This board conducts a review of the medical and non-medical evidence of record contained in the MEB. The first determination made by the PEB is whether or not the Soldier is fit to continue to perform his/her primary military duties. If determined unfit, the PEB then decides whether or not the Soldier is eligible for disability benefits. If the Soldier is eligible for compensation, the PEB then determines a rating percentage for the Soldier and makes a recommendation as to whether or not the Soldier should be separated with severance pay, permanently retired, or placed on the Temporary Disability Retirement List (TDRL). Ratings are discussed later in this booklet. The findings of this board are forwarded to the PEBLO, who is required to deliver the PEB findings to the Soldier within three working days from receipt. For this reason, Soldiers should be available to PEBLOs and should avoid regular leave, TDY, or any duty that would make the Soldier unavailable for counseling by the PEBLO. The PEBLO will deliver the findings in person, if possible, but can satisfy the notification requirement through telephonic or other verifiable means. It is recommended that the Soldier’s AKO address be reflected on the MEB and any other frequently used e-mail address should also be noted. Soldiers should check both AKO and other e-mail inboxes frequently during the MEB/PEB process. The PEBLO will counsel the Soldier on the findings, assist in the completion of an election of options and notify the PEB of the Soldier’s decision on how to proceed. The Soldier must complete their election of options within a maximum of 10 calendar days.

If found fit, the Soldier may either concur or nonconcur with the findings of the Informal PEB. If the Soldier nonconcurs, he/she may submit a written rebuttal that includes new medical information or performance data not previously available or considered by the Informal PEB. Other supporting material may also be presented. A Soldier found fit by an informal PEB does NOT have a legal right to a hearing; however, as an exception to policy he/she may request a formal PEB hearing from the PEB President. If a Soldier is found fit while on the TDRL, which is discussed later in this handbook, he/she is entitled to a formal hearing before the PEB.

If found unfit, the Soldier has the right to accept the findings, or can nonconcur with the findings and submit a written rebuttal and/or demand a Formal PEB with or without personal appearance. All written rebuttals will be considered by the informal PEB, which may issue revised findings based on the information provided or may affirm their original findings. A Soldier does not give up his/her right to a formal hearing by submitting a rebuttal.

Formal PEB

As provided in law, no active duty or reserve Soldier found unfit by an Informal PEB may be retired or separated for physical disability without being given the right to a formal hearing. A Soldier who is found unfit by the Informal PEB and wishes to appeal can demand a formal hearing, with or without personal appearance. Army regulations require that unit commanders issue TDY orders to Soldiers to support travel to and from formal hearings.

The Formal PEB is the Soldier’s opportunity, with the assistance of legal counsel, to present evidence, testimony and documents in support of his/her case. The Soldier may appear in person and present evidence pertinent to the case. The Soldier can be represented by an appointed Judge Advocate General Corps (JAGC) attorney, or counsel of their own choosing (a civilian attorney or a representative from a National Service Organization such as Disabled Americans Veterans). If the Soldier elects to have civilian counsel of his/her choosing, it will be at no expense to the government.

I am going before a Formal PEB. What should I do?

Counsel

Once a Soldier is scheduled for a formal hearing, the soldier will be contacted by a military attorney of the JAGC assigned to the garrison Staff Judge Advocate (SJA) office where the PEB is located. These officers are NOT assigned to the PEB; they serve as independent military counsel.

Military counsel is normally appointed and made known to the Soldier prior to the scheduled formal hearing date. This occurs as soon after the Soldier elects a formal hearing as is practicable. Soldiers using military counsel normally meet their counsel for the first time, face-to-face, a day or so before the formal hearing. This is an opportunity to go over the Soldier’s case and discuss any last minute questions. Changing representation (counsel) prior to the formal hearing does not constitute an automatic reason for delaying or postponing a formal hearing.

Informal VS Formal PEB

At the moment the Formal Board convenes to consider a case, the Informal Board findings become null and void, and the Soldier CANNOT accept the Informal Board findings under any circumstance.

Reporting to the Formal PEB

On the day of the formal PEB, the Soldier reports, in the appropriate uniform of the day for the locale, to the Presiding Officer of the Formal PEB. The Formal PEB panel will inform the Soldier of his/her rights, including the right to make sworn or unsworn statements, rights under the Privacy Act and the right not to make any statements relating to the origin or aggravation of the injury. If the Soldier decides not to testify under oath, the Formal PEB panel will not question him/her.

Recording testimony

All Formal Board proceedings are electronically recorded, except during the general overview prior to convening and the deliberation phase. A copy of the recording is available upon request by the Soldier or their counsel.

Documents to bring with you

During the Formal PEB, Soldiers should anticipate questions relating to how and when their condition occurred, treatments received, medication, and work limitations that the condition imposes. The Soldier will be provided an opportunity to discuss his/her case in detail. At the Formal PEB, the panel will usually have the Soldier's medical records, medical reports, administrative and performance records, and statements from the Soldier's chain of command concerning current duty performance.

To avoid undue delay and any detriment to his/her case, the Soldier should obtain, and arrive at the hearing with, their own personal copies of the above materials, especially those items that will be necessary in the presentation of his/her case. It is highly recommended that the Soldier submit any documentation not contained in his/her PEB packet to the members of the board at least 24 hours prior to the actual board date. The Formal PEB members use all of this information in the decision-making process.

A chance to address board members

Following questioning by the Board Members and the Soldier’s Counsel’s summation, the Soldier has one last opportunity to address the Board Members and has the option of making a brief statement. Once all evidence has been reviewed and testimony concluded the Soldier and Counsel will be excused for board deliberations. Only the voting Board Members are present during deliberations.

Board members vote and provide recommendation

The Formal PEB members will independently vote to determine if the Soldier is fit or unfit. If unfit, and found eligible for compensation, the PEB will also vote on the rating percentage and disposition. All findings are decided by majority vote. The Formal PEB then reconvenes and notifies the Soldier and his/her Counsel of their decision. A copy of the report of proceedings, which provides the PEB’s findings and recommended disposition, is provided to the Soldier before he/she departs from the PEB. The Soldier is again provided 10 calendar days to make an election as to whether he/she concurs or nonconcurs with the Formal PEB findings.

If the decision of the board is not unanimous, the dissenting board member may choose to submit a minority report citing the rationale for disagreeing with the majority. The minority report will be made a part of the MEB/PEB record and will cause an automatic review by the Physical Disability Agency (PDA).

Can I appeal the decisions of the Formal PEB?

Soldiers who disagree with the Formal PEB findings can submit a rebuttal, which will be reviewed by the Formal PEB. The Formal PEB will either affirm their initial findings, or may issue revised findings (called a formal reconsideration). If the latter, the Soldier will again be given an opportunity to respond to those findings by submitting another rebuttal to the Formal PEB.

Review by the Physical Disability Agency

Final approval authority for all PEB findings and recommendations rests with the United States Army Physical Disability Agency (USAPDA). All cases completed by the PEB are forwarded to USAPDA. USAPDA HQ conducts an appellate review of every case where a Soldier disagreed with the final PEB findings (informal or formal), and also reviews approximately 20% of all other cases to ensure adjudicative consistency and accuracy. The Agency has the authority to issue revised findings or return a case to the PEB for reconsideration if they determine the evidence of record does not support the PEB findings and recommendations. If USAPDA does issue revised findings, the Soldier will once again be afforded an opportunity to agree or disagree with the revised findings, and submit a written rebuttal. If the Soldier has not yet had a formal hearing, he/she can request one at that time. If a Soldier has already had a formal hearing, his/her appeal will be forwarded to the Army Physical Disability Appeal Board for review at that level.

After a Soldier has been separated or retired from the Army, he/she has the right to petition the Army Board for the Correction of Military Records (ABCMR) for relief if he/she believes the case was incorrect or subject to injustice or inequity.

How does the PEB decide who receives disability retirement and who receives disability severance pay? How are these pays computed?

The severity of the condition determines whether a Soldier, who is eligible for disability benefits, receives disability retirement or is separated with severance pay. Soldiers rated with a 0, 10 or 20 % disability who have less than 20 years of active service or 7200 points of combined service, will be separated with severance pay. To compute disability severance pay, multiply the Soldier’s basic pay for two months by the number of combined years (but not over 12) of active service and inactive duty points.

NOTE: There is no difference between a 0%, 10%, or 20% rating in the calculation of the amount of severance pay that is received. The rating is NOT a factor in determining severance pay.

Soldiers with 20 or more years of active military service or 7200 points of combined service, or possessing a disability rated at 30 % or more, receive disability retirement. Disability retirement is either temporary or permanent depending on the stability of the Soldier’s medical condition. Temporary disability retirement pay is computed in the following manner for service members with less than 20 years of active military service (or 7200 points of combined service):

  • 30%-50% disability rating = 50% of basic pay*
  • 50%-70% disability rating = that percentage of basic pay*
  • 80%-100% disability rating = 75% of basic pay*

*Soldiers who entered active duty after 8 September 1980 will have their basic pay computed as the average of their high 36 months of basic pay.

For those who are permanently retired for disability, disability retired pay is computed on the basis of the actual disability rating (i.e., 30% disability rating) or the length of service rating (2.5 x years of service) up to a maximum of 75%. The percentage is multiplied times the Soldier’s basic pay (or high 36-month average as described earlier). Disability retired and severance pay awarded to Soldiers who were not a member of the armed forces on September 24, 1975 is considered taxable by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). An exception exists for a Soldier receiving separation or retired pay by reason of a combat-related injury. The PEB will make combat-related determinations on all cases considered.

The Soldiers’ grade for purposes of computing disability severance pay or retirement pay is the higher of the Soldier’s current grade, highest grade satisfactorily held, or grade to which the Soldier was pending promotion. Enlisted Soldiers whose promotion eligibility date is after their separation date will be promoted on their last day of active duty. Officers pending promotion receive disability retirement or severance pay at the promotion list grade but, under officer promotion law, cannot be promoted ahead of their promotion eligibility date.

What does a combined rating mean (PEB math)?

Per instruction in the VASRD, the PEB combines ratings. The PEB arranges the rated conditions in the order of their severity, beginning with the greatest disability, and then rates each as a percentage of remaining efficiency. For example, a Soldier with a 60% disability is considered 40% efficient. If the Soldier also has a 30% disability, it is measured as 30% of the remaining 40%, leaving the Soldier as 28% efficient, or 72% disabled. The 72% is rounded to 70%, which is the Soldier’s combined rating. This system of combined ratings is complicated. If you receive a combined rating your PEBLO can explain how it was determined.

What does placement on the Temporary Disability Retirement List (TDRL) mean?

Soldiers who qualify for permanent disability retirement (rated at 30% or higher or with 20 or more years of active duty or 7200 points of combined service) are placed on the TDRL if the PEB determines that their condition is not stable for rating purposes. This happens if, in the opinion of the PEB, the Soldier’s condition can be expected to improve or worsen during the TDRL period. While on the TDRL the disability rating doesn’t change, regardless of any change in condition of the Soldier. Placement on the TDRL protects both the Soldier and the Army. Soldiers placed on the TDRL will receive a minimum of 50% of basic pay (or high 36-month average as described earlier) and also receive all other retirement benefits (ID cards, TRICARE eligibility, etc.) while on the TDRL. Soldiers on TDRL will receive a medical re-evaluation at least once every 18 months while on the TDRL, and this re-evaluation will be forwarded to a PEB for a new disability determination. As a result of the new PEB finding the Soldier may be found fit (and may be give the opportunity to return to military service if desired), separated with severance pay (if the rating is decreased under 30%), permanently retired, or retained on the TDRL and re-evaluated again within 18 months.

Placement on the TDRL cannot be longer than five years. At the end of those five years Soldiers must be removed and given a final rating. If a Soldier does not keep USAPDA informed of their civilian address, or doesn’t report for scheduled TDRL re-evaluation, retirement pay and medical benefits for the Soldier (and dependents) may be stopped.

I suffer from a condition listed in the VASRD. Does that mean I will be found unfit and rated by the PEB?

Just because a Soldier has a condition that matches a description in the VASRD does not mean that the PEB will find him/her unfit to continue military service.

Before a Soldier is eligible for a disability separation or retirement the Soldier’s case must show that he/she is unable to reasonably perform the duties of his/her office, grade, rank or rating and that this inability to perform is a direct result of a documented disability.

I have more than one diagnosis. If the PEB finds me unfit as the result of one of my diagnoses, does that mean all of my diagnoses are unfitting and will be rated by the PEB?

The PEB evaluates the evidence of each diagnosis, but only rates the conditions that prevent the Soldier from performing his/her military duties. For example, a Soldier, in a single accident, could suffer internal injuries that result in the loss of one kidney and a musculoskeletal injury that crushes two vertebrae damaging disks and impinging on nerves. The loss of a single kidney would not necessarily prevent the performance of military duties; however, the back injury may very likely result in the Soldier being unfit for continued military service. In this example the disability rating would likely be awarded for the back injury only.

The PEB says my condition existed prior to service. How can this be? I never suffered from this condition before I came into the Army.

Physical or mental disabilities that make a Soldier unfit may have existed prior to entering the service (EPTS). Causes of EPTS disabilities include hereditary or congenital defects or injuries with an inception before entering active service. There is a presumption that pre-existing conditions have been service-aggravated, but this presumption can be overcome if the PEB determines that the worsening of any condition followed the “natural progression” of the pre-existing injury or disease based on well-established medical principles.

If a Soldier has less than eight years total active service (see eight-year rule on next page) he/she could be separated from the service without disability benefits. This would happen if the PEB deems a Soldier's injuries EPTS and his/her condition has not been permanently aggravated by military service. By law, the Army only compensates for those conditions that were caused by, or permanently aggravated as a result of, military service.

It is possible for a Soldier to possess a physical or mental disability and never experience a problem until he/she faces the stresses of military life. The physical and emotional stress of military training can cause a latent condition to appear or an old injury to worsen to the point that the Soldier is no longer able to perform his/her military duties.

To appeal a finding of EPTS, a Soldier must present medical evidence that the condition did not exist prior to entering the service, or provide medical evidence documenting that military service permanently aggravated a pre-existing condition.

Separation without Disability Benefits

A Soldier may be separated without disability benefits in the following situations:
(a) The unfitting condition results from injury which is due to intentional misconduct or willful neglect.
(b) The disability was incurred during a period of unauthorized absence.
(c) The disability was not incurred or aggravated as the proximate result of performing duty (for example, EPTS).

What is the eight-year rule?

By law, a Soldier with over eight years active federal service is eligible for disability compensation even if his/her condition existed prior to service (EPTS). The eight years of active service does NOT have to be continuous; however, the Soldier must be on active duty orders of over 30 days for this rule to apply.

Shouldn’t I have my medical conditions evaluated by the PEB to support a disability claim I plan to submit to the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA)?

No. The DoD and DVA disability evaluation systems are independent of one another. As stated earlier, only those conditions that render the Soldier unfit for continued military duty will be rated by the PEB. However, the DVA could potentially rate and award disability compensation for any medical condition that affects a former Soldier’s quality of life whether or not that condition would impair their earning capacity.

Although the Soldier’s medical record is used by the DVA to determine service connection, the former Soldier is given a complete medical examination by the DVA before a rating determination is made by a DVA rating specialist.

Additional information on DVA benefits can be found at www.va.gov. In addition, DVA Benefits Counselors are available at most Army transition centers.

Health Care

European Medical Treatment Facilities

Links

Information

U.S. Consulate General Frankfurt am Main

European Command Sites

Legal Assistance

Ramstein Patriot Express

Leaders

The Leader's Corner

Provides Unit Commander's and Senior NCO's the information that can assist them in determining, and reassigning soldiers to the WTU.

As a commander, how do I get a Soldier assigned to a WTU?

Soldiers, either in-patient or out-patient, are assigned to a WTU at any time, providing they are eligible. Commanders should base the decision to assign a Soldier to a WTU on input from the treating provider and the Soldier’s desire to remain in his/her parent unit.

1. If a Soldier meets the eligibility requirements, the Soldier’s commander will:

(A) Refer Soldier to the Triad of Leadership for evaluation.

(B) Assemble a packet using the checklist listed in Annex B.

1) Commander Referral Letter 

2) Warrior Screening Matrix

The healthcare provider will complete the Screening Matrix with input from healthcare team to include Behavioral Health staff.

4) Soldier’s Profile (DA Form 3349).

(C) Ensure that the PULHES in MEDPROS reflects the Soldiers current physical profile.

(D) Forward the packet to the WTU Triad of Leadership for consideration.

The completed forms will be reviewed and signed by the unit commander and included in the packet.

Who is eligible for assignment to a WTU?

1. Soldier has a temporary profile, or is anticipated to receive a profile, for more than 6 months with duty limitations that preclude the soldier from training for or contributing to unit mission accomplishment. Medical non-availability is not an automatic entrance into the WTU.

2. The acuity of the wound, illness, or injury requires clinical case management in order to ensure appropriate, timely, and effective utilization and access to healthcare services to support healing and rehabilitation. The Triad of Leadership will review all Soldiers who meet eligibility criteria and will determine disposition as follows:

(A) Soldiers with complex medical conditions that require extensive case management qualify for assignment or attachment to the WTU

(B) Soldiers with medical conditions that do not require case management should remain in their units and utilize standard healthcare system and access to care standards.

Who is not eligible for assignment to a WTU?

Under usual circumstances, the personnel in paragraphs a thru g below are not eligible for attachment / assignment to the WTU. Military Treatment Facility Commanders may make exceptions for valid clinical reasons after consultation with the Soldier’s treating provider and unit commander.

  • Military personnel who are under investigation, courts-martial charges or sentence, non-judicial punishment, or administrative separation proceedings except delineated in AR 635-40. Such personnel will not be reassigned from a local unit without concurrence of the WTU commander.
  • Soldiers with normal, uncomplicated pregnancy
  • Soldiers whose permanent profiles require an MMRB. If the MMRB refers the Soldier to the MEB, the Soldier would then be eligible for the WTU.
  • A mobilized Soldier whose condition existed prior to mobilization, was not aggravated by the current mobilization, and was discovered prior to Day 25 of the current mobilization. When identified, such Soldiers are immediately released from Active Duty (REFRAD) and sent back to their parent RC in accordance with current PPG.
  • Soldiers who are in Initial Entry Training, Advanced Individual Training, or One Station Unit Training.
  • Soldiers in TDRL status who are anticipated to stay at the Military Treatment Facility for less than 30 days.
  • General officers will not be relieved from duty assignment and assigned to a WTU without approval of the Army G-1.
Transitioning Soldiers

Links

U.S. Department of Labor

The Department of Labor (DOL) fosters and promotes the welfare of the job seekers, wage earners, and retirees of the United States by improving their working conditions, advancing their opportunities for profitable employment, protecting their retirement and health care benefits, helping employers find workers, strengthening free collective bargaining, and tracking changes in employment, prices, and other national economic measurements. In carrying out this mission, the Department administers a variety of Federal labor laws including those that guarantee workers’ rights to safe and healthful working conditions; a minimum hourly wage and overtime pay; freedom from employment discrimination; unemployment insurance; and other income support.

States Department of Labor

A state department of labor administers state employment and labor laws for which it's responsible and which might differ from the Federal equivalents. Typically, state department of labor Web sites provide employment and labor law or employee rights research resources, compliance assistance, and related contact information for asking questions and filing complaints, if the latter is applicable.

Some of the links below don't lead directly to state department of labor Web sites, but rather to state-government "gateways" that include or link to information about state labor and employment matters. That's because not every state department of labor has its own Web site or the gateway provides more extensive employment and labor research resources. In either case, browse the gateway to find the information you're seeking.

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
DC
Florida
Georgia
Guam
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Puerto Rico
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virgin Islands
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

Warrior/Soldier

AW2 Program

The Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2) is the official U.S. Army program that assists and advocates for severely wounded, ill and injured Soldiers, Veterans, and their Families, wherever they are located, regardless of military status. Soldiers who qualify for AW2 are assigned to the program as soon as possible after arriving at the Warrior Transition Unit (WTU). AW2 supports these Soldiers and their Families throughout their recovery and transition, even into Veteran status. Through the local support of AW2 Advocates, AW2 strives to foster the Soldier's independence. There are more than 18,200 Soldiers and Veterans currently in AW2.

Wounded Warrior Project

The Wounder Warrior Project (WWP) aims to foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded service members in our nation's history. They work to raise awareness and enlist the public's aid for the need of the injured service members. The WWP provides unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. Visit the Wounder Warrior Benefit Services site for benefit assistance information.

Wounded Warrior Resource Center

This site is a Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs website. The website was created to connect Wounded Warriors, Service Members, Veterans, Their Families and Caregivers with Those Who Support Them. This site's National Resource Directory has an abundance of helpful information.