Army Responds to Senator Akaka Remarks on Fort Drum
By Major Nathan Banks, Army Spokeperson, The Pentagon
Feb 8, 2008 - 11:36:18 AM
Blackanthem Military News
ARLINGTON, VA. - Army policy does not forbid outside agencies from
assisting Soldiers in reviewing their narratives during the 10-day
review period. The Army has no objection to anyone with appropriate
skills and information assisting our Soldiers in the Medical Evaluation
Board/Physical Evaluation Board process," the Army told NPR Feb. 6."
"The Army's review of disability retirement rates for Fort Drum cases
found that average ratings for Fort Drum Soldiers for 2007 are within 1
percent of the averages for similar installations. The Tiger team
didn't intend any controversy or conflict. We all regret any
misunderstanding. As a precaution, the Army Surgeon General's staff
will reinforce this policy by providing a reminder to Warrior Care and
Transition teams to ensure clear understanding of the Army's position
on this practice," the Army's reply to NPR concluded.
We appreciate the helpful attitudes and behavior of the VA staff at
Fort Drum. The Soldier can consult veterans' service organizations,
lawyers or JAGs, VA or any informed and helpful advisor.
The Army Medical Action Plan is a nationwide effort. The Army has more
than 2,000 Soldiers assigned to Warrior Transition Units at 34 posts
throughout the United States helping wounded Soldiers. There are more
than 9,500 Warriors In Transition -- wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers
-- receiving care and support to recover medically as well as to handle
administrative needs. Each Warrior in Transition has a squad leader, a
nurse case manager and a primary-care manager to ensure his or her
needs are met. The Wounded Warrior mission affirms: "I am a Warrior in
Transition. My job is to heal as I transition back to duty or become a
productive, responsible citizen in society. This is not a status but a
mission. I will succeed in this mission because I am a Warrior.