Commander holding my 5-17?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 06 Oct 2018 18:28:48 -0400

I don't want to sound stupid for asking this, but here it goes. So I have had major back and hip issues for a while, but I don't qualify for a MEB. I am not really seeking compensation anyway, even though it would have been nice. I am basically going to be going through a Chapter 5-17 for it since I can't wear my gear without worsening conditions and the army has no more use for me.

That's all whatever, my wife and I have come to terms with it. My issue comes in from the fact that my commander has agreed to initiate it, however, she is holding onto it until I do something for her. When that's completed, it's another thing, then another, then wait for a replacement when it is never brought up etc. Can she just hold onto this until she feels fit? Or is this a quid pro quo situation (not in the SHARP category, more you do a task for me type stuff) since she is holding it me over her head?

I am one of the 2 that works in the training room at the unit and she doesn't want to let me go. But I am trying to save myself here. This is my health I am worried about as some days I can't even get out of a chair without assistance.

Didn't know if this is something I should go to a higher open door policy or go to IG or anything. I really appreciate everyone's help.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Oct 6 at 2018 7:25 PM

SSG Brian G. — Sat, 06 Oct 2018 19:25:48 -0400

Per my reading of the guidelines on chapter 5-17 it is at the convenience of the service. Basically it is command discretion. That said, for what you are describing the 'scratch my back and I'll scratch yours' actions are out of line no matter the situation.

The first thing you need to do is apprise yourself of the 5-17 procedure, then seek out your next higher up in the chain of command. I'd advise going to IG as the last step.

Response by MGySgt Rick Tyrrell made Oct 6 at 2018 8:35 PM

MGySgt Rick Tyrrell — Sat, 06 Oct 2018 20:35:41 -0400

Ask your Commander what needs to be completed to get documents signed. Once completed walk straight in an ask for signed doc!

Response by MGySgt Rick Tyrrell made Oct 6 at 2018 8:36 PM

MGySgt Rick Tyrrell — Sat, 06 Oct 2018 20:36:24 -0400

One more thing take a witness with you both times

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Oct 6 at 2018 9:30 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Sat, 06 Oct 2018 21:30:49 -0400

Do not qualify for a MED Board? The Army initally accepted you with previous/latent physical problems? SPC Private RallyPoint Member

I do confuse easily, please explain? Prior injury I understand. Why you were enlisted, that I don’t understand!

Response by CPT Robert Boshears made Oct 7 at 2018 12:41 AM

CPT Robert Boshears — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 00:41:54 -0400

Please seek advice. If not military retired, run to a VA counselor. I am 100% VA, 2 fractured lumbar discs, L5-S1 two surgical rebuilds, one cervical disc herniated and one herniated in my neck. Ohhhh, an implanted intrathecal pain pump connected to my spine... I tried to stop an 1800 pound pallet of projectiles from hitting a gun mount. At 18 it didn’t seem so bad. The next 11 years I pushed myself.... Motrin, braces, 120 extra strength Vicodin and 60 # 10 valiums per month... I was on a chemical vacation. It was ruled a combat injury. I collapsed on my 16th year..... hired an attorney, who assured me any bad back injury will eventually get 100%. Get good advice... and the attorney could only charge 10%. You won’t believe the benefits

Response by LTC Peter Hartman made Oct 7 at 2018 7:01 AM

LTC Peter Hartman — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 07:01:36 -0400

You say that you are not looking for compensation. BUT when you do get discharged file a claim with the VA- you need a determination that your medical conditions are service connected. That will give you access to VA health care for the rest of your life and your condition(s) may get worse over time. I have a 60% disability rating and many of my conditions are rated at 0. But if they get worse as I age the VA can treat those conditions and even increase my disability rating. Make sure that you copy all of your medical records while still on active duty. That will save a lot of time with your VA claim. I know many Vets who did not file a claim when they got out and their conditions got worse- it is much harder to prove service connection when you wait years to file a claim. Don't make that mistake.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Oct 7 at 2018 3:08 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 15:08:07 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member Please do not go easily! If you were G2G when you entered the Army, your current problems are the Army’s problem!

Chain of command, Chaplin, IG, write to congressional representative.

Everything is easier when you are still a member of the military! TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF, YOUR FUTURE AND YOUR FAMILY ! Problems like you describe are serious and only become worse with age! DO ALL YOU CAN - BE POSITIVE - KEEP MULTIPLE COPIES OF EVERYTHING.

Not only retain copies forever, work on indexing by - date- with identifiers for each document, then maintain an index of all them. Your case will generate a lot of paper, be ready. (I like to make a red slash across the upper left corner of my original documents and retain them myself, copies of copies don’t reproduce well).