|
|
||
|
|
||
In March 2008, the Pentagon issued a change in regulations significantly narrowing the definition of combat disabilities. The Pentagon stated that disability benefits should be higher for military personnel wounded in combat versus those injured in non-combat situations.
Two recent cases point out the absurdity of the new regulation. Sgt. Lori Meshell suffered a shattered hip and back injuries while diving for cover during a mortar attack in Iraq.
Since she was not hit by shrapnel, the Pentagon ruled her injuries were not combat-related and she was not entitled to about $1,200 per month in benefits.
Cpl. James Dixon experienced a traumatic brain injury, a concussion, a dislocated hip, and hearing loss from roadside bomb and mine explosions in Iraq, and his case was ruled non-combat related.
This regulation has to be changed to classify all injuries experienced by military personnel in war zones as combat related.
I state the preceding comments as a former PO2(E-5) and LT(O-3), U.S. Navy.
