Skillbridge separation and potential MEB (Air Force)
I’ve seen some similar situations, but I’d really appreciate some insight from anyone who has been through this or knows the MEB/SkillBridge process.
I’m an SrA stationed in Alaska, currently coming up on my 180-day mark from DOS. I’ve been formally approved for SkillBridge in Texas, and I’m currently outprocessing with my expedited separation orders already in hand. I’m about 21 days from my final out.
After spending quite a bit of time working through some medical issues I’ve been having, I was recently diagnosed with a rare condition. My doctor explained that the good news is that we caught it early enough to begin treatment and manage it long-term.
However, because the condition is automatically disqualifying for continued Air Force service, he is required to refer it up toward the MEB/AMRO process.
Obviously, this came as a pretty big shock. I was feeling good about where everything was headed financially and personally. My wife sold her vehicle and has already been accepted into a college program in Texas.
I’ve spoke to my commander and they’ve been extremely supportive. They’re aware of the situation and are willing to advocate for me as this moves toward AMRO. My biggest concern is how this could affect my current separation/SkillBridge plans. I understand that I may potentially be eligible for a medical retirement depending on how the process plays out, but I also don’t want to completely derail the financial and personal plans my wife and I have already made.
I’ve told my leadership that, if possible, I would honestly prefer to proceed with my existing separation rather than have my SkillBridge and plans in Texas completely thrown off. However, if I’m required to go through the MEB process, I’m wondering whether a remote MEB is possible.
I’ll be living in Texas during SkillBridge and would be near DOD installations and VA facilities, so I’m wondering if anyone has experience completing an MEB remotely while already in SkillBridge or while separated from their duty location.
Any insight from anyone who has been in a similar situation would be appreciated. For now I still am outprocessing and shooting to get out of here with my active orders, unless my orders are rescinded. Thank you