Q. I am on Title 32 with the Army National Guard approaching my 38th year. I have more than 16 years of active duty during this time, as indicated on my DD 214. I also work for the federal government (Army) as a helicopter flight instructor at Fort Rucker,Ala., and not the National Guard in this capacity, with almost 23 years at this position. I am not a technician, as both jobs are separated. I am also pending more Medical Evaluation Boards resulting from injuries sustained while deployed to Iraq in 2006-2007. Of course, I have my 20-year letter for retirement.
If I get separated from the National Guard for medical reasons due to the combat-related injuries, I have been told that I would be medically retired and start receiving retirement pay and benefits as of the date of discharge. Or would I have to wait until age 60 to receive these?
I am not law enforcement, ATC or any other special retirement plans under the federal government. Is there anything I can read and research regarding this issue?
I am also a disabled veteran rated at 30 percent, with 20 percent due to combat-related issues, with more on appeal.
A. What you were told is correct. For the whole story, go to www.opm.gov/retire/pubs/handbook/C046.pdf.
