ADDENDUM TO
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
AIR FORCE BOARD FOR CORRECTION OF MILITARY RECORDS

IN THE MATTER OF:	DOCKET NUMBER:  BC-2004-01622
		INDEX CODE:  108.07
		COUNSEL:  XXX
		HEARING DESIRED:  NO

MANDATORY CASE COMPLETION DATE:  22 MAY 07

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APPLICANT REQUESTS THAT:

His service-connected medical condition, macular degeneration, be assessed as combat related in order to qualify for compensation under the Combat Related Special Compensation (CRSC) Act.

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STATEMENT OF FACTS:

On 8 Jun 05, the Board considered and denied a similar request submitted by the applicant.  For an accounting of the facts and circumstances surrounding the applicant’s request and the rationale of the earlier decision by the Board, see the Record of Proceedings at Exhibit F.

In further support of his request applicant, through his Congresswoman, reiterated his previous contentions and provided copies of newsletter excerpts.  His Congresswoman's complete submission, with attachments, is at Exhibit G. 

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THE BOARD CONCLUDES THAT:

Insufficient relevant evidence has been presented to demonstrate the existence of an error or injustice.  After again reviewing the evidence of record and the additional evidence provided by the applicant, it remains our opinion that the service-connected medical condition the applicant believes is combat-related does not meet the strict requirements to qualify for compensation under the CRSC Act.  Applicant believes his impaired vision qualifies for CRSC as incidental to hazardous service flying military aircraft.  However, under the qualifying criteria, CRSC cannot be approved based upon conjectural opinions.  Approval must be based on a definite causal relationship between the hazardous service and the service-connected condition.  After again reviewing the evidence of record along with the documentation provided in support of his appeal, we find no evidence which would lead us to believe his condition meets the established guidelines for approval.  In view of the above, we find no basis upon which to reverse our previous determination. 

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THE BOARD DETERMINES THAT:

The applicant be notified that the evidence presented did not demonstrate the existence of material error or injustice; that the application was denied without a personal appearance; and that the application will only be reconsidered upon the submission of newly discovered relevant evidence not considered with this application.

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The following members of the Board considered AFBCMR Docket Number BC-2004-01622 in Executive Session on 13 Dec 05, under the provisions of AFI 36-2603:

The following documentary evidence was considered:

    Exhibit F.  Record of Proceedings, dated 10 May 04, w/Exhibits.
    Exhibit G.  Congressional Inquiry, dated 22 Nov 05, w/atchs.