About the MOA| Doctors| Paraoptometrics| Students and Educators| Media

Military

Optometrists Needed in a Military Setting

The Air National Guard
Opportunities in Minnesota
James D. Colgain, O.D.
jcolgain@aol.com

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak at your Spring meeting, held at the Northland Hotel, near Minneapolis. On my visit to Minnesota, I became aware that the Minnesota Air National Guard had openings for optometrists.

When I left active duty 14 years ago, I decided to continue my military career as an Air National Guard Optometrist with the 113^th Fighter Wing at Andrews AFB. One of the best decisions I ever made! The ANG, located in all 50 states has positions for Optometrists in each flying squadron. The Air Guard has a dual mission, to provide support to your governor during local emergencies, and to support and supplement the active duty Air Force.

As an ANG optometrist you are responsible for all aerospace vision related requirements of the squadron, including the AirCrew CL program, the refractive surgical program, Night Vision Goggle issues as well as visual readiness of the squadron. Of course you receive specialized paid training in these areas to help you become an expert in vision and it’s influence on our aviators.

In exchange for 1 weekend per month, (your pay depends on experience and rank) plus at least 15 days of active duty per year, (one week is often paid to attend a CE meeting like SECO, the Academy, AOA or other national meetings) you are a part of the armed services. You also have the opportunity to be promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and if interested to become the commander of the ANG medical squadrons, attaining the rank of Colonel. There are other tangible benefits like a retirement, commissary and exchange privileges, low cost life insurance, international travel and continuing professional education.

If you are interested in one of these positions, send me e-mail and we can arrange a conference call to answer your questions concerning service to this great country…
By the way, I just received my twenty-year letter… but I am staying… in the Air National Guard!

Jcolgain@aol.com
LTC DCANG, 113^th Medical Squadron
301-346-2020

Here are the current vacancies for optometrists in your area.
ND - Fargo (119th)
MN - Duluth (148th)

Please fax new listings to the MOA office at 952-921-5801 or send them via e-mail to jessica@MNEyeDocs.org.