CPT Jillyen Curry
3rd Infantry Division (Mechanized) of Ft. Stewart is currently preparing to deploy to Iraq in January, 2005. Given their wartime mission (combat arms), history of recent combat exposure, and increased op-tempo for training (i.e.; JRTC), this division’s risk for hearing loss is immense. The 2004 Army G-1 medical readiness requirement for the completion of a DD2215 prior to SRP clearance provided the necessary command support to accomplish mass hearing screens. Further, the 3rd ID Division Surgeon approved a decision paper mandating SRP hearing tests be completed within the last calendar year. Approximately half of 3 ID’s 20,000 soldiers, therefore, required hearing screens within seven weeks. The hearing conservation team of Ft. Stewart/Hunter AAF accomplished this mission. The methods that worked and those that failed will be the subject of this presentation. The goal is to provide helpful information to other HCPMs facing large SRPs with limited equipment and personnel.
Further information on the program is at the Air Force section of our Website.