VA and DOD plan to launch a pilot program later this month to assess whether the two agencies can move to a single physical examination to cover “fitness for duty” and “disability pay” determinations. A release from the VA states that servicemembers at three military treatment facilities—Malcolm Grow Medical Center at Andrews AFB, Md.; National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., and Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.—will participate, but VA personnel are to conduct the medical evaluations, which could take place at VA facilities.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.