Interesting, thanks RetNavyHM. So when you say "you would only be eligible for NFO at this point in time," does that mean I still could possibly eligible for pilot in the future?
flight medical requirements and waivers are controlled by NOMI/NAMI and not DODMERB.
the current rules definitely don't allow SNA's to have 20/400 uncorrected vision. there was a brief time when apparently they allowed waivers with contact lenses or glasses, but that went away again. now the only way is to get PRK or LASEK (which is a form of PRK). right now LASIK is a permanent DQ- don't ever get it without talking to a flight surgeon first.
you can really read all about PRK for Naval Aviators here:
http://www.airwarriors.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=56
in particular, there are some sticky threads on vision requirements for SNA's here:
http://www.airwarriors.com/forum/showthread.php?t=11533
http://www.airwarriors.com/forum/showthread.php?t=136669
be careful though- the first of these threads talks about a contact lens waiver that was happening back in 2006. this is gone now.
by the way, depending on your uncorrected vision, there may be an enforced waiting period of up to 6mo after you get PRK before you can even apply for a waiver. since you can't get PRK until you are 20yo, i've seem some recommendations for early junior year as the best time for PRK for those that want ot be SNAs- it allows enough waiting time after the surgery to get a waiver and select SNA in time.
i know a lot about this because i've been researching it since i'll need a PRK waiver myself.
