Clear vision to win the fight

Published Sept. 4, 2018
By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Ingold
20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- By keeping 20th Fighter Wing Airmen and its mission partners in focus, the clinic team pushes Shaw forward.

“If our patients cannot see the enemy, they cannot shoot the enemy,” said Airman 1st Class Lake Upshaw, 20th AMDS ophthalmic technician.

Upshaw said most Airmen should come to optometry when they first arrive for an in-depth exam. The exam given at basic military training might not address eye issues they possibly have.

The optometry clinic works primarily with pilots, 20th Security Forces Squadron members and Airmen who work in a duty section that’s at a higher risk for eye damage, especially Airmen that work with lasers. However, the clinic is open to Airmen, Soldiers, retirees and dependents when available.

“Readiness drives everything,” said Maj. Ronny Bowman, 20th AMDS optometry flight commander. “We are constantly seeing who needs gas mask inserts, which pilots are overdue for contact lens checkups and managing our supply of glasses.”

Bowman said every deployer should know about GEyes site: https://srtsweb.amedd.army.mil/WebForms/GEyes/Forms/GEyesHomePage.aspx. Deployed Airmen can get into the system and order glasses to be shipped to you overseas.

Every member of Team Shaw can use the 20th MDG optometry clinic to ensure optimal eye health. The clinic Airmen will continue to keep the eyes dropping warheads on foreheads sharp.