Wounded warrior receives laser eye surgery to cope with dissability Published Nov. 18, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Erin M. Peterson 59th Medical Wing Public Affairs LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Army Sgt. Robert "Scott" Stephenson lost the use of his left arm in November 2006 when an improvised explosive device detonated near him while on combat patrol in Iraq. After undergoing rehabilitation for his wounds, he requested a corrective eye surgery so he would not have to wear glasses or contact lenses. Sergeant Stephenson received laser eye surgery Nov. 12 at San Antonio Military Medical Center-South, or Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. "I couldn't put contacts in myself because of my arm," Sergeant Stephenson said. "Not having to ask for help will make my life easier," said the infantryman assigned to the 3rd battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, Fort Richardson, Alaska. Corneal Refractive Surgery is a surgical procedure designed to reduce an individual's dependence on spectacles or contact lenses. More than 20,000 eye surgery procedures have been performed at SAMMC-South Refractive Surgery Center since its opening in January 2001. "We are privileged to be able to help our wounded warriors improve their vision," said Lt. Col. (Dr.) Charles Reilly, ophthalmologist at the center and consultant to the Air Force Surgeon General for refractive surgery. "Anything we can do to make their lives easier after they have given so much to our country is an honor."