The Iowa Academy of Ophthalmology sponsored a statewide program to provide discounted laser correction surgery to Iowa National Guard soldiers being deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq in 2010. Wearing contact lenses in Afghanistan is impossible due to the "moon dust" that permeates everything; and glasses are inherently dangerous in combat due to possible loss or breakage and the difficulty with wearing them under protective eye gear.

The National Guard distributed a list of participating practices to all interested and eligible soldiers. Laser eye surgery, including LASIK, improves a person's eyesight by reshaping eye tissues. All Laser eye surgeons in the state agreed to participate and we are proud to report that 116 Iowa National Guard soldiers received discounted refractive surgery under this program. 

The Iowa Academy of Ophthalmology is the organization representing Physicians specialized in the medical and surgical treatment of eye diseases. The Iowa Academy thanks all of the participating surgeons and the contributing organizations for their support.  This program will equip the soldiers to more effectively and safely accomplish their mission.  As a result, Sight for Soldiers will ultimately be beneficial not only to Iowans but to all Americans.  Below are lists of participating surgeons and organizations that have made financial contributions to date. 

Even with the discounts, it was difficult for many soldiers to afford this procedure.  Additional contributions to offset the soldiers' out-of-pocket expenses are still welcome and may be made to:  Iowa Academy of Ophthalmology, PO Box 97, Polk City, IA  50226.

Participating Practices

Participating Contributors

American Legion Post 232
  Polk City

American Legion Riders Post 232
  Polk City