Original Message

Similar experience here. Navy Rescue Swimmer/private pilot, wound up having to take a medical discharge for lower back injuries (no retirement, I only had 17 years in). Took the severance cash and got my commercial/CFI rotorcraft and started working. Filled out the forms for a 2nd class medical, answered all the questions truthfully. ME happened to be an osteopath, gave me a full back study right there in his office and signed me off. Never had to apply to Oklahoma City for a waiver. Same thing every year since, no issues. Retiring in two weeks, no regrets. Just tell the truth. You either get a pass, jump though some hoops to get cleared, or you don't make the cut. Do you really want to risk your career on the chance that the Federales are going to find out you lied? Not worth the heartburn, IMO.