Sacramento Area Local News

Truckee, Calif (CBS13) ― A 61 year old Truckee surgeon made the life changing commitment to join the Navy.  His reason is moving but the question is; does the government need a 61-year-old recruit?  Bill Krissoff's oldest son, 1Lt. Nathan Krissoff joined the Marines and shipped off to Iraq.

"Nate was an extraordinary young man and he was hugely influenced by 9/11.  He was a

great leader.  He was inclusive by nature and above all he was humble and he was

very quiet about his own accomplishment.  He learned that from his mother."

In 2006 he was leaving a town near the city of Falluja when an IED exploded near his HumVee, killing Nathan.  The death so deeply affected Krissoff, an orthopedic surgeon in Truckee, that he chose a unique way honor his son.  He decided to join the military to try and help save others like Nathan.

"Was there any other way in your mind that you felt you could honor your son and his memory?"  "Personally I think this is the best way."

But at 61, Bill faced an uphill battle to prove he was fit for the job.

Officials say they have no idea what kind of shape he's in, but are excited about his passion and they know he's a qualified Orthopedic Surgeon, so that's an awesome combination.

Lt. Commander Hopkins says it's a long term policy for the military to consider skilled professionals up to age 67.  Many can't make the cut physically.  As for why the military would need a surgeon close to retirement age:

"Under the current circumstances, with the war in Iraq, some might say this is clearly a message from the military, they're desperate for help."

"I wouldn't say that.  It's about the mix of people.  Because we're involved in combat operations, there may be a need for surgeons in that environment but that varies year to year."

Bill Krissoff wouldn't wait for a final answer.  He went above the recruiters head to the very top, persuading President Bush to speed up his application process.

"He chuckled when I told him when I told him that the Navy recruiter said I was too old; I mentioned that I was younger than he was, sir."

The successful doctor's since accepted a commission as a Lt. Commander in the Naval Reserves.

"Are you hoping to save somebody else's son?"  "Well I'm hoping that I do my best to take care of Marines.  That would be great."

He'll serve in what's called an FRSS or forward resuscitative surgical system.  It's like a small mobile MASH Unit, but for Marines serving on the front lines.

"My experience is in the civilian sector with road trauma and ski injuries and sports injuries and industrial injuries.  Some of that is transferable."

Getting injured troops into surgery fast during what's called the Golden Hour after they get injured increases their chances of survival.

"This is a pretty spectacular spot."

Leaving behind his luxurious home overlooking Reno, Dr. Krissoff is making a sacrifice. He hopes his choice to serve challenges others.

"There is no connection in our society between those who are involved in the conflicts in Iraq or Afghan."

He has another son in the Marines and a very understanding wife.  The president wanted to make sure she was okay with his choice.  His commanding officer said a 76-year-old surgeon just returned from reserve duty in Afghanistan.

Dr. Krissoff believes the war is stretching the military's manpower.  He hopes to inspire other healthy seniors with valuable expertise who would welcome the opportunity to serve.

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