William O. Douglas

“ Plainly the officer is granted authority under § 302 (a) to introduce such evidence; and it is certain he will do so if it is favorable. We hesitate at a construction of the statute which forecloses the Army from considering the evidence when it is unfavorable. [4] Yet that would be the result if we construed 'service records' narrowly. We think it would be more in harmony with the nature of the procedure, the purpose of the inquiry, and the powers granted the Review Board to construe 'service records' broadly enough to include these medical reports. ”

“ The medical history following the retirement will often be of great importance to the Review Board, since the statute of limitations which governs review is a long one. Requests for review may be made within 15 years after the retirement or after June 22, 1944, whichever is the later. ”

“ The oral examination of the officer is granted for the purpose 'of making full discovery of all facts as to his condition.' [2] These hearings are not contests; they are inquiries concerning disability. The purpose is to get at the truth of the matter. ”