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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/US Coast Guard
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Question
My 18yr old is very interested in joining the Coast Guard. The problem is he is ADHD and on Med's. We were told (by a recruiter w/ the CG) that if he's off his med's for 6 months they will let him join. Now another recruiter says he has to be off his meds for 12 months. Which one is correct and why so strict. If he gets off his meds now, in 1 month he'll test clean of his meds, can he still join.
The issue isn't testing clean for meds, but the effect of him being off them. He is on meds for a reason, some people can get along fine without as they "grow" out of it. The typical 12 month rule is used as an evaluation period as observed by his doctor, who will submit a report to the military processing Doctor. If he functions normally off the meds for a year, then he MIGHT be granted a waiver or cleared without a waiver. Usually, in my experience, they are not cleared unless they have been off meds for a few years, but each case is different on severity, mine were kind of severe.
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Answers by Expert:
John L
Expertise
I am a National Guard recruiter , been doing it for seven years and am a subject matter expert on qualifications for National Guard and I keep up to date on Regular Army regs and programs. I was in the Navy for 4 years and have 13 years in the Guard. I will not sugar coat my answers to you. They are usually short and to the point. If you need more in depth, ask me. Because each situation is different, alot of times you need to actually talk to a recruiter and let them evaluate your situation in person, by looking at your documents, issues etc. If I suggest this, it would be in your best interest to do so. Finally...thank you for your interest in serving this great nation of ours. Very few people can actually make the cut to serve let alone choose to do so. So thank you for wanting to and hopefully you will get a chance. Whatever branch you choose, thank you and good luck.
Experience
13 years Guard experince, combat missions and homeland missions. 7 years recruiting. I have been a platoon sergeant and squad leader. Mentor to new recruiters and recruits.
Education/Credentials
Recruiters course and advanced courses in recruiting
Awards and Honors
Top recruiter in district for FY 2008. Nominated for recruiter of the year for 2010.
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