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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/DUI waiver for OCS
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Question
I am a recent college graduate with a 4 year bachelors degree. I am really interested in entering the military namely the the Army, possibly the Marines. I have a good background except for one mishap. I recently got in trouble with a DUI. According to my attorney, he thinks it will be knocked down. I am still working the issue out in court and i know i must have everything finished before i can enlist or go into OCS. My question is, once my case is over and all fines paid, how likely is it for me to get a waiver for OCS? My recruiter said it is highly unlikely and has been pushing me to enlist as an E-4. I have good references including State Police references from people i have worked with and have been friends with as well as former military and current military that can attest to my character and physical fitness.
I have researched a lot of different sites and forums and have seen that there is a distict divide between those who think enlisting with a college degree is a mistake since i already have the education. Those say try hard first to enlist. Others feel it would work to my advantage to enlist and apply for OCS later but i have seen that can be difficult depending on circumstances.
Also, i know my issue can stop me from attaining certain MOS. Would that stop me from being an MP with an airborne option or from applying to WOFT.
Thank you in advance
Tim
Tim:
Going in enlisted and then trying for OCS is a risky proposition, since if you don't make it, well, then there you are, college degree and all, and still enlisted.
Since you already have your degree, I'd talk to an officer recruiter instead of the regular enlisted recruiter, they can give you more options.
A DUI usually isn't a deal breaker for most jobs, even MP's, as long as it's cleared up and you are not on probation and such.
Jason
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Answers by Expert:
Jason Grabill
Expertise
Questions relating to US Marine Corps; rank, awards, uniforms, career choices. I can also help people spot and expose fakes (people pretending to be Marines or have awards they didn`t earn). Considering the Marines as a career? Or another branch, like the Air National Guard? Drop me a line. HOWever..know that I am NOT a recruiter. I can offer my expert opinion and advice, but can't (and won't) over rule what a recruiter says, they are the 'on duty' expert.
Experience
Infantry Rifleman, MOS 0311: 3 years. Marine Barracks Security (Marine Barracks, Annapolis, Maryland(not Embassy Duty): 3 years. Parachutist: MOS 9962: Got my wings in August of 1984.
Intelligence Specialist: MOS 0231 10 years working as an Intelligence Analyst with a Fixed Wing Fighter Squadron, Force Service Support Group, and at Headquarters, Marine Corps. Field Radio Operator: MOS 2531. Served as a Platoon Sergeant in a Communications Platoon assigned to MEU Service Support Group 24 (Special Operations Capable). Did a hitch in the Army reserves as an 11B (Infantryman), 3 years. Finished out my career in the Air National Guard as a BioEnvironmental Engineer MOS 4B3X1, did that for a few years.
I"ve been collecting and selling Marine Corps and other military uniforms, medals, and field gear since I was 8 years old.
Organizations
United States Marine Corps Logistical Company.
Publications
I was an Editorial writer for Marine Corps Times from 1998-2000.
Education/Credentials
Extensive library of research materials relating to uniforms, medals, and equipment of the military and the Marine Corps. 22 College credits, Community College of the Air Force. Certified Historical Interpreter.
Awards and Honors
Kosovo Campaign Medal w/1 star
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 4 stars.
Numerous other unit awards.
I was on duty on 9/11 at HQMC, near the Pentagon, and responded to that location to try and lend a hand if needed...
Past/Present Clients
United States Marine Corps Historical Company, Guardian Security and Investigations, lead Investigator for 'Stolen Valor' cases.
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