Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 11/4/2008

Question
Hello
i am 22 years old and considering joining the army. I've been heavily involved in mixed martial arts for two years and with one of those years with no acl in my left knee. i have sense got it repaired and am fully recovered and stronger than before and back to MMA. If joining the Army i would ideally like to become or at least have the opportunity to try to become an airborne ranger. I'm  worried more about MEPS than actually training. To try to figure out what to do i have asked some friends who are in the rangers and in SF about my knee and concerns. They all said the same thing "just keep quiet about it", which i considered doing. However the other day i was talking to a SEAL and he said if i lie and they find out i will get kicked out and barred from all armed services. I'm conflicted on what i should do because i know the pain in my knee if there ever will be any wont slow me down, it never has. But its not just something i can had hide terrible easily, i have scars on my knee. Any advise will help, Thank you for your time.

Answer
Dear Darren --

Your SEAL friend is correct.  Do not lie on your medical history.  Since you have scars that will easily show you have had surgery, you really need to be open about your surgery.

You will be rejected at MEPS.  Then you will need to apply for a medical waiver, and you are likely to get it, if you are as healthy and in shape as you describe.

Unfortunately, you will be unlikely to be medically qualified for Airborne or Ranger training, given your knee repair.  So you will have to decide if there are other Army jobs you would like to do and that will be challenging enough for you.

Good luck to you.  Please write back, if you have other questions.