Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 2/7/2008

Question
I was convicted with a Class E felony, it was about 2 years ago. It is the lowest felony you can be convicted of, i was looking to join the coast guard. Will this felony keep me from being able to join? and if it does from the coast guard, will it keep me from joining any branch of the military?

Answer
Dear Charles --

The Coast Guard is the least likely service to give a morality waiver at this time.  The Army is more likely to give a morality waiver.  

First you would have to prove that, aside from your crime, you are a high quality candidate.  You will need to do very well on your Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) and be very physically fit.  If you qualify in both of those areas, then you will have to demonstrate that crime is in your past, and you have learned from your transgressions.  

You will have to apply for a morality waiver to be accepted into the service in spite of your criminal past. You will have to appear before an officer or a board of officers and convince them that you have transformed your life.

Good luck with your goal to enlist.  Write back, if you have other questions or concerns as you go through the process.