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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Celiac Disease
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Question
I'm in the US Air Force and still currently in student status. I'm studying to be a lab tech and will be graduating in July. I recently got diagnosed with celiac disease and I've made drastic lifestyle changes, but I'm very stressed worrying if and when I might get med-boarded. I unintentionally ate gluten-free before, earlier in tech school, never wanting anything other than to stay healthy. At this point my GI doc said he was doing what he can to include my gluten-intolerance but not jeopardize my enlistment. Would the military try to med-board me out before I graduate? Or would I find out after I get to my next base? As it is, I'm going to Lakenheath, UK; it's an exciting opportunity because I've never left Texas in my entire life and I'm fascinating with studying other cultures. I just don't know if going overseas would complicate things.
From what I know about the Air Force is that unless you are constantly seen for this problem to where you are unable to work, then there will not be an issue. Between you me and the fence post, I am pre diabetic....its a family trait, but unless I tell them I cant work, then I dont have to be worried about the possibility of being seen by the MEB. in a nut shell... if you can live with being gluten intolorant, then you are fine...
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 7 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | He did the best he could, considering he isn't as familiar with the Air Force as other branches or how seriously the military might implicate a metabolic disorder. I'm relieved that the military will likely decide whether I can serve based on what I can offer. | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Howard Lorenz
Expertise
I have spent the past 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, 3 years was assigned as an Enlisted Accessions Recruiter. I have been deployed various times to several locations. If it is a career in the military you are looking for or thinking about I most likely have the answer. I still have contacts with in the recruiting field and if I don't know the answer then I have folks who do where I can find the answer. I am very blunt and straight forward and will make no attempts to BS you. I will give you the best information that I possible can can. If you think that you cant handle the answer that I give you, then don't ask the question...... If you are planning on joining the military, your number 1 decision factor in making this kind of move is that you need to be more concerned about serving your country than your country serving you!! All the benefits are the best that you can find. Education is at a premium right now and its the most rewarding thing that you can do. If I dont answer right away probably means that I am busy, but have patience, I will get to you.
Experience
Air Force Recruiter for 3 years, Air Force Career 21 Years
Organizations
Veterans of Foreign Wars
Education/Credentials
Community College of the Air Force, International Air Academy, Allied Business Schools, Embry Riddle Aeronautical College, Defense Acquisition University
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