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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Job change and Eligibility
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Question
I wanted to ask a question in regards to the truth about being eligible for 2 certain types of jobs. I have looked at the Navy as the branch I would like to join, however I am being told that the 2 jobs I am looking at which is Hospital Corpsman and Aircrew (SAR) Search and Rescue are not available to me due to my juvenile record. I had an incident thast involved Marijuania, alcohol and a firearm in a car I was in 8 years ago at the age of 17 when I was still a juvenile. I was released in the care of my mother and put on probation and released early for good conduct. Other than a few minor traffic speeding tickets, I have no other record. The charges that were brought against me were originally felony charges but reduced to misdemeanors due to this being a 1st offense. I guess my ultimate question is will I ever be able to change jobs to be either a Hospital corpsman or Aircrew (SAR) which I really want to do as long as I keep my track record clean in the Navy or will this juvenile offense prevent me from ever doing that?
I know that the Navy is more forgiving than the Air Force is.... the best bet is to get it straight from the horses mouth and ask the recruiters. You can not get away from your past when it comes to the military, but the rules change frequently to suit the military and the numbers that they need to achive. You may only need a waiver... I ahve seen them put in folks that I couldnt touch!! Go to the recruiter, if they tell you no...go to the next one... If you do not get in , then you know that you have to do....
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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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