Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Want to Join the Marines after High school

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Question
Hey My Name Is Nathan I have a question I just turned 17 and i am still in high school. I want to join the marines when i get out? but I have type 1 diabetes? I want to like drive the trucks with the bombs and stuff because of i feel that just cause i got diabetes that i cant join?  


Thanks! Nathan

Answer
Dear Nathan --

Diabetes is a disqualifying condition.  However, depending on your treatment for diabetes, you might be able to get a waiver.  If you are insulin dependant you are unlikely to get a waiver.  If you can take the pills that help your body process sugars, then you might be able to get a waiver.

Your best route would be to talk to a Marine recruiter, and take the Armed Service Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) to see if you are qualified for the military job you want.

Good luck to you.  Enjoy your last year in high school.  

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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Cynthia Bedell

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I am the Commander of the Surface Communications and Support Systems, contract management office. I am currently an active duty Colonel.

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I have bachelors and masters degrees in Engineering. I also hold a patent for a new way to process composite materials into complex shapes.

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