Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 7/15/2008

Question
My son left a message on our answering machine saying he was being sent home from BCT because he is anemic.  Will he be able to re-enlist?  Does this sound realistic that he would be released for that medical condition?

Answer
Dear DJ --

It is possible that your son has an iron deficiency that will not get better while under stressful training conditions, or is such that it might never be cured enough for him to return to service.

It is very rare that a Soldier would be given an initial entry separation for simple anemia, since iron pills can usually resolve the issue quickly.

But if iron pills are not solving your son's anemia problem, or are causing other issues (constipation, stomach cramps, etc.) then they could discharge him with an initial entry separation.

Do you know if you son is a vegetarian, or has been trying to lose a lot of weight quickly (perhaps to meet his height weight standards)?  If so, that may be what is causing his anemia.  Basic training is no time to cut back on food, no matter what the weight standards are.

If his medical problem is curable, and he receives a re-enlistment code (RE code) of 1 or 2, he could try to enlist again with a medical waiver.

Please feel free to write back, if you get more details about your son's condition, and wish to discuss it further.  Good luck of both of you.