Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 7/1/2008

Question
Hi, I have been trying to join the arm forces for the past three years now. And I have been disqualify from both the army and the marines. I had a condition called keratoconus but has now been corrected. I had two cornea transplants so technically I don't have this keratoconus anymore and there is no way on earth that I can fall victim to this illness again. I am a normal person once again and capable to do everything. But this is not good enough for the army. I need HELP. I know people who would normally be disqualify had been able to enlist in the army with conditions such as arthritis, obesity and including criminal records. All I want to do is serve. I don't want to be permanently disqualify. Could you please guide me on what to do, I honestly feel lost and don't know who else to turn for help. Thanks for your time.

Answer
Dear Jonathan --

I do not know, but I suspect you will need a medical waiver for corneal transplants.  However, you no longer have to report keratoconus as a condition you suffered.  You must wait at least six months after your surgery, but then you can apply for enlistment.

If your Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is good, and you are fit (except for the issue with your eyes) then you can enlist.  At the Military Entry Point Station (MEPS) they will disqualify you for corneal transplants.  Then you will do a medical waiver showing that the implants will not impede your ability to be a Soldier, using testimony and endorsements from doctors agreeing with you.

I recommend starting over at a recruiting office that is different from the offices you tried in the past.  Your previous recruiters will be tired of doing repeated waivers that are not approved.  I recommend you start with someone fresh.

I also recommend that you look into service as a Department of Defense Civilian.  The physical requirements are not nearly as strict, but you can get overseas assignments and work side-by-side with Soldiers and Marines.

Good luck to you.  Please write back, if you have other questions.