Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 8/12/2008

Question
I was discharged with Asthma while I was in basic training in the Air Force. I have never had any problems with Asthma before. I started sneezing and coughing and they said it was Asthma. I think it was allergies. Is there any way I can enlist back into the military. I have been to doctors since I got home and all said I do not have Asthma.

Answer
Dear T --

I cannot answer your question because I do not know what re-enlistment code you were assigned on your DD form 214.

If you have an RE code 2, 3 or 4, you cannot enlist without a waiver.  If you have an RE code of 3 or 4, most recruiters will not want to work with you to get you a waiver.  

Asthma is often triggered by allergies.  Further, you may have the type of asthma known as "exercise induced" asthma.  In either case, if the exertion required by strenuous activity like basic training, causes you to wheeze and cough, you are unsuitable for military duty.  Unless you can show that you can now complete the strenuous activity required by basic training, without wheezing or coughing, you will not be able to enlist.

Good luck to you.