Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 8/1/2008

Question
I am a 46 y/o former Army RC Field Artillery Captain who was honorably discharged, in 2004, for having Type II Diabetes. I opted, at the time, for the discharge rather than appear before a fitness for duty board. It's kind of a long story. . . I believe that I have a lot to offer, including an MBA and a JD. Is there any way I can be reinstated? I would like to serve again.

Sincerely,

JC

Answer
Dear John --

You have two limiting factors.  First is the diabetes, you might be able to get a waiver for that, but you would have to go before a medical review board.  The decision will be predicated on the treatment required for your disease (insulin or pills, etc.)

The other factor is age.  If you served more than four years, you might be able to get a waiver for your age.  If you served fewer than 4 years, you will not be able to waiver your age.  The maximum age you may enter the service is 42.  Since you are 46, if you served 4 or more years, then you could re-enter the service at 42 plus your years of service.

You can ask to chat with a recruiter on www.GoArmy.com and get the most up-to-date answers to your questions about whether you might be eligible to return to service and how to go about it.

Good luck to you.  Please write back, if additional questions arise.