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

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Question
Back in 1991 I received an OTH discharge from the Marine Corps. This was my choise. Either that or go to court martial. Since then  I have been a police office and private detective. I want to join the US Coast Guard. I am 38 now and was in my early 20's when I got out of the Corps.

Any suggestions? Can I join the USCG???

Answer
having an OTH discharge will not let you join any branch of the military.  Petetion to have it upgraded to a general discharge.  Look on the va.gov website, they tell you how. The process will take a year or more for normal routine, sometimes longer, sometime shorter.  But I doubt the Coast Guard would still take you.  The National Guard would be happy to talk to you.

I am suprised you got a police job with an OTH.  But it is better than a Bad conduct discharge.

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

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John L

Expertise

I am a National Guard recruiter , been doing it for seven years and am a subject matter expert on qualifications for National Guard and I keep up to date on Regular Army regs and programs. I was in the Navy for 4 years and have 13 years in the Guard. I will not sugar coat my answers to you. They are usually short and to the point. If you need more in depth, ask me. Because each situation is different, alot of times you need to actually talk to a recruiter and let them evaluate your situation in person, by looking at your documents, issues etc. If I suggest this, it would be in your best interest to do so. Finally...thank you for your interest in serving this great nation of ours. Very few people can actually make the cut to serve let alone choose to do so. So thank you for wanting to and hopefully you will get a chance. Whatever branch you choose, thank you and good luck.

Experience

13 years Guard experince, combat missions and homeland missions. 7 years recruiting. I have been a platoon sergeant and squad leader. Mentor to new recruiters and recruits.

Education/Credentials
Recruiters course and advanced courses in recruiting

Awards and Honors
Top recruiter in district for FY 2008. Nominated for recruiter of the year for 2010.

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