Expert: John L - 9/15/2008

Question
I was given an entry level separation from the Marine Corps in 2005 after only about four weeks of training. I pulled a muscle in my back and was having a hard time doing pull ups and push ups. When I tried to get some pain reliever and try to get light duty for a couple of days, the doctor went over my medical records during my exam, after seeing my medical history of a back problem for which I had to ware a back brace for one year when I was ten, he decided that it would be best if I was given an entry level separation with a re-3P code, and be seen by my regular doctor at home. It has been almost 4 years and I would like to enlist in the national guard, I have seen many doctors and all have said that I am fine and should not have a problem reenlisting. I am in good shape but could loose a couple of pounds but I have never had back pain. The recruiter said that I might be red flagged and permanently disqualified at meps. Would I be able to get a waiver and enlist if I am not flagged, and if I am flagged would I be able to change that.

Answer
You would go through the MEPS process and they would DQ you most likely.  A waiver would then be submitted.  To show that you are all well and better, I would show you can pass an Army PT test,  you can go to bat for yourself and show the DR at meps your full range of motion, it is strong and will hold up to training.  Your recruiter can give you some pointers to, but count on a  medical waiver going through, you might get lucky and the DR will clear you.  Good luck.