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

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Expert: - 1/30/2009


Question
Hello,
I joined the Air National Guard this past August, and I was given the dates to ship out to basic on April 7th.  Just a few days ago I was told I have a hernia and I need to have surgery to repair it, on the date of February 18th to be exact.  My question is would I be disqualified because of my surgery?  The first time I was at MEPS they were strict with who they passed and even questioned me about having wisdom teeth removed.  And if I was disqualified, would I have discharged papers of any kind since I haven't been to basic, or would it be like I never enlisted in the first place?  I ask because I want to eventually work in law enforcement and they only accept candidates with honorable discharges.  Any advice would be appreciated.
Thank you.

Answer
You will be required to tell them about it, it may delay your boot camp, but I doubt it would disqualify you.  

Just be sure to get copies of your medical work up and surgery report to get it down to MEPs doctors after your surgey and follow up visits.

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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