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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/PDQ Self Mutilation
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Question
Sir, do I still have a chance to serve in the armed forces? I am 21 now and when I was 13-14 I gave myself several slashes on the left arm. My parents were going through a divorce and I had moderate - severe acne. Around this time I was seeing a psych due to the divorced. The account is not on record. I was taught how to deal with my stress and anger, and today I am a mature adult who has accomplished a lot:black belt, voluntary community service, children's self defense classes, schooling.
I have a 2 year degree and did one semester of ROTC. I am now looking to enlist to help with college. These scars are barely visible now but if I am examined they will see them.
Will I be PDQ for something I did 7 years ago? Since then I have grown and matured so much. I don't want to be punished for something I did as a child. Can I get it waivered?
Additional info:I went back 2 years ago to get an assessment and also received a medical report and a letter of recommendation from my psychologist/therapist. Also, I was never prescribed anti-depressants.
To be honest, I would never bring it up. Meps Dr's are brutal. if they see them, explain them as cuts from broken glass or something. I do not like to tell peopple to not say stuff, but if you do, you will never serve, even though you are fine today.
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Answers by Expert:
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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