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Question
Dear Jason,
I graduated college this past summer and am strongly considering applying for Navy OCS. I've spent a great deal researching Navy OCS (mostly SWO and supply corps programs), and have come to the conclusion that I'll probably be turned away for my past drug use and wanted a second informed opinion. That being said I am going to go through with the application process anyway, with the intention of being completely honest.
Downside: I smoked pot on a regular basis (1+ times weekly) in college (ages 21-25). I was at a small liberal arts college, at least 50% of the students were doing it, I never thought it would jeopardize my future (idiotically), and it seemed like something OK to do. In addition, I had a phase during which I used cocaine at parties during 3 months of my first year (I'm unsure about how often, but certainly no more than 50 times), and nothing since. Since graduating I've stopped using drugs altogether and I rarely drink.
Upside: I graduated Phi Beta Kappa at the top of my class (GPA 3.73) with Honors in neuroscience (major), and minors in psychology and chemistry. I'm in good physical shape, have travelled extensively and experienced much that the world has to offer. If asked, most people that know me would say I have an outstanding moral character, I am indeed a very honest person.
If my chances now are zero or close to it (for Navy or subsequently security clearance), would waiting a couple of years to put some time between my questionable past and time of application be a good idea? Any feedback you can provide would be extremely helpful in moving forward with this.
Thank you,
Nick
Nick:
Your chances are pretty slim at this point. However, it might be worth trying just to see what happens, just don't count on it at this time. Waiting a few years, and being drug free, will likely help your case. The cocaine use is the killer, although the weed doesn't help either. From now on, stick to legal stimulants.
Jason
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Answers by Expert:
Jason Grabill
Expertise
Questions relating to US Marine Corps; rank, awards, uniforms, career choices. I can also help people spot and expose fakes (people pretending to be Marines or have awards they didn`t earn). Considering the Marines as a career? Or another branch, like the Air National Guard? Drop me a line. HOWever..know that I am NOT a recruiter. I can offer my expert opinion and advice, but can't (and won't) over rule what a recruiter says, they are the 'on duty' expert.
Experience
Infantry Rifleman, MOS 0311: 3 years. Marine Barracks Security (Marine Barracks, Annapolis, Maryland(not Embassy Duty): 3 years. Parachutist: MOS 9962: Got my wings in August of 1984.
Intelligence Specialist: MOS 0231 10 years working as an Intelligence Analyst with a Fixed Wing Fighter Squadron, Force Service Support Group, and at Headquarters, Marine Corps. Field Radio Operator: MOS 2531. Served as a Platoon Sergeant in a Communications Platoon assigned to MEU Service Support Group 24 (Special Operations Capable). Did a hitch in the Army reserves as an 11B (Infantryman), 3 years. Finished out my career in the Air National Guard as a BioEnvironmental Engineer MOS 4B3X1, did that for a few years.
I"ve been collecting and selling Marine Corps and other military uniforms, medals, and field gear since I was 8 years old.
Organizations
United States Marine Corps Logistical Company.
Publications
I was an Editorial writer for Marine Corps Times from 1998-2000.
Education/Credentials
Extensive library of research materials relating to uniforms, medals, and equipment of the military and the Marine Corps. 22 College credits, Community College of the Air Force. Certified Historical Interpreter.
Awards and Honors
Kosovo Campaign Medal w/1 star
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 4 stars.
Numerous other unit awards.
I was on duty on 9/11 at HQMC, near the Pentagon, and responded to that location to try and lend a hand if needed...
Past/Present Clients
United States Marine Corps Historical Company, Guardian Security and Investigations, lead Investigator for 'Stolen Valor' cases.
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