Expert: Rod Powers - 11/14/2009

Question
Mr. Powers,

My name is Carolus. In 2002, I was awarded an NROTC scholarship. I lost that scholarship due to a medical reason of a history of gastrointestinal bleeding(the doctor did not confirm a diagnosis, but stated that the condition possibly was colitis), which I suffered a bout with in 1999. After clearing up, it has never resurfaced. I did not have any issues of bleeding when I applied for a waiver, nor do I suffer from it now, or in the time between '99 and '09. I also do not take any medication to keep it in check.

Seven years later, at the age of 25, I still think about service and have been contemplating contacting a recruiter to try and go the enlisted route. Obviously, by doing this, the branch I chose to enlist in would not be investing as much money as they would have to commission me.

My question is, due to the fact that I was not waived for a commission scholarship in '02, does this permanently bar me from military service in all branches, or can I try again to enlist/attempt to enlist in a different branch of service? Will the fact that I have had no issues like this for 10 years now strengthen a case to waive me into service?

Also, if I am allowed to attempt enlistment, is there anything else to strengthen the chance of obtaining a waiver(letter to a congressman, etc.)

Respectfully yours,

Carolus

Answer
Hi Carlus,

Medical standards for both enlistment or commission are the same standards (see: http://usmilitary.about.com/sitesearch.htm?terms=medical%20standards&SUName=usmi...).

If you don't meet the DOD-set standards, you require a waiver (see: http://usmilitary.about.com/od/joiningthemilitary/a/medicalwaiver.htm).

Whether or not a waiver will be approved is anyone's guess.

For more information about the United States Military, feel free to visit my US Military information site at: http://usmilitary.about.com

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
About.com US Military Guide
http://usmilitary.about.com