Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Recruitment question

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Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 12/30/2009


Question
Hi Eric,

I'm asking this question to you because I've always wanted to serve and help others out, and had my plans set up until I reached the age of 17. At the age of 17 I was diagnosed with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), and it changed my life around, I had to go through so many tests and blood work that I wondered if they'd ever find out whats wrong with me. I currently have my IBS under control most of the times, but I am asking if there is any problem with me joining up with the coast guard now?

Answer
Michael,
According to the military medical regulations, Inflammatory Bowel Disease is considered a disqualifier.  Having said that, most people who have it or have had it and have it under control simply do not admit to it.  You saw how long it took the civilian doctors to diagnose you as having it.  Some people realize that it may take years before a military doctor ever diagnosed them with it.  But by then they're already in the military.  By no means am I advising you to lie about it, I'm simply telling you what others do.  If somehow you were ever found out, they would discharge you.
Good luck,
Colonel Howell

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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MARK A. HOWELL

Expertise

All military questions, any Service. 30 years experience & two Ph.D.'s. 4 times Base Commander. Worked with Army, Navy, USMC, USCG and several foreign military units. Veteran of Kosovo, Bosnia, Macedonia, Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, and 10 civil wars in Africa.

Experience

Air Force Colonel with 30 years experience. Air Force Base Commander 4 times. Highly decorated.

Organizations
Org of Am Historians, Wild West History Assoc., Disabled American Veterans - Life Member, Am Motorcyclist Assoc. - Life Member, North Am Hunt Club - Life Member, NWTF - Life Member

Publications
Numerous book reviews published in the Journal of American History. Two books submitted for publication.

Education/Credentials
Ph.D. in military history, Columbus University (Summa Cum Laude) Ph.D. in history, Northfield University, London, England (Summa Cum Laude) Master of Arts degree in history, Marshall University, WV Bachelors degree, double-major in history and mathematics, Salem College, WV Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL

Awards and Honors
Legion of Merit Defense MSM MSM x 5 Joint Commendation Mdl AF Commendation Medal Army Commendation Mdl Joint Achievement Mdl AF Achievement Medal Outstanding Volunteer Mdl

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