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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/drug rehabilitation
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Question
I am currently a member of the army national guard. I have been in a debate with several other guard soldiers that about this issue. The knowledge that if you admit to having a drug problem (BEFORE you get caught with a positive urine analysis), you are supposed to get help with rehab and you are not discharged, unless of course, you come up with a positive urine after treatment. The question is, will this problem being on a soldiers record hinder the rest of their military career?
Admitting to a drug problem before a drug test is key, then they treat it as medical issue, not a moral issue. You cannot wait until the day of a drug test either to admit you have a problem. Seeking help cannot be held against you for career purposes, but if you fail a future drug test, then appropriate actions are taken of course. If you or someone you know has a problem, get help now.
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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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