Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 3/24/2009

Question
I have been to all branches and have been turned down by all.  The reason for it is because of my criminal history.  I have 3 DUI's in the past 5 years and a speeding ticket when I was 16.
My great uncle, General Paul Pearson, said that he is limited to what he can do now that he is retired and does only contract work for the Pentagon.  I can use him as a reference.

That said, I have many character defects.  Qualities I do have is determination and persistence.  I have been told "no" multiple times and I am not willing to accept that answer at this point.

I plan on writing my state and federal congressman but if that fails what other options due I have?

Answer
Well I assume you've already paid all civil and criminal penalties associated with your DUIs otherwise you're not going to get in until those are taken care of.  What you're asking for is a 'moral waiver' and those are granted in some cases but, to be honest, when the military really needs people.  You need to discuss with the Army, as it is the most likely service branch to give you one, what it would take to get one (aside from the obvious condition of no further criminal issues). They may not accept it right now, as it is the middle of our fiscal year and we may not need people yet. Potentially the best time to do this is late August and September, as our fiscal year changes over in October. All of those months will give you your highest chance of getting a moral waiver, providing that the regulation says you can get one.   The issue with the regulation is that it is subject to interpretation but also, depending on the type and amount of offenses, it requires a pretty high authority to waive. In your case, I would suspect that it takes the Commanding General, of USAREC.  The best would be to have your great-uncle give you a letter of recommendation and try the same thing with your elected officials.  Acknowledge your mistakes and take responsibility for them, but express a desire to move forward and do good things with your life.

That being said, I can only say that you need to be prepared for them to still say no and, that if they do accept you, your career choices will probably be limited.  I hope this helps, and good luck!