Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 4/20/2009

Question
My son wants to join either the Army or Air Force and has already talked to recruiters, but has one problem, he is color blind. Please tell him not to give up, and what is his options. Will either one even consider him. His test scores were way over the top.

Answer
Dear Roxie --

Depending on how severe his colorblindness is, and how he compensates for it, he might be able to get a waiver to enlist.

The Army is currently most likely to approve a waiver.  Unfortunately in this economy and nearing the peak time for high school graduations, there will be a lot of potential recruits.  The recruits who do not need waivers will get higher priority.  

He should not give up, and should go through the entire MEPS process.  Once he is disqualified at MEPS for colorblindness, he should immediately request a waiver and complete the waiver package.

Good luck to him.