Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 4/16/2009

Question
Hello,

I have been trying to enlist in the ARMY.  I had gastric bypass surgery to loose weight 6 yrs ago.  I had no life threatening conditions.  I wasn't in perfect health but no person is who is severely obese.  Once I had the surgery 6 years ago my doctor has given me a clean bill of health as a matter of fact I'm in better health now.  I want so badly to join the military and serve my country and it hardly seems fair that the only reason I wouldn't get in is because I had a surgery to improve my health.  I keep asking the office where I enlisted if they have heard anything back from MEPS and they stated the more time that goes by that the chances are slim to none.  I can't believe that this would be the end of a dream because I choose to improve my health.  Please advise me if there is anything else I can do.  I really want this and it's very frustrating that a personal choice would keep me from entering into the ARMY.  Please advise me if there is anything else I can do.

Thanks,
Gloria

Answer
Gloria,
Congratulations on having the surgery!
Unfortunately gastric bypass surgery is a disqualifier.  The military still considers this surgery "new" because there aren't any "long-term" studies as to it's success.  So the military isn't willing to risk spending money on medical care for you years from now should something go wrong.

Despite what the military thinks you've seen first-hand what a healthier lifestyle you now enjoy.

Since you're eager to serve your country have you considered Federal Civil Service?  They're in all Branches of the Service, working right alongside military folks, even overseas.  The only difference is they don't wear uniforms.  I once was the commander of an Air Force unit that had 68 Civil Service Civilians and 35 military personnel.  It may be worth your while to check into it at:  http://federaljobs.net/

You can't beat a steady government paycheck.

Best of luck in whatever you choose, and thanks for wanting to serve your country in uniform.
Colonel H