Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 4/22/2009

Question
I graduated 6 months ago with a B.S. in Civil Engineering and now wish to join the military. However, 7 years ago when I was 18, I plead guilty to a felony charge for selling a bag of marijuana. I served 2 years of my 4 year probation and was released from probation early for good behavior... Then 2 years ago while in college, I got a dui. Since then, I have had no problems. I made mistakes and have dealt with them and learned from them. My question is, is there any chance of me being able to get into OCS with these items on my record? I would get a civilian job with an engineering firm, but I really feel like i want to be in the military...

Answer
William,
Congratulations on earning your B.S. degree!

Having just one DUI does not really harm you, but the felony may.
A direct quote of military regulations says, "Persons convicted of felonies may request a waiver to permit their enlistment.  The waiver procedure is not automatic, and approval is based upon each individual case.  One of the considerations in determining whether a waiver will be granted is the individual's ability to adjust successfully to civilian life for a period of time following his or her release from judicial control.  In processing waiver requests, the Military Services shall require information about the "who, what, when, where, and why" of the offense in question; and a number of letters of recommendation attesting to the applicant's character or suitability for enlistment.  Such letters must be from responsible community leaders such as school officials, ministers, and law enforcement officials."

Since you only received probation and not jail-time, I'd say your chances of attending OCS are good.  Especially since your probation was shortened due to good behavior.

I don't know which Branch of the Services you were interested in, but don't try the Air Force.  They recently announced they've already reached their annual goal and are no longer granting waivers this year for any reason.

Good luck and thanks for wanting to serve in uniform.
Colonel H