Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 4/30/2009

Question
I have hypothyroidism controlled with medicine.  I am in and have always been in really good shape, and I have maintained an active lifestyle despite the condition.  If I get a medical waiver, could I attempt to become a SEAL?  If so would the SEALs considered somebody convicted of a class c misdemeanor?

Answer
John,
As you know, hypothyroidism means your thyroid gland either stopped working or isn't working very well.  According to the medical regulations, "The causes for rejection for  enlistment are an authenticated history of Thyroid disorders such as Thyroiditis,
Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism uncontrolled by medication,  Hyperparathyroidism, and Hypoparathyroidism."

So you CAN enter the military with your Hypothyroidism controlled with medicine.  Normally it is simply treated with one daily pill such as Synthroid.

Also, if you have just ONE Class C misdemeanor, then you CAN receive a waiver for it.

So all-in-all you CAN enter the Navy or most any other Service.  (The AF is not giving waivers for anything right now.)

However, you CANNOT become a Navy SEAL with any medical problem that requires you to take daily medicine.  Because of the nature of their business, SEALs are quite often in locations where it is impossible to take daily medication or to obtain replacement medication should their's become lost or run out.  If you are not able to take your Thyroid medecine it can cause Fatigue, Weakness, Cold intolerance,
Muscle cramps, Depression, Irritability, and Memory loss, all of which could jeopardize a mission.

So, in summary, you CAN join the Navy but you CANNOT become a SEAL.
Sorry, but thanks for your willingness to serve your country in uniform.
Colonel Howell