Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/entrance into USMC

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My son went to the Navy and Marine recruiter yesterday. He brought his driving record, court records, HS diploma, etc.  He was told he could not enter the military because there was a DISMISSED domestic charge against him.  2 years ago, his sister was really angry with him, they started arguing (he was just getting ready to return to college after being home for the weekend)and she got mad at something he said so she decided to teach him a lesson and call 911.  The police came, and because she called, they arrested him.  She even told the police when they were there she didn't mean it. she didn't want him arrested, he didn't do anything, but they arrested him anyway.  When he had to go to court she accompanied him and told the DA what happened and he immediately dismissed the case.  The recruiters told him whether or not he was found guilty or the case was dismissed, it still appears on his court record so they consider it domestic violence.  Does this sound right?

Answer
Betsy:

 Quite possibly.  Anyone with any sort of domestic violence issues has a difficult time getting into the military these days, thanks to something called the "Lautenberg amendment", which prohibits the possession of weapons by anyone convicted of DV.  I realize your son wasn't convicted, but nonetheless, recruiters likely will 'wave him off' because of the charge.

 Two suggestions, first, attempt to get the charge expunged from the record.  Contact the DA for help with that, it shouldn't be an issue, esp. when they find out that it's keeping him from entrance into the military.  Next, his sister needs to write a memorandum or letter to include with the file and court records so that he can show that to the recruiters.   

 I'd next re-contact the recruiters and explain the process you are doing, and keep them advised of the process.  

Jason

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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Jason Grabill

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Questions relating to US Marine Corps; rank, awards, uniforms, career choices. I can also help people spot and expose fakes (people pretending to be Marines or have awards they didn`t earn). Considering the Marines as a career? Or another branch, like the Air National Guard? Drop me a line. HOWever..know that I am NOT a recruiter. I can offer my expert opinion and advice, but can't (and won't) over rule what a recruiter says, they are the 'on duty' expert.

Experience

Infantry Rifleman, MOS 0311: 3 years. Marine Barracks Security (Marine Barracks, Annapolis, Maryland(not Embassy Duty): 3 years. Parachutist: MOS 9962: Got my wings in August of 1984. Intelligence Specialist: MOS 0231 10 years working as an Intelligence Analyst with a Fixed Wing Fighter Squadron, Force Service Support Group, and at Headquarters, Marine Corps. Field Radio Operator: MOS 2531. Served as a Platoon Sergeant in a Communications Platoon assigned to MEU Service Support Group 24 (Special Operations Capable). Did a hitch in the Army reserves as an 11B (Infantryman), 3 years. Finished out my career in the Air National Guard as a BioEnvironmental Engineer MOS 4B3X1, did that for a few years. I"ve been collecting and selling Marine Corps and other military uniforms, medals, and field gear since I was 8 years old.

Organizations
United States Marine Corps Logistical Company.

Publications
I was an Editorial writer for Marine Corps Times from 1998-2000.

Education/Credentials
Extensive library of research materials relating to uniforms, medals, and equipment of the military and the Marine Corps. 22 College credits, Community College of the Air Force. Certified Historical Interpreter.

Awards and Honors
Kosovo Campaign Medal w/1 star Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 4 stars. Numerous other unit awards. I was on duty on 9/11 at HQMC, near the Pentagon, and responded to that location to try and lend a hand if needed...

Past/Present Clients
United States Marine Corps Historical Company, Guardian Security and Investigations, lead Investigator for 'Stolen Valor' cases.

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