Expert: Stan McElya - 5/10/2009

Question
I was diagnosed with asthma shorty after my 13th birthday (a couple months after). I know  asthma is a DQ after your thirteenth birthday. Since I need a waiver to get into the navy or the army, will I be able to go SEALs or Rangers (or any special forces)? I run a 12:30 mile and I am very physically fit, asthma doesn't affect me and hasn't since I was diagnosed. Would it be better to just not say anything? I know i might get discharged for fraudulent enlistment but this is my dream. Do they check my medical records if I do Rangers or SEALs? Whats secret security clearance? Any help would be greatly appreciated, I'm confused as to what to do and whether I should keep my asthma a secret or not. Sorry if I ask too many questions. Thanks again!

Answer
hello Steve:
  I will answer your questions as best I can. I never had asthma, so I really don't know how the teams will view that. A secret security clearance is for those who have a "need to know" about national security issues. The best advice I can give you is to never lie about your medical history. If you were caught, It would be an end to all your dreams of special operations. I hope I have helped you. Remember, YOU ARE NEVER OUT OF THE FIGHT.
                 fair seas and following winds
                          Snake