Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 5/20/2009

Question
I am currently 24 years old. When I was 18 years old I joined the Navy and Failed the drug test at bootcamp for Cocaine.I didn't do it very many times, but I was drunk with some friends and they got me to do it about a week before I went to basic. I know it is the dumbest thing I ever have or will do. Other than that drug test I have never been in any trouble with the law or anything. I have been working for a defense contractor for about 3 years now with an excellent work record. I have received numerous awards for my work. I now have to apply for a security clearance to keep my job. Do you think I will be able to get a clearance?also, I lost my DD-214 and I don't know my service number. The npr center online can't find my DD-214 online.
Thanks
Josh

Answer
Dear Josh --

If you want to get a security clearance, do not lie on your clearance application.  You can explain exactly what you explained to me as mitigating factors when you report you had a one time episode of illegal substance abuse.

Since it is in your military records, even if no one at personnel can be bothered to locate them for you, the investigating service is likely to find that you were discharged from the service for drug abuse.  If you lie on your security application, you will be denied a clearance for lying.  If you do not lie, and the investigation officer determines your mitigation is sufficient you can get your clearance.  If your clearance is denied, you can still request adjudication and see if you can prove that you are not a security threat due drug addiction.

Your service number is your social security number (SSN).  The military never moved away from the social security number.  You should be able to get your records using your SSN.

Good luck to you.