Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Medical Disqualification

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Expert: - 7/13/2009


Question
My son was recently sent home from LTC with a medical disqualification.  He is in the Army ROTC program and 2 months ago was diagnosed with extremely mild Crohn's disease.  His physician (specialist) insists it is very mild and easily managed. I'm sure he will appeal this, but I want to know what his options are if his appeal is turned down.  He very much wants to serve.  Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

Answer
Even mild is senough to be an issue.  the key thing your Dr said was "managed".  During combat, one cnnot be worreid about "managing" a disease, no matter how mild.  Flare ups or complications can occur especially when the body is stressed.

There are no options once the appeal is turned down, which it will most likley be.

Sorry I do not have better news.

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

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John L

Expertise

I am a National Guard recruiter , been doing it for seven years and am a subject matter expert on qualifications for National Guard and I keep up to date on Regular Army regs and programs. I was in the Navy for 4 years and have 13 years in the Guard. I will not sugar coat my answers to you. They are usually short and to the point. If you need more in depth, ask me. Because each situation is different, alot of times you need to actually talk to a recruiter and let them evaluate your situation in person, by looking at your documents, issues etc. If I suggest this, it would be in your best interest to do so. Finally...thank you for your interest in serving this great nation of ours. Very few people can actually make the cut to serve let alone choose to do so. So thank you for wanting to and hopefully you will get a chance. Whatever branch you choose, thank you and good luck.

Experience

13 years Guard experince, combat missions and homeland missions. 7 years recruiting. I have been a platoon sergeant and squad leader. Mentor to new recruiters and recruits.

Education/Credentials
Recruiters course and advanced courses in recruiting

Awards and Honors
Top recruiter in district for FY 2008. Nominated for recruiter of the year for 2010.

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