Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 7/27/2009

Question
I had a valvular replacement surgey back in APR 05 at WAMC. And was discharged the following year. I wasnt even offered a chance to even reclass.I was a Combat Medic in the Army. My question is now I want to come back in just national Guard or Air national Guard. I would like to know what would my chances be.I dont have the same symptoms I had before surgery. I have a Civil service job now but just want the opprtunity to serve at least part time via national guard or airnational guard.

Answer
Edward,
A direct quote from the military medical regulations is, "The causes for rejection for appointment, enlistment, and induction are - All valvular heart diseases, congenital or acquired, including those improved by surgery except mitral valve prolapse and bicuspid aortic valve. These latter two conditions are not reasons for rejection unless there is associated tachyarrhythmia, mitral regurgitation, aortic stenosis, insufficiency, or cardiomegaly."

The Guard and Reserves also use the same regulation so if the description above does not apply to you you can join, assuming you meet the age limits also.  Here are the age limits:

Marine Corps Reserve 29
Air Force Reserve 34
Air National Guard 34
Army National Guard 35  (changed from 42 in 2009)
Naval Reserves 39
Coast Guard Reserves 39
Army Reserves 42

Thanks for having served in uniform and continuing to serve via Civil Service.
Colonel H