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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Can I re-join?
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Question
Last April I joined the Navy. About one week before I went to MEPS I went out and I partied to kind of celebrate unofficially getting into the Navy and I did something absolutely stupid, I smoked pot. Well, needless to say I failed my test @ MEPS, and I got DQ'd.
I was told by several people, in the navy and other branches, that I could get a waiver and re-join. But everytime I tried to talk to a recruiter, they told me that I could not re-join.
Joining the Navy is something that I have been wanting to do for a while, several years, and I still do. And I am still pretty bummed about messing that up for myself.
So, I guess my question is, can I get a waiver to re-join and if so how do I get the recruiter to not bull sh*t me and get me in there?
Well, you knew the responsibilities of joining but you still did something to stop you from joining. No service is allowing those that failed drug tests back in the service. So until they do, you are stuck. They eventually will allow you to get a waiver, but dont count on it until after OCT 1.
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Answers by Expert:
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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