Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 9/5/2009

Question
My nephew wanted to enlist in the Marines and tested positive for THC by his recruiter.  I am a Drug Free Work Place consultant, so he immediately left Texas, knowning he screwed up his life because of a stupid mistake and is now living a clean and sober life with me in GA. He is working, working out, running with a marathon trainer and working with his uncle an ex-Ranger, turning his life around.  He wants to try again for the Marines but isn't sure if he can get in.  He wasn't "accepted" so he didn't test positive in basic it was before but I hope to help him with next steps.  He is considering the Army but is worried he won't get in there either.  He was heading down the wrong road but has made a 180 and I am proud of the effort he is making.  What does he need to do to get a second chance?

Answer
Kelly,
I'm glad to hear he's clean and turning his life around.  Since he was tested by his recruiter and has not yet gone to the  Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) he should be OK to try again.  Find a different recruiter in another town and start all over.  It's perfectly permissible to "Recruiter shop" until you find one you like.  Your local recruiter is just there for your convenience.  If I misunderstood you and he was tested at the MEPS, please send me a "Private" follow-up, not public like this one, and I think we can still get him in.
Colonel H