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Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 1/3/2010


Question
I am a recent college graduate (BA History) and am interested in going into the Navy as an officer.  My question regards two misdemeanor marijuana convictions on my record from 5 years ago.  Since they both occured in FL the punishment's were simple fines.  Will this automatically bar me from receiving a commission?

Answer
Riley,
Normally you shouldn't have a problem.  I say normally because the Navy has been changing it's mind alot lately about granting waivers.  It seems like one week they will and the next week they won't.  You will probably have no problem since they were just fines and not felonies.  Plan to be accepted and then talk to your local recruiter to see when is the best time to go.
I salute you for wanting to join.
Colonel Howell

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

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MARK A. HOWELL

Expertise

All military questions, any Service. 30 years experience & two Ph.D.'s. 4 times Base Commander. Worked with Army, Navy, USMC, USCG and several foreign military units. Veteran of Kosovo, Bosnia, Macedonia, Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, and 10 civil wars in Africa.

Experience

Air Force Colonel with 30 years experience. Air Force Base Commander 4 times. Highly decorated.

Organizations
Org of Am Historians, Wild West History Assoc., Disabled American Veterans - Life Member, Am Motorcyclist Assoc. - Life Member, North Am Hunt Club - Life Member, NWTF - Life Member

Publications
Numerous book reviews published in the Journal of American History. Two books submitted for publication.

Education/Credentials
Ph.D. in military history, Columbus University (Summa Cum Laude) Ph.D. in history, Northfield University, London, England (Summa Cum Laude) Master of Arts degree in history, Marshall University, WV Bachelors degree, double-major in history and mathematics, Salem College, WV Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL

Awards and Honors
Legion of Merit Defense MSM MSM x 5 Joint Commendation Mdl AF Commendation Medal Army Commendation Mdl Joint Achievement Mdl AF Achievement Medal Outstanding Volunteer Mdl

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