Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/enlistment if previous drug rehab*

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Expert: - 1/8/2010


Question
Our son has been planning to enter the coast guard when he graduates from college in May.  However, the local coast guard recruiter told him he would probably not be eligible because he went through a juvenile drug treatment program about 4-5 years ago.  He successfully completed the program, also successfully completed a stint in a halfway house after treatment and has since been drug free and has managed to complete his college degree (needs 7 hours to graduate).  Is he barred from enlisting in the coast guard and if so, does he have options in any of the other military branches or national guard.  Thanks for your advice.

Answer
Though they look at each case seperatley, it is unlikely that he will make the cut medically, though he may want to try, that is the only way to tell.  But the chances, in my opionion are low.  He would need all documents on his treatment program and types of drugs he was addicted to.  If it was crack or similiar, I wouldn't even try to be honest.

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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