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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Medical Requirements
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Question
I spoke to an recruiter today and was informed that I would not qualify due to asthma. I was diagnosed with very mild asthma when I was in elementary school. During the time of trying to figure out why I was coughing, I only ended up using an inhaler once a year for one day and the coughing never returned. I have not used an inhaler since the age of 11. I am now 18. I played football, ran track, and am very active. I do all perfectly well and have no trouble breathing. The recruiter said I needed to get documentation of that, but I may still be disqualified. I can provide medical record, but would like to know if there is anything else I can do to shpw that I am not being treated for asthma. Should I get any specific tests or see a pulmonary specialist?
Sorry late answering I was away for military training.
You can get cleared if you go to a specialist and show that you have no ill effects and that you have had no issues since age 11. It is a little extra work to show that youa re healthy, but worth the effort. The recruiter was either unknowledgeable, or lazy.
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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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