Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 11/16/2010

Question
QUESTION: Mr.Howell,
My name is Ty, and I am trying to reenlist into the Air Force Reserves, I had a suicide attempt when I was 13 y/o, I am currently 31. I went to MEPS and disclosed this info, and the CMO felt I could get a waiver, yet I was granted a waiver then denied. I have written my congressman and the Surgeon General and no luck. I have disclosed this info when I was at BMT with the doctor there before and I was cleared to return to training.(Note: I was sent home from BMT for being FlatFoot-ELS) I desire to serve and do my country good, is there anything I can do to get over this hurddle? I have been trying for 2 and a half years. Any help? All will be appreciated.

ANSWER: Ty,
You've pretty much exhausted your resources.  I don't know of any way you can overcome both problems.  The suicide attempt was before age 15, so it would've been easy to waive.  But the flat feet and a Serparation are going to keep you out of any Service.
Sorry,
Colonel H

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QUESTION: Colonel H,
There has to be another way. I have read on here people who have discharges and separatins who still get in. I am currently writing the secretary of the Air Force, so somethng has to crack and flat feet, my uncle served in the Army he is flat footed and has hs jump wings. There has to be another way! How would the separation keep me away? It was entry level. do you have any other advice?

Answer
Ty,
Your separation is going to work against you.  In your discharge paperwork, look at your DD214 Form.  Down at the bottom is block 27 is your Re-Entry code.  If it is anything but a 4 then you have a chance for a waiver.  Talk to your recruiter and see how he can help you.
Colonel H