Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Lap Band and trying to join.

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Expert: - 3/22/2010


Question
I had the Lap Band surgery several months ago and have lost quite a bit of weight. I really want to join the Army but I have read online that I am automatically disqualified because of the procedure. I was wondering if there is anything I can do to be able to join.

I have really bought in to the lifestyle of exercising everyday and eating healthy.

Is there anything I can do I really want to join?

Answer
Talk to a recruiter. The procedure is so new that the existing regulations don't cover it as far as a disqualifying procedure or not. I know the Army, in certain instances, does perform the procedure on people though so it would be odd that they wouldn't allow people to join who have had it. That being said, it may not be allowed. Just talk to a recruiter and see what they have to say.  

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

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Aaron Shifferly

Expertise

I am currently an active duty Army Captain in the Military Police Field. I have been enlisted (Military Intelligence) and attended The United States Military Academy at West Point. I can answer questions related to the Army, posting, jobs, lifestyle, workings... pretty much anything you can throw at me with the exception of very specific recruting or medical questions. I have no expertise in what it takes to get in the military other than the fact that I, myself, joined at one point in time.

Experience

I have experience in both deployed and garrision environments as a Military Police Officer.

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Science in Arabic and French from United States Military Academy at West Point.

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