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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/re-enlist after pot charge
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Question
My son was in the air-force, active for 2 yrs.Failed a drug test for marijuana while in the reserves. was honorably discharged. He is presently 27, laid off of work and wishes to re-enter the military. He went to en-list in the Army, he states they use a number system. He has been depressed and wants to make the military a life long career. He was nominated junior airman of the year while in the airforce. What can be done for him to be accepted in any branch of the military? References from his past services.? He tells me there is nothing he can do. He realizes the stupid mistake he made smoking pot.
I am guessing that the number system that they refer to is the re enlistment code on his DD 214. Since he was discharged, its probably a RE3. He will have to apply to the Department of the Air Force and request that his RE code be changed so he can re enlist. It dont always work, but in some cases they will.
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Answers by Expert:
Howard Lorenz
Expertise
I have spent the past 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, 3 years was assigned as an Enlisted Accessions Recruiter. I have been deployed various times to several locations. If it is a career in the military you are looking for or thinking about I most likely have the answer. I still have contacts with in the recruiting field and if I don't know the answer then I have folks who do where I can find the answer. I am very blunt and straight forward and will make no attempts to BS you. I will give you the best information that I possible can can. If you think that you cant handle the answer that I give you, then don't ask the question...... If you are planning on joining the military, your number 1 decision factor in making this kind of move is that you need to be more concerned about serving your country than your country serving you!! All the benefits are the best that you can find. Education is at a premium right now and its the most rewarding thing that you can do. If I dont answer right away probably means that I am busy, but have patience, I will get to you.
Experience
Air Force Recruiter for 3 years, Air Force Career 21 Years
Organizations
Veterans of Foreign Wars
Education/Credentials
Community College of the Air Force, International Air Academy, Allied Business Schools, Embry Riddle Aeronautical College, Defense Acquisition University
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