Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Air Force Commission

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Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 5/15/2010


Question
Col. H,
I need to know my chances for obtaining a commission in the AF, or any branch for that matter.  I had four years in the AF and was released with an honorable discharge but during my service I received an article 15.  Also, during my time of separation I filed Ch. 7 bankruptcy.  Do I have any chance of becoming a military officer?  Thank you in advance.

Answer
Denika,
Both problems will keep you out.  All the Services want their officers to be financially responsible as they believe if you can't prove you've managed your own accounts and affairs, how're you going to manage the lives of others and potentially millions of dollars.

Likewise with the Article 15 and accompanying punishment.  Because an officer must be a leader, he/she must be a shining example.

There are so many volunteers right now, that the military can pick and choose only the ones with perfect records.  I'm afraid your past problems are preventing your from receiving a commission.

Colonel H

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

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MARK A. HOWELL

Expertise

All military questions, any Service. 30 years experience & two Ph.D.'s. 4 times Base Commander. Worked with Army, Navy, USMC, USCG and several foreign military units. Veteran of Kosovo, Bosnia, Macedonia, Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, and 10 civil wars in Africa.

Experience

Air Force Colonel with 30 years experience. Air Force Base Commander 4 times. Highly decorated.

Organizations
Org of Am Historians, Wild West History Assoc., Disabled American Veterans - Life Member, Am Motorcyclist Assoc. - Life Member, North Am Hunt Club - Life Member, NWTF - Life Member

Publications
Numerous book reviews published in the Journal of American History. Two books submitted for publication.

Education/Credentials
Ph.D. in military history, Columbus University (Summa Cum Laude) Ph.D. in history, Northfield University, London, England (Summa Cum Laude) Master of Arts degree in history, Marshall University, WV Bachelors degree, double-major in history and mathematics, Salem College, WV Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL

Awards and Honors
Legion of Merit Defense MSM MSM x 5 Joint Commendation Mdl AF Commendation Medal Army Commendation Mdl Joint Achievement Mdl AF Achievement Medal Outstanding Volunteer Mdl

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