Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 6/20/2010

Question
My name is Zach Jacobs and I have a question about joining SWCC. I played football and ran track in college and have already completed the Navy SEALs physical fitness test and did very well. I also train three hours a day running, swimming, and working out in an effort to surpass Special Op standards. However, I have hypothyroidism and am wondering if this would preclude me from being able to join SWCC.  My hypothyroidism is controlled by medication, and I do not feel that I am at all affected by this condition.  Could you please give me your opinion on whethre or not you think I will be able to join SWCC. I have already been told that I can get cleared for the Navy, but I just want to make sure that I will be eligible for Special Ops. Thanks!

Answer
Zach,
So you want to be a Boat Guy, huh?  You can enter the Navy if your Hypothyroidism is controlled with medication, but you may not be eligible for the SWCCs.  Due to the nature of their mission, you may not always have ready access to your medication.  Although the condition isn't necessarily life threatening, without it you may be more sensitive to cold, easily fatigued, have muscle pain and weakness, and possibly depression, none of which is desirable when you're on a covert mission for several days.  Lets say you lose your pills, or get them wet and they dissolve, what then?  You may be in a swamp, river, or open ocean on a combat mission and can't get to a pharmacy for days.

However, I know Boat Guys who got in with waivers, so to get an exact answer for your particular case, contact the Recruiting Directorate's office at 1-888-USN-SEAL or e-mail them at motivators@navsoc.socom.mil.

I hope you make it.  If you're in good enough shape to qualify, I envy you.

Colonel H