Expert: John L - 1/26/2011

Question
Hi, I'm Tara, I'm 29, I am married with two children. My husband is not their father, I have full custody.  I was almost ready to go to Meps for active NAVY service, recruiter explained they are not issuing regional waivers. Well, the husband and I were already considering a divorce, and I had also planned on signing at least temp. custody to my mother while I was gone.

Now, I am wondering if I should file a quick no contest divorce, or attempt to sign over kids??

I want to join either Navy, active or reserve, Air force, active, reserve, or Fl national Guard, Coast Guard, active or reserve, or Army national guard Fl.

Which detachment of dependents would benefit me the most in regard to enlistment, and with which branch?

Thank you sooooooooooooo much for your time, I look forward to hearing from you.

Tara Lindberg

Answer
As a single mother, you will not be able to join any Active branch of the military, but you can join a reserve branch.  They are used to single parents and can allow it as long as you have a viable family care plan to take care of your children while in training or deployed overseas.

A viable family care plan must be someone who can care for your childen with no issues, usually a family member or the child's other parent.  If you are married, you do not need a waiver or family care plan, but will need one if you divorce in order to stay in the military.

good luck