Expert: John L - 2/4/2011

Question
Lewis, first off, thank you for your time in answering my question. I enlisted in the Mississippi ARNG straight out of high school and once I got to AIT, I realized I'd made a mistake not going active. The reason being, I'd scored very high on the ASVAB and was getting calls from various recruiters offering me job descriptions for which I'd qualified. But, I instead went with a group of friends to my local Guard armory and spoke to the recruiter there. They only had three or four MOSs to choose from, one of which was 96B (Intel Analyst). The recruiter and the liaison at MEPS both sold me with awesome descriptions of the job. Problem was, when I got to Ft. Huachuca for AIT, I was immediately made aware in class of the true nature of the job. It was nowhere close to what I'd been sold on. I got even more upset after talking to a drill sergeant, who informed me that I couldn't "opt out" of the job I'd enlisted for, that I'd signed a contract and unless I finished my training I would be dishonorably discharged and would have difficulty even getting employed in the civilian world. I got extremely depressed and was sent to a psychiatrist on base who told me he would request a discharge for depression and that it wouldn't be "dishonorable". I was discharged in Feb. of 2004, and am currently working for the sheriff's dept. in my county. I spoke with my wife about re-enlistment and am curious to know what my chances will be to get into AD Army. I know I'll need a waiver from a psychiatrist or doctoral-level psychologist with proper accreditation, which I'm in the process of getting. I've set up an appointment to speak with a local recruiter and have briefly explained the situation to him. Do you know what my chances are of re-enlistment? Also, do you have any insight on the waiver process and how long it may take? I have no problem waiting to ensure service to my country, it's a privilege, not a right. I'd just feel better not being in the dark on the process. Thanks again for your time, C.

Answer
It is possible to get in, but you would have to jump over alot of hurdles to get in now.  Waivers these days for RE3 discharges are hard to come by because the militray is having no problem getting recruits.  In fact, the Army has to downsize over the next few years.

If you want, go for it, your recruiter should be honest with you that it will be no walk in the park.

waivers can take 2 weeks to 6 months to get approved, there are too many variables to say exactly how long as each case is different.