Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/medical history

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Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 7/5/2011


Question
My 18 year old son has his heart set on joining the Airforce this fall. In June 2010 he got strep throat that caused a cardiac problem (myocarditis). He spent 5 days in the hospital. All cardiac problems resolved completely. He has been told by all doctors including cardiologists, that he has no restrictions at all and this should not interfere with joining the military. How should he answer questions regarding this? Would a clearance note from cardiologist help? Do we need to get a copy of all medical records? Would he be turned down? We appreciate your help.
Thank you,
Debbie

Answer
Debbie,
The doctors are correct, he should have no problems at all.  He should just be completely honest on the forms and explain that there was no long-term restrictions.  Unless there's a problem, they won't require any medical documents.
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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