Expert: Howard Lorenz - 11/12/2007

Question
My son enlisted into the military exactly 7 years ago. Do to hard personal circumstances he was separated in technical school, he had a mental breakdown due to the death of his mother and the dealings of an abortion from his then fiance. The gave him a separation code of JFX and Re-entry code of 2C. But at the time of separation the officer that was handling his matter informed him that he would be able to re-enlist after two years in which we found later untrue. If we would've known that the matter would have bar him from ever re-enlisting, he would still be in. Since his separation he has completed three computer degrees and has dozens of microsoft and cisco certifications. He's also been tested for psychological problems from many physician with all the results concluding as negative findings of a personality disorder. He doesn't want to re-enlist as a officer, but it wishes to return based on maturity as well as service to his country. Any advice?

Answer
Austin,

I am not certain of which branch of service your son was in, but the following is the most current of what an RE-2C means for each branch of service:

US.ARMY -RE-2C Individuals who were fully qualified when last separated. However, reenlistment not authorized at time of separation under reenlistment control policy. Civilian: fully qualified for enlistment.

USAF -Involuntary separation with Honorable disch

USMC/USN -RE-2 Ineligible for reenlistment. Recommended for reenlistment but ineligible because of status: Fleet Reservist Retired (except for transfer to TDRL), Commissioned Officer. Warrant 0fficer, Midshipman, Cadet.

Based on this information, it appears that he would be eligible for re-enlistment. If he was trying to get into the Air Force, they have a "Prior Service" Freeze in effect. This is a contuinually opening and closing door. Not knowing what branch he was trying to get into , my answer is limited.

In some cases, going in as an officer may be his only option to get back in. i.e. Airforce

But then the reason he was discharged may also be casuing some friction as to why the services are....hesitant. Considering the nature of his education, I would suggest that he try the reserves. Their entry requirements are generally not as stout as the active duty counterparts.

I hope that I have answered the gist of your question..

HW