Expert: Rod Powers - 6/1/2007

Question
I spent 4 years active duty in the US Navy, and was honorably discharged.  I then received my honorable discharge from the inactive reserve after 4 more years.  I was thinking about joining the US Navy Reserve, but I am now 32 (almost 33 years old).  I have had three stomach surgeries since my departure, but am cleared on all of them now.  I also have been diagnosed with slight bi-polar disorder and depression.  I am however on medication that helps regulate my problems.  Do I have a snowball's chance in hell at getting in, or am I too old and have too many problems to get in?    Thanks, Jaysen  

Answer
Hi Jaysen,

Your age won't be a factor. Subtracting your previous active duty time (4 years) from your current age (32) results in an "enlistment adjusted age" of 28. As long as your "enlistment adjusted age" is under 49, you are qualified (age-wise) for enlistment in the Navy Reserves.

The stomach surgeries may or may not be a problem. As a minimum, it would probably require a medical waiver. However, if the probably really is cleared up, with little or not chance of recurrance in the future, a waiver is certainly possible.

Unfortunately, taking medication for any mental health disorder is a "deal-breaker." It's extremely difficult to get a waiver for any history of a mood disorder which resulted in treatment for longer than six months, and waivers won't even be considered unless/until you have been off all medication for at least 12 months with no ill effects. This is true for all the branches of service.

For more information about the United States Military, feel free to visit my U.S. Military Information Site at: http://usmilitary.about.com

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com