Expert: Rod Powers - 12/20/2006

Question
Thanks for answering my re code is a 3 and my seperation code is JFL i have an honorable discharge but they gave me disability severance pay and VA gave me 20% disability.  I am just ready to get back into the militery,  I will go natinal guard if that is the approach i have to take.  My shoulder is better now and i went to see a orthopedic doctor and he told me if i need it he will write up a report to say i am better.  But it will not matter if i can not get to meps to get a physical thanks for any help you can give me
         Brandon
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
I got out of the army about two years ago and i am wanting back in.  I spoke to a recruiter and gave them what paper work i have and told me to get back with them the following week and they will let me know something.  So i did and about a month later she told me that i was permentally disqualified.  But i never went to meps or seen any one other than the local recruiter.  I was wonder if there is anything i can do to get back in or at least go and get a physically at the meps, so they can look at my shoulder.  I separated it in the army and got out on a medical.  Just was wondering if there is any other option for me to go thanks Brandon
-----Answer-----
Hi Brandon,

I'm afraid in order to advise you, I would need more information than what you've provided. What was the "RE Code" (Reenlistment Eligibility Code) listed on your DD Form 214 (Record of Military Service)? What was the discharge characterization? (Honorable, General, Other than Honorable, or Entry Level)? What was the listed "Reason for Discharge?"

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com


Answer
Hi Brandon,

An RE Code of "3" generally means re-enlistment is possible, if a waiver is granted. The problem is that the Chief Medical Officer at MEPS does not have to even allow you to take a physical, if he/she determines that your current or past medical condition is not conducive to military service. Civilian doctor evaluations are no help (on the theory that civilian doctors have no clue about the demands of military service).

There is no *right* to serve in the U.S. Military. In other words, if the MEPS CMO refuses to accept you for a physical, you do not have the *right* to appeal.

I wish I could be of more help, but -- unless the CMO decides to allow a physical, you probably don't even have the chance to submit a waiver request.

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com