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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Questions Answered by Expert John L

SubjectDate Asked
Going to meps in two days and need to know If I should lie (my recruiter told me to)2/6/2012
  Q: I'm supposed to be going to MEPs this coming Wednesday and I have some concerns I was hoping you ...
  A: technically, you have to be honest with all medical questions. I will tell you, that if you answer ...
Urinalysis retest time2/5/2012
  Q: My stepson tried to join the Air Force after high school graduation in 2010 but tested positive at ...
  A: Maybe, right now, no service is accepting applicant who tested positive for marijuana. They figure ...
RE-3 ARNG vs USAR2/5/2012
  Q: Mr. John L, I am a prior service with just under 9 yrs. I was a great soldier making quick rank ...
  A: If you get denied by one service, you can ask another. I recently had a guy who was denied a ...
RE-3 ARNG vs USAR2/5/2012
  Q: Mr. John L, I am a prior service with just under 9 yrs. I was a great soldier making quick rank ...
  A: Charles, What would have to happen is the local recruiter would get your meps packet from the old ...
service time for pay12/17/2011
  Q: John you seem to know your stuff as they say as I have seen through your past answers maybe you can ...
  A: Your best bet is to look at your retirement statement you last received. It is correct I am sure. ...
Hearing Medical waiver12/13/2011
  Q: i went to MEPS and got my medical examination and ASVAB done but i, according to the test, have ...
  A: Medical waivers can take a short while or a long time depending on the branch of service. In the ...
basic training locations and mos11/28/2011
  Q: ok i just enlisted in the army as a 89b which is ammunition specialist i have been told this is a ...
  A: Dep discharge is not anything, it does not show up on any record as a discharge, becuae while in ...
basic training locations and mos11/24/2011
  Q: ok i just enlisted in the army as a 89b which is ammunition specialist i have been told this is a ...
  A: Basic training can be anywhere, 5 bases do basic training. Ft benning trains infantry as well, but ...
PDQ'd by Navy-Wrong diagnosis11/8/2011
  Q: I went to MEPS and passed the physical exam. I had a history of ADHD, had been off the meds x 2 ...
  A: The only thing you can do is get a Dr note from your current Physician and submit it. You can push ...
enlisting in NG after Chap 8 separation from active duty11/2/2011
  Q: I am a SPC with 1.5 years of active duty with no UCMJ or negative action in any of that time. I ...
  A: You will have to wait at least 6 weeks after your baby is born and cleared by a Dr, and 6 months to ...
Coast Guard Entry Legal Disqualifications10/29/2011
  Q: Sir, I had a question about claims that a single misdemeanor is disqualifying for Coast Guard ...
  A: Considering your age, You would be wasting your time as much younger and just as qualified ...
RE-4 Code Application or Talk to Recruiter10/11/2011
  Q: John, Good afternoon. I hope that all is going well. Again, my name is Rodney and I'm, of course, ...
  A: An RE4 pretty much bans you from rejoining the military. You can petetion to get it changed by ...
Entrance with brief history of depression and ocd9/22/2011
  Q: I am currently working with a recruiter in order to join the army as this is something I really want ...
  A: The 9-10 yr old issue is not going to hurt you, but the 16 yr old time frame will diminish your ...
Flat Feet9/21/2011
  Q: I'm currently a Marine with over 7 years in service and I am experiencing foot pain. My Air Force ...
  A: basically, it is all medical issue. You should be sent to an orthopedic specialist and try boot ...
officer commission active vs arng9/20/2011
  Q: Our son is ROTC set to graduate and commission in May. He completed LDAC this past summer doing ...
  A: he has to be able to pass the Army APFT to get a commission, at this point he should be able to do ...
Drug History and the Coast Guard9/13/2011
  Q: I wish I could take back my freshman year of college, but I made the choice to use marijuana about ...
  A: By self admitting to using marijuana 30 times, you would require a waiver, which is USUALLY pretty ...
starting to take the first steps8/26/2011
  Q: ANSWER: Unless you want to join the National Guard, you should start the summer after your Junior ...
  A: If there are still medical documents available about it, they would have to be submitted. You will ...
Transfer and Airborne8/17/2011
  Q: I asked a National Guard recruiter today if I am eligible for a drug waiver and said that shouldnt ...
  A: What kind of drug waiver, a usage waiver or a convictin for posession? use wiaver can be granted. ...
Air Force and ADHD8/16/2011
  Q: My 21 year old son is trying to enlist in the Air Force. He was diagnosed with ADHD and put on ...
  A: All military branches have their own regulation for medical standards to join the military but all ...
prescriptions and prior to bct?8/10/2011
  Q: hey John, thanks for reading my question. i enlisted as active duty a few months ago and i ship 2 ...
  A: when you go back to meps to ship, they will ask if you have seen the Dr since joining, and ask about ...
Waiver for acceptance in the ANG, AFR.8/7/2011
  Q: I am in hopes of joining up with the ANG, AFR. My main concern involves my acceptance into the unit. ...
  A: A pardon does help, though it still shows on backgriund checks and you still have to claim it ...
Waiver for acceptance in the ANG, AFR.8/7/2011
  Q: I am in hopes of joining up with the ANG, AFR. My main concern involves my acceptance into the unit. ...
  A: Your posession of Marijuana conviction bans you from the military roght now with no waivers ...
rescue swimmer8/2/2011
  Q: I am in the army (active) and i have been for almost 7yrs. i want to know if there's anyway I can ...
  A: You cannont switch branches while you are in Active Army, only reservists have that oppurtunity. ...
medical7/18/2011
  Q: I have a friend who has been on medication for salt wasting (in his body). He sees the doctor once a ...
  A: He will not be able to join because he has to take medication for something and is under a Dr's care ...
Family Nurse Practitioner HPSP USAF7/12/2011
  Q: I know you are not a USAF recruiter but I read a thread you posted to another individual asking ...
  A: The requirements are mainly they choose the best of the pool they have. the less people apply, the ...
eye refraction7/9/2011
  Q: im currently joining the marine corps and have my eye refrection on monday because of my vision of ...
  A: If you get surgery now, you will have to wait 6 months or more to join after surgery. Consult your ...
joining the military/ past problems7/1/2011
  Q: I am a convicted felon. A man was dealing heroin on campus and raped the girl I was dating at the ...
  A: As a convicted felon, you can never do anything with the military, ROTC or event he National Guard. ...
HPSP Nurse Practitioners6/30/2011
  Q: I have a question about the HPSP program, but more generally all branches as they relate to ...
  A: Based on what you said, the program may not be for you. I am not even sure if you qualify for the ...
KIDNEY DONATION6/15/2011
  Q: OUR SON, WHO IS SERVING IN THE NAVY, WANTS TO DONATE HIS KIDNEY TO HIS DAD WHO IS SUFFERING FROM ...
  A: They do allow it, we just had a full time soldier donate his kidney to another full time soldier. ...
previous drug use, no convictions6/15/2011
  Q: I used marijuana perhaps 15 times when I was 16 years old, and also used mushrooms twice at that ...
  A: The marijuana usage is so much an issue, the mushrooms are. If you if fess up to the drug use, you ...
Prior Service MOS Conversion6/13/2011
  Q: I joined the NV National Guard in Oct 2005, into the MOS 15N. My recruiter used the DOD conversion ...
  A: There is,but I do not recall what it was since we have a new reg that covers that, however, lack of ...
how to re-enlist with an re-3 after hot urine test6/6/2011
  Q: in 2008 i went to meps completed my asvab with a passing grade and signed a 3x5 contract. upon my ...
  A: No one can help you, the Military rule on it right now is no waivers authorrized for previous drug ...
Prior Service MOS Conversion6/5/2011
  Q: I joined the NV National Guard in Oct 2005, into the MOS 15N. My recruiter used the DOD conversion ...
  A: Your conversion from other services does not count in Aviation as what you did in tha Navy and what ...
am i too old?5/31/2011
  Q: I just turned 50 and am experiencing a bit of a mid-life crisis since the last kid went off to ...
  A: There is no way that you can serve in the National Guard again. If you are looking to scratch an ...
Rotc interest5/22/2011
  Q: I joined the national guard back in 2000 but after not being able to go to basic I received a ...
  A: Dont waste your time or money on expungement, it will not matter at all to the military, since it ...
Annual Training travel5/20/2011
  Q: Is it a legal or ethical violation for me to have my wife stay in my government funded hotel room ...
  A: It is fine as long as the room is not subject to you having a roommate, then it would be unethical. ...
Medical disqualifications for army national guard enlistment5/12/2011
  Q: My son who is graduating had planned on enlisting n the national guard to help pay for school he ...
  A: It is not up to the recruiter to decide this, it is up to the MEPs Doctor. Submit the documentaion ...
Questions on joining the military5/6/2011
  Q: I have achieved a lot in my life and I have no regrets in my life, but the one thing that has been ...
  A: I wont get into question 1 as there are too many variable on lifestyle choices, where you live etc. ...
Can I refuse to ship?5/5/2011
  Q: I am very confused over this issue. I have been in the Navy DEP now since August of 2010. I have a ...
  A: The tructh is , you can refuse to ship. Your Tier 2 education will be tier one once you complete 15 ...
Medical/Air Force4/29/2011
  Q: My son has taken a low dose medication for low Thyroid in the past. He has an acceptable thyroid ...
  A: probably not, but if he is off the medication, and everything has been fine, he MIGHT be eligible ...
Adult Dependant4/29/2011
  Q: I am trying to find out what is required on the Military side for a Soldier to make an Adult (over ...
  A: Once a child is over the age of 18, unless they are a full time student, they are not considered a ...
Enlisting in the Army4/28/2011
  Q: Mr. Lewis, I would like to know if there is anything you can tell me about my situation. I was ...
  A: Anything related to domestic violence is touchy with the military because of the Lautenberg ...
Career paths4/24/2011
  Q: I just recently joined the PA Army National Guard under the OCS-enlistment option and I am currently ...
  A: 1. have a degree in international relations, speak russin, farsi or other forms of Arabic. Other ...
ADHD in the ARNG4/23/2011
  Q: I've been in the Army National Guard for about three years and now, at the age of 23, I've been ...
  A: You do NOT have to tell your unit. You only have to tell the Dr during the next PHA/Physical. ...
about joining ROTC with an RE 3 code4/14/2011
  Q: Good Day Sir; I have tried with no positive outcome for three years to serve again, I was regular ...
  A: Based on the information alone, the answer would be no. If they will not let you back in to serve ...
marijuana drug waiver = DUI of marijuana?4/13/2011
  Q: I am interested in enlisting as a 92M Army active and am 27 years old. 10 years ago I was arrested ...
  A: Right now, you cannot enlist in any branch of the military because of a drug related charge. No ...
Recruitment tactics/Discharge Status4/11/2011
  Q: I joined the Army Reserve in 1985. At the time of my recruitment I shared with the recruiter that I ...
  A: Your discharge status will have nothing to do with social security. Your discharge will will most ...
Anti-Depressants Waiver4/5/2011
  Q: I'm a 25 year old college graduate. I have a steady job but really want to serve our nation in the ...
  A: Your congressperson would not be helpful, they have nothing to do with the rules, they can only help ...
Joining the Army (help)4/5/2011
  Q: I have a few questions actually. One is that I am trying to understand what the recruiter said about ...
  A: If it was a minor offense, and not a felony, he should be good, he just has to explain what it was, ...
RE-44/5/2011
  Q: I was discharged from the Navy three years ago with a General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge ...
  A: Right now, there is no way to get back in any branch. An RE4 is basically a ban to re join. You ...
HPSP Eligibility w/ BP Medications3/30/2011
  Q: Greetings, My name is Daniel McMahan and I am a sophmore student at Texas Tech University. I am ...
  A: If one takes mantainance drugs for anything they will not be allowed to join (excpet birth control). ...
VA Benefits3/30/2011
  Q: I was in the Navy from 2001 - 2003. I was discharged with a condition, not a disability, but the ...
  A: Your best bet is to trey and recover any and all medical documentation fromt he time you were in and ...
Medical question3/29/2011
  Q: I am considering applying for OCS with the U.S. Navy or Marines. My two questions are as follows: ...
  A: The new year will not matter one bit, but you will not get a waiver for a herniated disk, that I can ...
High Blood Pressure3/29/2011
  Q: Greetings, My name is Daniel McMahan and I am a sophmore student at Texas Tech University. I am ...
  A: Usually, those who have to take maintainance drugs for high blood pressure would be disqualified for ...
missing kidney3/29/2011
  Q: My husband was in the process of going into the military when the recruiter told him he was ...
  A: I rechecked, it does disqualify, but a wiaver can be granted. I mispoke because I have known people ...
Medical discharge?3/28/2011
  Q: I'm writing because lately I've been concerned about my husband of 8 years' behavior. He is an ET1 ...
  A: Adult ADHD is common in the military it seems and tends to be a good trait in some ways, but ...
Eligibility?3/26/2011
  Q: My son, age 24, has talked to several recruters for the past 2 years. He has a GED and class B ...
  A: Technically, he needs a waiver for having the marijuana charge, however, they are not allowing any ...
Medical question3/23/2011
  Q: I am considering applying for OCS with the U.S. Navy or Marines. My two questions are as follows: ...
  A: It would disqualify you, if you do not divulge it, they cannot find it in medical records, they are ...
UMSC Under Other Than Honorable Conditions3/23/2011
  Q: My husband received a UOTHC from the marine corps about 2 months before he was discharged and after ...
  A: an OTH discharge is not similiar to any type of criminal charge. In fact, it is a little harsh ...
Qualifications for Grandfather Clause.3/21/2011
  Q: I was Medically retired in 2001 in Texas.At the time of retirement my DD Form 214 states that my ...
  A: for Active duty, if you were medically retired, that means you could not do your duty without ...
Medication3/17/2011
  Q: I am 17. I have joined the guard, but was told by my recruiter that I had to be off my zoloft before ...
  A: They dont give waivers for drugs that are currently needed, you would not be allowed to take them in ...
Medication3/17/2011
  Q: I am 17. I have joined the guard, but was told by my recruiter that I had to be off my zoloft before ...
  A: To put it simple, you are going to be discharged. I am willing to bet that you did not divuge this ...
Navy Vision Requirements3/16/2011
  Q: I recently had a DODMERB physical for Navy ROTC and was turned down because I have "Myopia - ...
  A: The issue isn't your corrctable vision, it is the data that shows your eyes will get worse over ...
DEP contract3/14/2011
  Q: Mr. Lewis, Back in December of 2010 I took a trip to MEPS in order to get some answers regarding ...
  A: There i sno discharge type for refusing to ship, you never actually serve, so there is no discharge ...
WOFT questions3/13/2011
  Q: I have some questions about becoming a pilot in the army. I am currently an Air Force Reserve medic ...
  A: You can start the process of being a pilot now by taking a flight exam and taking the AFAST test, ...
Swearing In3/13/2011
  Q: I went to MEPS along with my best friend to take the ASVAB and complete all the other test the next ...
  A: Drug tests take 5-7 days to come back. If one is positive on a drug test, the 1's change to a 3 on ...
DEP contract3/11/2011
  Q: Mr. Lewis, Back in December of 2010 I took a trip to MEPS in order to get some answers regarding ...
  A: The Army will not let you renogotiate your ship date. If they do, i will be suprised. OCS packet ...
Enlistment3/4/2011
  Q: My name is Ryan. I am 25 years old and just finished my Master's Degree in Chemistry. I am pursuing ...
  A: Overall, you seem ;ike a well qualified candidate, however, your biggest obstacle will be the ...
Palace Chase3/3/2011
  Q: Can a Marine do this? If not is there another option for them?
  A: The Navy and Marine Corps does not have a "Palace Chase" program, and -- just for info, the Air ...
starting to take the first steps2/24/2011
  Q: hi i was wondering when is it the right time to start talking to military recruiters? i am going to ...
  A: Unless you want to join the National Guard, you should start the summer after your Junior year of ...
re code2/22/2011
  Q: i was discharged in 2002 from the air gaurd. my ngb form 22 does not have a re code .in the ...
  A: It is unusual that your NGB22 does not show an RE code. If no RE code exosts, recruiters usually ...
sleep walking medical discharge2/16/2011
  Q: My fiance is suppose to be deploying very soon, but was marked nondeployable for sleepwalking in ...
  A: The VA loan is fine if he gets the loan before discharge, he may not keep any GI bill benefts ...
Trying to change to Air Force National Guard2/15/2011
  Q: I have been trying for over a year now to transfer from being on active duty in the Army to the Air ...
  A: Basically, you screwed yourself by resigning your commission rather than just take the discharge. ...
Medical Waiver2/15/2011
  Q: I am currently trying to enlist in the Navy but I'm pretty sure I will need a medical waiver because ...
  A: The only thing you can do it hope that the Doctors feel you are not in danger of relapsing to any ...
AF enlisted to Army ROTC medical2/12/2011
  Q: I am active duty AF e-4 25 years old and am wanting to separate next year in order to enroll in Army ...
  A: Since the diagnosis was overturned by another, you never had it, it is the same as being charged ...
Medical Waiver2/10/2011
  Q: I am currently trying to enlist in the Navy but I'm pretty sure I will need a medical waiver because ...
  A: It is going to be hard, it all depends on what your Dr says about your condition, on top of what a ...
AF enlisted to Army ROTC medical2/8/2011
  Q: I am active duty AF e-4 25 years old and am wanting to separate next year in order to enroll in Army ...
  A: once your current contract is up, you can enroll in ROTC. You do not have to divulge an incorrect ...
Sep. code- JFV and RE-32/4/2011
  Q: Lewis, first off, thank you for your time in answering my question. I enlisted in the Mississippi ...
  A: It is possible to get in, but you would have to jump over alot of hurdles to get in now. Waivers ...
re-enlisting1/26/2011
  Q: I was discharged from the army in 2008, I received an honorable discharge with an re-3 reenlistment ...
  A: You cannot get a code changed, becasue it is why you were discharged. If you can prove worthyness, ...
Dependancy and Active duty1/26/2011
  Q: I'm Tara, I'm 29, I am married with two children. My husband is not their father, I have full ...
  A: As a single mother, you will not be able to join any Active branch of the military, but you can join ...
Navy moral waiver1/24/2011
  Q: My son is 19, committed 7 counts of malicious mischief when he was 16. He pleaded guilty, was on 6 ...
  A: The issue is that the crimes he was found guilty of put him over the limit for a waiver to join any ...
Navy Officer to Army Officer1/20/2011
  Q: I am currently an Ensign in the Navy (O1) as a Special warfare officer (student) and didn't make it ...
  A: you would have to go through Army OCS. navy officer and Army officer are so different, and the regs ...
military dating age1/18/2011
  Q: I am 16 and going to be 17 in a month and the guy i want to date is 20 and i was wondering if it ...
  A: No, because there are regulations about conduct, and dating someone under 18 is frowned upon, ...
filing complaint on wrongful disqualification1/17/2011
  Q: I've recently decided to take on my lifelong dreams and enlist in the military. I went through the ...
  A: While I could not find that specific disease in our medical standrds for the Army, it does mention ...
chapter 5171/17/2011
  Q: My son is in Army basic training and about to be discharged with a medical chapter 517. He hit too ...
  A: Here is what Chap 5 par 17 of AR 635-200, Enlisted Personnel Separations says Other designated ...
Need advice on ARNG1/15/2011
  Q: My problem is this.I have fully enlisted in the guard oath and all and been in since October.So here ...
  A: At this point, telling them will result in a discharge. If meps or anyone else asks why you did not ...
follow up questions1/8/2011
  Q: John, I posted this on accident in the ratings section, sorry about that, I had a few follow up ...
  A: As far as credit, yes, they do run a credit check, and unless you just are not paying, there is ...
Army medic1/7/2011
  Q: I just want to know the real deal about being a medic in the army vs a firefighter. Do all medics go ...
  A: The army does have firefighters, but very few, they are very hard to come by. Medics have a variety ...
National Guard Questions1/7/2011
  Q: John, I have a few questions about joining the guard, but wanted to give you a little background ...
  A: 1. 64 inches max weight is 149 lbs or meeting the body fat standards is 34%. 2. you do not need ...
Differences between Airforce and Navy12/30/2010
  Q: Lewis, I am a junior in a Middle College High School and I'm looking into A career in the ...
  A: either an be good, however, you really need to do your research into each and decide which is better ...
the national guard and DLI12/30/2010
  Q: my name is trixy and im currently enlisted in the NJARNG as a 35m. i took the DLAB and i scored a ...
  A: You will go to DLI at some point after AIT. It all depends on what language is needed in your unit, ...
Prescribed Xanax before basic training.12/16/2010
  Q: First, I'd like to thank you in advance for taking the time out of your day to answer my question. ...
  A: You will be discharged under an entry level seperation, it is a no harm no foul, you did not lie to ...
Brother in Law denied entrance into Army for mild A.D.D.12/13/2010
  Q: My brother in law was enlisting into the Army, due to ship out in January. He went through and ...
  A: he didn't get in becasue he said something about it. Most people who have ADD, ADHD do not say ...
choice between medboard and 5-1712/8/2010
  Q: I have a back injury herniated/bulging disk. and hospital doctor wants to medboard me but i want a ...
  A: No matter how you get discharged, it will be for medical reasons and you will not be able to meet ...
Getting Married during Christmas Exodus12/5/2010
  Q: I have a question on behalf of my son. My son's girl friend is currently at BCT for Army Reserves ...
  A: There is no regulation preventing a soldier form getting married. The soldier that is currently in ...
Mental Health Waiver11/21/2010
  Q: I was in the navy far a brief moment, but was seperated due to alleged mental health issues. How do ...
  A: You have to go a a civilian Dr and get cleared theu him/her. then present the finding to the MEPs ...
Marine Corps reserve and NROTC11/20/2010
  Q: I'm hoping you'd be able to clarify some things for me. I am 21 and so far have a semester of ...
  A: Making sense or not is a personal choice you will have to decide, but a great many officers were ...
Social Anxiety11/5/2010
  Q: I'm trying to join the Air National Guard and was wondering what MEPS would think of a history of ...
  A: If you had 2 visits at age 14, and you never took meds, and are fine now, it isn't an issue. But ...
Spinal and gastrointestinal issues10/22/2010
  Q: Good morning Mr. Lewis, I'm in the National Guard's RSP program, but have not been to BCT yet. I ...
  A: If you are starting to have issues, they will not allow you to ship, especially if you are still in ...
Air Force 2B Discharge 5 years ago10/20/2010
  Q: sir. I hope you can help me get some answers. I was discharged in 2005 from active Air Force, with ...
  A: Right now, you cannot enlist. The reason why is the circumstances around drugs. Right now no ...
Army Active to Reserve Component and ROTC10/18/2010
  Q: Let me begin by laying out my situation. I am a 30 yr old, 12 yr vet, currently on active duty. I ...
  A: No age waivers for ROTC are given, due to the other options that "older" members have. Transfering ...
Interest in becoming an Officer10/18/2010
  Q: I am a former enlisted Marine. My wife has recently took interest in becoming an officer in either ...
  A: The only branch that can work with her on commssioning prior to getting it is the Army Reserves, ...
Officer Resignation10/17/2010
  Q: I have completed my service obligation and am severely disturbed by the pending repeal of the "Don't ...
  A: It will actually be announced with little fan fare, but the media will let it be known, not to ...
Officer Resignation10/15/2010
  Q: I have completed my service obligation and am severely disturbed by the pending repeal of the "Don't ...
  A: DO NOT do it because of this. As you now, that the justice dept asked for a saty so they can ...
Navy Seals and Airforce PJs10/15/2010
  Q: I am 18 years old and it has been my dream to become a Navy Seal for at least the last couple of ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. well, get off the computer and go talk to a ...
Bonus recoupment10/13/2010
  Q: After active duty in 2009 I enilisted in the ANG and I got a lump sum srip bous of $20,000. After a ...
  A: Look at your bonus contract and see what is says. Medical discharges are no recouped if it was no ...
Fraud10/13/2010
  Q: I know someone that use to be an active duty USMC but his marriage to his wife is fake. I think ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. Seeing is how in the reserves there are no ...
Infidelity10/13/2010
  Q: My friend's husban is in a Marine Corps Reserve and his wife caught him cheating. What could she do ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. reality, it is a personal matter and should ...
questions about military10/12/2010
  Q: I actually have several questions, not for myself but for my son.. He is 20 years old & in college ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. Age/weight requirements are on each servie ...
Army Active to Reserve Component and ROTC10/9/2010
  Q: Let me begin by laying out my situation. I am a 30 yr old, 12 yr vet, currently on active duty. I ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. You cannot get an ROTC schoarship, you are ...
Asking about ARMY10/8/2010
  Q: Well my husband met with a Army recruiter today and started the background check today. So my ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. He will have to show that joining the ...
Failed meps drug test10/8/2010
  Q: I have been looking over some information regarding failing the meps drugtest and was just curious ...
  A: Since you popped hot at MEPs, there is no way you can join any branch of the militray right now. we ...
Trying to enlist in Marines10/8/2010
  Q: I had a 4th degree domestic violence charge from when I was 19. It was a deferred sentencing I paid ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. there is no exception to you getting in, ...
Bicuspid aortic valve10/8/2010
  Q: My 16 year old son is VERY interested in going into the Air Force upon his graduation from high ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. usually those with heart issues, except mild ...
re-applying after denial10/8/2010
  Q: A friend was denied due enlistment due to a minor medical issue (eczema years ago, long under ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. If one was denied for it, he can reapply if ...
kerataconus10/7/2010
  Q: kerataconus is permanent disqualifier but how about myopia or astigmatism in question is am getting ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. There is no future for you in the military ...
medical questions10/7/2010
  Q: I have asked this of two other experts and received no answer. My son(20) was enlisted in the Army. ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. he will not be able to join for personality ...
Medical Requirements10/7/2010
  Q: I spoke to an recruiter today and was informed that I would not qualify due to asthma. I was ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. You can get cleared if you go to a ...
Re-enlistment with fraudulent entry10/4/2010
  Q: I am interested in your services if you think you can help. Here is my situation; Sep. ...
  A: Sorry late answering I was away for military training. You will have a hard time getting back in ...
army &ged10/1/2010
  Q: Ok i was in the national guard went basic and got hurt know i am going active i already went meps ...
  A: The Army might take you with a GED, but you will have to wait until they allow GED's again. If you ...
Drill Sergeant "through ticket" program9/23/2010
  Q: Do you know anything about the "through ticket" program for drill sergeants? Have a SM that enlisted ...
  A: never heard of it myself and couldn't find anything about on my search through archives. Granted ...
Medical Issue After Enlisting9/15/2010
  Q: Lewis: First, thank you for donating your time and knowledge to answering questions of this nature. ...
  A: Flat feet are not an issue for joining or staying in, but the other injury will not allow you to ...
enlistment9/13/2010
  Q: My son did not get into the Army because he got into some trouble while in college. When they called ...
  A: No, it is not true, and most likely if he is not elible for the Army he is not eligible for the ...
Domestic Violence9/10/2010
  Q: I served in the Marine reserves from 1999 to 2005. After serving I was charged with domestic ...
  A: A domestic violence convictions, dismissed for any reason that requires you to do something like ...
Paraphernalia charge after swearing in9/10/2010
  Q: My son swore into the National Guard in July and is scheduled to leave for boot camp in October. He ...
  A: yes, he has to say something now, and unless he is found not guilty, he will be discharged. he will ...
Dependents9/9/2010
  Q: How do I put my godchild on my orders?
  A: You can't, a god child is not a dependant. A depandant has to be someone whom relys on you for ...
Prior service air force9/8/2010
  Q: I was discharged dec 09 2009 from active duty Air force with an RE Code of 2B and SPD code of JKN ...
  A: Other requirements are like law violations, medical, age, etc. The key phrase in my answer was IF ...
Joining as an officer after discharge for marijuana use9/5/2010
  Q: I was in the Army National Guard for 4 years from the time I was 17 till 21. I received a general ...
  A: It is possible to get a wiaver, however, The Army (and the National Guard)right now is not ...
Joining as an officer after discharge for marijuana use9/5/2010
  Q: I was in the Army National Guard for 4 years from the time I was 17 till 21. I received a general ...
  A: Technically you are disqualified, and as you siad would require a waiver to join and to go to OCS. ...
Military Service Obligation8/30/2010
  Q: I enlisted in the Army under DEP in October 1989. I completed my MSO with a combination of active ...
  A: To be honest, I do not know. You do not have an MSO as that is enlisted only. You can resign your ...
Was I lucid?8/29/2010
  Q: I signed a homosexual admission paper the day after I was threaten to be beaten up over a picture ...
  A: The Re4 does not prevent you from getting a govt jobm, RE4 just means you have a disqukaification ...
Moral Conduct waiver8/28/2010
  Q: I want to join the active army recently discovered that I can not because I stupid mistakes I made ...
  A: National Guard is the same way, but we classify a violation of probabtion as a lesser offense, so ...
Air Force Officer8/26/2010
  Q: I am currently in the Air Force Reserves Enlisted and have just completed a bachelor's of Science ...
  A: Being able to go officer in the Air force from enlisted is very hard, they usually are just taking ...
Am i able to join?8/12/2010
  Q: I am 19 years old, in college and I REALLY want to join the Army. I had Scoliosis surgery about 7 ...
  A: Yes it would. The military does not let persons in with hardware in their back. Though your Dr ...
Concern about admitting about my so called "Asthma"8/6/2010
  Q: My "asthma" is manageable, i do a lot of stuff that non asthmatics do. such as basketball, jogging ...
  A: The problem is thatyou do have athsma. Even if it is manageable, it still exists and you would be ...
Medical waiver denied8/2/2010
  Q: My son is 18, he had arthroscopic surgery to repair a torn labrum (dislocated shoulder) after his ...
  A: Usually I would say no, however, I am familiar with the type of injury and I have had no issues ...
Can i still enlist?7/30/2010
  Q: I'm a 19 year old female and i REALLY REALLY want to enlist. Not sure which branch yet. I was told ...
  A: Maube, it is the MEPs doctors during the medical exam that determine that. they review your Dr's ...
Entering the Army with a non-security clearance MOS7/28/2010
  Q: I have been doing job searches and lots of reading job descriptions for the Army Reserves. There is ...
  A: For the reservs, credit should not be an issue, the DMV thing is not an issue either, it is not for ...
Navy ELS7/27/2010
  Q: I was discharged in 1994 from the Navy after a month of training. I was given a re-4 I guess like ...
  A: No Re4 waivers are allowed no matter what the reason. regulation may say they are, however, other ...
Transfer from retired reserve to IRR7/27/2010
  Q: I was transferred to the Navy Retired Reserve Sept. '09 after 26 years total in the Navy Reserve. I ...
  A: Once in the retired reserve, it is a really long process to get out of it and into another status, ...
IRR Transfer7/26/2010
  Q: I served an active duty enlistment with the Marine Corps and am now drilling with a reserve unit as ...
  A: it may not be an issue, the general rule is you can beat up, but not down, meaning, the lautenberg ...
Navy criminal history waivers7/24/2010
  Q: Lewis, My name is Darrell Lewis. I am a 23 year old graduate student currently working on an MBA ...
  A: 1. you will not be able to get into the IT field with a drug charge in you past. The drug chrge ...
DD214 upgrade7/22/2010
  Q: My son was discharged from the Army in Sept. 09 with a General Discharge, Under Honorable ...
  A: The only thing the upgrade would do is the general discharge to honorable, not the RE code or ...
reenlistment with JDA1 and RE-3P7/22/2010
  Q: Mr. Lewis, I joined the Marines in Dec.06 thought all was fine and ready to go my recruiter had ...
  A: Witht taht code you could re enlits, but the issue is the asthma, you obviously still have issues ...
Enlisting single parent.7/19/2010
  Q: I am a single mother of a six year old boy. I am unemployed and reaching the end of my rope. I ...
  A: Sarah, The Army Guard is part time amd not full time, so what you are looking for is active duty, ...
Recruiting7/15/2010
  Q: I am currently in the army national guard. I know a soldier who wants to transfer from the army ...
  A: No on the transfer, only because of the DUI. The Air Guard will not take a "problem Child". If he ...
navy qualification7/13/2010
  Q: My wife an i have made quite a few mistakes when it comes to money over the past few years and now ...
  A: There is no clear cut answer. Those with money issues are more likley to do things illegaly to get ...
ADD as a child6/25/2010
  Q: My son, age 20, is interested in joining the Air Force. He was diagnosed with ADD in his ...
  A: ADD as a child with meds from that long ago will not preclude him from joining the military. They ...
Which Branch is Right for me for OCS6/23/2010
  Q: My name is John and I have just recently graduated from college with a MA degree in World Military ...
  A: Niether could guarantee you military intelligence, The Navy OCS is very hard right now, most ...
Army reserve discharge?6/23/2010
  Q: Hi sir my name is David I'm 17 years old I'm Going to be a senior in highschool and enlisted to the ...
  A: While technically your commander is correct, but the key thing missing is you are eligible to try to ...
LOD Injury6/21/2010
  Q: I had an injury while on active duty drill status with the WYARNG. I compressed and destroyed my ...
  A: You do not have to payback any bonus for a medical issue, a discharge can and probably will happen ...
Felony while in the NG?6/20/2010
  Q: If you are convicted of a felony (possession of a controlled substance) while in the National Guard, ...
  A: it depends, you should tell your commander, if you have a clearance, it will be revoked, you may ...
Special Forces Medic or Corpsman6/17/2010
  Q: Good afternoon, I have a few questions regarding the national guard special forces. What MOS ...
  A: Navy Corpsman are not involved in special operations per se. Navy Seals have their own medics and ...
RE36/11/2010
  Q: I was discharged from the regular army active duty 3 months ago on a "general under honorable" ...
  A: While after a year you could apply for a waiver, you really don't have much to stand on for grounds. ...
Army Medical Waiver6/10/2010
  Q: I recently asked you a question but left out some of the important details you needed to answer and ...
  A: I do not know what NGO is, I assume you mean NGB (National Guard Beureu) which is the one and only ...
guard to army6/10/2010
  Q: I had a guy in my intro to computer classes in college and was telling me about the National Guard. ...
  A: No extra boot camp, the Guard is the Army, just a reserve component, all training is the same. ...
Buddy System6/7/2010
  Q: I have been short ended of the stick on information needed about joining the military. I've ...
  A: 1. Buddy system doesn't really exist, only when a group of people join together, but since you are ...
OCS from enlisted.6/7/2010
  Q: Good afternoon, I am a specialist in the U. S. Army reserve and I'm looking to become an ...
  A: By the time you are eligible for OCS, you will have to ask closer to then, right now, probably not, ...
Underweight for ROTC6/5/2010
  Q: My son is 5'6" and is applying for an ROTC scholarship. He can pass the APT but is 10 lbs ...
  A: yes he will, but he can do lots of things to put on weight. takeing weight gain supplements from ...
Pot Charge Waiver Oct. 20106/2/2010
  Q: I realize I can not be awarded a waiver for marijuana at this time to join Army Reserves. I was ...
  A: The assult wont matter only covicted felons or deferred (like classes instead of conviction) matter, ...
Pot Charge Waiver Oct. 20106/1/2010
  Q: I realize I can not be awarded a waiver for marijuana at this time to join Army Reserves. I was ...
  A: The pot charge will not keep you from ocs unless it was really recent. The guard is better because ...
Can I get into Army OCS6/1/2010
  Q: When I was 14-15 I made a lot of stupid mistakes. I was charge with petty theft, tresspassing, ...
  A: sounds fishy. You may need a waiver, but make him put in one and if you smell something fishy, run ...
Pot Charge Waiver Oct. 20105/31/2010
  Q: I realize I can not be awarded a waiver for marijuana at this time to join Army Reserves. I was ...
  A: I doubt the Army will grant any drug waivers in the next couple of years. The pot charge would ...
Re 3g /personality disorder from Navy in 1992--Cleared by Meps referral civillian doc in 96' help now??5/31/2010
  Q: Ok here is the story...I was discharged from the US Navy in 1993 after 8 months Active Duty, In ...
  A: dude, in short none of the past meps stuff matters for anythign anymore, and a Re3 will not hurt you ...
re-enlisting5/27/2010
  Q: join the air force when i was 18 and right out of high school and i never been away from my family. ...
  A: You can never join the air force, if you are married you could try other active branches, but thwey ...
BiPolar discharge5/18/2010
  Q: I previously enlisted as active duty in the US Army in 2006. During my time in basic training, I ...
  A: If you join another miliary, you will never be able to be int he us military. You will never get in ...
administrative separation from US Navy5/18/2010
  Q: Mr. Lewis, My son has been a sailor for approximately 3 years. He started having insomnia post ...
  A: It will not be an administrative discharge, it should be medical discharge, and if it can be ...
Enlistment questions5/17/2010
  Q: Lewis, I want to serve my country, so I am considering the Air National Guard and the Army National ...
  A: To be honest, I don't even think any military service is right for you. let me list some answers. ...
navy corpsmen5/14/2010
  Q: i was woundering about being a corpsmen in the navy. i have a husband already in the USMC and we ...
  A: The navy will not take a GED unless you have at least 15 college credit hours. Then in order to be ...
Barely Celiac.5/14/2010
  Q: When i was in highschool i was diagnosed as being a Celiac (gluten intolerant). I have never shown ...
  A: There is no way you will get approved. If you have NO issues with it at all, then I ask, how did ...
Would I qualify for the reserves or guard5/11/2010
  Q: I am a 36 year old male, married, with 3 children. I have a Bachelor of Science, and a Master of ...
  A: very possible, 1. Nothing is ever "expunged". that is an outright lie, it still will show on ...
Criminal Traffic Violations5/10/2010
  Q: My name is Thomas, I am 25 years old and have unfortunately made some poor choices. I have been ...
  A: Once all have been cleared up, you should still be eligible with little issues. Missing a court date ...
Hi!5/10/2010
  Q: I am a high school student in Pennsylvania interested in joining the US Army as an officer after ...
  A: There are progams that help soldiers get their citizenship faster, but you can wait to cintract as a ...
Rate Of Deployment5/9/2010
  Q: I'm seriously considering enlisting in a branch of the military, however, my wife doesn't wish for ...
  A: All get deployed regulary, how often is usually luck of the draw. Any reserve unit deploys alot ...
army basic training5/6/2010
  Q: mt daughter just left for basic training and has done nothing but call me and break down crying. she ...
  A: No, this is buyers remorse and not uncommon. Basic is diferent than home life and for the first ...
Army Regulation 601-210 & Amended Misdemeanor Waivers (Plea Bargains)5/2/2010
  Q: Mr. Lewis, I have a question for you regarding Army Regulation 601-210, 4–32. (Rules governing ...
  A: Correct. No felony waivers are even allowed anymore and probably never will be again. If one was ...
Army Regulation 601-210 & Amended Misdemeanor Waivers (Plea Bargains)5/1/2010
  Q: Mr. Lewis, I have a question for you regarding Army Regulation 601-210, 4–32. (Rules governing ...
  A: Its a fine balance, what matters is what you were convicted of. Though the original is listed. As ...
Army Aviation Medical Reg4/25/2010
  Q: I read that you keep up to date on Army regs. My question is, according to Army aviation medical ...
  A: Not sure what you mean by a class 2 dental exam. If you mean class 2 status, as you need some ...
positive thc at meps4/23/2010
  Q: My son tested positive at MEPS the day before he was to leave for basic. He was in the DEP and told ...
  A: There is no retesting if one fails a drug test at MEPs. Usually, one can retest in 45 days and be ...
positive drug test army national guard4/22/2010
  Q: I WAS IN THE ARMY NATIONAL GUARD AND FAILED A DRUG TEST. I WAS DISCHARGED FOR THAT. I KNOW PEOPLE ...
  A: One doesn't go to jail for positive drug test, it is against regs. Only for being caught with it. ...
previous shattered kneecap/possible waiver4/19/2010
  Q: what are the chances of being able to join Any branch of the armed forces with having a previous ...
  A: Chances are hard to determine because of severity, surgeries and prognosis. If you are fully ...
mental health4/17/2010
  Q: My husband has been thinking about joining the military, but we've had some concern as to whether or ...
  A: I doubt he would make it based upon the disability factor and the fact he agreed he was bi polar and ...
navy seals4/8/2010
  Q: I noticed that you had some experience in the navy and have a question that i cannot seem to get a ...
  A: What exactly are you asking me here? Right now you are lucky even getting a chanve to join the Navy ...
Resignation of Commission - NG officer4/5/2010
  Q: Sir, I am a commissioned officer who has completed an 8 year Guard committment and have been placed ...
  A: I would never resign your commission unless you never want to have that distinction again. Once your ...
Skull Fracture/Lasik Eye Surgery4/1/2010
  Q: my name is Amanda and I am 26 years old. I am interested in joining the Navy. I have 2 questions. ...
  A: Your recruiter is trying to screw you, when you see an eye Dr while in the Navy, they will be able ...
medical discharge3/30/2010
  Q: My son called today from navey boot camp where he has been for 4 weeek. He informed us that he was ...
  A: If the navy was aware of this, it was a pre existing condition and may not cover it. If it is ...
Broken leg3/27/2010
  Q: I am 17 and want to join the army. About three years ago I was in an accident which resulted in a ...
  A: Fine, just maek sure you get copies of all your medical records of your surgeries and stuff to give ...
Choosing a branch for Nursing - as an officer3/24/2010
  Q: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hi! I am 27 and ...
  A: As far as which branch, I can be no help there. As far as being worried about family, thousands of ...
ETSing/ injury3/23/2010
  Q: My husband injured his back while deployed a little over a month ago. They treated him for a muscle ...
  A: He needs to go to the IG to complain then if his unit is not helping him. That rule about ...
Medical History3/23/2010
  Q: I am a 18 year old male who is going to be joining the National Guard in September 2010 and ...
  A: Right now, there is a big push to stop people coming in with past menatl health issues. The medical ...
Army Service Ribbon3/17/2010
  Q: I'm currently in the Air Force Reserves. I served in the ARNG from 17 March 2000 - 07 May 2003. 60 ...
  A: yes, after 4 months in the ARNG and you get MOS qualified, you are eligible. regulation reads: ...
3 questions---OCS/enlisted----Nat'l Guard/Active Duty3/16/2010
  Q: Mr. Lewis, I am a prior service (e4) vet who recieved an honorable discharge (2005). I am currently ...
  A: You could enlist under the OCS option in the Guard, but you would have to go to a 5 week bootcamp to ...
DEP and High School Drop out3/15/2010
  Q: My daughter joined the Army Reserves when she was 17 through the DEP. She was a junior in high ...
  A: She will be discharged for not completing HS. GED is not good enough. She must complete HS on time ...
3 questions---OCS/enlisted----Nat'l Guard/Active Duty3/14/2010
  Q: Mr. Lewis, I am a prior service (e4) vet who recieved an honorable discharge (2005). I am currently ...
  A: Ok, need alittle bit more info. How old are you? What was your MOS What branch were you in? Pot ...
BCA3/14/2010
  Q: My daughter failed her bca in late Dec. She is currently deployed and they want to measure her in ...
  A: Militray members are expected to meet guidlines all the time. There is not set time between ...
why does the militaty tell me i cant join because of my felony3/13/2010
  Q: I recently tried to enlist in the NAtional Guard and told me i cant join. Why cant I??? They ...
  A: Being in the military takes someone who has a higher regard for the country, laws and has to set an ...
Army regulations3/12/2010
  Q: I have just finished the law enforcement academy and have just passed my state test I tried to get ...
  A: if the charges were dropped because of good beahvior, probabtion completion or taking a class, then ...
Problems with enlisting in the Navy3/12/2010
  Q: ok, So im 18 years old now, and im almost done with enlisting in the navy only thing is, i got ...
  A: Nothing is ever sealed or deleted. I get juvenile records all the time. Expunged only matters to ...
Medical Waivers3/11/2010
  Q: I am interested in the Reserves for a few different reasons but am unsure if a medical condition I ...
  A: if you are taking any meds to cntrol anything but allergies, you cannot join. In combat, ...
ROTC and MEPS3/9/2010
  Q: I was DQed at MEPS while trying to join the ARNG. If I was able to pass a DODMERB physical for ...
  A: If you passed a DODMERB physial, why did you take a a Meps. not for smp then right? MEPs physical ...
Direct Commission Officer obligation3/8/2010
  Q: I have a question about the obligation incurred by a Direct Commission Officer in the Navy. I ...
  A: No, you cannot get a direct commission as Intel. Direct commissions are reserved for medical, ...
medical3/8/2010
  Q: A few years back I had a issue I was stressing about so much to the point I thought I may be ...
  A: If you never saw a Dr for anything, did it was never documented, therefore never happened. You are ...
Both in the Army2/24/2010
  Q: Mr. Lewis, My boyfriend and I are both in/joining the Army. I am a ROTC cadet with approximately 2 ...
  A: You could request, but not guaranteed. You would have to be married before you commsiion and ...
Trying to join army national guard2/23/2010
  Q: Hey im trying to enlist, but when i was a minor i was charged with reckless burning 1st degree on ...
  A: The recruiter is right. the reason why the military looks at it this way is because you actualy did ...
Medical2/19/2010
  Q: I was diagnosed with Bi-polar and ADHD before joining the Army. It was about 1 1/2 years before ...
  A: You could just go to the DR, say you are having issues, let them diagnose you, and just dont say you ...
Bankruptcy/Security Clearance2/17/2010
  Q: I was laid off last November and finding it very difficult to find another job. I am a Civil ...
  A: Bankruptcy does not automatically keep you from getting a clearnce, but can hinder it. Evry case is ...
Bonus2/16/2010
  Q: Long story short, I was seperated early during my first enlistment in 2003 and received a General ...
  A: The Bonus will never happen and the recruiter should have known that. The GI bill should not be an ...
enlisting2/14/2010
  Q: I'm 22 years old, married with 3 kids. What are my chances of getting into the army reserve? I know ...
  A: Not much of an issue getting in the Reserves or national Guard (both are similiar, Guard Usually ...
wavier2/11/2010
  Q: I was in the national guard but was MED boarded for stress fracture so i am going for a wavier its ...
  A: Your recruiter isnt checking. medical waivers come back in a week's time. My offfice submits ...
Medical disqualifiers2/11/2010
  Q: I have tried to enlist in the navy , however I have a pacemaker. I know its a non waiverable ordeal ...
  A: A pacemaker is a big deal. You do have limitaions. Navy life is not a pieace of cake. Threats of ...
enlistment2/11/2010
  Q: I recently tried enlisting in the army and had gone through meps. I had my recruiter trying to get ...
  A: The army cannot take anyobe with a possession of marijuana or paraphenalia charge/conviction. The ...
Officer Commission2/11/2010
  Q: I am 29 years old, and I am a U.S. naturalized citizen. I have an MBA degree from Missouri State ...
  A: No one can waive the 110 GT requirement. You will need to retake the ASVAB to get the score higher. ...
Army Reserve Age Limit2/10/2010
  Q: My question is, I'm 47 with 20 years of active duty in the Navy. Retired from the Navy with an ...
  A: Retired members of any branch cannot join a reserve branch due to the fact it takes an act of ...
army WOFT2/4/2010
  Q: I am very interested in becoming an army helicopter pilot. You seem like a great expert and ...
  A: I am short and to the point. The active army had a direct flight school program, but discontinued it ...
ETSing2/4/2010
  Q: i have a question. in april of 2004 i enlisted for the military. I didnt tell them about my injured ...
  A: Since you ETS is two months, drag it out. Delay getting them docs, it will be easier for them to ...
cross over2/2/2010
  Q: Greetings I'm a e5 with the air guard and want to cross over to the army guard I have 10 years total ...
  A: Next to nothing transfers over to the army anymore, you would most liley still have to go to a ...
Retained hardware in face waiver1/30/2010
  Q: I am attempting to enlist into the Navy and went through medical and was disqualified for retained ...
  A: medical waivers for that can be granted if the medical approving officer feels that it will have no ...
army WOFT1/29/2010
  Q: I am very interested in becoming an army helicopter pilot. You seem like a great expert and ...
  A: Anyone in the Army or national Guard can apply to be a pilot. You have to pass the aptitude tests, ...
will i pass meps1/27/2010
  Q: when i was 17 i was assaulted and sustained a injury.The injury was orbital floor fracture which is ...
  A: The only way to tell is to go thru the process. I haven't dealt with something close to your issue. ...
request to ship sooner1/21/2010
  Q: HEY MY NAME IS PERLA M IN THE DEP PROGRAM AND SCORED A 47 FOR MY ASVAB .. MY JOB IS GUNA BE TO BE AN ...
  A: I did that job in the navy, you will really like it. Operations specialist work in CIC, which is ...
Morals Waiver1/17/2010
  Q: I have a few questions about the morals waiver. I'm in the process of enlisting in the Air Force. I ...
  A: delay testing until after your court date. If it gets dropped, them carry on. If you are ...
discharged for depression1/11/2010
  Q: My son when to ft Leonard wood on the 4th an the next day he told The drill sgt that he was ...
  A: It can take a few weeks, but he should not have been able to join to begin with. Just tell him to ...
am i disqualified for rejoining army1/9/2010
  Q: while i was in the military wa state my then husband assaulted me and held me hostage in my apt long ...
  A: A criminal record being expunged is not a reality, being expunged does not chnage the fact that ...
enlistment if previous drug rehab*1/8/2010
  Q: Our son has been planning to enter the coast guard when he graduates from college in May. However, ...
  A: Though they look at each case seperatley, it is unlikely that he will make the cut medically, though ...
nonprior OCS1/8/2010
  Q: I have a few questions regarding OCS. I have done some research and am fairly set on applying to the ...
  A: Federal OCS is usually reserved for those with prior military training due to the toughness of the ...
Dreams of Combat Engineer to Army Pilot1/7/2010
  Q: Mr. Lewis, thank you for reading my question and I hope you can point me in the right direction on a ...
  A: When you get ETS, go to a National Guard recruiter and tell them what you want to do. While there ...
am i disqualified for rejoining army1/6/2010
  Q: while i was in the military wa state my then husband assaulted me and held me hostage in my apt long ...
  A: That charge will not aloow you back int he military due to the Lautenberg act, which bans domestic ...
Reclassing1/2/2010
  Q: OK my names Dan i enlisted in the national guard. back in November i leave for OSUT January 25th to ...
  A: Actually, being an MP will NOT help you in in credentials for law enforcement as much as a 19D. ...
getting out of af reserves1/2/2010
  Q: I am asking a question in regards to my wife. My wife is in (2 years)a reserve unit. Once she ...
  A: If you move and there is not reserve unit nearby, she can get out that way. After a baby is born, ...
bankruptcy12/30/2009
  Q: I'm in the Army, active duty, I have a Master degree and want to become a officer, my question is, ...
  A: Too little info, it can hurt you if your crdit is bad, but they look at the whole person when it ...
Getting out of the Navy12/29/2009
  Q: I hope you can help. My stepson is enlisted in the Navy and had found life there "too hard". Over ...
  A: While not a doctor, what he is doing is actually hurting him and may kill him. There are other ways ...
RE4 enlistment waiver12/29/2009
  Q: I have a question if you don't mind me asking. I am presently in the process of getting everything ...
  A: Usually RE4 discharges are not upgraded, very few ever are. If they do upgrade it, you might be ...
National Guard12/29/2009
  Q: I was suppose to ship for basic in July. The day I was suppose to ship, I was told that I could not ...
  A: technically, you have to leave within a year of enlistment unless it was due to no fault of your ...
drug rehabilitation12/28/2009
  Q: I am currently a member of the army national guard. I have been in a debate with several other ...
  A: Admitting to a drug problem before a drug test is key, then they treat it as medical issue, not a ...
retirement/guard and active12/28/2009
  Q: I am probably one of very few people with this situation. I joined the North Carolina National ...
  A: Ok, you can retire with 20yr active, look on your PQR and find your ADSD, go 20yrs from there. For ...
High Blood Pressure12/28/2009
  Q: Happy Holidays! Recently, I finished boot camp. I am 40 years old and received a waiver for High ...
  A: Not to be critical, but why would a 40 yr old with medical issue of BP go Infantry? You won't be ...
Fradulent Enlistment12/27/2009
  Q: I have recently gone through MEPS, and was advised by my recruiter to withhold some of my medical ...
  A: it will come up at some point when you get a thorough eye exam. It may not happen for a year, but ...
Fradulent Enlistment12/26/2009
  Q: I have recently gone through MEPS, and was advised by my recruiter to withhold some of my medical ...
  A: They can't and don't check medical history, but the surgery will show up in an eye exam in training. ...
dd 21412/20/2009
  Q: my name is melissa and i am writing for my husband, jeff he is: Reg army, e-5, served 2 tours, ...
  A: Unless he gets a Bar to reenelist, he will be fine. Stuff has to be in writing to have a bad code ...
BP Waiver12/18/2009
  Q: Sir, I am a potential recruit, I cleared my ASVAB with 52 AFQT, I have 4 years college degree and I ...
  A: Only if you get a waiver, you did not mention he put you in for a waiver. However, they do not give ...
waivers12/17/2009
  Q: my name is Tom and I have a question concerning criminal waivers. I am interested in joining active ...
  A: Since you were on probation for the crime, though not a criminal conviction, the military still ...
SG waiver12/14/2009
  Q: the Chief medical examiner sent me to get a consult and I swear the doctor didn't want to let me ...
  A: I dont know what an SG waiver is, never heard of it. But you are waiting for a phyc waiver for your ...
High blood pressure and army enlistment12/14/2009
  Q: Mr Lewis, Hi my name is Tim, I'm 18 years old and very serious about joining the army. However I ...
  A: Technically, if you took the medication in the past, you will be disqualified due to the fact that ...
involuntary discharge/with honorable12/13/2009
  Q: I am being recommended for separation under Chapter 14; 14-12c commission to commit a serious ...
  A: Nothing you can do, botht he issues you stated will not allow you to re join. The military is not ...
Possibility of OCS, or what options with a B.S. degee12/13/2009
  Q: This has been on my mind for a long time as I have always wanted to join the military. Where to ...
  A: OCS will not happen for you based on several factors, the criminal record being one. Being on ...
no sep code and reenlisment question12/6/2009
  Q: ok basics line 23 ngr 600-200 unsatisfactory participant line 24 general under honorable ...
  A: The Guard does not give the seperation code, only active. You can rejoin with a wiaver after a year ...
Masters Degree and Military12/5/2009
  Q: The long story short is that I want to serve my country AND/while getting a Masters Degree in ...
  A: The only way of not getting deployed is to join under the OCS option or ROTC option while going to ...
Mental Health Preclusions to Commission12/4/2009
  Q: I am 18 years old and in college. I have wanted to join the Army since I was a child, I grew up in ...
  A: With your issues, bing in the military is NOT for you. We need soldiers who do not have pre ...
Green Berets and Special Forces12/4/2009
  Q: Are "Green Beret" and "Special Forces" the same thing? In other words, is any "Green Beret" a ...
  A: All US Army SF are "Green Berets". As when they complete SF school and earn the patch, they are ...
nat guard trying to go active12/3/2009
  Q: My son is trying to active army from national guard (Michigan) and they are pretty much telling him ...
  A: No, when he goes to meps, he doesn't join until he gets a job he wants, he can hold out. They will ...
usmc to us army11/29/2009
  Q: i am in the marines, coming up on re-enlistment, but, would like to become a green beret.i am a ...
  A: Really hard to say if it is worth it. Any Soldier has an oppurtunity to try out for SF, then on to ...
dep.11/28/2009
  Q: are all military branches delayed entry programs the same? if so how i can i switch my mos from cav ...
  A: You can ask to renogetioate before you leave, but they do not have to. You can threaten to not ...
Getting out11/27/2009
  Q: I know people are lied to by some recruiters and mine did not tell me there would be no way out once ...
  A: No, no discharge will show up on a back ground check, except if you get a government job, but if you ...
Army Contract11/20/2009
  Q: I realize this is not a great question to ask, but I'd like to get an opinion on this. I am going ...
  A: Once you DEP in to the Army, there is is nothing that can make you ship to training. If you injur ...
Re-Enlistment and Options11/18/2009
  Q: John Lewis, I am currently in the active army, in the MOS of 21/12B(Combat Engineer),with almost ...
  A: Dont do it for the Money, thats #1 in my book. Do it for the job you want. If you want 31E, then ...
Air Guard11/17/2009
  Q: I know you were in the Army National Guard (as I am Air Force active duty) but I'm sure this ...
  A: When you discharge from the Air Force, you can talk to a transition recruiter to enlist in the Air ...
re4 and honorable discharge11/16/2009
  Q: I am seeking information for my son who served in the Marine corp 1994-1998. His dd214 shows ...
  A: You can have an RE4 and honorable, he must have had some trouble while in the Navy to get that. If ...
Medical Waiver11/14/2009
  Q: I was wondering if my medical past history might disqualify me to join the Navy. I am currently 18 ...
  A: It is doubtful you would be able to, but I would go thru the motions to see if they will accept you. ...
Join Navy11/11/2009
  Q: Im almost 17 i have been thinking about joining the navy and doin the seabees, my high school is a ...
  A: Right now most services will not work with drug charges. Expunged isnt real, it is always there to ...
Switching from Marine Corps Reserves to Army ROTC/National Guard SMP11/11/2009
  Q: I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in July of this year and was planning on taking a ...
  A: Not showing up to ship will have little to no effect on future enlisting. It happens all the time. ...
enlistment11/11/2009
  Q: I am trying to enlist in the military. I had 2 charges both for possession of paraphanelia one when ...
  A: The national Guard can help you, no charges are ever expunged off records for military checks, they ...
Disability and National Guard11/7/2009
  Q: I am on temporary disability for rhuematoid arthritis but my levels are low and am not on everyday ...
  A: Your OCS question is simple, all men must pick a combat arms MOS as a choice to serve, the army ...
Transer from Army Reserves to Air Force ROTC11/6/2009
  Q: I enlisted in the USAR with the split option program on december 2007 and went to boot camp that on ...
  A: An IG complaint wouldn't go anywhere because it is up to the Army Reserve if they want to release ...
Transer from Army Reserves to Air Force ROTC11/6/2009
  Q: I enlisted in the USAR with the split option program on december 2007 and went to boot camp that on ...
  A: Getting released from USAR is hard and takes time, but not mpossible. Go thru your unit admin and ...
Retire recall11/5/2009
  Q: Mr. Lewis. I retired in OCt 2006 after 27 years in the Military. I served in desert Storm, Ans ...
  A: Every once in a while, they will put a call out looking for certain Jobs. I take it you were Guard ...
Re-enlistment11/5/2009
  Q: Lewis, ...
  A: You should be ok, though Active Guard reserve as an MP is not going to happen. You can come in as ...
Disability and National Guard11/3/2009
  Q: I am on temporary disability for rhuematoid arthritis but my levels are low and am not on everyday ...
  A: Your civilian doctor does not have the authority to say you are fit to serve, only a military doctor ...
ELS from Air Force BMT.10/28/2009
  Q: About 4 years ago. on Nov. 2005 I was given an ELS from the USAF in BMT. It was a medical reason; I ...
  A: Getting an RE code upgraded is very hard. Only discharge types (general, other than honorable etc) ...
medical quals10/27/2009
  Q: I would like to know if the army will take someone that previously had gastric bypass surgery for ...
  A: This is still a disqualifyer due to the way the surgery actually reduces the amount of food you can ...
HPSP and Medical Waivers10/26/2009
  Q: Background info: My question is about qualifying standards for the HPSP (Army) program. I am ...
  A: If you were never diagnosed, then you dont have it, but if you thing you might have issues, go get ...
Son entering the Guard10/26/2009
  Q: John, My son will be transferring to Utah State this Dec. where he will be entering into their AROTC ...
  A: It depends on what he contracts as when it comes time. he can contract as a Guard Officer or ...
Commission/Enlisting10/26/2009
  Q: My son is a 1st class cadet completing his final year at an officer procurement school, scheduled to ...
  A: Wow!! Turning down a commission? I understand his plight, but they are usually taught that the ...
Questions about becoming a Army MP10/24/2009
  Q: I am only 17 years old and I definetly want to become a Cop when i get older and eventually become ...
  A: Becoming an MP will not help you become a cop, though as a female, it is better than any other job. ...
Random drug screen10/23/2009
  Q: Sir, I have recently been terminated from my employer for failing a random drug screen for thc. In ...
  A: If you tell the Army you only smoked 3 times, you will be fine. If you tell them you got fired for ...
enlisting10/23/2009
  Q: I am forty years old and want to join the army. I have been reading through the information on the ...
  A: You really at this point should be talking to a recruiter directly. Knee issues can be tricky, ...
chronic nervous tics10/8/2009
  Q: my daughter is in basic training for the Air Force and she called and said they are sending her home ...
  A: If they are sending her home for an issue, she is being discharged and most likely will not be able ...
Re-Entry10/4/2009
  Q: I served 4yrs active in the Marines, received an Honorable discharge and joined the Air Force ...
  A: You do not get a dd214 in the reserves. All you get are orders. A general discharge can get a ...
Navy Seals9/29/2009
  Q: i was wondering if there was a 4 year contract with the navy seals? If not, what is the navy seal ...
  A: you cannot enlist into the navy seals, you get a chance to try out once you are in. Once you make ...
MEPS Question9/29/2009
  Q: Mr. Lewis, I am prior service interested in joining the Air National Guard. I recently went to the ...
  A: That is strange, if it is that long ago, then usually they will take statements from you. Both are ...
Medically Seperated Severance --Army9/28/2009
  Q: Sir, After getting my BA in Politics I enlisted in the Navy. I was medically separated from the ...
  A: Intel is really hard to get. Smallest part of the Army, and they usually want people that have ...
Asvab Score9/26/2009
  Q: My Grandaughter recently went to MEPS scored a 42 on the asvab, she passed her physical and her ...
  A: For a while, the navy required a woman to score a 50 on the asvab due to limited slots for women. I ...
Son's Army Issue9/25/2009
  Q: My 17 yrold son followed his recruiters advice and did not put down on his app that he had ...
  A: They will evaluate his records that you provide and send him to a psyciatriac consult with a doctor, ...
sons screw up9/25/2009
  Q: Good morning ,My youngest son was doing great until they sat around in White Sands New Mexico for 8 ...
  A: What I recommend is go to www.va.gov and go under militray records, there is a place there where he ...
sons screw up9/23/2009
  Q: Good morning ,My youngest son was doing great until they sat around in White Sands New Mexico for 8 ...
  A: He can get a waiver to rejoin in the future. He just need to attend some type of program and get a ...
my son9/16/2009
  Q: My son was scheduled to ship out to basic training recently. 10 days before he shipped he was ...
  A: if he was active duty, he was just discharged for Deleayed entry, he can go back and rejoin right ...
National Guard Flight Options9/15/2009
  Q: John Lewis, Hello, I am a soon to be college graduate with a good GPA and a great set of ...
  A: Street to seat candiates rarely make the cut due to no military experience unless they already are ...
reentry9/8/2009
  Q: My name is Joe. I had an entry level seperation from the Navy in 2008 with an RE code of 4, and an ...
  A: With an RE code of 4, you cannot reenlist in any service, and right now there are no waivers for any ...
Army recruiting9/8/2009
  Q: Ok I've always wanted to join the military and planned to when I turned 18 because I was a lost and ...
  A: Basically it all depends on how the crime was rated. If it was considered a felony, there are no ...
If he is ARMY can I....8/26/2009
  Q: I was wondering if my husband is in the Army can I go Navy Reserve and if so whats the probablity of ...
  A: You can, but if he moves to an area with no NavyReserve units, you would have issues, I would wait ...
DV enhancer8/24/2009
  Q: In January of 2008 I was arrested for a harassment charge after getting into a fight with my ex and ...
  A: If it was just harrassment, you should be good. One way to find out is see if you are allowed to ...
counseling and pet ownership8/24/2009
  Q: A question for you in regards to living arrangements with the Coast Guard. What can I expect for my ...
  A: If you do not live in barracks, you can have a pet, but not in barracks. Stress can be dealt with ...
17 old son wants to join the Navy8/23/2009
  Q: Good Evening Mr. Lewis We have a 17 old son, a senior this year and he seriously wants to join the ...
  A: He will be able to join, though probably need a waiver depending on how the navy categorizes them. ...
navy combat patches authorized for wear on acu8/23/2009
  Q: I served in the navy for four years aboard the u.s.s. George washington cvn 73 and did two tours in ...
  A: No patches can be worn form any other service unless awarded while in the army. Since the Navy does ...
Undisclosed duty8/22/2009
  Q: John, This question is regarding my Step-son (21) who is a Navy Corpsman who has been assigned to a ...
  A: Basically, the Marines are part of the Navy and the Navy works hand in hand with the Marines. the ...
National Guard to Active Duty8/22/2009
  Q: I am an officer (2LT) in the active duty Army and my future husband (wedding is Dec 31!) is an ...
  A: As a guard member, he can transfer to the state that you are in for AD. It is done all the time. ...
Living arrangements for Coast Guard8/20/2009
  Q: A question for you in regards to living arrangements with the Coast Guard. What can I expect for my ...
  A: Living quarters vary station to station. You can do anything you want on your time off that you ...
recruitment8/20/2009
  Q: Before i go back to the recruiter i would like to know your opinion. previously i had a couple ...
  A: The original charges and diversion/convictions will always count despit what the courts do. ...
Brother needs advice8/20/2009
  Q: My brother is wanting to join the Navy to ideally become a Fleet Marine Force Medic or "DOC", but ...
  A: No branch of the military will allow him to be a medic. The regulation is clear on no history of ...
Can I re-join?8/20/2009
  Q: Last April I joined the Navy. About one week before I went to MEPS I went out and I partied to kind ...
  A: Well, you knew the responsibilities of joining but you still did something to stop you from joining. ...
RE4 JFU in 20018/19/2009
  Q: I know you have answered re-enlistment questions, but would appreciate an answer tailored to my ...
  A: The re4 is a career stopper, it bans you from the military service in the navy and all services ...
getting out8/17/2009
  Q: i enlisted in army national guard in April, not shipping to boot camp till August. i don't believe i ...
  A: You dont have to ship to basic, noone can make, you will not go to jail, and it will not hurt you in ...
National guard8/17/2009
  Q: My husband is active duty and currently getting out in AUG 10. He had orders to be a recruiter but ...
  A: No, you both can be in the Guard at the same location, but of course could not be in the same unit ...
Can I join the National Guard/Military with diabetes/a transplant?8/15/2009
  Q: I know you've been asked this question WAY too many times and I know that in short, the answer is ...
  A: Even though you posess those qualities, they would not jump through any hoops for this. You do not ...
Conditional Realease pending mmrb8/14/2009
  Q: I'm in the NC army national guard and I am trying to go active duty army (with a deployment). I am ...
  A: Medical review boards do not take two years to finalize paperwork, but being released to go active ...
Being commissioned as an officer in the Air Force or Army8/14/2009
  Q: Lewis, I am considering going into the military but I had some question first. I am a graduate from ...
  A: 1. ASVABis required for all except direct commisions, which having a phd is a good chance you may. ...
pre exsisting medical cond.8/12/2009
  Q: Prior to him joining and all I spoke with the recruiters and explained to them he had ADHD, ...
  A: at 17 you signed his medical form and consent to join, he will get no help from the Army since he ...
Navy Dep Program8/11/2009
  Q: This is kind of a complicated question for my husband. my husband is currently in the dep program ...
  A: He cannot get discharged from one and join another like that. he can ship form the city he is ...
Domestic Violence8/10/2009
  Q: Brother had a domestic battery abuse charge from being a drunken fool with an ex-girl friend one ...
  A: It all boils down to why it was expungeed. Nothing is really expunged, it is a misnomer. If he was ...
army life and family life.8/9/2009
  Q: i am a junior in high school and am considering a life in the military. I would really like to be a ...
  A: If these are your concernes, no military branch is right for you. ALL military jobs are dangerous ...
Enlistment8/5/2009
  Q: Currently im trying to join the army,but last august i got into to trouble and recieved 2 felonies ...
  A: As long as there was no deferrment, like you went to classes or something, you should be fine. All ...
air force/color blind8/4/2009
  Q: My son wants to join the air national guard, he is a college graduate (may 09) He wants the job of ...
  A: Some jobs are available for thse with color issues. the job selection is slim, but theree are jobs. ...
release from ANG to join Reg Army8/3/2009
  Q: John, my son is a rising high school senior and is about to graduate from basic training in two ...
  A: The cahnces of getting released varies by state. Since the Alabama Guard paid for his training, I ...
Options after initial 8 year commitment8/1/2009
  Q: Good morning Sir I am an E-5 in the Air National Guard, enlisted in 1999, had a small break in ...
  A: You can't walk out any time, you have a contract in place. You can request a discharge, if your ...
Discharged for failed drug test7/29/2009
  Q: My friends son was in the National Guard and failed a drug test given in October of '08 and was ...
  A: It is a big deal, he would have to complete a drug rehab program even before being considered. ...
army Q&A7/29/2009
  Q: Do I need a high school diploma or GED to get in the military.
  A: Yes and No. To go to bootcamp you must have at least a ged. However, you can join the national ...
Dual Military7/28/2009
  Q: Sir, I have been looking online regarding information about dual military spouses. My situation is a ...
  A: She will require a waiver and both of you a family care plan. that is needed to designate who would ...
Release/ Discharge from National Guard7/26/2009
  Q: My son in law left last Monday for National Guard Basic Training. After spending the night in a ...
  A: He is not discharged, it does not happen that quick, he is stll under contract and more or less just ...
Officer Recruiters7/23/2009
  Q: I am wondering how to find Officer recruiters in my area(Army, Navy, & Air Force). I am told and I ...
  A: To be honest, the best way is to go to his station and talk to the station commander, who is usually ...
Old debts & drivers license suspension7/22/2009
  Q: About 15 years ago I didn't pay off some credit card debts. The debts were eventually charged off ...
  A: During your entrance, you will be asked questions aout both. On chargeoff, answer yes and put you ...
Prior Service Reserve Reenlistment Issue7/21/2009
  Q: Lewis, I'm sorry to have to be asking you this question due to the fact that I see how often you ...
  A: If you get an RE4, it pretty much kills your chances for coming back in. If they allow Re4 to come ...
recruiting process7/18/2009
  Q: sorry for the long question. i know you are a National Guard recruiter, but i am going into the ...
  A: nThe speeding tickets, chicken pox, most small medicla stuff is no big deal if you told them or left ...
Medical Disqualification7/13/2009
  Q: My son was recently sent home from LTC with a medical disqualification. He is in the Army ROTC ...
  A: Even mild is senough to be an issue. the key thing your Dr said was "managed". During combat, one ...
Should I enlist or not?7/10/2009
  Q: Lewis For the past several months I have been conducting research about ...
  A: basically, they would not have access to your medical record unless you told them it was there. It ...
enlisting with revoked license7/10/2009
  Q: just wanted to ask if it was still possible to enlist with a revoked license, its being revoked for ...
  A: yes, as long as you do not owe any fines. However, if your record is that bad, you might not be ...
Discharge from Fort Leonard Wood7/7/2009
  Q: Lewis, My son went to Ft. Leonard Wood 3 weeks ago today. He called on July 4th and said that he ...
  A: He may have had issues adjusting in Bootcamp, spoke to a Dr who sent him to a shrink which made the ...
I think i want to join the navy7/7/2009
  Q: IM 17 and Im a female and I think i want to join the navy. What would I have to do if i decided to ...
  A: Joining the Navy would give you great benefits for college after you finished your navy time. You ...
New recruit and my wifes pregnant7/6/2009
  Q: I'm hoping you can help me, i just joined the Navy and leave for boot camp on July 16th. I am 24 ...
  A: You are fine. Once you leave, you will find out about tricare, the military medical insurance. ...
Enlistment and past drug use7/5/2009
  Q: Mr. Lewis, I am 24, a college graduate from a top-10 university looking to enlist in the Army. ...
  A: Well, it depends on how the treatment wss done. If it was court ordered, you are done, If you have ...
Medical Waiver6/28/2009
  Q: I've received a permanent medical disqualification and a disapproval on my medical waiver with the ...
  A: You cannot try again for 2 years, that is when the MEPs physical expires. If you were denied and ...
Getting into Marine OCS with poor uncorrected vision, correct to 20/206/28/2009
  Q: My refractive error is outside of -8.00. However I am correctable to 20/20 and I am willing to get ...
  A: the requirement for eyesight you speak of is applicaapple to all branches of the military. Though ...
Bankruptcy in the Military6/28/2009
  Q: Is bankruptcy a disqualifying event for obtaining a secret or top secret clearance in the Military? ...
  A: bankruptcy is not disqualifying if it was related to divirce, medical or busines failing, unless the ...
Innappropriate Sinus Tachycardia and commissioning?6/24/2009
  Q: Sir, I've directed this question to you because as a recruiter you are probably most likely to know ...
  A: You cannot get a commission while you have to take medication for anything byt allergies, and the ...
RE code change and narrative change6/24/2009
  Q: Here is my situation. I had a issue in Aug 08 where I was having difficulty catching my breath and ...
  A: You may if they ask you more about it. You do not have to provide info on your military service, ...
RE code change and narrative change6/23/2009
  Q: Here is my situation. I had a issue in Aug 08 where I was having difficulty catching my breath and ...
  A: Since you got fraudulent, it was something that was not logged about your attacks before you left. ...
Re-enlistment to Army6/22/2009
  Q: My son was separated from the Navy in July 2008 with the following separation & reentry codes: JFC & ...
  A: My fault on the 2 years part. If the Navy Diagniosed him with adhd, then he would have little ...
Transfer from Ohio NG to Active Duty Navy.6/20/2009
  Q: I had turned in a DD368 about two months ago. Both my Company Cpt. and my Battalion Commander ...
  A: It all depends on your states needs. most 368's do not get approved. Also, if it is approved, you ...
Joining Army Reserves6/20/2009
  Q: I have seen so many postings about people longing to join the military but have some sort of history ...
  A: Actually, it is harder to join the military with criminal record, they have not relaxed criteria, ...
Re-enlistment to Army6/20/2009
  Q: My son was separated from the Navy in July 2008 with the following separation & reentry codes: JFC & ...
  A: Weird discharge for serving 2 years. JFC means "erroneous entry" which means something was not ...
Wanting to enlist in the Navy, Med questions6/18/2009
  Q: Several years ago I had a cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) and since have very occasionally ...
  A: The gall bladder emoval is not an issue, the issue will be the digestion problems you had afetr. ...
airforce recruit-waiver question6/15/2009
  Q: My son is 19 and has his heart set on joining the Military Special Forces. He wanted to go ...
  A: If he has already sworn in once, he is locked in to the Air force, and he cannot join any other ...
Medical Denial6/14/2009
  Q: I tried to enlist in the Coast Guard last Fall, and while I was exceptionally qualified, I was ...
  A: If you were denied before even going down, then I doubt you would make it thru the process. You ...
reentry code meaning6/14/2009
  Q: I have a re entry code of RE4 WHAT DOES THAT MEAN. AND SEPERATION CODE OF JFV, CAN I EVER JOIN AGAIN
  A: The seperation code means "physical condition, not a disability' That will not stop you from ...
airforce recruit-waiver question6/13/2009
  Q: My son is 19 and has his heart set on joining the Military Special Forces. He wanted to go ...
  A: If he does mention it, it will be an issue and he probably will not get to enlist. The problem is, ...
getting back in.6/12/2009
  Q: I'm currently a student at one of the Academies. I am in my senior year and I'm being separated ...
  A: I know if you went to the academies, you can come in as an e-3 or e-4 and you can enroll in OCS down ...
Thinking about joining the Guard6/12/2009
  Q: I wanted to join the Guard out of high school but too many people talked me out of it. I am now 31 ...
  A: You would start off as an e-4, you could get $50k for past student loans. Other than that, it is up ...
US Army6/11/2009
  Q: Well this is a little difficult to understand but I have went through MEPS 2 times now, and this ...
  A: Try another branch of the service. Once the Army says no go, its final, sounds like you did what ...
Medical Waivers6/10/2009
  Q: I submitted two medical waivers (for mild eczema, which healed up) for the Army and both were DQ'd, ...
  A: No, once a waiver is denied by a branch of service, they cannot be resubmitted, you will have to try ...
Currently enlisted in the Army National Guard and want to do Air Force ROTC6/6/2009
  Q: I am currently enlisted in the Army National Guard, and I was reading on the Air Forces Special ...
  A: You can join AF ROTC and not contract AF until you get discharged from the Guard. If you get ...
National Guard - My daughter6/4/2009
  Q: Mr. Lewis, My daughter is 17 and has joined the NG. She has not went to basic yet; she has been to ...
  A: If she blacks out, there is a medical issue, that would be her ticket. She would leave for Boot ...
FY20096/4/2009
  Q: I am going to join Army active duty. I was told that all training seats for the MOS I want (68Q) had ...
  A: This time of years, training seats fill up and they do not release them until the new FY or closer ...
Enlistment waiver6/4/2009
  Q: I am 44 years old and have a BA degree. I served 6 years in the USAR (military police) and received ...
  A: The only service that you could join is the USAR, You are now too old for the Guard. The reserves ...
Juvenile records5/27/2009
  Q: I've looked everywhere, and I've seen things slightly close to mine but with no answer. I'm 23 years ...
  A: If you do not live in the town where it happened you should be ok, I say go for it. Do not mention ...
General discharge from National Guard5/20/2009
  Q: My husband tested positive on a random urine screen for THC and this June will make 2 years since it ...
  A: Right now no waivers are being given for people to get back in, except minor medical. When they do ...
I need out of the National Guard5/18/2009
  Q: I joine dthe guard in feb 23 2009. I am a single mother of four children. I thought I had someone ...
  A: You cannot get arrested for missing one weekend drill. You have to miss 3 months worth of drills ...
transfer to army5/17/2009
  Q: I AM IN THE COAST GUARD AND THINKING OF TRANSFERING INTO THE ARMY. MY QUESTION IS IF AN E-5 CAN ...
  A: You cannot transfer, but you you can be released to join the Army, but usually from active it is ...
Misdemeanor Family Violence dismissed5/16/2009
  Q: I am currently finished putting my packet together for Army OCS. 7 years ago I was charged with ...
  A: That's a tough one, since you went to classes, then dismissed, it is viewed as "adverse disposition" ...
My Recruiter is Trustworthy but new. Need Info.5/15/2009
  Q: I've been looking into the military for a while now. Air Force told me to take a walk, Army is not ...
  A: OCS probably won't happen due to background, and you cannot join until all fines are paid. ...
MOS award5/14/2009
  Q: I am currently mobilizing to go to Iraq for the second time with the National Guard unit I have been ...
  A: No MOS allows you to do OJT, you must go thru a TASS school to get awarded the MOS, there is no way ...
independent study high school5/12/2009
  Q: I'm trying to get into the Marines, but I came from a less orthodox high school (it was an ...
  A: Once you have 15 college credit hours, you are considered a college student and no longer in that ...
Re-entry code 2B JJE5/12/2009
  Q: Was wondering if i can join the Army or Marines with Re-entry code of 2B JJE? Thank you for your ...
  A: With JJE being court martial (Drug abuse), you would only be eligible to join if you completed a ...
Trying to get back to active duty5/11/2009
  Q: I'm prior service army and last July I reenlisted to go active and failed drug test at MEPS (pot). ...
  A: Being an E4 would allow you a waiver when they return. You might be able to go reserves from IRR ...
Entry into military as an officer with va disability5/10/2009
  Q: I got out of the Marine Corps about a year ago with an honorable discharge. My re-enlistment code is ...
  A: Being on disability period would hurt your chances of getting back in. 30% is max, but a ...
Army enslitment5/8/2009
  Q: My son wishes to enter the army; however he had made a bad decision in the past and got in some ...
  A: Right now waivers are not being given due to the good nature of recruiting people that do not need ...
Changing my MOS Before basic.5/4/2009
  Q: Ok so i have gone through all of the process' of joining the military. Scored in the 50's on my ...
  A: It is possible to change MOS, but unlikely unless there is a job they need more. As far as going ...
re inlist possible?4/28/2009
  Q: i am prior service. 3 years active duty. (mos 82c) left the army on an early out for downsizing ...
  A: the total years of active and reserve would count towards reserve retirement. You might be able to ...
RE Code for Navy Reserves4/28/2009
  Q: I was in the Navy Reserves from 2003-2005/6. Heres what happened...... In May 2005, I had emergency ...
  A: Re4 is a career killer. It basically bans you from joining the Navy again, and recently a ...
Desertion!4/27/2009
  Q: I was in the United States Army and i went awol from AIT. Well i really had no choice i had ...
  A: Rules as they stand right now are no waivers for re entry for RE4. The reason of young and stupid ...
Enlistment Advise4/27/2009
  Q: Are there any independent people to assist with recruitment? Not all recruiters are equal and I'd ...
  A: All recruiters are well trained and usually work as a team. The best thing he can do is research ...
Desertion!4/25/2009
  Q: I was in the United States Army and i went awol from AIT. Well i really had no choice i had ...
  A: Even if they do upgrade it, they do not change RE codes. Re4 bans you from coming in the military ...
awol4/25/2009
  Q: I have been AWOL from my South Carolina national guard unit since February. I tried to get a ...
  A: You will not go to jail for being awol form the guard unless you skipped out on an activation. You ...
Little contact w/son in Navy4/24/2009
  Q: Sir, My barely 18year old son left for the Navy on Dec 10. He graduated bootcamp and I have heard ...
  A: Since he is 18 and all, that would be a little difficult. There is a privacy issue. Your best bet ...
army guard?4/24/2009
  Q: I have 4 years exp on B-2 bombers as a mechanic. 6 months civilian experience on slurry tankers. I ...
  A: you can, the only issue now is that you must be a qualified crew chief to join the guard right now. ...
Desertion!4/22/2009
  Q: I was in the United States Army and i went awol from AIT. Well i really had no choice i had ...
  A: A DD149 is used to correct records. You went AWOL, did you ever turn yourself in? If not, you may ...
MEPS testing4/21/2009
  Q: John, My brother recently applied for the Coast Guard. He found out, several days after testing, ...
  A: While he can retest in 45 days, I doubt he would get a waiver. the drug tests cannot detect THC ...
Meps PDQ4/20/2009
  Q: I was recently PDQ'ed due to basically "having bad teeth". I passed through everything else, but ...
  A: Why would I be disqualified over something that would not effect my performance? Teeth can affect ...
medical discharge and re-entry4/1/2009
  Q: My husband and I were both discharged last year for injuries. He had a fracture to his shoulder due ...
  A: Medical waivers are no quick process. It can take a few weeks to a couple months. There is no ...
Discharge On Account of Marijuana Usage3/28/2009
  Q: myself and two other soldiers are currently attending advansed individual training at Ft. Sam ...
  A: You will most likely be reduced to E1 and discharged. With the state of recruiting now, I doubt ...
Lap Band Surgery3/26/2009
  Q: Lewis, I am prior service (2yrs), 42yrs old, Military Police I had the Lap Band surgery over 2 ...
  A: Now you are too old to join the Guard, the age was lowered to 35, you would need 8 years of service ...
Marine to National Guard3/26/2009
  Q: Im in the process of joining the guard as MI, I spent 21 years in the Marine Corps active and ...
  A: In class A, all but Marines marksmanship badges. Combat action ribbon does not convert to a combat ...
Marriage overseas3/19/2009
  Q: I'll try to make this as brief, but as thorough as possible. My boyfriend and I (both Army National ...
  A: I would talk to chaplain about the marriage thing. I do not think it will fly while out in ...
AFQT SCORE3/18/2009
  Q: WHAT HAPPENS IF THE AFQT SCORE WAS A 39 AND A 34. DO I QUALIFY TO ENLIST IN ANY OF THE MILITARY ...
  A: Each branch has different requirements. Army is 31 except for GED, need a 50. Air force is 35 ...
enlistment3/16/2009
  Q: I am 19 years old and looking to join the military. I recently heard that the enlistment bonus for ...
  A: There is no such job as aerial gunner in any military. Bonuses vary job to job. The Navy and Army ...
I want to transfer from the Ohio National Guard to the Navy.3/16/2009
  Q: What is the process for transferring from the OH NG into the Navy? I entered under the delayed entry ...
  A: Chances of being released are slim. You can request a release through a DD368 and send it up the ...
BAH & living arrangements3/14/2009
  Q: Currently my fiancee is in basic training but shortly he will be attending AIT in SC. Will he ...
  A: He will not receive full BAH unless he is married. He will live in barracks as well. He will ...
army life3/13/2009
  Q: My husband is currently in the Army National Guard, but he is about to switch to Active Duty, which ...
  A: In short you can live on base when/if available. Some bases have nicer housing, duplexes. All ...
Question about joining ARNG after separating from active duty Army and another question3/11/2009
  Q: My fiance was told that he can't re-enlist until six months after he has been separated from AD. He ...
  A: Fiance can join the NG right after he gets out. He can join while processing out of active duty, or ...
Getting back into the Army3/11/2009
  Q: I don't have a family care plan right now because my husband is in IADT. I am getting deployed and ...
  A: Normally you would have a FCP. You can try to go over his head and ask for an exception. The only ...
Army Reserves after retiring from Navy Reserves3/9/2009
  Q: I am a 48 year old Surgeon who previously served for a little over 10 years on US Navy active duty ...
  A: Bringing someone out of retirement into another branch is not allowed because you belong to your ...
Direct Comission3/1/2009
  Q: Sir, I am currently a medic with a bachelor's degree in health care administration. I am about to ...
  A: Only medical professionals and lawyers get direct commissions. Plus, you would need a waiver for ...
zoloft and flying2/28/2009
  Q: my son is 18 yrs old. Last year he took Zoloft for aprox. 2 1/2 months due to mild situational ...
  A: Zoloft will make him unqualified for the military since he took it last year. only 4% of the ...
Ritalin and Recruitment2/27/2009
  Q: Yesterday, my son was eliminated from consideration for Army Reserves because he truthfully answered ...
  A: He usually would not be not allowed only for the past use of ritalin and aderrall. If he has been ...
Question about 18X in the National Guard2/27/2009
  Q: I'm an E-5 in the Army Reserve, Iraq veteran. I've been in eight years and am interested in doing ...
  A: You would have to talk directly to a SF recruiter. If you are combat arms and already air assault ...
Prior Drug experimentation question2/26/2009
  Q: My question pertains to past drug use. I do not have a criminal record for any drug use. But from ...
  A: Here is the honest truth about that. If you answer honestly, you will never be allowed to join the ...
Returning to Active Duty2/25/2009
  Q: I am 25 years old and I joined th Navy 25JUL01. I received an other then honorable discharge with a ...
  A: Not with an OTH as yuor discharge service. You have to have it upgraded. Go to www,va.gov and ...
I can't convince my husband to let me join the guard2/20/2009
  Q: I want to join the Ohio Army National Guard. I have spoken with a recruiter and I have done a lot of ...
  A: It seems that you have done everything you can, done your research etc. What I recommend is to get ...
enlistment2/12/2009
  Q: I went to an Army recruiter and after I took the asvab was going through the process of getting a ...
  A: The felony waiver for pre trail divesion will bevaery hard to get. The counselimg stuff will show up ...
National Guard2/11/2009
  Q: Hey my name is Coleman and I was thinking about joining the National Guard after college. When is it ...
  A: Qualifications are simple 17-42 yrs old Be in good helath, No major law violations Pass an entrance ...
article 152/5/2009
  Q: My son had problems with a couple guys at reception, who after he reported, started sexually ...
  A: He should be, it is going to be a filed grade Art 15. He needs to state the truth on everything and ...
navy background check2/2/2009
  Q: hello my name is Roosevelt spiller and I've been trying to get into the navy for over a year but ...
  A: When a waiver is deinied, it is because they look at the whole person concept. If you show a ...
PDQed before MEPS physical2/2/2009
  Q: I recently tried to enlist in the Army. I have an arrest on my record from 2001 for drugs, when the ...
  A: Who told you you were DQ'd. Only MEPs can do that for drug counseling anyways. Go to another ...
Reserve Dependent Medical?2/1/2009
  Q: I am in a very bad monetary situation right now, and my wife, and I just found out that she could be ...
  A: As part of the reserves, you can puchase tricare for $181 a month and basically get the same care ...
becoming an officer1/31/2009
  Q: My question is what are my chances of becoming an army officer with a 14 yr old felony conviction ...
  A: It would really depend on the exact charge. Felony would probably negate your chances. No felony ...
Medical Disqualifications1/30/2009
  Q: I joined the Air National Guard this past August, and I was given the dates to ship out to basic on ...
  A: You will be required to tell them about it, it may delay your boot camp, but I doubt it would ...
Adderall scrip1/28/2009
  Q: I've been DEPped into the navy as active personnel, and I am leaving in April of this year, about 12 ...
  A: If you are taking any medications, you are required to divulge it. When you do, you will be dropped ...
ROTC PROGRAM1/28/2009
  Q: IM A 42YR FEMALE IN THE ARMY I'VE JUST PAST MY MARK FOR 1YR. IM NOW A PFC. ANYWAY I WOULD LIKE TO ...
  A: At 42 there is no way to get a commssion as an officer, but you can go warrant officer. But you ...
I need to know1/26/2009
  Q: I'm deciding whether to join the army, or the national guard. My decision is a tough one because I ...
  A: In a nut shell, join the active army if you wish to live the army lifestyle for the next three ...
PDQ Self Mutilation1/24/2009
  Q: Sir, do I still have a chance to serve in the armed forces? I am 21 now and when I was 13-14 I gave ...
  A: To be honest, I would never bring it up. Meps Dr's are brutal. if they see them, explain them as ...
Becoming a navy officer1/22/2009
  Q: I am in the process of applying to officer candidate school for the navy. I have a bachelors degree ...
  A: The DUI may have an affect, but they do look at the person as a whole. If denied, you can reapply. ...
Lautenberg amendment enlistment1/21/2009
  Q: I am a 22 year old recent college graduated, who is interested in enlisting in the United States ...
  A: She would have to drop it totally. This order prevents you by law of having a firearm, even in the ...
Enlistment age1/19/2009
  Q: My question is what is the maximum age to get into the military. I wanted to join the air force ...
  A: The army or army guard are the only branches you could enlist for for your age, but since you take ...
EPTS discharge1/19/2009
  Q: My stepson just called and said they are sending him home on an EPTS discharge. Someone fell on his ...
  A: They are discharging him for his injury due to the fact that since he injured it before, and he re ...
pot1/16/2009
  Q: if as a 16 year old a kid experimented with pot a few times and did not smoke after that what is the ...
  A: I would answer in the negative, never tried it. As long as you have no charges related to drugs. ...
MY son1/15/2009
  Q: My son is supposed to ship out for the National Guard on 2/12/09....he is 19......his 21 yr old ...
  A: He cannot ship out while awaiting trial. His sister needs to get the state attorney (or whoever) to ...
Surgeon says my son should not participate1/13/2009
  Q: We have a 17 year son who with his dad permission joined the National Guard IN June of 2008. He does ...
  A: I am currently in the National Guard and deal with RSP recruits all the time. I run a recruiting ...
RE4 CODE1/12/2009
  Q: I was discharged from the Marine Corps in 2001 for being overweight. I received a re4 code along ...
  A: A Marine RE4 only bans you from the USMC, but the other branches can take you depending on the ...
dual military1/12/2009
  Q: My boyfriend is enlisted in the coast guard and i am currently in Army ROTC and trying to go to ...
  A: If you stay in the Guard, you can more easily transfer to the area he is stationed, but there is no ...
medical issues at reception1/12/2009
  Q: my son recently arrived at fort jackson for the start of basic training. He left home with a kidney ...
  A: It is the call of the training station, but I have seen them send people home on medical and then ...
Reclass1/12/2009
  Q: just graduated Nov 14th, i am at my duty station now, i was wondering if i can re-class to a 44b ...
  A: Doubtful, Infantry cannot usually reclass so early in their career unless injured where they did not ...
Transferring to National Guard from US Army Reserve1/12/2009
  Q: Is is possible to transfer from Reserve to National Guard? If so, would I have to give up my ...
  A: You can get released form the Reserves by getting the first general officer in your chain of command ...
Military Science1/11/2009
  Q: for Background, Assume that I am prior service, and Discharged. attending university, and my major ...
  A: MDS I and II require no contract, however 3 and 4 do. Reason being, you are required to get a ...
Medical Disability1/11/2009
  Q: I have been on a medical profile, for possible environmental exposure illnesses, and was told today ...
  A: technically, they are correct. However, you still will go thru med board, if discharged, you may be ...
Surgeon says my son should not participate1/11/2009
  Q: We have a 17 year son who with his dad permission joined the National Guard IN June of 2008. He does ...
  A: He is still required by his contract to show up at drill. Nothing bad will happen if he doesn't, ...
Re-Enlistment Qualifications1/10/2009
  Q: I am trying to re-enlist in the army and was told that due to a court fine I cant re-enlist until ...
  A: There is no way around the fine being paid first. Technically, you can be arrested for not paying ...
National Guard to Marine Corps1/8/2009
  Q: I am a former active duty Marine and got out in September of 07. I enlisted in the California ...
  A: Very hard to say, you can request a conditional release, and if approved, they would let you rejoin ...
Enlistment medical issues1/5/2009
  Q: John, I am very interested in joining either the Army or Marine Corps. I am currently on Zoloft for ...
  A: While there is no set standard that I know of of how long you must be off zoloft, riule of thumb is ...
National Guard Active first1/5/2009
  Q: i just graduated osut in november 2008, i joined the national guard "active duty first" program i ...
  A: Basically, no. If your pay is still meesed up and have not recieved your bonus, file a formal ...
Joining1/5/2009
  Q: John, If I have a medical issue that is a DQ but I don't tell the recruiter, could they find out ...
  A: I recruiter is supposed to identify all possible disqualifyers. During the medical process, the ...
enlistment and adhd1/4/2009
  Q: If I have I am being treated for ADHD with non-stimulant drugs, can I enlist or does ANY ADHD ...
  A: The military has many memebrs with some form of adhd, and do very well (me included). However, if ...
Medical waiver clarification1/2/2009
  Q: my name is Andrew, I am 18 years old. I have been in the enlistment process since last November. I ...
  A: Waiver after a surgery is common. Its not a big deal. However, it may prevent you form going ...
Enlistment after brief institutionalization1/1/2009
  Q: My son is 25 years old. 7 or 8 years ago he took an overdose of Tylenol in an episode that was ...
  A: Technically yes he should reveal it. However, if he was cleared of suicide thoughts and has NO ...
OCS Training1/1/2009
  Q: I am currently a professor of construction management and hold two masters degrees (civil ...
  A: At this point, you are too old to attend OCS, the cuotff is 35, buta waiver can be granted. Guard ...
Switching from ARNG to the Navy1/1/2009
  Q: My wife and I were just recently married and she is pregnant and stationed in virginia for the navy ...
  A: I doubt the Alabama national Guard will let you go to the navy, and I doubt thr Navy would take you. ...
DODMERB disqualification12/30/2008
  Q: I've been wondering about this for a while and figured it's probably time to ask. I was awarded an ...
  A: A DODmerd would not effect you serving in an enlited capacity, but I am suprised of officer ...
disqualifing factors12/28/2008
  Q: If you are prior service personnel and came up positive on the MEPS physical drug exam, for ...
  A: If you pop hot at MEPs, your contract is automatically voided. If you are an E-5 or above, you will ...
national guard recruit12/27/2008
  Q: My fiancee is thinking about joining the National guard soon, if possible. He served in the Marine ...
  A: With an other than honorable discharge, he is not eligible for any branch he will find. I doubt ...
enlisting12/25/2008
  Q: I was in basic and failed to pass the pft portion of my training. I have a re-3 discharge code and ...
  A: Yes, you can try to get back in, it would require a waiver, bu tif it said erroneous enlistment, ...
Son's wishes12/25/2008
  Q: I would be interested in your knowledge if there are positions for people in the service for young ...
  A: There is no place in the military for those that are disabled in anyway, mentally or physically. It ...
Army Reserve12/24/2008
  Q: I talked to a recruiter a few weeks ago about joining on active duty after I graduate high school. ...
  A: Thta is a program you can do , however, you do give up your entire summer. There is also no ...
Guard12/23/2008
  Q: I am a retired Lt. LDO (Navy) 22 yrs. I am done with the regular naavy but would be interested in ...
  A: Anyone who is retired from one branch may not join another branch. Heck, we can't even re enlist ...
military discharge12/21/2008
  Q: What happens when you go AWOL for a year.
  A: If someone is AWOL from active military for a year, they are a wanted fugitive. There is a bench ...
Navy Officer - color blind question12/20/2008
  Q: I'm going to public university, am a Junior in college majoring in Physics with a 3.9 GPA. With the ...
  A: While I cannot give you a definite answer because I do not keep up with Navy quals, I would be ...
Question?12/19/2008
  Q: Is it right that I am pregnant due in July in a unit that is mobing in Oct. it is DEC and I was told ...
  A: Pregnancy does not affect your bonus. You are usually cleared for duty after two menstrual cycles ...
army or guards12/18/2008
  Q: I asked an army recruiter to explain the deference between army and amy national guards. He said ...
  A: In a nutshell, your recruiter is flat out lying to you. The Army and National Guard are one and the ...
Am I Disqualified?12/18/2008
  Q: I have been on depression meds with follow-up therapy for about a year now, but I am just ...
  A: Bi polar is a definite no go and most history of depression with heavy meds is a no go. Light meds ...
Am I Disqualified?12/17/2008
  Q: I have been on depression meds with follow-up therapy for about a year now, but I am just ...
  A: If you were misdiagnised, that is good, however, does the illness you have need long term care? If ...
Combat patch12/16/2008
  Q: I just enlisted in the National Guard after having served 10 years in the Marine Corps. I was in ...
  A: Technically no patch is authorized for you since it was not earned in the Army, however, it is ...
Maximum age to become an officer12/15/2008
  Q: I am currently a TSgt in the Air National Guard with about 15 years in, six of which was active duty ...
  A: You are too old for any commission program, but can get a waievr, though very hard to get. Warrant ...
dd21412/15/2008
  Q: what is the process to get my brothers dd 214 changed and or corrected. He was discharged while in ...
  A: I doubt you need it changed? The porcess to change a dd214 is posted on www.va.gov. It is a ...
national gaurd12/15/2008
  Q: I recently joined the Army National Guard in October and it is now December. When i joined i was ...
  A: Realistically yes. You do not HAVE to ship when it comes time, just do not show up. Let your RSP ...
my fiance12/13/2008
  Q: .. my name is mike, i was wondering if i have several juvinile charges and 1 pending felony court is ...
  A: You can get married, it will not be an issue on her clearance unless your charges have to do with ...
Married between Active Army and National Guard12/13/2008
  Q: I plan on marrying a girl who is currently in the National Guard in Michigan. She reenlisted about a ...
  A: Yes, very easily. She needs to request a interstate transfer to Washington. Her state will contact ...
Boot Camp12/12/2008
  Q: If a person went thru Boot Camp in the late 1960's and they did not succeed in passing boot camp - ...
  A: I am not sure about the 1960's on exactly what they would have recieved. They would have at least ...
Returning to Military12/11/2008
  Q: John, I served 4 years in the USAF and received and Honorable Discharge. At the time of discharge ...
  A: You are qualified to return to service. I don't know what option the AF would give you though. In ...
Air Force waiver12/11/2008
  Q: I've been waiting on a waiver for about a year and a half now for a felony i was charged with as a ...
  A: If you haven't gotten it back it is because they will not approve it. You said charged, were you ...
Military disqualification12/10/2008
  Q: I am a 17 year old male and I'm currently a high school junior. I would like to join the Marines and ...
  A: You will need to wait at least another year before you will be considered due to being on ...
keratoconus12/10/2008
  Q: In 2006 I enlisted in The United States Marines. I went through MEPS without any physical problem, ...
  A: As you know, keratoconus is a degenerative disease of the eye, which will eventually make your ...
Can I switch to active duty during my 8 year obligation?12/9/2008
  Q: A few years ago, I served in the army for 2 years (active duty). I am now currently the in-active ...
  A: You can request a 368 (conditional release) its very easy to fill out, but very hard ot get ...
navy recruit12/9/2008
  Q: John Lewis, My 22 year old was pressured by his father some months ago to join the Navy. He did it ...
  A: He is not required to ship off. Even though he signed up, he is able to change his mind. All he ...
being dq'd in 0712/9/2008
  Q: I was dq'd from the marines in 07 for symptoms of generalized anxieties and from that they assumed ...
  A: If he tried, then you are stuck, there is probably nothing more that can be done. Your recruiter ...
Other than Honorable Discharge with an RE-412/9/2008
  Q: Is it possible for someone that has an Other than Honorable Discharge with an RE-4 enlistment code ...
  A: An RE code canot be changed, but the OTH can be upgraded. Go to www.va.gov, there is a section on ...
Coast Guard Enlistment12/8/2008
  Q: I hope you can help me with this problem. When I was 12 years old, one of my friends stole a bicycle ...
  A: Wow, a felony as a 12 yr old? I would go pull the juveniel record tp see what is actually says? ...
USMC Prior Service Recruiting12/8/2008
  Q: My husband was active duty USMC for 4 years. The PSR called him up and was trying to talk him into ...
  A: Marines have the option of rejoining and being what they called non-obligated. Some Marines come ...
NG College 1st12/8/2008
  Q: I was planning on joining the National Guard. The College First program really intrigues me because ...
  A: Yes, the college first is a National program. Federal Tuition asistance pays $4500 a year towards ...
Air Force question12/6/2008
  Q: I wasn't sure who to ask, but I'm fairly new to this. My boyfriend is graduating from pilot training ...
  A: Bototm line, for housing you need to be married. I have never heard of anything else otherwise. I ...
Basic Training12/6/2008
  Q: Am I going to be able to wear my contacts through basic training?
  A: No, you will be issued glassed and will wear those. Training cannot cease so you can add drops or ...
Commission Resignation12/5/2008
  Q: I resigned my commission and was honorably discharged in Oct. 2007. I was in the chaplain candidacy ...
  A: Becoming an officer is possible, but there are requirements. If you have a college degree or close ...
Active Duty12/4/2008
  Q: My separation code JFE and reentry 4K. I was wondering what I need to do change my code so I can get ...
  A: An re4 code is not eligible to be changed. I am assuming you mean it was from the Army. If it is ...
Undeclared medical condition12/4/2008
  Q: The question is, before I go into the details, if I see a doctor regarding a condition that could ...
  A: You can disclose it to your civilian Dr and ask for it to be not part of your record that goes to ...
ETS during 2 week annual training12/4/2008
  Q: I served in Iraq with my national guard unit, returning home last March. I am scheduled to ETS on ...
  A: No, but you could just extend for six months if you meet some other requirements. Otherwise, the ...
RE-4 Navy12/4/2008
  Q: My husband was discharged from the Navy with an RE-4 for pattern of misconduct, general discharge ...
  A: Don't know why it is taking this long, it is a national level waiver, but it should take no more ...
turned down for dental health12/2/2008
  Q: I went to MEPS and they turned me down because I have horrible dental health due to growing up in a ...
  A: If MEPS turned you down, the only thing I can recommend it take out a loan, get your teeth taken ...
Boyfriend joining Coast Guard12/1/2008
  Q: My boyfriend is looking into joining the USCG and we were wondering if I would have to be married to ...
  A: Yes, you have to be married ofr housing. As far as living together for 2 years, I do not agree. ...
pre-existing medical11/30/2008
  Q: My son was trying to join the army, we told the recruiter about a past medical condition, 2 years ...
  A: The recruiter was technically wrong for telling not to mention it, but it was the right thing to do ...
dead end mos11/29/2008
  Q: i have been in the active army for 6 years, my mos is 13s and i have done the job maybe once, i have ...
  A: I would just flat out ask to change MOS to an MOS more needed by the Army. 13S are not much needed ...
Waiver for mental health11/28/2008
  Q: If you have previously have taken prescribed drugs for emotional stress due to a bad marriage, would ...
  A: Most liley yes, as long as it wasn't recent and your Dr has cleared you. Make sure you havent been ...
Navy11/28/2008
  Q: im a DEP for the navy and have some concerns.While at meps i did notify them i had an unborn child ...
  A: The military pay system is screwed up. they require that if you are un married and have a child, ...
Army reenlistment11/27/2008
  Q: My son was recently separated from the Army for drug use, although his discharge was not coded as ...
  A: The dicharge code of misconduct is common for a drug offense. he can get back in with a waiver, but ...
civilian to military helicopter pilot11/26/2008
  Q: I recently received my commercial helicopter pilots license with instrument rating. I have about ...
  A: While I cannot give you the exact requirements, I can tell you the only branch you will be bale to ...
DD Form 36811/25/2008
  Q: i am currently in the oklahoma army national guard and am looking to get released to join the active ...
  A: They are correct, you cannot get rleased yet. My suggestion is, go to basic and AIT, deploy. ...
Getting released from the Navy DEP program11/25/2008
  Q: My name is Tori and I'm currently in the Navy DEP program. I want to switch to another branch asap, ...
  A: No one can release you without cause, and they will not release you because you want to switch. You ...
Getting released from the Navy DEP program11/25/2008
  Q: My name is Tori and I'm currently in the Navy DEP program. I want to switch to another branch asap, ...
  A: You can threaten with a lawyer all you want, they don't care. basically, there is only one way out ...
malicious wounding11/24/2008
  Q: I am a 30 year old man, when I was about 24 years old, I received a malicious wounding charge. I ...
  A: If it is a felony, you are unable to join any branch at the moment, but if it is a misdameanor, yo ...
Master at Arms and Color Blindness11/23/2008
  Q: Greetings! My name is Alex and I've enlisted with the US Navy DEPS and my shipdate is 20090202. My ...
  A: Having color blindness and failing both color test limits you to just a handful of jobs, less than 5 ...
navy drug test11/22/2008
  Q: But then he got disqualified due to blood test for marijuanna marked positive but his urine waz ...
  A: The military does not test marijuana in blood, it is not what we do. I do not know why he was told ...
felony waiver11/22/2008
  Q: I was 14 years old when I Was arrested in school for taking another students playing cards and ...
  A: At this time, there is nothing you can do. You were never convicted of a felony. The intervention ...
Confused about bf in Army Reserves11/21/2008
  Q: I'm 18 and very confused. My xbf has come back into my life. We haven't seen each other in almost 4 ...
  A: To be honest, do not get invlolved with this guy. He needs to get his life straight and on his own. ...
interservice-transfer11/21/2008
  Q: hey, i'm a marine reservist with 18months left on my contract, i recently applied for a flight seat ...
  A: The Marines have every right to deny the request for release, but that does not make it right. I ...
suspended sentence11/20/2008
  Q: My son is trying to enlist. He served 30 days of a 180 day sentence 120 suspended 60 day remaining ...
  A: Depending on the charge, he will have to wait six months to be able to join after the suspended ...
Mip in 200011/20/2008
  Q: i have a question about MIP of Alcohol. I am joining the navy, i have taken my asvab and scored way ...
  A: Rules change over the years and some jobs now require no alcohol or drug charges ever in your past. ...
RE-4 waiver11/17/2008
  Q: My nephew was a SSG in the Marine Corps with a very good record. He was released from the Corps ...
  A: The Re4 is waivable, but the felony is not. He is currently not eligible for any branch of service ...
Medical waiver11/17/2008
  Q: I have a letter from my Dr. saying that I was issued an inhaler for bronchitis. The Dr. at MEPS are ...
  A: What they will do is request a consult for asthma and that will bethe determining factor. I had a ...
reenlistment11/16/2008
  Q: I was an active army servicemen. when i was discharged. my separation code is JKK (drug use). my ...
  A: You are eligible for a wiaver and will probably get it. Have you been to meps yet? If not, then ...
US Army...or....Military in general11/13/2008
  Q: My son wants to join the US ARMY when he is old enough but he has a legit question.Can he join the ...
  A: Most likley not. Medical standards for military service are very high. One must very physically ...
Navy Recruitment-Dismissed case11/12/2008
  Q: My brother in law is trying to enlist in the Navy. Everything was going fine but they are now ...
  A: What the record shows is that he was arrested and charged. That fact does not go away. However, it ...
we need answers!!11/12/2008
  Q: my best friend is having a problem with her ex husband...but the issue at hand is that he ran away ...
  A: They didnt pay his child support, he did. they took it out of his check. No matter what he tells ...
Army officer w/ criminal record11/12/2008
  Q: Four years ago I was arrested for misdemeanor possession of marijuana (I was 21). I will graduate ...
  A: You should be ok with one possession charge. Especially if you have had a clean record otherwise. ...
we need answers!!11/12/2008
  Q: my best friend is having a problem with her ex husband...but the issue at hand is that he ran away ...
  A: If he is AWOL, and he knows he is, his best bet would be to report back to his station. If he ...
Army vs' National Guard11/12/2008
  Q: Can the National Gaurd get waivers that the Army cannot? According to AR 601-210... 4-24 ...
  A: There are lots of disqualifyers in the military. Most are waivable if you are otherwise a good ...
Navy enlisted to Army ROTC11/10/2008
  Q: Mr. Lewis, right now I'm currently enlisted in the active duty Navy. I've realized this isn't what I ...
  A: Neither. The navy will not release you to go to school full time in a ROTC program. You will have ...
road to OCS11/10/2008
  Q: lewis, I have another question for you. Since I have to enlist first to receive citizenship (in ...
  A: If you are 22 you have time still, however, first focus on doing whatever it takes to become a ...
world war one army classifications11/9/2008
  Q: John: I recognize this is a curve ball you may not have any answer to. Can any experts help. What ...
  A: All army enlisted wore the same uniform, there were just many differnt uniforms they wore. I have ...
enlistment11/9/2008
  Q: I got a domestic violence charge a year ago. I did not hit her or anything, they supposely droped it ...
  A: As long as you are off probation, which is what staying out of trouble is, and your classes are ...
checks11/9/2008
  Q: To the best of your knowledge, if you are recruiting an individual in the active army as an ...
  A: There is only one sf 86. Every one fills out the sf 86 to join. Every one goes thru a fbi check, but ...
checks11/8/2008
  Q: To the best of your knowledge, if you are recruiting an individual in the active army as an ...
  A: I cant give you a good answer. Most likely if you fess up, you will be disqualed becuase they are ...
About My Diploma11/8/2008
  Q: bout 5 moths ago i received a diploma from an online school. I was told prior to this by a Nation ...
  A: Your recruiter is misinformed, as long as the school was acredited when you recieved it, it is good. ...
NAT Bonus - Navy Reserves11/7/2008
  Q: My daughter is Navy Reserve (enlist date 25 JAN 2007). She received a $5000 "enlistment bonus" this ...
  A: It is not unusual for new recruits to realize they got a bonus. I will not bring up a bonus with a ...
checks11/7/2008
  Q: To the best of your knowledge, if you are recruiting an individual in the active army as an ...
  A: The military does local and state checks. At Meps, you get fingerprinted and it goes to the FBI for ...
Enlistment. ARMY11/6/2008
  Q: At 4 months into the recruiting process, I have been told that I am non-waiverable. I have now been ...
  A: In a nutshell, you were not found innocent, or not guilty. Since you were put on probabtion and ...
bariatric surgery11/6/2008
  Q: I'm in the National Guard, I'm working full time right now. I was considering having surgery ...
  A: Never heard of them performing them at militayy hospitals excpet on retired vets or at a VA ...
bariatric surgery11/6/2008
  Q: I'm in the National Guard, I'm working full time right now. I was considering having surgery ...
  A: Yes, you would be getting an unauthorized surgery. The militray has seen too many issues with ...
Vision11/5/2008
  Q: my son has 20/50 vision in one eye with his contacts in, he has a condition called Nystagmus aka ...
  A: As long as one eye is correctable to near perfect he should be ok, it will limit what jobs he can ...
TDRL Re Entry to Navy11/5/2008
  Q: I was a FMF corpsman served 5 years 2 months was put on TDRL and found FIT after 3 years. I elected ...
  A: easy enough, the recruiter you are dealing with is a dirtbag. Dump him, find another recruiter that ...
Renegotiating my contract11/4/2008
  Q: I wanted to know if I could back out of my Enlistment Contract with the Army. I tried to go into ...
  A: The real answer is yes you can. The Army is still all volunteer force, there is nothing they can do ...
becoming an officer w/ green card11/4/2008
  Q: Lewis, I recently got my green card in the US, and I am about 8 months away from graduating with a ...
  A: With your degree, you can start off as an E4 in the Army soley based on having a bachelors degree. ...
becoming an officer w/ green card11/2/2008
  Q: Lewis, I recently got my green card in the US, and I am about 8 months away from graduating with a ...
  A: There is no way you can become an officer until you are a citizen. My best advice is for you to ...
Records10/30/2008
  Q: What's the specfic name of the background checker the recruiter and the meps does? For example there ...
  A: Meps uses an FBI data base that all law enforcemnt agencies genrally report to. If the foriegn ...
prior service10/28/2008
  Q: I'm prior service army and my fiance is active duty AF. I can't get into AF active duty in a career ...
  A: Alot of reservists fill full time positions either on a temporary or full time basis. I myself am a ...
Interservice Transfer10/28/2008
  Q: I'm an Army Reservist I signed a contract for 6 years Reserves and 2 years IRR. I'm 6 months into my ...
  A: Not off hand, its your contract, you are stop loss for 90 days after returning. They cannot hold ...
prior service10/28/2008
  Q: I'm prior service army and my fiance is active duty AF. I can't get into AF active duty in a career ...
  A: No one can guarentee that, I have seen couple split on seperate coasts. Then one has to try to ...
Military Options10/28/2008
  Q: I am 17 and looking into the military field. I recently looked into the 69W position because of the ...
  A: If you are definitely going to college, go Army national Guard. Best benefits, especially for ...
Question about joining the reserves10/27/2008
  Q: Good Afternoon, I am a recent college graduate looking to move forward with a new career. I have ...
  A: Your GPA and job status are not an issue, your record is. You would require a waiver just to join ...
waiver10/27/2008
  Q: I could really use some insight. I am just starting the whole process. So far, I have only had 1 ...
  A: The debt will effect secuity clearance. Disability, unless given by the military will disqualify ...
DUI10/27/2008
  Q: I got a DUI last weekend and am slotted to graduate and commission Active Duty Army on 13DEC. I've ...
  A: Waivers can take 30 minutes, they can take 30 days. There is no set criteria. Problem with a DUI, ...
Contract/Record10/26/2008
  Q: So if i was told i don't qualify for ranger training after basic or something because of my fbi ...
  A: They can still give you 11b with airborne. If you are clean, then you have nothing to worry about ...
Active Duty10/23/2008
  Q: So I'm kind of confused about a few things regarding Active Duty. My boyfriend recently joined The ...
  A: For him to go active duty at this point will be a challenge, the Guard has to release him, which ...
ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER10/23/2008
  Q: ONE OF THE SYMPTOMS OF THIS DISORDER IS IMPULSIVITY AND MY CONCERN IS THAT ALTHOUGH MY SON HAS ...
  A: He would be definitly temporary disqulafied, but may be cleared if he had a consult with a military ...
reenlist10/22/2008
  Q: i was discharged with an re4 18 yrs ago with an gfx code under honarable conditions personality ...
  A: The will not chnage the RE code, but can change under honorable conditions to honorable. Go to ...
branching from rotc10/22/2008
  Q: I was wondering how you can find out how many open military intelligence positions there are to ...
  A: For GFRD it all depends on the availibility with in the state of which you will serve. If you are ...
Tough MEPS question10/20/2008
  Q: Okay let me summarize my situation, my father is stationed overseas in korea, there's no meps here ...
  A: With the new age of electronic record keeping, most documents are stored in a central data base ...
Officer Ranks Upon Entry10/19/2008
  Q: I am a practicing attorney who is semi-retired and considering dropping a packet for a direct ...
  A: You should be ok for a direct commission. It would be the rank of Captain (O-3). There are other ...
ROTC scholarship for my son10/18/2008
  Q: My son is interested in becoming a Physical Therapist in the military. He is unsure how to do this. ...
  A: An ROTC scholarship will not put him in the direction of a physical therapist as an officer. ...
bipolar10/16/2008
  Q: my brother is in the national guard and has recently been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. i am ...
  A: Yes, he would be medically discharged. It is his duty and responsibility to himself and those in ...
Tough MEPS question10/16/2008
  Q: Okay let me summarize my situation, my father is stationed overseas in korea, there's no meps here ...
  A: Basically, eczema is disqualifying but canbe waived if you rarely have flare up, ot haven't had one ...
MEPS DQ10/14/2008
  Q: I just joined the army and today i was supposed to go down to MEPS for my physical and to DEP in. I ...
  A: MEPS does not DQ for no reason. There has to be specific medical reason why. If you failed to ...
Trouble while in DEP10/14/2008
  Q: son was supposed to leave for Navy June. Broke hand and delayed to November. Is in trouble now. Some ...
  A: They will run another records check, even if he is found not guilty, he has to revealed anything he ...
Restrictions on Tattoos10/14/2008
  Q: What is the exact policy on having tattoos that are visible. What if your tattoos that are visible ...
  A: Tattoos are now permitted on hands and side and back of neck. They are photographed and sent to the ...
Conditional Release question10/14/2008
  Q: Good evening, I have a question on obtaining a conditional release. I've read up some on the ...
  A: To be blunt, forget about it! The Marine Corps does not release Marines to go to another branch of ...
JAG Corps10/10/2008
  Q: Sir,I am an active duty soldier and am looking at going to law school. The catch is I am too old for ...
  A: I am not aware of any program to allow soldiers to go to law school while on active duty. In my ...
Getting 3p PDQ lifted.10/8/2008
  Q: I had tried to get into the army 4 years ago provided all documentation on an injury i had when i ...
  A: The only thing that can be done is the recruiter requesting a waiver IF that past injury has the ...
NON qualifing DV lautenberg10/8/2008
  Q: I am trying to re-enlist in the US Army or enlist into the Michigan Army NG, I have 5 years prior ...
  A: I never heard of anything being considered a conviction until it was dismissed. The way the regs ...
NON qualifing DV lautenberg10/8/2008
  Q: I am trying to re-enlist in the US Army or enlist into the Michigan Army NG, I have 5 years prior ...
  A: You still did not answer my question about what were YOU convicted of, if anything? Right now there ...
NON qualifing DV lautenberg10/7/2008
  Q: I am trying to re-enlist in the US Army or enlist into the Michigan Army NG, I have 5 years prior ...
  A: Ok, I am confused. What are you CONVICTED of? A domestic violence conviction is auto disqualifyer. ...
early medical diacharge10/6/2008
  Q: I spent 15 years in the Army National Guard,14 good years for retirement. Deployed to Iraq ...
  A: You pretty much answered your own question. Since it was determined not service related, I would ...
Enlistment10/5/2008
  Q: I was wandering since I have had surgery on my neck, which is permanent if I am going to be ...
  A: It all depends on the type of surgery and the affect it has on you to to various things. The obly ...
US Coast Guard10/5/2008
  Q: My 18yr old is very interested in joining the Coast Guard. The problem is he is ADHD and on Med's. ...
  A: The issue isn't testing clean for meds, but the effect of him being off them. He is on meds for a ...
ARNG to Marine Reserve10/3/2008
  Q: Hola, My name is Brian Lewis I am 18, from Puerto Rico. I enlisted in the Army National Guard about ...
  A: Well, there is a process in which you can request a conditional release from the Guard, however, ...
My son is interested, but has medical conditions10/2/2008
  Q: My son is 15 years old and in JROTC in High School. He has been diagnosed with Aspergers, ...
  A: You have heard correctly, any one taking any type of maintenance drug for anything is not qualified ...
Incompatant recruiter, so asking for your advice.10/2/2008
  Q: Mr Lewis, I've a few concerns about enlisting in the Army (active) that my fresh recruiter probably ...
  A: Your first set of issues can be worked around, however the issues comes form the domestic violence. ...
volunteer deployment10/1/2008
  Q: I was wondering how I can volunteer to deploy.I'm in the army reserves and my mos is 21w.
  A: Of course you can volunteer. The trouble would be finding a unit that needs your MOS or if the ...
reapply10/1/2008
  Q: My nephew applied for the Navy. He passed the tests took his evaluation tests, did well on all ...
  A: Yes , he can go back down to MEPS after 45 days, get a clean drug test and request a waiver. He ...
Waivers9/30/2008
  Q: My boyfriend is trying to join the military but has an issue. He is most interested in joining the ...
  A: If he did probation for the charges, then he was convicted. He may not have done jail time, but he ...
enlisting as an eagle scout and life on base for my wife and young daughter9/30/2008
  Q: Mr Lewis, My name is Lee. I am 22 years old, I am an eagle scout, a father and a husband. i ...
  A: Eagle scout alone gets you E2 in the Army. Not sure of Marines (though I know its not E3) and the ...
special force9/29/2008
  Q: i just want to know what the minimum yrs of time you need to be in the army for special force. i ...
  A: Depending on your charges, you may not even be able to join. 3 drug charges will make you forever ...
Drug Use and Army OCS9/29/2008
  Q: Lewis, I graduated from college in December and I am planning on applying to OCS for the Army. I ...
  A: Well, tough question there. being honest about drugs is the right thing to do, It will disqualify ...
Enlisted to Officer Age Question9/28/2008
  Q: I'm a non-prior 31 year old and have a Navy Officer package up for review for PAO on October 1st. If ...
  A: Age limit still applies, but waivers can be granted. If you are still talking to an officer ...
psych eval9/28/2008
  Q: ive been in the army for roughly a year and a half and recently have had suggestions from other GIs ...
  A: If you are diagnosed as bi polar, you would most likely be discharged. I doubt they would just ...
Disqualifacations9/28/2008
  Q: I have recently full-filled my 4 year contract with the Marine Corps and now am on the IRR. I was a ...
  A: If you are still in the IRR, you will probably have little issues getting in the Guard. You can ...
Fraudulent Enlistment - Or is it?9/28/2008
  Q: Wow, this must be like the strangest thing that I ever seen happen in like EVER, in the world of ...
  A: In short, she has to wait a waiting period of 6 months to a year after discharge to re enlist. A ...
Enlisted to Officer Age Question9/27/2008
  Q: I'm a non-prior 31 year old and have a Navy Officer package up for review for PAO on October 1st. If ...
  A: Not 100% sure of Navy Requirements, however, usually you can submit an OCS packet at anytime during ...
Enlisting with a Record of Psychiatric Hospitalization9/27/2008
  Q: .. Sorry this is gonna be a doozy, but I just gotta ask someone! I was wondering, can you get a ...
  A: Just make reasonable effort to get your documents. If you cant get them, dont worry about it. A ...
Enlisting with a Record of Psychiatric Hospitalization9/27/2008
  Q: .. Sorry this is gonna be a doozy, but I just gotta ask someone! I was wondering, can you get a ...
  A: The main question I have is how old were you when this went on? This is a major factor, but what is ...
Army Program for Master's9/25/2008
  Q: I am an active duty soldier with a 4.0 in college and about to finish my Bachelor's. I heard there ...
  A: The Army does have some programs that allow a masters to be obtained, but are usually reserved for ...
age waiver9/25/2008
  Q: Is it possible to get an age waiver to join the AF active national guard? I know that that 10 U.S. ...
  A: The Army and National guard allow enlistment up to age 41 and you must ship to training before ...
Bipolar; Military service (Navy); my unique case9/24/2008
  Q: I myself am diagnosed with bipolar disorder and am currently taking medications. I am currently in ...
  A: To be blunt about it, there is no way the US Military would let you join the ranks. Yes we have ...
get back into military9/23/2008
  Q: I was in the army for 22 months, then received a general discharge for misconduct, and 2 article 15 ...
  A: I doubt the Coast guard would grant you a waiver, they don't give out too many waivers. the Army or ...
re-enlistment9/22/2008
  Q: i have been in the army national guard for 9 years. after my six years i re-enlisted for another 6. ...
  A: Well, hard question. There is no easy way out. Only hard ways. You could request a discharge, but ...
Switching from Marine Corps to the Navy.9/22/2008
  Q: My fiancee is a PFC in the Marine Corps and is stationed in North Carolina. He has recently become ...
  A: The chances of him switching to the Navy is slim to none. The Marines will have him for the ...
Navy Administrative Separation9/18/2008
  Q: I found out on a Tuesday that my Naval psychiatrist/Dr. was recommending me for separation. After it ...
  A: This is a little out of my league, I can only tell you with my past experiences working with ...
retired reservist options?9/17/2008
  Q: Can an Army reservist who is in the process of retiring with 27 yrs. of service and 46 years old, ...
  A: Once you retire from a branch, no other branch would take you. You are probably an E-6 or higher, ...
son9/17/2008
  Q: O.K. I'm just going to come out and ask this question. If you quite Marine boot camp and you get ...
  A: This is normal if he fialed to achknowledge issues he had before he joined. If he was looking to ...
having trouble enlisting9/17/2008
  Q: ok here goes, i have 3 juvenile felonies under my belt with the last conviction occurring 11 years ...
  A: With three juvenile felonies, the answer is "NO". The waiver authority differs are each type of ...
son9/16/2008
  Q: O.K. I'm just going to come out and ask this question. If you quite Marine boot camp and you get ...
  A: He will be able to join another Branch most likely. the Marines will probably not take him, but the ...
having trouble enlisting9/16/2008
  Q: ok here goes, i have 3 juvenile felonies under my belt with the last conviction occurring 11 years ...
  A: Unfortunatley, no branch of the military can take you with three juvenile felonies. Two is the max ...
pdq9/15/2008
  Q: I was given an entry level separation from the Marine Corps in 2005 after only about four weeks of ...
  A: You would go through the MEPS process and they would DQ you most likely. A waiver would then be ...
Husband9/15/2008
  Q: My husband is thinking about doing the imagery analysis as his job in the army, if that is what he ...
  A: He would attend school at Ft Huachauga, AZ, then can be off to any base in the world where he may ...
security clearance9/15/2008
  Q: what jobs in the navy does not require a security clearance
  A: Thats kind of a braod question, there are lots of jobs that do not require secuirty clearances, ...
re-enlisting9/14/2008
  Q: I'm re-enlisting with an honorable discharge from the marine corp. Although I had a great experience ...
  A: The best option in re enlisting is to talk to a recruiter, being prior service makes things easier ...
Childhood medical issues & Joining the military9/14/2008
  Q: My husband was active army for 8 years. He's been in the National Guard ever since. My son (his ...
  A: Unless these issues are cleared quickly with no medications after age 14, the chnaces of him ...
US Coast Guard9/13/2008
  Q: Back in 1991 I received an OTH discharge from the Marine Corps. This was my choise. Either that or ...
  A: having an OTH discharge will not let you join any branch of the military. Petetion to have it ...
son9/9/2008
  Q: O.K. I'm just going to come out and ask this question. If you quite Marine boot camp and you get ...
  A: It is hard to Quit bootcamp, they will not let a recruit just walk away. The Marines are very good ...
enlistment disqualifications9/9/2008
  Q: My 23 yr old nephew applied to the U.S. Coast Guard in March of 2008. He was brought to Baltimore, ...
  A: The Coast Guard is the smallest branch and their pool of recruits is large, so they can pick and ...
IRR9/6/2008
  Q: I joined the Army Reserve in Oct of 2002. Since then I have been actively going to drill and ...
  A: Makes no sense, if you signed a 6x2, you are automatically transferred to the IRR unless you are ...
Post-graduate ROTC options8/31/2008
  Q: Powers. My daughter is entering her third term at a state college, and has a long-term plan of going ...
  A: Many branches of the military will let an officer go back and finish a post graduate degree if it ...

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John L

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Expertise

I am a National Guard recruiter , been doing it for seven years and am a subject matter expert on qualifications for National Guard and I keep up to date on Regular Army regs and programs. I was in the Navy for 4 years and have 13 years in the Guard. I will not sugar coat my answers to you. They are usually short and to the point. If you need more in depth, ask me. Because each situation is different, alot of times you need to actually talk to a recruiter and let them evaluate your situation in person, by looking at your documents, issues etc. If I suggest this, it would be in your best interest to do so. Finally...thank you for your interest in serving this great nation of ours. Very few people can actually make the cut to serve let alone choose to do so. So thank you for wanting to and hopefully you will get a chance. Whatever branch you choose, thank you and good luck.

Experience

13 years Guard experince, combat missions and homeland missions. 7 years recruiting. I have been a platoon sergeant and squad leader. Mentor to new recruiters and recruits.

Education/Credentials
Recruiters course and advanced courses in recruiting

Awards and Honors
Top recruiter in district for FY 2008. Nominated for recruiter of the year for 2010.

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