Expert: Rod Powers - 11/20/2007

Question
I'm currently deciding on which branch of military to join. Right now, i'm leaning toward the coast guard. However, i have a couple of misdimeadors and i from what i've heard talking to former members of the coast guard, they say it's not likely that they will take me until i have prior military expereince. i was wondering if this is true and if it's best not to try for the coast guard and join another branch.

thanks,
Mike

Answer
Hi Michael,

You didn't say exactly what the "misdimeadors" were for, so it's not possible for me to answer.

The two active duty services which need the fewest new recruits are the Coast Guard and the Air Force. That means they are less likely to take a chance on approving a waiver than the other active duty services.

If your "misdimeadors" are drug-related, that's even more likely that the Coast Guard will not consider a waiver. The Coast Guard has not only a "wartime" mission, as does the other services, but also a law enforcement drug enforcement mission, and -- because of this -- are less likely to approve any drug arrest waivers.

On the other hand, if your dream is to enlist in the Coast Guard, there is nothing to lose by applying. If you're turned down, you can then still apply to join one of the other branches, with no penalty.

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

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com