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959 Responses to “Medical Issues Not Normally Waivered”
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Michelle,
Nickel allergy is DQ. While there are always people who slip through the cracks, either because of failure to disclose, or failure of the MEPS to catch a condition (for instance if the lesions of a nickel allergy are not present on the day of exam, the only way I would know a person has an allergy is if they tell me)the fitness standards are quite clear. I know plenty of people who lied at MEPS and went on to have 20+ year careers. Nevertheless, I never recommend that people do this, because I see even more people who get entry level separations for fraudulent enlistment. The waiver process is there for a reason, and if done correctly, many people can join the military, despite their DQ conditions. -
Augustus,
I have never seen a waiver for lordosis. Good luck. -
My lordosis isn’t congenital, it’s posture related.If my lordosis is below 50*, can and would the Navy put me back through MEPS? I was reading The Department of Defense Directive on physical standards, and it says
“Current deviation or curvature of spine (737) from normal alignment, structure, or function is disqualifying if:”
The word that really grabbed my attention was Current. -
Good Morning Navy Doc,
I have a cousin who wants to join the Navy, but he got sick with Hep A when he was a kid around 1991. He seems to be healthy and hasn’t had it since then, I don’t think he’s a carrier either.
This occurred when he was a kid in the Philippines (he’s an American citizen now), but medical records may have been lost since they only keep records from 10 years ago, again this happened in 1991.
Since I’m planning to enroll in Army ROTC and somewhat familiar with medical standards and waivers (since I know I will be needing one), I think he should be fine since it was that long ago. But I need you to clarify if he is fine. I think he is worrying too much.
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When I was 2 years old, I had a “condition” called ITP, which means your platelets are too low. This is not a disease, or a chronic disorder, it came and went and has never happened again. Will this disqualify me, or can I get a waiver?
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Andrea,
History of ITP requires a waiver. Normally a waiver is granted. -
i have a tarsel coalition in both my feet and had surgery to correct it. thes is a little limit of rang in my ankle but not much. i am phisically fit and can run a 6 minute mile. my academics are also above average and i am ranked 8th im my senior class in high school and have taken multiple ap classes. is there any chance that i can recieve a medical waiver for any branch of the military?
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Andrew.
Tarsal coalition is DQ, even if it has been surgically repaired. Whether or not a waiver is approved will depend on your current range of motion and function, as well as the actual procedure performed (for instance, if any implants were used, waiver is unlikely). Submit your records for review.
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I have been looking into officer enlistment. I was told by a recruiter that psoriasis is a disqualifying condition. I tried to explain that I have a form that is very mild (during flare-ups, I think it covers 1-5 % of my skin’s surface area). I have heard that psoriasis is disqualifying not because of the skin issues but because of its links to psoriatic arthritis later in life. I have never been diagnosed with arthritis (I’ve been tested for it, tests said no). I take a glucosamine supplement to try to prevent any damage, though. Have you ever heard of psoriasis waivers being granted for very mild and well-controlled cases?
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Ashley,
Psoriasis is a systemic disease, not just a skin problem. I have seen occassional waivers for people with mild cases that do not have flare ups and have not required prescription medication to control the lesions. That being said, I have also seen many entry level separations for people with psoriasis that flared up at recruit training. -
I have minor pes cavus. I don’t wear any orthotics or special shoes or anything and I don’t have any foot pain. I know that it says above: “Pes Cavus (abnormally high arches of the feet with increased extension of the toes), severe, symptomatic (other than routine orthotic use).”
Since mine isn’t severe and I don’t have any symptoms, do you think that I would even need a waiver, and if so, what do you think my chances are at getting one? -
Matt,
Pes cavus that has no symptoms is not DQ and thus does not require a waiver. -
Hey navydoc I was diagnosed with pervassive developmental delay when I was younger but my current psych reports shows that I dont have it can I get a waiver
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Pat,
The questions about PDD, autism and Aspergers have been asked several times, and it really all comes down to the indicidual’s history and current functional level, what the records show, and what the service needs. This is not a waiver request that I see often enough to give a good answer as to likelihood of a positive outcome.For those who have tried to get waivers for these conditions, post back and let others–and me–know if you were successful, and what it took to get a “yes.”
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“History of ITP requires a waiver. Normally a waiver is granted.”
I had ITP in 2008. I had a splenectomy in December 2008 and now the condition has been completely resolved. Would this be waiverable?
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what are my chances of getting a waiver approval for a a benign left parotid surgery? there are no residuals which rules out the disqualification of the benign tumor that interferes with wearing military equipment, I am back doing . research of a pleomorphic adenoma is it’s a slow progressive tumor, majority always benign but can be malignant if you left it untreated for 20 or more years with a very low recurrence rate. just don’t understand why I was pdq’d. i have resumed strenous physical training 6 days a week after 4 weeks post op, my ent has no future concerns for me and stated in my letter that i am good to go and will not have issues completing military training or any future military assignments.
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Bob,
Splenectomy also requires a waiver. Chances for multiple waivers are less than for a single medical waiver. -
Carinacoeb,
If you had surgery less than 12 months ago, that’s probably why you were DQ’d.
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thanks navy doc – I had my surgery done August 15th, with an uneventful post operative course. I was advised that it could be a 6-12 month wait post op which I was okay with, just didn’t expect to be dq’d. right now, it’s in the waiver process. do you know of any individual who had a waiver granted for a benign parotid tumor? as per my research, there’s not too much reference on salivary gland tumors, and most waivers are granted as long as it’s benign and that it didn’t interfere with the wear and function of military equipment. i have seen a waiver guide granting waivers for pilots, hope I stand I chance for regular enlistment.
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Carinacoeb,
I have seen waivers for head and neck tumors. There are permanent disqualifications (doesn’t matter if you have recovered, it is still DQ forever and you will need a waiver) and temporary disqualifications (there is a statutory waiting time–for example, 6 months after abdominal surgery). If you have not yet reached the statutory waiting time, the MEPS can PDQ you and ask for permission to process you for physical. This allows someone who is really TDQ, to skip the waiting period, depending on the needs of the service.TDQ’s are not eligible for waiver, so in the interest of expediency, sometimes a temporary DQ is coded as PDQ to help the applicant come in for processing. This is why I tell applicants not to get too hung up on the labels of PDQ and TDQ, because it’s a paperwork thing, and doesn’t always make sense to someone who doesn’t work with it every day (and even to some of us who do!)
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navy doc your prompt response is much appreciated – I thank you very much.
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Hello Navy Doc,
I have completed a masters degree recently and would like to join the US Navy. I have one concern…. Back in 2007 (age 22), I accidentally took a triple dose of a weight loss supplement (which caused me to ingest the same amount of caffeine that is in 24 cups of coffee) and had a panic attack. Afterwards I had a series of panic attacks for the next five months or so. They decreased dramatically after I stopped taking the supplements. I ended up going to therapy for this reason and continued sessions after the panic attacks stopped to help me sort out personal problems I was having related to a recent break up and other personal matters. Its hard to say how long I saw a therapist…maybe a year and half.
I am 27 now, I work in the mental health field and have had no problems with panic attacks at all since late 2007-early 2008.
I have had no problems with panic attack prior to or since this incident.
Will this incident permanently DQ me from serving in the Navy?
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Hopefulfuturesailor,
If you received treatment for panic or anxiety for more than 12 cummulative months, you will be PDQ and require a waiver to join. Waivers are getting rarer as the military downsizes. -
i have mild depression, and have been taking meds for about 8 months and will be getting off soon, if im off of them for a year, do you think that they will let me in or be an officer?
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My son is trying to get into the Navy, has a history of compex fiberal siezures, but has not had one for over 12 years. MEPS is requiring, and we have provided, medical records from age 1 to current and a number of expensive tests, the latest being an eeg that has come back normal. Is this a normal response from MEPS? The recruiter is new and has not been the least bit helpful, just keeps sending us back to have more tests done. What has been your experience?
Thanks
Sherri -
Kate leonardi,
You must be off of all antidepressants and therapy for a minimum of 36 months to meet the medical fitness standards. -
Navydoc, I have astigmatism in both my eyes. Will this hurt me at all down at MEPS?
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Hey Navydoc,
What is your experience with spermatoceles? I have a benign, left spermatocele, which doesn’t hurt or isn’t big, is this a dq?
If not, will numerous other problems that i’ve listed on here (very mild seb derm, kidney stone after 1 year wait, pneumotroaces @ 1 month old etc) add up to equal a DQ since i have many issues? Also, is the officer and enlisted physical different?
I appreciate your time answering my numerous posts on this blog. You have no idea how much help this blog has been preparing me for my MEPs experience.
TG -
TG,
You must submit documents showing the size of the spermatocele, and the testicle must be of normal size. Seb derm that will not interfere with military equipment or require medical intervention, kidney stones less than 4mm and more than 12 months ago (again, records will need to prove this) and that required no intervention (lithotripsy, stent placement, surgery) and pneumothoracies more than 2 years ago (spontaneous) or 1 year ago (traumatic) are not DQ.The medical fitness standards and physical at MEPS are the same for officer or enlisted, for every service.
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Gage,
If your astigmatism (the second number in your prescription) is greater than plus or minus 3, it is PDQ and requires a waiver.
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I had eczema as a child, it only occurred during the winter, and was controlled by moisturize. Also if moisturizer wasn’t used and the eczema would flare up, cortisone cream would stop it. The last time I had it was when I was 14 and it would only cover about an inch and a half on my calf. Would this require a waiver, and if so, what would be the chances it would get approved?
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I have submitted my prescreen papers on the 24 of November about my history of hypertension and history of seeing a psychiatrist for past pdd and I still havent heard anything yet. Back in 2007 I was disqualified for high blood pressure that was diagnose at meps but I was told to go to a doctor to get a blood pressure reading for 5 days which I never did. Since now I went and got it done and also I disclose my history of seeing a psychiatrist for pdd and submitted everything but no response.
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I had head aches really bad, 3 years ago. I saw a doctor and he gave me a rx for them. After taking the rx for about 6 months I was able to stop and my head aches went away and have not retuned. Also Ive had a bulging disk in my back a few years ago as well. I’m all better now. No mess were needed and no surgery. Are these disqualifications?
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Joe,
The standard requires no medication or treatment for 2 years for migraines, with no missed work or school due to headaches. It also depends somewhat on what type of headaches you had, because some are PDQ no matter how long ago you were diagnosed or when you last had symtpoms (for example cluster headaches). Submit your records to MEPS for review. -
Im currently waiting on permission to process I submitted my prescreen forms on the 24th of november and my recruiter says he still aint heard anything
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I was disqulified before I even got a chance to go to meps. I have a history of suicide as a child. But I went through 6 months of therapy and I now have no psych. condition at all . Its been over 2 years since my last mental health visit and I havent even taken meds for over 4! I grew up and learned from my mistakes. But MEPS wont even hear me out even though now im perfectly fine. Is there any chance at all of me getting to join?
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At the age of 5 I had my left undescended testicle surgically removed.
At the age of 16 I had two permanent molars extracted.
I am about to get PRK and I am 22 years old. (I know the 6 month post-op time)Do you think I could obtain waivers for these surgeries? I will do absolutley anything!
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Melissa,
History of suicide attempt is DQ without possibility of waiver for any of the armed services. -
Johnny,
You do not need waivers for PRK (once the 6 months is up and the post-op recovery is uneventful) or molar extractions (unless you don’t have at least remaining healthy teeth).Absence of a testicle requires submission of the surgical and pathology reports, and then a waiver. Those waivers are often granted, although, as with everything else, fewer are being granted these days because of the decreasing size of the military.
Just as an FYI, the reason a missing testicle is DQ is that the military uses the rationale that if you are supposed to have two of something (kidneys, eyes, functioning ears, testicles, ovaries, etc) and you only have one, the loss of the remaining one can be devastating. These injuries have been significant over in Iraq and Afghanistan due to the placement of modern body armor leaving that area vulnerable to severe injury from IEDs.
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I don’t see AS (Asperger’s Syndrome) in here. So my friend wants to serve only that he has AS. Here are his specifics( he’s now 16)
-Diagnosed at age 5-Doing good in school (with a exception of 10th grade). He is doing good again.
-never had medications or psychiatric treatment of any sort since diagnosis.
-He still has IEP
-started attending general education in middle school (6th grade)
- Now startled by noisy environments
- Good team player
- Social (still needs a little room for improvement, but still more social than when diagnosed)
-Understands orders
Does AS still counts as DQ for military service? And if it is, is it waverable considering these circumstances I listed above? He mentions wanting to join, particularly the US Navy or USAF. He mentions also that he wants to be pilot or computer systems operation of any kind.
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sorry I meant “not startled by noisy environments”
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hey doc, i got eczema once when i was 13 and havent gotten it since. what are my chances for a waiver?
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Hey Navy Doc my name is Jake. I’m a recent college graduate with aspirations of OCS (will probably try all branches but Navy is first choice). When I was a child I developed Benign Rolandic Epilespy (seen in children only). I’m currently 23 and haven’t had a seizure in 12 years. I’ve officially been off meds for five years, but have in actuality been off even longer (was taking below minimal dose of phenobarbital for a while as it had no side effects at the minimal dosage level), my mother just kept getting the prescriptions just in case. I have absolutely no symptoms, and have been cleared by the neurologist as saying I’ve “outgrown” my childhood epilepsy. I’m healthy otherwise and have clean EEGs to prove it.
Questions: As I meet the 5 year rule do I require a waiver, especially considering I only had 1 seizure after age 5?
Is the military less likely to give waivers for OCS applicants, especially after the end of the war in Iraq?
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Concerning PRK, I am a civilian and have a huge discount to get it done but it must be by the end of the year. My recruiter is on vacation until the second week in January.
If I meet the pre-op requirements (USN Aeromedical & Waiver Guide: refractice not to exceed -8.00 to +3.00 (SE) and 3.00 diopters of cylinder; Physical Examinations & Standards Article 15-34: refractice error not to exceed +/-6.00 diopters for program
leading to a commission) would it be wise to go ahead and get the surgery? Or should I wait for my recruiter and get checked out by a USN doc first?
Thank you -
Anonymous,
Im not trying to get in your business but the questions about applicants with asperger is kinda unknown. The navydoc and master chief has been graciously answering questions we post but this is one question that they dont hardly see a lot to give a good indication on whats it gonna take to get an approved waiver for the diagnoses. But your friend can submit his record along with school transcript to see if he would get permission and if your friend is successful getting the waiver post back and let others including navydoc and master chief. It would definitely be beneficial to us since im in the same boat. -
Navy Doc please answer my question, I posted this before but you did not answer. I had eczema as a child, it only occurred during the winter, and was controlled by moisturize. Also if moisturizer wasn’t used and the eczema would flare up, cortisone cream would stop it. The last time I had it was when I was 14 and it would only cover about an inch and a half on my calf. Would this require a waiver, and if so, what would be the chances it would get approved?
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wantstoserve,
Eczema past the 13th birthday is PDQ and will require a waiver. Waivers for skin conditions are a crap shoot as to whether or not they are granted these days. I see it go both ways. -
Johnny,
PRK is TDQ for 6 months following the procedure. You will have to submit pre-op refractions, and 2 post-op refractions (makes sure your ophthalmologist does post-op refractions, and not just visual acuities at your follo-up visits) at least 90 and 120 days after surgery. As long as all of those are stable, and you meet the refraction requirements prior to surgery, you should be good. -
Jake,
You will require a waiver if you had any seizures after the age of 6. All of your medical records must be reviewed, and we go by the last date of prescription, not the last date you claim you took the medication. You must be off all medication and seizure free for 5 years, and submit a sleep-deprived EEG done within the past 6 months to be considered for a waiver.
As with everything else in the military, OCS slots are more and more competitive, and waivers are getting less common, although there are still some granted. If you don’t try, you will never know, so I always encourage people to give it their best shot. Just know it may be a long and arduous process. -
Anonymous,
Aspergers is DQ. The fact that your friend still has an IEP makes it unlikely that he would even be allowed to take a MEPS physical. -
Ottowa,
A single episode of “eczema” is unlikely to DQ you as it doesn’t really meet the diagnostic criteria of that disease. It sounds more like you had a simple contact dermatitis. Eczema is a chronic disease. -
so should i get a second opinion or just talk to a recruiter? and thanks for the answers.
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should i get a second opinion, because my docter diagnosed me with it when i was 13. But like i said that was the very first time i got it, and havent had it since.
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Dr. I have a cataract in my left eye. It doesnt effect my vision with both eyes open. I have perfect vision in my right eye. 20/70. Drs wont remove it bc im only 28. Will this hurt my chances of joining the navy?
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When I was 13, they found a tumor on my bone. they ruled in benign and said it would eventually grow back into my bone. The problem is that as it grows back in in causes a lot of pain and is making my bone weaker. I still have to get blood tests and xrays done to make sure it it isn’t turning cancerous. would this bring up a problem? I was in sea cadets through high school and they follow navy regs with medical issues and it was approved through them so I am not sure since it started causing pain within the past year.
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Kim,
Cataracts are DQ. Waiver is unlikely. -
Kay13,
Yes, a painful bone tumor is a major problem. Even benign tumors can cause significant problems, usually pain and pathologic fracture. Also, the fact that it has recurred is also DQ. Get the treatment you need, and think about applying after you have been treated and pain-free, with no recurrence, for several years, and you might have a chance. Being in Sea Cadets and/or ROTC does not mean anything regarding medical fitness for active duty or active reserves. -
Hey Navy Doc ..This might be a silly Question But having Really Skinny Legs DQ You?
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John,
As long as you have the physical strength to do the duck walk and other tests at MEPS, and there is no medical disorder that causes you to have really skinny legs (injury, generalized muscle atrophy, spinal disorder), then no, it is not DQ. You should work on your lower body strength in order to be successful at basic training though, as failure of any part of the physical endurance tests could result in discharge Also, you have to meet the minimum weight standards (Marines and Coast Guard), or have a BMI of greater than 17.5 (Army, Navy, Air Force) in order to pass the MEPS physical. -
Hey navydoc you dont mind reading number 33 on this page and tell me what can I do cuz my recruiter is telling me he still hasnt heard nothing as of today thanks.
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Brian,
I can’t speed up the process for you. It takes the time it takes for a waiver authority to review paperwork and make a decision on whether or not to permit you to take a MEPS physical. If you are AF or CG, expect it to take several months. Army may take a week or two, and Navy/MC are somewhere in between.That being said, your recruiter should be able to tell you where your paperwork is in the chain. Sometimes people say it’s held up in medical, when in fact the recruiting district hasn’t forwarded the paperwork. If your recruiter isn’t being responsive to your needs, talk to his boss. The military doesn’t like it when people don’t do their jobs.
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Okay well im going to talk to his boss then so I could find out exactly what is going on because I submitted my paperwork on 11/24/11 and still no word. I already been disqualified back in the year 2007 because on my meps exam my bp was high so the doc told me to go to my own doctor for five days blood pressure checks which I never did. Since I waited to long my meps physical from 2007 has expired with that disqualification with a 3 on it so now my name is label as permanent disqualified. So im guessing when my recruiter submitted my paperwork on 11/24/11 I assumed its going to millington tn since im label as permanent disqualified. I dont know how long it takes for the waiver authority to make a decision on whether they gonna authorize me a new meps physical. If I would have known I had hypertension back then I wouldnt never went to meps. But I appreciate your response navydoc but I guess at this time theres nothing I can do but wait.
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if the diagnosize is in my med. record should i worry. like i said i was 13 and got eczema once and havent gotten it since. thx for any input.
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I recently received a masters in a medical profession and was thinking about joining. What are the chances of getting a spinal fusion waived? I hear slim to none, but thought I’d ask anyway. I had a benign solitary neurofibroma attached to my L1 spinal nerve that was deep, and the only way to get it out was to take out the disk between L1/L2 and fuse them together. So there was really never anything wrong with my spine. I only have hardware on one side of vertebrae, and have had no complications or setbacks and still run 2-3 marathons per year. So any info would be appreciated. Thanks
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I was put on migraine medicine when I was 12, however I was never actually diagnosed with migraines. I used the medicine maybe 2-5 times a year until I was 15, and haven’t used it since. Even when I was using the medicine, the headaches were never debilitating, I was never physically sick from them or required to lie down. The only was I got a bit squinty-eyed in bright light. The medicine is still on my Rx, however I haven’t used it in 3 years. Am I more likely to get a waiver since they never were debilitating/the medicine wasn’t used in 3 years if I go to my doctor and a neurologist to get documentation saying such?
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Chris,
Spinal fusion is unlikely to be waiveed by any service. -
Jessie,
When I review medical records for migraines, or any chronic problems, I go by the last date the medication was prescribed. As a physician, I don’t prescribe medication for patients unless they are having symptoms, so I would not accept a statement from someone saying he or she hasn’t used medication in 3 years, yet continues to fill prescription orders and visit the doctor for the same.
If you have not filled a prescription for migraines (and you had to be diagnosed with something in order for your doctor to treat you) in 3 years, have not required any trips to the ER or other treatment, and have not missed any work or school because of headaches in the past 3 years, you would not need a waiver.
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Navydoc..my name is Raymond i am 24 years old i am trying to join the navy seabees i got shot in my head when i was 3 years old on september 2nd 1990 i was shot with a 22. magnum. point blank range by accident & was in hospital for 17 days & then released i died when i arrived to hospital but by some miracle was brought back i sirvived did not have to learn how to walk or anything just left the hospital the bullet is still lodged in my brain but have no medical history or anything serious with it & have never had a problem with it & idk if they will except me or not so im wondering your opinion?
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Raymond,
You will require a waiver. I don’t have experience with your particular issue, but medically speaking, I would think a waiver would be reasonable, considering how long you have had the issue without problems. -
I have a mild case if psoriasis with only one out break 5 years ago when I was diagnosed but haven’t had any flare ups or mess in over 4 yrs with only a dime sized patch on my knee. Woul it be easier to get a waiver if I tanned and there was absolutely no p showing on me?
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Want to serve in military. But. Have two conditions
1. Svt lasting free min resolved and its 10 yea ago. No recurrence. 10 yrs ago.
2. Depression , thought was adjustment disorder. Resolved with brief meds no recurrence since.
Will these be PDQ for navy? If so will waivers work? If none, could i try other branches? I am in medical side by profession. Thanks -
USAF wannabe,
Psoriasis is DQ. It is a systemic disease, and can cause significant problems later in life. Waiver is possible, but unlikely. -
Hi Doc,
I’m being fitted for orthotics this week for overpronation in my right foot. I enlisted in August before this issue came up, so MEPS is not aware.
I was being fitted for shoes a few weeks ago and the store noticed the overpronation and suggested that I talk to a podiatrist about orthotics. He agreed and also suggested the orthotics to correct it.
Do you know what I will need to provide and whether or not I’ll have an issue shipping on time? I have less than two months to go.
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Thomas,
Orthotics are not DQ, as long as they are not prescribed for an underlying functional problem, like pain or inability to wear normal (or military) footgear. Flat feet and over pronation are common, but usually not problematic. -
I had a rhinoplasty procedure done in 2010. It was an elective cosmetic procedure that had no medical basis(I had no breathing problems and no cysts were removed or anything.
It was an outpatient procedure, I had no complications, and I have healed fine. I have just put in my paperwork along with my medical report. I want to know if this will prevent me from going to meps?
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Anonymous,
Rhinoplasty is not DQ. -
Ok here’s the new list because my last where my assumptions…. At 12 I had bromchospasms and had to use an inhaler for 2-3 months…not a problem anymore….I took retina for acne……I got 2 hernia surgeries at 15….and i get high blood pressure when I eat a lot of salt
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Travis,
You need to get your medical conditions addressed by your doctor, and then concentrate on doing well in school, getting physically fit, and staying out of legal trouble. At 15 years old, you have 3 more years before you can enlist, and medical fitness standards are always evolving. You will wind up making yourself crazy over things that may not even be relevant in 3 years. Study hard, keep your nose clean, and take care of your health. Then when you are actually ready to enlist, sit down with a real live recruiter and go over your options. -
hey, last April I broke my femur and had a metal rod and 3 screws placed in it. now I’ve always wanted to join the usmc, but they won’t take me with the metal, if I get it removed will they take me?
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Harold Naulty,
Retained hardware is only DQ if it is painful or interferes with function. If it doesn’t bother you, and a physician can’t feel any protrusions from where it is attached, you are fine. Don’t have it removed just to get into the military. Submit your records, current x-rays that show the hardware is not broken or displaced, and you should be good to go. -
I was diagnosed with depression when I was an adolescent and put on medication. Now that I look back on it, I know for a fact the depression was linked to issues that I was having at school and at home. However, I was only taken off the medication 2 years ago despite not being depressed for about 3 years prior to that. (Probably due to the fact that my psychiatrist wasn’t a very good one, and I moved states.) To sum it up, I have been depression free for 5 years, off meds for 2 years. What are my chances?
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Fiona,
If you were treated for more than 2 years, and have been off medication for less than 3, I doubt a waiver will be granted. -
NAVY DOC hello
i had got a ELS from the air force with an re-code 2c fjy “adjustment disorder” i was eating way more then i needed to at chow an using the latrine frequently it was a mind thing i jus felt the need to fill my hunger the max .I wrote a personal letter an got a clearence letter from a psychotrist also a character letter from a sailor who’s in the medical department of the navy.I see my navy recruiter tuesday also with the 3 letter an going to try to get a wavier what are your thoughts cause im clearly physically fit an mentally fit ! im also going to share the letter that ive wrote
Dear , Sir Or Ma’am
Hello i Hope your having a Safe/Blessed day! . My name is Bobby Spence Jr i am 21 years of age i’m an applicant for THE WORLDS GREASTEST NAVY !. What ive wrote you today is sincere for im a God fearing young man an if had the chance to express verbely im sure integrity would be felt indeed more greatly then what i
ve wrote . I was raised upon interest an destiny to become one day a man of honor. Since knowing the pride an experiences an loyalty the military brought from being a child ” Increased me wanting to serve & give service before self as being my goal” . I was enlisted in the US AIR FORCE an it was a great an moment to even enlist.I took for granted the eating choices an wasnt eating properly an over dueing eating at chow.Basically eating as if i was at home “Hot dog , Hamburger an special k cearel an yogort “all at once- that would most likely summerize the results of what was on my tray for chow. After eating on a “FULL”stomach an hydrating i would utilize the latrine.If i would of ate smarter by wisdom an not by greed i would of been still in the air force this very day.I had recieved a Adjustment disorder “mental discharge” an a Re-code 2C an i with the integrity i have i certeinly know that from the greed and choices i made i deserved the conseqences that i recieved !.I have grown more maturer to understand that if i need to proceed to accomplish my goals i surely wouldnt think twice about greed but more about service .Cause im wise to know poor judgement can have a major impact on our live’s but helping others an wise choices can bleed joy for a lifetime.When i did have insurance an now that i dont have any-i havent by the Grace of God been to the hospital for any negative medical reason of any sort.My Mothers job ended in feb 2010 with 21 years of labor the USDA so there was no longer medical insurance provided for home, but its a Blessing as i once stated i havent been checked in any hospital or etc. Since i run an stay working out to stay fit an pray its been my nutrition to stay focus an continue to thrive to be more then what ive image to be. Im mentality an physically fit an will be proud to express my capabilities to thoes whom may be willing to believe in me to show an reach the standards or greater for the THE WORLDS GREATEST NAVY.I would be Greatly proud One day to lead others an live by one of the greatest traditions the US NAVY offers along with sacrafise which to protect an serve the american way of life an thoes who plead for freedom around the world domestic an abroad an that tradition is “Honor”…Thank you Sir or Ma’am
Sincerely : Bobby Spence Jr.
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Dear Sir or Ma’am,
I am 29 years old, prior service Master at Arms. I have been out for five years, and I’m about to complete my bachelors in May and would like to re-enlist, or go OCS. My question is this, during my first tour when I was 21 years old I was diagnosed with situational depression, and was hospitalized after being physically abused by my then fiance who was also an active duty sailor and subsequently attempted suicide.
None of my injuries sustained during these incidences caused any long term damage to my physical health. The abusive fiance was arrested and put on 35 days restriction with a temporary restraining order
I was not issued any meds, and after a psych evaluation while still active, I was deemed fit for full duty and could return to my duties as a police officer and carry a fire-arm.
I went on to complete my enlistment was even granted a secret clearance after. I was honorably discharged and from there enlisted in the USN Reserves.
From the reserves I was separated with an HHJ – Unsuitability (Reason Unknown)code, and re-entry upon grant of a waiver. This separation was due to unsatisfactory performance (not enough drills)
My question is, do I have to go back through the recruiting process and MEPS and if so can I be granted a waiver or will I be permanently disqualified for my situational depression. Most recently I have taken wellbutrin for anxiety and to quit smoking due to a nasty divorce. Other than this I am perfectly healthy and fit. Thank you for your time.
Very Respectfully
woody45
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Pushingforsuccess,
At this time, the services are not granting waivers for prior service members. -
Woody45,
The combination of a history of suicide attempt, recent anxiety and wellbutrin use, and history of depression make your chances for waiver unlikely. -
Navy Doc
Many people i know thats prior service have been getting waivers.Some Got ELS an entered another branch 6 to 8 months later.Im glossary prior service.was told what i Got ELS for i may have a chance maybe
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The Army an etc defines “prior service” as any applicant with more than 180 days of military service, or those who graduated from military job-training (MOS/AFSC/Rating), regardless of time-in-service. Individuals with less than 180 days of military service, and/or those who have not completed military job-training are classified as “Glossary Prior Service,” and are processed the same as non-prior service recruits, with the exception that they must have a qualifying RE Code (or receive a waiver) on their DD Form 214.
was just told this !
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If not why would a recruiter waste his time trying to help with all due respect ?
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Thats true cause with all due honesty i have seen re-code waivers… I assume anything is possible depending on the situation of the cause !
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WHAT A RECRUITER JUST SENT ME :
Navy-Recruiter Wenatchee-WaLet me re read that section to get a better under standing. I’ll get back to you.
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14 hours agoNavy-Recruiter Wenatchee-WaOkay as I read you have a shot to come in on to the navy. how ever it requires a waiver as a RE-2*. If it was a RE-1 you should have not problem.
So with this said I need to see your DD FORM214 and you in person as well.This is if your in the local area.
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INELIGIBLE TO REENLIST “”"WITHOUT A COMNAVCRUITCOM WAIVER”"”
NAVY & USCG “”"RE-2*”"”, RE-3, RE-3B, RE-3E, RE-3F, RE-3G, RE-3H, RE-3J, RE-3K, RE-3M, RE-3P, RE-3Q, RE-3R, RE-3S, RE-3U, RE-3X, RE-3Y, RE-3Z, RE-6, RE-8
AIR FORCE RE-1A, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4F, 4G, 4H,4I, 4J, 4K, 4L, 4M, 4N
ARMY RE-3, RE-3B
MARINE CORPS RE-3B, RE-3C, RE-3D, RE-3E, RE-3F, RE-3G, RE-3H, RE-3J, RE-3M, RE-3N, RE-3P, RE-3R, RE-3S, RE-3U,Thats air force re-code 2c not an navy re-code 2c AN the 2c is not eligible unless granted a waiver ! i will jus wait an see cause GOD works in mysterious ways so it may or may not but only the people or OFFICER at meps to say with all due respect cause im told more postive things then negative about my chances an the case isnt even legit to not be granted a waiver
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Hi, my name is Anthony I’m 20 years old. I want to join the navy and get out of here ASAP. My goal was to get my associates degree first which I’m about to recieve in two months. However i have a somewhat of a leaky valve. I have talked to my doctors about my decision and they have told me that I am 100 percent healthy and that their should be no issue with me joining the navy. I know that it is not up to them to make my decision, which stresses me out. Would I be able to pass a physical and meet the requirements, even of I have a document from all my doctors ?
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Pushing,
I have seen many RE code waivers over the years. However, none of the services are giving them NOW. Recruitment is up, the military is downsizing, and the services are able to pick the cream of the crop from applicants. In addition to needing an RE code waiver, you are going to need a medical one as well. Right now, the services are turning away people who don’t need any waivers; you already had the opportunity to serve, and you failed.By all means, have your recruiter send up your DD 214 for waiver consideration, but I strongly recommend you start working on a Plan B.
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Hi,
I am a junior in high school and I am highly interested in joining the navy and possibly applying for the NROTC Scholarship…the only problem is that when I was a baby I had cataracts which was removed, causing glaucoma. As long as I take my eye drops my pressures are fine and I can do anything that any of my peers do. Besides, I don’t plan on going into combat anyways (I’d like to go into meteorology). Iknow I would need a waiver, but would their be any chance of my acceptance; and would making good grades, achieving Eagle Scout, and working, etc. have any affect on the result. I was actually considering writing a letter to the Chief of Navy Operations(sometimes persistance and going to the top could work), because my local recruiter said they wouldn’t even let me have a waiver. Please let me know what my chances are….Thanks! -
Ryan,
Glaucoma is not waiverable. -
Hey Navydoc,
I want to enlist in the Seabees after I get out of college, but i’ve been diagnosed with arthritis in my left ankle. It swells after to much use and I limp when I run. Can I get a waiver for that? -
Twisterchaser,
No, arthritis and limping are both DQ and not waiverable. -
My son was already nominated by our Congressman to the US Naval Academy and will enter July 2012. But the Medical review board told him that his disqualify due to his food allergy (un cook vegetables and some fruits). Is he qualify for a waiver?
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i had an eye lens put into my eye when i was 10 im [f-word] fine! would i be able to get a waiver; i very healthy adn iv been enrolled and been to boot camps through the sea cadet program so i should be able to get waived away rite doc
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in time of a draft im sure they would waive it!
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My son is interested in enlisting. He has one kidney (congenital) that has no affected his health in any way. Is this waiverable?
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Hello,
Does an arachnoid cyst in the temporal lobe require a waiver for SEAL qualifications if the individual shows no signs or symptoms from the cyst and has a negative neurologic exam?
Thank you,
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Jocelyn,
Ultimately it will depend on how severe the reaction, and how many foods he is allergic to. Medical waivers for the academies are more difficult to get than other medical waivers. -
Paul,
You are correct that more medical conditions are given a pass during a draft. Since the vast majority of today’s applicants were not even alive during the last draft, let along eligible for it, they don’t comprehend the difference between then and today’s all volunteer force. Rigth now, the military can afford to be choosey, just like all employers are theses days, and thus the medical fitness standards are more strictly enforced to ensure the fittest fighting force possible.That being said, I have seen waivers for intraocular lens implants, provided you don’t have underlying gluacoma, retinal degeneration or other ocular pathology, and the reason you required the implants in the first place.
Sorry it’s just knowing they will drop you for something that is totally irreverent with my present gives me anxiety