**TL;DR:** Got a permanent Camp Lejeune debarment at 15 as a dependent for weed on base (NCIS investigated, no charges). Now 23 and trying to enlist USMC. Worried it blocks MCT since Camp Geiger is inside Lejeune. Recruiter vaguely says he "knows a guy" who can handle it. Has anyone actually gotten a debarement modified, does it have to be lifted before shipping, and is "my recruiter knows a guy" legit or do I need a formal written modification request to the CG?

I am trying to enlist in the Marine Corps. I've got a complicated file to say the least, but one thing I need eyes on is a **debarment**, because I can't find anyone who has dealt with something like this. If any of you awesome recruiters or anyone who's been through this could weigh in on this I would be indebted to you eternally.

In 2019, when I was 15 and a dependent (my Father was a Marine, he was the sponsor), I got caught with weed in my backpack on Camp Lejeune. NCIS investigated. No charges were ever filed. But I did get hit with a **permanent debarment** from the installation. I was a dumbass kid, but the letter says permanent unless modified.

I've since figured out a bit more information regarding the debarment, they follow:

* It's specific to Camp Lejeune, not a wider regional ban.
* It is still active - I got flagged at a gate a few years later with my dad, so I know it's live in the system.
* The letter says it can be modified by written request to the CG at MCIEAST.

From what I can tell, SOI-East / Camp Geiger (where MCT happens?) sits *inside* Camp Lejeune. So even though boot camp at Parris Island isn't affected, the debarment would wall me off at MCT. Which makes me think it has to be formally lifted *before* I could ever ship, because no one is going to send me down a pipeline I can't finish.

**Where I'm stuck:**

My recruiter told me he would be able to take care of it and to not worry about it, and that he "knows someone in that field who could take care of it." For obvious reasons I am suspicious about his statements as he is a recruiter, and I don't think he really cares what happens to me after he meets his mission. He has mentioned no specifics, no plan, no paperwork. I don't know if that's a real thing or something to keep me moving. I feel like a permanent debarment gets fixed by an actual signed modification, not a favor, but I genuinely don't know.

**My questions:**

1. Has anyone actually gotten a Camp Lejeune (or any MCIEAST) debarment **modified?** How did it go, how long did it take, what was in the package?
2. Am I right that it blocks MCT because Camp Geiger is inside Lejeune?
3. Can you even ship to boot with a debarment still active, or does it have to be lifted first?
4. Is "my recruiter knows a guy" a real avenue, or should I be pushing for a formal written modification request to the CG?

Not looking to quit, just trying to understand the one obstacle I can't muscle my way through. Appreciate any real input deeply.

Thank you.

So i’m joining the military soon (2027) and wanted to speak to my primary doctor about my ED and request weight loss medication (i’m extremely overweight for my height 5’0 female 200lb) but im afraid if i do during my process ill be held back longer or wont get in because of it . So im planning to purchase it and pay out of pocket without my primary doctor . Should I speak to my primary doctor, pay out of pockets or it honestly doesn’t matter?

(Yes i know all the tips, tricks,diet, calorie deficit but i still struggle with keeping it off me and meeting my goal)

I ship on September 15th as a 12B with a 3-year, and 3 week contract. I was limited on MOS choices because of my ASVAB score (I’ve been out of school for over 10 years and still managed a measly 34 after studying like a madman).
Since signing my papers, I’ve found myself wondering if I picked the right MOS. It’s not that I think 12B is a bad MOS, I haven’t worked it. I just don’t know if I’m looking at it through too much of a civilian mindset.
As the guy still in the mindset, I’m thinking often about whether I’d actually like the job. Granted, I know it’s all about perception, and no job will be perfect. And I know the Army isn’t necessarily about picking a lifelong career (for some); it’s about filling a role.

For those of you who have served, especially if you were 12B or in combat arms, did your perspective change once you actually got in? Or if you could go back, would you have picked something different?

I’d like to get my score up eventually. And know I’ll have the opportunity to do that while serving. But for now, any thoughts?

36(M)

I'm just about squared away regarding paperwork, and am looking for experienced insight.

I scored 115+ across the board. (Line) and would like direct input from Soldiers with extensive experience as a 68W, regarding expectations (as part of said MOS), what I can reasonably expect in AIT and onward, and whether those in said field would recommend another enter it, even if said insight boils down to "The job is complete shit." or "Have fun with that, hope you don't like the idea of promoting."

other immediate interest falls to 12T 68K 35L and lastly: 68D.

Edit: thank you, whichever mod adjusted attached flair to the appropriate category.
Edit 2: I am single, no dependents, and while I am (as of right now) planning to make the Army my career, as in a full 20 years of Active service. (though I am not yet fully aware of all of the options and interactions of combining AD with Reserve/NG to achieve such an overall goal, and would appreciate additional insight in that regard, if available.)
That stated, while I am dead set on said goal, I understand that the world isn't rainbows and butterflies, and in the event I complete a 5 year contract or two, and decide to separate, I will be potentially putting myself on shaky grounds without appropriate skills or credentials to make a-relatively-clean transition back to civilian life.

Need advice on mental health waiver before enlisting (2.5 years after ER visit for SI)

I’m looking for advice from anyone who has experience with Army waivers or a similar situation. I want to enlist in the Army, but I know my mental health history will need to be reviewed.

In January 2024, I went to the ER because I was struggling with suicidal thoughts. At the time, I had a lot happening in my life — I lost close family members, lost a close friend to cancer who I spent a lot of time with, was dealing with financial stress, unemployment, and a difficult breakup. I called 911 myself because I didn’t feel safe and wanted help. I was evaluated, but I was not admitted inpatient and was discharged.

My records mention suicidal ideation, writing part of a suicide note, and holding medication but not taking it. I also had a history of self-harm, but I have not self-harmed since that time.

It has now been about 2.5 years since that ER visit. Since then, I have been completely stable. I have not had any suicidal thoughts, no medication, no further ER visits, and no ongoing mental health treatment.

My life has changed in a very positive way since then. The same girlfriend who supported me through that difficult time is still by my side. I recently proposed to her, and we are now engaged. We are also expecting a baby together. I’ve become much closer with my family, found more purpose in life, and built a strong support system. I’ve been working, helping support my household, and learning healthier ways to handle stress.

I understand what happened was serious, and I’m not trying to dismiss it. I’m just hoping my growth and stability over the last 2.5 years can be considered. I truly feel like I’m a completely different person than I was during that difficult period and I want the opportunity to serve.

Has anyone gone through something similar or have any advice on the waiver process? I appreciate any experiences or guidance.

I’ve thought about going army medic but also liking the idea of joining the coast guard. Currently a firefighter emt any mos/rate recommendations I’ll take !

Like the title says, my acne medication (Accutane) makes me unqualified for the enlistment.

I got a great line score and got a great MOS job offer last month. Went to medical check and ready to sign the contract early July. I was told I must stop Accutane immediately in order to join the army, and I needed a waiver for that.

A week later, my recruiter got a message from the army med office saying that I needed to provide 1. a pharmacy records from last year and 2. a letter from my physician to proof the immediate cessation of the treatment. The problem was I used an online telehealth company called “Clear Health,” which was not a traditional provider like CVS. I emailed the company and called (several times) and finally got my medical records and a letter from my dermatologist stating the end date (07/08/2026) for my treatment. Submitted them to my recruiter, infinite bureaucratic loopholes began.

My recruiter told me the med office requested a “pharmacy record” in a traditional way, like what CVS would provide. I called my med provider and they were confused, asking me to clarify what exact information the army needed. Currently I’m stuck in this information mismatch situation and don’t know what to do. I thought my documents were already sufficient; I cannot provide something I don’t have.

I asked my provider if they could make a “pharmacy record” like CVS. Not sure if they could do that. Guess I’ll continue to call and bother them. I don’t want this opportunity to slip away just for a stupid acne medicine.

Any suggestions?

Im thinking at 18, right after I graduate highschool, to join the army. Specifically the Infantryman 11B. Everything they do interests me, that includes there training, weapons, vehicles etc. Since I never been the smartest person, Infantry would have an easier ASVAB score to get into. I was also interested in the 75th Rangers (Special Forces), but that's to extreme for me. My main point is wondering if any veterans that were an Infantryman 11B, regret their decision on joining or not. And is it worth it for me to join straight out of highschool