Can You Re-enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) After a Medical Discharge?

Introduction

The ability to re-enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) after a medical discharge due to active duty is far from straightforward. It largely depends on the nature and extent of the medical issue that led to your discharge. This article delves into the various scenarios and factors that influence this process, providing guidance on what you need to do to potentially re-enlist.

Understanding Militarily Temporarily Detrimental to Duty (MTD)

A medical discharge can be categorized as temporarily or permanently detrimental to duty. Temporarily MTD conditions can be reconsidered and it may be possible to re-enlist, provided all medical issues have been resolved successfully. Common conditions include shin splints, Osgood-Schlatter disease, and other musculoskeletal injuries that can be managed and resolved with appropriate treatment.

The process involves:

Thorough Medical Evaluation: You need to consult with your doctors and submit comprehensive medical records, showing that your condition has been resolved. Documentation: Collect all relevant medical documentation, including any recent physicals or doctors' statements certifying your fitness for duty. Application Process: Submit your application through the proper channels and adhere to the guidelines provided by the USMC.

Reserve Component and Medical Discharges

If you have a history of active duty in the reserves and were previously certified for active duty, it might serve your best interest to explore re-enlisting in the reserves. Reserves often have different mechanisms for accommodating those with medical discharges, and your previous military experience can be of great value.

For instance, Bill G, a Senior Sergeant (SSgt) with 14 years of service, fought long and hard to remain in the reserves. His medical condition (now resolved) served as a reminder that medical discharges don't always make re-enlistment impossible. Despite his long-term commitment, his condition required significant advocacy to ensure his continued service.

Similarly, Ken G from the Air Force faced a similar challenge. His situation highlights the struggle that is often encountered when trying to return to active duty, especially if it involves overcoming a pre-existing medical condition.

Waivers and Recruiters' Role

In some cases, a waiver may be necessary to overcome a previous medical discharge. However, this process can be extremely challenging. You will have to:

Surrender VA Benefits: You would need to relinquish all your VA benefits as part of the waiver process. Prove Medical Resolution: Provide definitive evidence that the medical issue has been resolved and will not recur. Timed Waiver Process: The entire process may take a considerable amount of time, during which you would not receive any benefits.

The distinction between temporary and permanent MTD conditions is crucial. Conditions that are deemed temporary may have more favourable outcomes compared to those considered permanently debilitating.

Opportunities for STEM Graduates

Individuals with specific skills, such as those with a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degree, may find that the US Air Force (USAF) or other branches are more interested in their re-enlistment. If your skills are in high demand, there may be more flexibility in considering your case.

However, if you are a typical enlisted individual without a specialized skill set, re-enlistment may be more challenging. In such cases, it's essential to explore other branches or reserve options before applying to the USMC.

Conclusion

The process of re-enlisting after a medical discharge is complex and can be fraught with challenges. While it is possible to re-enlist, it is not a given. Many factors come into play, including the nature of your medical condition, your ability to provide compelling evidence of recovery, and the availability of medical waivers.

It is important to consult with military recruiters and medical professionals to understand your specific situation fully. The path to re-enlistment may involve several steps, but with thorough preparation and support, it is possible to achieve your goal of returning to active duty.