Thank you, while I have the experience that he needs with the maps and compass and such, I am sure I can help him with that part. The pt ought to be simple enough for him (we found the requirements for recon and I aced that, and he's 5 years younger than me). Another Question I have is about me. I have been thinking about joining, But I have a GED (plus about 35 hours of college credit) and criminal record, as well as a family to support (my biggest reason for joining). Could I be taken seriously or will it just be a waste of everyone's time.

Originally Posted by makiwara

Originally he was going for RECON but it looks like he his going for fire support Something or other, where when there is a battle he gets dropped in alone, makes his way toward the fight, then engages and calls in artillery and air support; I think.

I can Proudly say, that was my MOS, 13 Foxtrot Fire Support Specialilst or Forward Observer. I was trained at USMC Artillery School Fort Sill, O.K. {Yes, that Marine school is on an Army base, we trained side by side with the Marines).

First let me tell you that there are about 4 or 5 levels of 13F., depending on your rank and years of experience. Also, let me tell you that your brother will need a security clearance, Top Secret at the Advanced levels.

Because of the Secrecy of the position I will refer you to what is public knowledge. Just do a google for "Fire Support Specialist" or military MOS 13 Foxtrot.

Best of Luck

Originally Posted by Mike Brewer

Makiwara -
It depends on what your criminal record was for. If it was a crime of violence, or if you are a felon, then you may fall under the Lautenberg Act, meaning you are not allowed to own or possess a firearm. If that's the case, the military will generally not take you. However, I've seen felons who served time for non-violent offenses (it's the non-violent that's important) get a waiver and be allowed to join. Generally speaking, your crimes would have had to have been non-violent, and non-drug related from what I understand. If you're seriously considering it, ask the recruiters about Lautenberg, and tell them that because of it, you may not qualify. They'll be able to tell you if you can get a waiver or not.

Other than that, with a GED and some college, you're doing great!

My record is two misdemeaner pot charges about 6 years ago, and an arrest on a speeding violation. I don't have any violence on my record. I plan on talking to the recruiter soon, I just want to wait until he gets out of boot camp before I go in (don't want to steal his thunder and what not).
Thank you (and hardball) for your info I greatly appreciate it.

Originally Posted by makiwara

My record is two misdemeaner pot charges about 6 years ago, and an arrest on a speeding violation. I don't have any violence on my record. I plan on talking to the recruiter soon, I just want to wait until he gets out of boot camp before I go in (don't want to steal his thunder and what not).
Thank you (and hardball) for your info I greatly appreciate it.

No problem. Are you running? You will need the wind in the Marines or Army.

Originally Posted by Hardball

No problem. Are you running? You will need the wind in the Marines or Army.

I was running with my brother before he went in, but I've had a cold that I can't seem to shake the last week or so.

Originally Posted by Mike Brewer

If it's just a head cold, run anyway. Stop if it's a chest cold.

Yeah I keep coughing stuff up. I figure if I'm not better by monday I'll go see the doc in the box.