My son has a food allergy, peanuts and shellfish. Will this disqualify him from enlisting in the Marine Corps?

Cpl Jay Wells — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 08:06:56 -0400

He's already talked to Marine recruiter and is really looking forward to enlisting in the Marine Corps

Response by COL Randall C. made Oct 28 at 2022 8:15 AM

COL Randall C. — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 08:15:01 -0400

Yes, it can.

Because the military will often deploy individuals in areas with limited food options, if you have a lasting food allergy (as opposed to a temporary one) it is considered a disqualifying medical condition.

Like all things, it can be waived, but will have to be examined in depth to determine how serious and pervasive it is.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Oct 28 at 2022 10:13 AM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 10:13:24 -0400

Depending on severity he may be ok. Red dog tags are used to identify those with allergies so it's not unheard of for Marines to serve with allergies to certain things. The recruiters may need to walk through a waiver and can answer all your questions.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2022 11:11 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 11:11:08 -0400

Did he disclose those allergies to the recruiter? I suggest he does if he has not already done so.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Oct 29 at 2022 11:31 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Sat, 29 Oct 2022 11:31:47 -0400

He should seek a different line of work. If he wants to serve our Country, I recommend applying for a civil service job where his allergies can be better controlled State and local government jobs also provide opportunities to serve.