OFFICER Recruiting only?
I'm thinking about applying for Direct Commission, probably Navy Reserve, but maybe Army Psyops. My degree was in linguistics, and I have four years operational military intelligence and targeting experience.
I served six years, enlisted, on Active Duty, including two tours (27 months total) in Iraq. I am now a drilling member of the National Guard. I have some breathing issues (shortness of breath and persistent cough) dating back to my time in Iraq. We were located right next to an oil refinery and also had the usual trash burning pits and sand storms. I have documentation in my medical records as to what we were exposed to and how much. So far, all that has been determined is that it's not reactive asthma (basic pulmonary function test normal.)
I'm still going through the process at the VA to diagnose and treat the problem. I also have sinus tachycardia (EKG normal/regular, no physical abnormality from Echocardiogram), which I also attribute to service in the Middle East.
I do not take meds for any of the above, and while they have slowed down my PT tests, I still pass them.
If the VA determines these things are combat-related, will I still not be able to pass the MEPS physical for officer accession? Or are there no or limited exceptions for combat service related health issues?