Can Felons Join The Military: 7 Things To Know

The military can be a great career path for many individuals, offering a chance to serve their country, develop valuable skills, and gain experience. However, for those with a felony record, the process of joining the military can be more complex. Can felons join the military? The answer is not a simple yes or no. In this article, we will explore the possibilities and limitations of felons joining the military, and what you need to know before applying.

Historically, the military has been a path for individuals to turn their lives around and start anew. However, the military also has strict standards and requirements for enlistment. A felony conviction can be a significant obstacle for those who want to join the military. In this article, we will delve into the details of how felons can join the military, and what the process entails.

Understanding the Military's Felony Policy

The military's felony policy is governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). The UCMJ outlines the types of offenses that are considered felons, and the consequences of such offenses. When it comes to enlistment, the military takes a holistic approach, considering the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding the conviction, and the individual's overall character.

Types of Felonies

Not all felonies are created equal. Some felonies are considered more serious than others, and may be automatically disqualifying for military service. These include:

Violent crimes, such as murder, rape, and assault
Crimes involving the use of a firearm
Crimes involving the sale or distribution of controlled substances
Crimes involving the use of a motor vehicle while under the influence

Waivers and Exceptions

While a felony conviction can be a significant obstacle, it is not always a guarantee of rejection. In some cases, the military may grant a waiver or exception, allowing an individual to enlist despite their felony record. These waivers are typically granted on a case-by-case basis, and require the individual to meet certain requirements.

Requirements for a Waiver

To be eligible for a waiver, an individual must meet certain requirements. These include:

The offense must be a non-violent felony
The individual must have completed their sentence, including any probation or parole
The individual must have a good character reference from a community leader or mentor
The individual must demonstrate a commitment to rehabilitation and a desire to serve in the military

The Application Process

If an individual with a felony record is interested in joining the military, they must follow the standard application process. This includes:

Meeting with a recruiter to discuss their qualifications and eligibility
Completing the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
Passing a physical fitness test
Providing documentation of their felony conviction and completion of their sentence
Submitting a waiver request, if necessary

Challenges and Limitations

While it is possible for felons to join the military, there are challenges and limitations to consider. These include:

Limited career options: Individuals with a felony record may be limited in their career choices within the military.
Security clearance: Felons may have difficulty obtaining a security clearance, which is required for many military positions.
Deployment: Felons may be limited in their deployment options, as some countries may not allow individuals with a felony record to enter their borders.

Success Stories

Despite the challenges and limitations, many individuals with a felony record have successfully joined the military and gone on to have successful careers. These individuals have demonstrated a commitment to rehabilitation and a desire to serve their country.

Conclusion

Can felons join the military? The answer is yes, but it is not a simple process. Individuals with a felony record must meet certain requirements, and may need to obtain a waiver or exception. While there are challenges and limitations to consider, many individuals have successfully joined the military and gone on to have successful careers.