I'm 16, and have always had a desire to be in the military. It has always just felt like the right path for me. However, when I went to speak to my recruiting office, they told me that they didn't think that LapBanders could join any branch of the military. I asked them if they were sure, and they said not really, but wouldn't even look it up.

I was just wondering if anyone had any more info on the subject. I'm looking more towards Navy, Army, and Nat Guard. I'm not exactly cut out for the Marines or anything lol.

Hey Andy. Congratulations on your decision to explore a military job. It's a very rewarding way of life. I was in the Navy for 20 years, and really enjoyed it.

If you are considering going in the service, DO NOT have any kind of bariatric surgery! According to the Tricare website (the medical insurance for people in the military, dependents, or veterans) if you have had weight loss surgery you are not eligible to enlist. This information is copied directly from the Tricare website:

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Note for Active Duty Service Members: Bariatric surgery represents a major and permanent change in your digestive system that requires strict adherence to a specific dietary regimen that may interfere with operational deployment. A history of bariatric surgery is already a bar to military service and receiving bariatric surgery while on active duty may be grounds for separation. For more information, view the Health Affairs Policy 07-006.

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The Health Affairs link above displays a letter that very clearly states that if you have bariatric surgery, you are not eligible for military service. There have been others here who have had surgery first, then been disappointed to find out they can't get into the service because they had the surgery. So you'll need to lose weight through more conventional means.

Wishing you the best, no matter what path you choose. Good luck!

Dave