So what does this all entail?

I know for me, I've had to have an upper GI with Bravo testing, I had to get dietary notes, medical records & psychiatric testing & report done & a letter stating I'm stable from a psychologist.

It really depends. I had blood work, a barium swallow, a cardiac work up with stress test, a psych evaluation and 6 months of supervised nutrition counseling. My bypass should be next month.

Right now I passed the pre op physical where the did the ekg. Now I am just waiting on approval from my insurance and then final decision appointment with the surgeon and nutritionist. Assuming My surgery will be the end of January sometime

Shame you can't wear a dress uniform, there is nothing more handsome than a Marine in full dress unless it would be a spotted Calf, believe I would still prefer a Marine, you are housebroken, whereas the Spotted calf- A loud noise at one end, no sense of responsibility at the other!
So happy the days are growing shorter toward your Surgical Day of Days. I expect only good results from you and your surgery!

My goal is to fit back into it

And I believe you shall! I may not have said it before, but Thank You for your service!