[Feb 04, 97 - 23:33] Lucia Jameson of 1:110/1035 wrote to All:
LJ> I just thought I would post some info we received from the local Army 
LJ> recruiter regarding the use of ritalin, dexidrine, etc by an individual 
and 
LJ> its relationship to acceptance for enlistment in any of the military 
LJ> services.
LJ> In a nutshell, if an individual has taken any of these medicines after 
the 
LJ> age of 12, he/she is automatically disqualified from military service.  
LJ> These meds are considered mind altering drugs by the services.
I had my son's Jr. ROTC instructor contact the local recruiting office, and 
they in turn checked with their sources.  The information we got was not the 
same as what you heard.  We were told that the individual must not be on 
medications at the time they apply; and that if necessary they will be 
evaluated by the Army for medical fitness; but there was nothing about the 
age of 12.  My son is currently 16, and the 1st Sergeant knows he has his 
heart set on joining the army.
It sounds to me as though there is no set policy and various recruiting 
locations are making it up as they go along. 
Jerry Schwartz
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