Here’s my story and I hope to get some advice or help other who want the same thing. I had an honorable discharge in 1994 from the Army. I am married to an active duty Marine and have two kids. I’ve been working for the Gov’t for over 9 years and have traveled to every duty station with my husband and relocated my job lots of times. I currently work for the Marine Corps here in Ca.
I had gastric bypass 3 years ago. My weight was 250 at the time. I had no problems prior to my surgery and has never had a problem post-op. I had my surgery done at a VA Hospital. I have also been doing research on the Army and its medical procedures. Do you know they have done 33 cases themselves? Preformed gastric bypass on their own (Active Duty)? I called his hospital and got conformation. They are also launching a pilot program for active duty members who want this surgery. I know according to the Army Reg 40-501 that this is a DQ. But, I’m hoping to change some minds about this surgery. I feel that it should be judged case by case. I’m working on getting all my medical records/letters and endorsement letters as well. I serve my military everyday at work and would like very much to serve it in uniform one last time. I will keep everyone updated on my progress and maybe you too can give me some advice.

See my reply to your duplicate post in the Hot Topics Forum.

BLUF: Enlistment standards are not the same as retention standards. Prior-service applicants must meet enlistment standards all over again, and they are found in AR 40-501, Chapter TWO. (Retention Standards are in Chapter THREE.)

I had more than one prior service applicant fail the physical at MEPS.

I remember one was for hearing loss. He'd served in the infantry in the Army. I told him to visit the local VA, and see about a service connected disability claim for hearing loss.