Aging Tatooed prior, do I have a chance at OCS/Aviation?
Hello all,
I'm pretty new to this site and wanted to start off by thanking everyone because I have already learned a whole lot from reading these forums. Well I just wanted to get some opinions from some of you who were in a similar position as I am or know someone who has. My goal is to get accepted into Marine Corps OCS with an Air contract. But, there are a few challenges I face. Here's my background:
Just turned 28 yrs old
4 years prior active duty service
Earned B.A while still enlisted
GPA 2.8
Lots of volunteer activities (community service, volunteer firefighter, etc.)
I have not taken the ASTB or PFT yet.
I have spoken to my local OSO and she stated that for one, I would have to get an age waiver. She also stated that this may not be too difficult due to my prior service, but the bigger hurdle for me would be a tattoo waiver. I have "quarter sleeves" on both arms. Nothing offensive, but the tattoos come out of the sleeves of a pt shirt about 1 to 1 1/2 inches. You can not see them at all with a short sleeve uniform shirt on. She said a tattoo waiver may be possible but not promised. Is this true? Do I have a chance? Are the tattoo policies that strict and make it impossible or would it all depend on the rest of my package? Also, if I do get waivers for the tattoos, would my age be a problem? Is it true that my prior service and the rest of my package may help me out? What is the max age that a waiver can be given for for a candidate with prior service?
I am already studying for the ASTB and physically training for the PFT. I know I will do fine on both. I just wanted know if I have a chance or not because of the age and tatoo issues. What can I do at this point to help out my chances? Any advice would greatly be appreciated. I would be honored to have a chance to become a commissioned officer and would hate for a thing like my tattoos or age to get in the way.
Sorry for the loooong thread but I wanted to be as complete as possible and also maybe find out a thing or two that my OSO hasn't told me. Thanks again in advance for any info.