enlisting as marine or army IEDD

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assuming fitness and other qualifiers, would a high functioning/aspergers diagnosis prevent me from joining the marines or army and training as an IEDD or EOD?

If it’s on your medical records then yes they wont even consider taking you.

I’ve tried multiple branches. It’s a DOD policy
Unfortunately

I was in a relationship with a young lady who I believe was an undiagnosed aspie. Later on, she joined the military, but back then ASD (apart from diagnosed, more-or-less obvious symptoms) was probably not something they would have looked for (plus the military was having some trouble attracting recruits at that time). I have often wondered if she would have had trouble had she tried to enlist nowadays.

The military can be extremely chaotic and unpredictable. Not to mention loud.

I was nearly tossed out after getting DXed with ASD.

If you live outside the country that everyone assume you live in, there are options.

However, have you checked if you are cut out for that type of life? Do that before applying for such a job.

If you like in United States, you can apply for a waiver at MEPS

Waivers are not always granted. Sometimes



Other countries have different official policies

I spent over 10 years in the Army, as a forward observer (13F E-6) and later became a Warrant Officer (153A rotary wing aviator), then spent another 3 years as a DoD contractor at the Army SERE School. I was not diagnosed until after I was out. However, it was the perfect environment for me. Tons of structure, I didn't have to think about what to eat, wear, etc. Social expectations were clearly codified; for example, you greet an officer with a salute from a set distance, and you stand at parade rest around superior NCO's. There were endless volumes of manuals about doctrine, procedures, etc. I absolutely excelled as a Soldier, my identity and value was based on merit and adherence to the rules and values of the Army. Plus, I got paid to blow things up and fly helicopters. You can't beat that with a stick. I had a really, really hard time adjusting to the civilian world, which ultimately led to my diagnosis. If it weren't for other health factors beyond my control, I'd probably still be in and happy as a lark. There were some occasional issues with authority, and sensory problems, but I learned more about how to overcome those challenges in the Army than I ever would have outside it.

I am a retired Master Sergeant. I very much enjoyed my time in the military. Keep your ASD to yourself and you should do fine.

And remember, if you are EOD and see your coworker running, try to keep up.

IEDD is short for Improvised Explosive Device Disposal. I can see this occupation at one of the extremes of stress. If you can handle extreme stress, have learned to become fearless and are good with your hands, this might be a good occupation. But most Aspies might find these traits fairly challenging.