<p>I have been disqualified medically by the USNA for 'allergic manifestations' to peanuts. I am curious to know why an allergy of this particular sort would restrict service in the nation's armed forces. An approximated three million Americans are afflicted with peanut allergies and I'm sure at least one of them is attending a service academy or is enlisted in one of the services. In all truthfulness, why can a government agency restrict persons from serving in thier own military? This situation boggles my mind. Any information on this subject would be much appreciated. Thank you for reading.</p>
<p>It's... not so much that it's a hassle, as it is that it's a liability in military situations. It sucks, but all sorts of things can knock you out of military service-- asthma, psoriasis, depression-- can all disqualify you. The requirements for being a pilot are even more stringent, and being underweight, wearing contact lenses (there are more options nowadays with laser eye surgery, but if you can't afford it, or if it won't bring you to 20/20, you're out of luck), or having allergic rhinitis can disqualify you.</p>
<p>It really, really bites, if being in the military is what you've always wanted to do. Several of my friends have been disqualified medically, and they were pretty crushed... You can try appealing it, but depending upon the severity of your allergic manifestations and whether or not you can get your physician to vouch for your appeal, an allergy isn't something that gets better... And yeah, see if the folks over at the service academy forums have any recommendations...</p>