Can somebody, in a nutshell, explain the military health ratings?

[Craig3410]

For example, I've got ADHD and diabetes, so what does that make me?

[7th_Sephiroth]

1. Cannon fodder A.K.A.

Operation Human Shield

[punpirate]

2. Were you to be called for a physical...

... you'd be classified 4-F, without question, simply because you have pre-existing conditions which would make you unsuitable for combat, and because you have conditions which could lead to further complications during your term of service for which the military would be liable.

The system works this way: when you're inducted, you're given a physical which establishes a baseline of your health. When you leave the service, you're also given a physical. Any change in your health from the baseline to exit from the service can be related to your time in the service, and the care you received there, making the military responsible. They have control over you for the period of your enlistment, therefore, they're responsible for what happens to you, apart from instances directly associated with your own negligence.

That's why they don't take people with ongoing medical problems, or whose level of general fitness makes them a liability in combat, or liable to injure themselves further in either combat or training. That's why the Jack Kemps of the country could be excused from military service for a bad knee, but could continue to play professional football. The military doesn't take the additional chance of becoming liable for complications due to existing conditions.

Hope you're relieved.

Cheers.