Autism - The signing of a disabled Portland man despite warnings reflects problems nationally for military enlistment

An Army of one wrong recruit
Autism - The signing of a disabled Portland man despite warnings reflects problems nationally for military enlistment
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Michelle Roberts

"When Jared first started talking about joining the Army, I thought, 'Well, that isn't going to happen,' " said Paul Guinther, Jared's father. "I told my wife not to worry about it. They're not going to take anybody in the service who's autistic."

But they did. Last month, Jared came home with papers showing that he not only had enlisted, but also had signed up for the Army's most dangerous job: cavalry scout. He is scheduled to leave for basic training Aug. 16.

Officials are now investigating whether recruiters at the U.S. Army Recruiting Station in Southeast Portland improperly concealed Jared's disability, which should have made him ineligible for service.

Read full article at: http://www.oregonlive.com/news/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/news/1146882329307730.xml&coll=7

For information, resources and practical strategies on autism visit:

www.child-autism-parent-cafe.com

www.AutismConcepts.com