Sorry Boys, but I think I hold the title. I just passed my 5 year mark. I got out of the infantry in Nov/98. Healed up and began my reapplication process around May-June/99.
I've been avoiding this site for awhile. Work, school and "other distractions" kept me sane. I'm pleased to report that I'm in the home stretch. I was told that a full review of my Med file is now in w/ Borden. I've jumped through all the hoops, passed all the tests, had all the exams and to be quite honest, they don't have anything else to block me with. I was told that I should hear back by the first week of June (I automatically add at least a month to any CFRC communication estimates).
Best moment, when the PA admitted that the Ortho; whom the military recommended, wasn't going to examine me, and that they had seriously (understatement) recommended that I be examined by a very specific doctor. The very same specialist who had approved me 2 1/2 years ago. So this along with my commercial dive medical, a report on my recent work activities (commercial diving on the West Coast and the Caribbean), my commercial pilot's medical and a nice 3 page letter by the PA pointing out that there is basically no reason to continue stalling me have been in CFRC Borden's grubby little hands for a couple of months now for review.
Will this finally allow me to overcome these bureaucrats? Who knows. I have the support of my future unit and they've been active in the background. Common sense should have allowed me to pass through the que a few years ago. But there is a sense of, "everything happens for a reason." If I had entered when I wanted, I may have returned to the Infantry. Or I may have entered as a PID diver (my 2nd (r) choice). I may not have lived in the Caymans for 6 months last year, or pursued my degree as I'm now doing.
I suppose its all about focusing on the goal and trying to live your life in the meantime. I've had many moments where I've given in to anger or stumbled. But I'm stronger for it now and I believe I'll be a better officer for it. If the system is fucking you around, keep the pressure upon those involved (if you're unsure about something, ask.) and always keep in mind, that this is your life, your career. And no one is going to care for it like you will. The recruiting system is currently overworked and blatantly inefficient. Ce la vie. They're "working on it." So if it takes another year; travel, work, educate yourself and chase girls. What else do you have to do today?
I'm going to head into the sun and maybe I'll get a phone call next week...or next month ;D