Yep. Childhood asthma was an absolute disqualification for enlistment at that time. He would have been rejected even if he had volunteered. Today, he might have made it, with some limitations:
Since 2014, the Department of Defense has changed its medical qualification standards for recruits with cases of childhood asthma, or a history of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Children under the age of 13 can often be misdiagnosed with ADD/ADHD issues, and any asthma since the age of 13 may still be disqualifying.
But waivers may be available to those with these conditions on a case-by-case basis.
Military Rules for Recruits with Asthma
Previously, any history of asthma was disqualifying, regardless of age. While medical waivers were sometimes possible, waiver approval usually required scheduling and passing a pulmonary function test.
In the present day, asthma is only disqualifying if it occurs after the applicant’s 13th birthday. Some waivers were granted back then, but typically only for non-combat jobs.
https://www.thebalancecareers.com/ne...policy-3353970
Yep. I had a son who had severe asthma and played for a top soccer club in high school. And soccer is much more demanding on respiratory systems than most other sports. He missed an occasional game, and needed medication before and after he was playing. Asthma tends to be episodic, and when you don't have it, there's usually no problem at all.
Yep. See above. The evidence suggests you didn't know what you were talking about.
That was your argument. Now, you know better. Lt. Col. Duckworth wasn't talking about health requirements for service; she was talking about Trump draft-dodging, using 'bone spurs' which magically cleared up right after his eligibility ended.