I apologize in advance for the wall of text and the many questions. Obviously you don't have to answer all or any of them if you don't want. I also want to mention, that while I'm keeping both in mind, I'm heavily weighted towards joining the Marines(they have a reputation of being crazy(aka fun where I'm from) and that appeals to me) but I'm asking these questions here because they don't have an Ask A Recruiter Thread.

When I was 20 I was arrested for a DUI. I only blew a .06(under the .08 state limit) but since I was underage I was charged with a DUI under zero tolerance laws. I hired a lawyer and he got it reduced to a simple careless driving ticket. I only had to pay a fine.

How will this affect me in the recruitment process? Can the recruiter see the DUI charge or only the careless driving? Should I tell him anyway? Even though it was reduced does the DUI still matter? If it does, do I have good chances of getting a moral waiver? If I have little to no chance of joining how can I increase my chances and/or let my recruiter know that I'm very serious about joining and won't give up at the first no.

I was also arrested when I was 15 for possession of marijuana. The charges were completely dropped. I remember the woman from the courts even specifically said that the military will not be able to see the record of it if I choose to join in the future. Is this true? Should I mention it to my recruiter anyway? If I do mention it, will it disqualify me(assuming I qualify despite my previous problem)?

I realize this might give you very negative impression of me and I'll be the first to admit I deserve it. I still consider myself a decent person despite these mistakes but I will not underplay them. They are my mistakes and I will live the consequences. I just want move past them, learn from them, live a better life, and be a better person.

Thank you for your time.