3rd ID downsize, what's your opinion?

2015-07-10T03:37:27-04:00

With the recent announcement.. What are everyone's opinions? Higher enlisted, any recommendations? Advice for us younger generation... T.i.a.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 10 at 2015 5:02 AM

2015-07-10T05:02:36-04:00

Junior enlisted and mid grade NCOs are in a great spot. I was a SGT/E-5 when Bill Clinton cut the Army in half back in the 90s. You will not get promoted as fast as Soldiers have over the past 14 years but with the upcoming cuts there will plenty of room for career progression.

Response by SGT(P) Kenneth Jones made Jul 10 at 2015 5:53 AM

2015-07-10T05:53:24-04:00

So far forecast is 950 by 2017 and with that civilians as well so with the DUI and drug issues that would be a place to start then those that shows no progressions or no intent would be another place also abuse issues and field grade article 15s I think that would put a big dent in that number

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 10 at 2015 6:53 AM

2015-07-10T06:53:26-04:00

SPC Private RallyPoint Member My only advice is take advantage of the opportunities that will open when they start getting rid of people, and make sure that you don't do anything stupid and become one of those yourself.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Jul 10 at 2015 10:34 AM

2015-07-10T10:34:16-04:00

I think for junior enlisted and junior to mid-level NCOs it will be a time for progression once things "shake out", I fear though that if these budgetary constraints continue, our military will be on a worse footing since prior to my enlistment back in 1987. Do the right things for yourself and your career and you will be good to go! Best of luck with your career!!

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 10 at 2015 4:31 PM

2015-07-10T16:31:47-04:00

I was a Scout Platoon Leader in 2-69 AR, so from the historical perspective, I'm sad to see 3rd BCT get cut. However, I can see for several reasons why an HBCT as well as that particular one is getting chopped down in size.

From a personal perspective, you need to work hard, grow professionally, and stay flexible. The great thing about the Army is that the more you educate yourself the more opportunities you will recognize and the more you will be eligible to pursue. Even for enlisted, if you don't feel you are able to progress in your current MOS the way you want, or it doesn't have all the opportunities you want, you can find another specialty to pursue. Also, think about current growth areas like in the SOF world, it is not for everyone, but it is a great life for all of its own reasons.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2015 9:22 PM

2015-07-13T21:22:11-04:00

My concern is that no one should count on, rely or plan to have a military career. The armed forces are a proud tradition but they are demonstrating that you cannot approach it as a legitimate planned career and consider that in good faith you will have a job in 5 years.

Reliability is the true thanks of a grateful nation