Posted on Apr 27, 2021
Are uniforms issues prior to OCS for prior service?
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I am a prior service marine going to army OCS, to hopefully join the army Reserve. My question is, will there be a uniform issued to me, or will I need to cover it out of pocket? Secondly, does anyone have any online resources to hone your land navigation skills? Thank you all in advance.
Posted in these groups: 
Officer Candidate School (OCS) (Army)
TransferAdvanced Land Navigation Course
Inter-Service
Uniforms
Officer Candidate School (OCS) (Army) TransferAdvanced Land Navigation Course Inter-Service Uniforms
Posted >1 y ago
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Your first stop at Benning should be 30th AG (Reception BN) for a few days where you’ll in process the Army and get all of your medical, dental and vision stuff done. There you should receive the initial issue that everyone gets when they join.
For land nav, don’t sweat it too much. You’ll get a few days of classes on land nav when you get to OCS and you will get a lot of practice out on the course before you actually test. The land nav pass rate at OCS is very high. We only ever recycled like 2-3 Candidates a class and most of the time no one failed. If you want to read ahead you can Google TC 3-25.26 Map Reading and Land Navigstion.
For land nav, don’t sweat it too much. You’ll get a few days of classes on land nav when you get to OCS and you will get a lot of practice out on the course before you actually test. The land nav pass rate at OCS is very high. We only ever recycled like 2-3 Candidates a class and most of the time no one failed. If you want to read ahead you can Google TC 3-25.26 Map Reading and Land Navigstion.
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1LT (Join to see)
Thank you for this information Very much. The thorough answer has provided some relief. Just enthusiastic about the process, so trying to do well.
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1LT (Join to see)
MAJ Ken L. Good Day, sir. I did marine Security Guard before leaving the military. I also did aviation supply. That reason is why I genuinely want to be proficient in land nav. I don't simply want to have a basic understanding of it but I want to know it.
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All uniforms will be provided. For land nav, check Youtube. There are quite a few good veteran/service member channels dedicated to it. I don't have any saved, but just put "Land Nav" in the search bar and it should give you a good list. All the best !
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1LT (Join to see)
Thank you, I've watched a few videos but want to have as much knowledge as possible; I learn practical information better the more I know about the topic.
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LT Brad McInnis
Land Navigation (ArmyStudyGuide.com)
ArmyStudyGuide.com provide extensive information about Land Navigation (ArmyStudyGuide.com)
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I can’t quote a reg or policy but I received a full issue of new uniforms (in 2005) and I was prior enlisted Army (with a break in service) when I went to OCS. My assumption is that you will receive a new issue of uniforms. They will get you set up at reception prior to signing in to OCS.
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1LT (Join to see)
Thank you very, I was a bit worried. Due to the fact uniform cost so much. Thank you very much for your wisdom and time.
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Until the day you commission, all uniforms food and housing are provided. The day you put on that gold bar everything changes and it’s on your dime.
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I would recommend purchasing a few protractors from Ranger Joes and maybe some pace count beads before you report. The protractors they provide to you in OCS are ‘fine government quality’ which means you’ll be slightly off when plotting your points. This deviation can translate into being way off target when pacing to your point.
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1LT (Join to see)
Thank you this is extremely insightful, I’m going to use this knowledge and get that stuff right away. Also, thank you for taking the time out of your day to help.
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MAJ (Join to see)
It might sound silly but get yourself some 0.5 mechanical pencils rather than the 0.7 standard lead. It has a finer point and will help plot more accurately. The pace count beads will help with keeping track of distance. Also, if allowed, get yourself a good red lens headlamp or led flashlight. The issued flashlights are less effective in the field.
Lastly, very few people actually fail OCS, most just give up. If you really want it, Do Not Give Up. Best of luck to you. 1LT (Join to see)
Lastly, very few people actually fail OCS, most just give up. If you really want it, Do Not Give Up. Best of luck to you. 1LT (Join to see)
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Thank you very much; a big reason I created this post was that there was no information
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MAJ Byron Oyler
Dont stress yourself to much with land nav now and enjoy life until you start school. I personally feel OCS is the toughest route to commission and with your attitude and experience, you will do fine. I have a feeling that with your great attitude you already know this but don't tell people you are a former marine. It is something to always be proud of but let people see your performance and ask you. They will and Chesty Puller will be proud.
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1LT (Join to see)
MAJ Byron Oyler Thank you, Sir; I'm Not one to proclaim my various accomplishments and accolades. I'm simply in it to learn and be as professional and proficient with the tools that will be bestowed upon me. That vote of confidence is all I needed, with it, sir; I will go out there locked and loaded, with the majestic spirit of Chesty Puller looking down on me and do my very best.
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