As a DLI trainee with opportunity for LEAD program, stay enlisted or go officer? Is officer path worth giving up my language?

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 13:33:34 -0400

I suppose it's a question really only I can answer.A lot of people including my parents say I would be a good officer, and both they and I know I can do it, however I've spent so much time already training for this job, and I love it too much to give it up quite yet.But at the same time,because I have the ability to do well those officer duties, should I? I wouldn't be a "waste" as enlisted,right?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2017 1:49 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 13:49:47 -0400

SrA Private RallyPoint Member what are the options of being an officer in a closely related field? I would look at that, first. Your language skills may be highly coveted in the intel community. Officer status can really boost your resume for when your service is over. I have a buddy going through the same struggle in the army satellite program - whether to stay enlisted, or put in for WO.
As you said, it is really all up to you, but definitely scout out your routes. You're never a waste as enlisted, we are the backbone of the service, afterall! If you are super proficient, you can hit BTZ and promote pretty quick through the ranks. Talk to your resources on base, lay your roads out before you, and pick the one that shines brightest for you!!

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Aug 23 at 2017 4:11 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 16:11:20 -0400

As an officer, even though you won't necessary use your language on a daily basis, if yo are proficient you can get extra pay for every language you test out on. It is on record that you speak those languages so if they need you in that region, they can call you to do your job or be an interpreter. I was enlisted as a load master and loved every minute of it. When I crossed over to the officer side it was just as good. There are good and bad and you just have to lay out your career goals of where you want to be in 5, 10, 15 and further out and take the best option for Tabitha. Good luck in whatever you choose as there is honor in both options...they are both good.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Aug 23 at 2017 4:52 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 16:52:30 -0400

Consider your goals in life first. If you believe you want to serve the minimum tour of duty and get out, then stay enlisted. If you want to move beyond your language expertise into the more generalist leadership role of an officer, then take that route.

You'll have several wickets to pass. You'll need to be 21, have a bachelors degree, pass a physical, and have high enough test scores. I was an officer and loved it. Better pay, better housing, and leadership opportunities. Better retirement if you stay that long.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Aug 23 at 2017 5:06 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 17:06:17 -0400

If your parents have served then no one would know better! On the other hand making such a weighty decision based on a language aptitude is telling in itself. Both paths are full of self sacrifice to a greater good. I have never served in the Air Force so I cannot judge as effectively as a Senior Enlisted Leader. I would find an E9 and an O5 and have lengthy discussions with both. Good luck! Thank you for your service!