Can a chaptered soldier get a commission?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 May 2022 22:14:04 -0400

Hello! I'm about to use my GI Bill and decide on a carrier path.
However, after being out for 3 years, a not so small part of me wants to re-enlist or try to go commissioned.
I turn 27 in 2 months, I was chaptered from the army for weight control failure after 37 months of active duty. My RE code is 3, my separation code is JCR, and it was an honorable discharge.
By the time I get my bachelors degree I'll be 30, and that's if I really push it.

Assuming I meet all other requirements academics, fitness, clearance, etc.. Is this path even possible for me to walk? I did get chaptered after all..

And if it IS possible, should I go through the ROTC programs at my university? or submit an OCS packet with a local recruiter?

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made May 9 at 2022 11:41 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Mon, 09 May 2022 23:41:47 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member bring all your documents and go see a ROTC Recruiting Officer at the school you’ll be going to. Unlike AD and RC Recruiters, they don’t care if you join or not. They’ll tell you what is and what is not possible.

Personal Note: ROTC is going to screen you for ht and wt and tape you. Be prepared to pass that and during a precommissioning physical at MEPS. If at all possible, leave enlisting for OCS as your last option.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2022 11:14 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2022 11:14:30 -0400

Age wise you should be fine unless you're going to have a scholarship. I believe if you're gonna be under a ROTC scholarship you cannot be older than 31 at the time of commission. The other aspect you will face for hurdles is your RE-3 for HT/WT.

For ROTC: You will want to speak with the PMS at the school you want to attend for ROTC. You may very well need a waiver...but I'm not sure. Seek their guidance.

For OCS: Re-enlisting back into the Army and then attending OCS...you're going to need a Waiver for the RE-3 just to get back in.

Response by COL Jon Thompson made May 11 at 2022 4:09 PM

COL Jon Thompson — Wed, 11 May 2022 16:09:52 -0400

The biggest thing in your favor or disadvantage is your current height and weight. If you are borderline right now, any ROTC program would probably have 2nd thoughts. If you are comfortably below standards, that speaks in your favor and gives you a story to share on how you got into shape. But talk to the program’s recruiting operations officer and be honest with them.