Can a newly commissioned officer get in the 143rd infantry regiment in the Texas Army National Guard?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 02 May 2020 13:16:46 -0400

I am currently enlisted in another states guard. I am currently overseas and just so happen to have my 6 years end right when I get back, which I then plan on moving to Texas and commissioning. I have seen the 143rd infantry regiment and and wondering if its likely to get in and if the Infantry branch is the only officer branch needed? If so how likely am I to get that branch? Once i get back I'll talk to a recruiter but was just hoping to get some extra information.

Response by Capt Gregory Prickett made May 2 at 2020 1:44 PM

Capt Gregory Prickett — Sat, 02 May 2020 13:44:55 -0400

It's going to be competitive to get into the 143d, especially as an officer. It's an infantry battalion, so your best shot would be in infantry, but there are almost always some non-infantry slots, but very rarely for 2LTs. When I was in the 2d Bn (A) - 143d Inf about 40 years ago, they would double slot some brand new officers to get them into the unit. Your best bet is to talk the unit as far in advance as you can, and get their input. Good luck.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 2 at 2020 2:53 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 02 May 2020 14:53:14 -0400

As far as I understand, 143rd is an interview slot and they don't entertain requests from infantry, enlisted or officer, unless they are airborne or Ranger qualified. They have a scoring system they use to determine if you meet the minimum requirements. I imagine it's even higher for Officers than it is for enlisted. I know that for certain when I was doing RCCC that I couldn't put an enlisted Soldier there without at least being airborne qualified.