Posted on Apr 23, 2014
Sgt Ballard Hall
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There are a lot of days that I wish I could renounce my retirement, give up the pay, and go back to my unit. I was told it was possible, but that it requires an act of the SecDef, CNO, and Commandant. That is like asking for a miracle.<br><br>If I still meet all the requirements, and can still do the job, then shouldn't I be allowed?
Posted in these groups: Retirement logo Retirement
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SGM Matthew Quick
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What would the benefit be for the military?
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SGM Matthew Quick
SGM Matthew Quick
10 y
Are you talking about a 20-year retirement or medical retirement?
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Sgt Ballard Hall
Sgt Ballard Hall
10 y
Medical retirement. 
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SGM Matthew Quick
SGM Matthew Quick
10 y
Has the medical issue been resolved?  If so, if strengths support, shouldn't be an issue to return to active service.
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Cpl Digital (Multi-channel) Wideband Transmission Equipment Operator
Cpl (Join to see)
10 y

Sgt Hall,


What was your RE code? I got out the second time with a RE-3P, and have talked to several recruiters, of different branches, (I am in law school and have considered JAG) all stating that it was possible, but I would need to be cleared medically, and then obtain a waiver. The problem with that route is that after you are medically cleared, you lose any VA medical/pension benefit you have now, and then if your waiver gets denied...you can't get your pension back. Its a crap shoot for sure.

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SFC Matthew Parker
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Sgt Hall,
Short answer, No.
I have regretted everyday I retired. I wish I could return to service but I'm glad I can't. Let me explain, After 21+ years and three Iraq tours I was beat down. Injuries that I never reported to stay in the fight, aches and pains I ignored got worse and 8 surgeries later I was still not 100%

I have the experience, I know my job and I can lead in combat or garrison. But let me back into uniform and I will literally kill myself.

What I want to see as the services transition is those of us with recent experience being able to work with the next generation of NCOs and leaders.

Let me come back as a Army civilian and assist at a wounded warrior company or teach at one of the NCOES schools. Let me instruct at basic training and AIT or work in the IG's office. Not as a contractor but a Army civilian.

Once you decide to retire there is no going back unless the services call you back. Cpl Snow points out time keeps going after we leave, you really want to go back and LCPL Jones is now your boss? He used to work for you.
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Cpl Digital (Multi-channel) Wideband Transmission Equipment Operator
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Depending on how long you have been out, you may not like what you see upon your return. I got out in 1999, and then went back in after 9/11. Since I was out for more than 180 days, they took a rank...so I went back in as a LCpl. I was stationed with the one unit I didn't want to be with. I saw some familiar faces, as all of my fellow NCO's that were in with me before, were now SNCO's and of course, a nonrate was not allowed to hang out with them. My Plt Sgt was still getting picked on in High School when I was an NCO. The 1stsgt had a hard-on for me because I was "old." Bottom line is that you may be able to do the job, but it sucks going back in after being a civilian, and actually being treated as an adult.
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Sgt Ballard Hall
Sgt Ballard Hall
10 y
Thank you for your feedback. 
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SGM Matthew Quick
SGM Matthew Quick
10 y
Cpl Snow,

Prior service enlistment after an EAS is different than a prior service enlistment while on retired status.
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Cpl Digital (Multi-channel) Wideband Transmission Equipment Operator
Cpl (Join to see)
10 y

MSG Q,


I agree that the service experience is different however, while this Marine has been out, his time has stalled, so those he served with have been promoted, and he has not. Even the culture changed in the few years I was out. Before, it was tradition when promoting someone to smack the chevrons in place...I was almost NJP'd for doing the same thing upon my return to active duty. I did not enjoy the return, but I am sure that had I stayed in, my experience would have been different.

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