How can I get out of my PCS orders?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 19:07:24 -0400

I'm an E-4 in the 31E MOS and got put on orders to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. I re-enlisted in September 2019 for 3 years with 18 months stability. My stability is over in March 2021 and they put on orders to Cuba set to report in May 2021. I've already tried submitting a 4187 to cancel them, but that didn't work. I talked to my Career Counselor and he said he'll call branch, but I haven't heard back from him yet.

I re-enlisted for stability to stay here, finish my bachelor's degree, run my business and transition out once my contract is up. Not to PCS to Cuba. I know I sound selfish and please don't say "that's just how the Army works". I've heard it all. I'm going to college and started a welding business that is doing great. I did all this before knowing about these orders and I know the Army won't care, but I've been with my fiancee for 2 years now and we're planning on getting married soon. So a PCS isn't really in the cards for me.

Please, can someone here give me some decent guidance how to cancel or get out of these orders? I've tried decking them, but was told I have too much time left on my contract (ETS = September 2022). I do not care about ruining my career or future with the Army because I'm getting out 110% in 2022. I just want to stay here, get married, graduate college and grow my business for when I get out and I'll do basically anything at this point.

Thanks, RP!

Response by SFC William Farrell made Oct 29 at 2020 7:13 PM

SFC William Farrell — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 19:13:17 -0400

Cant you do all that after you get out SGT Private RallyPoint Member? College can be online to finish some courses up. As an MP I would have loved an assignment to GITMO.

Response by MAJ Javier Rivera made Oct 29 at 2020 7:59 PM

MAJ Javier Rivera — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 19:59:16 -0400

So, let me get this straight!

You re-enlisted, got what you wanted (18 months stabilization), and then when it was time to do your part of the bargain like any other service member has done for the last 244 years (even if it feels Fustian to you) you wanted to back pedal? How professional of you?

Anyway, tell your career counselor you would like to sign a DA 4991 Declination Statement!

Response by SGT Christopher Hayden made Oct 29 at 2020 8:33 PM

SGT Christopher Hayden — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 20:33:14 -0400

Sounds like the Army held up their end of the bargain, but you don't want to hold up yours. It's great that you're working on a degree and have a business, but your oath and duty is to the Army...not your welding business. If everyone got out of orders because they had other shit going on, the Army would never be able to fill slots.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2020 8:43 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 20:43:16 -0400

I used to be assigned to 40th MP BN at Fort Leavenworth. Good unit, good people. For what it's worth, from what I've heard about Cuba, it's a good time. You will be one of not many people who can say they have spent some time in Cuba. As others have pointed out, you signed the contract, the Army met it's obligation, now it's your turn. Step up and meet your obligation. Have someone you trust manage your business while you are away. Have fun in Cuba, and watch out for the landmines on the beach.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2020 9:20 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 21:20:59 -0400

I assume you know that if you don't take your turn on this assignment that someone else, whose turn it isn't will have to go, and that you don't give a crap about them or their family. It is your turn. You should go. But, if you don't want your VA benefits or access to your GI Bill - a nice hot piss test is the way to go. Make good decisions.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2020 9:23 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 21:23:13 -0400

I obviously picked the wrong MOS if you had time to start and maintain a "great" business. Lucky for you welding busineses come and go all the time so not many will notice when you leave and come back in a couple years. You made a deal witu the devil and he will extract his pound of flesh. Dont worry about living that selfless service value, youve done well for yourself so far so keep it up.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2020 9:38 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 21:38:56 -0400

You reenlisted for 18 months of stabilization and received. You can't decline to PCS you can only decline to reenlist for the assignment. Since you don't have to reenlist for the assignment that doesn't apply.

You will comply with your PCS orders or you will be reported AWOL

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2020 9:58 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 21:58:32 -0400

LOL dude, there is no way to get out of the orders as it is part of the contract obligation. You can either show up, or go AWOL. Good luck

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Oct 29 at 2020 11:29 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 23:29:00 -0400

The service has lived up to its part of the bargain- you swore 2 oaths- no it's time to pay the piper. Might as well get your mind straight- You ARE going to Cuba- short of being stupid and getting thrown out of the Army- which will not help you're future 1 damn bit.

Response by Sgt J W made Oct 30 at 2020 12:40 AM

Sgt J W — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 00:40:55 -0400

Fred, your getting it pretty harsh from everyone in this thread but thats what it is. You asked the army for something, they gave it to you, now they are asking for you to do what they need you to do. I think its absolutely crazy you don't want to take on orders to Cuba, its just absolutely NUTS to me. You should take on this opportunity to travel and explore the world.

You not wanting to PCS, is because of this reason
>> "I've been with my fiancee for 2 years now and we're planning on getting married soon.
>> So a PCS isn't really in the cards for me."

Let's face it. It's not the business, its not school. Its because of your fiancee.

She.. or He.. will follow you wherever you go.

Take this opportunity to travel. You will regret it if you dont.

GO TO CUBA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2020 2:12 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 02:12:27 -0400

In this particular case, you are wanting your cake and eat it too. In this situation, that is not happening. You got an option for 18 months stabilization. You got said 18 months stabilization. Said 18 months is over. Time to PCS. There is NOTHING you, nor your Command, nor Branch can do about it. Pack your bags, learn Spanish.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2020 5:03 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 05:03:25 -0400

Enjoy Cuba.

Edit: I was going to leave it at just Enjoy Cuba, but when I read this I got more annoyed than the first time I read through it.

You CHOSE to serve in the US Army. You CHOSE to re-enlist in the US Army. You CHOSE to stabilize in the US Army. No where do I see you being forced to do any of those things. You are USING the US Army to advance yourself, taking advantage of all that it has to offer. Great on you for doing that, I wish more young Soldiers would look into what the Army has to offer, and using it.

That being said, you ARE going to Cuba. You are actually ordered to. You seem to want a one sided relationship here. Take all the Army has to offer and give nothing in return. A short tour to Cuba is a very small "price to pay" for all you seem to be getting from the Army.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2020 5:50 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 05:50:48 -0400

You are stuck like Chuck. Get ready for Cuba.

Response by MSgt Don VandeBogert made Oct 30 at 2020 10:03 AM

MSgt Don VandeBogert — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 10:03:21 -0400

So if you had a customer sign a contract with your business and try to back out what would you do?

Go. Fulfill your obligation with honor and dignity. Being pissed about this obligation will not help you, the Army, or your future business endeavors.

Good luck.

V/R
Bogie

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Oct 30 at 2020 11:51 AM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 11:51:36 -0400

Since my grandson was born there and my son just PCS'd from there, and I have actually been there, the only real downside of the duty there is that the only way on or off the Island is military flights, which means that all your leaves are Space Available for the two scheduled flights a week. Other than that, the post facilities are very good, the weather is decent, and you are on the bay and ocean. The Navy allows accompanied tours, don't know about the Army, but I would check.
The Army did it's part of the contract and the reality is that you will be expected to hold up your end. I don't know of any shortcuts to get out that wouldn't involve a bad conduct, or at best a general discharge.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2020 12:16 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 12:16:39 -0400

You're at the whim of the Army. If your stabilization ends Mar 2021...then yes you can PCS in May 2021. That's just the way it is. You're not getting orders cancelled unless you have some serious medical issues or a dependent with some serious medical issue basically.

You're not staying where you are unless you go AWOL. Like that's the only way you're staying...

The Army gave you stabilization and now you don't want to do your part? C'mon. You do what the Army needs you to do until you ETS. It's that simple.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Oct 30 at 2020 1:29 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 13:29:17 -0400

First let me say don’t do anything stupid like trying to get chartered out. Too many far reaching consequences. Here’s some ideas:
-green to gold might lock you in place till graduation but the side business might have to go
-look at transferring to the reserve component. Not easily done but might allow you out of orders but extend the number of years you’ll be in reserves

Finally, embrace the suck. Sell the business. Transition degree program to on-line. Mary the lady before you go to GITMO.

Response by Cpl Wayne Wallace made Oct 30 at 2020 2:11 PM

Cpl Wayne Wallace — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 14:11:03 -0400

Suck it up and due your duty. That may sound harsh, but trust me, you will regret later trying to break your contract. You know your service record follows you for ever, and some companies won't contract with a quieter. Semper Fi

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2020 2:54 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 14:54:34 -0400

This is what happens when you sell your soul. Get what you want for 18 months and then get upset when the Army put you on assignment. I tell soldiers this everyday, you have to stay ahead of HRC if you don't want to be taken advantage of. You should of reenlisted for 2 years with 1 year of stabilization. 3 years is too long to sit a base especially when you've been there for some time already. Their isn't anyway you can get out of this unless you literally go AWOL but then your risking your benefits being taken from you. I'm pretty sure your college degree is getting paid for by the military as well, so that is not an option I see you taking. Go to Cuba request to come back where your originally at and make the most out of that year you are away. It sucks but trust me I've seen worst then your situation.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Oct 30 at 2020 3:58 PM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 15:58:47 -0400

I understand your frustration but I don't feel that you have realistic expectations of the scenario. First off, well done kicking off your education and a small business. The issue here is that your primary day job is the Military and the Military by definition is a very dynamic and constantly changing profession. You asked for 18 months stability and it sounds like that is what you are getting. Overseas tours are part of the gig. The biggest play you could make is possibly volunteering for a high demand position/billet/mos that would trump your Cuba orders. Don't be the guy who refuses his orders because that does not end well. You will just get punished and end up getting worse orders.

Response by SP5 Richard Welch made Oct 30 at 2020 5:34 PM

SP5 Richard Welch — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 17:34:37 -0400

You signed a contract with minimal garauntees. When I enlisted for 82nd and Ft Bragg, I knew that only way to leave was re enlistment to another base. Unfortunately once you are in 82nd, after 11 months orders are cut returning you to 82nd. I re enlisted in Active Reserves, which was only way to garauntee my ability to pick unit and have some stability. After 9 years my battalion was being consolidated and we were going to be required to go to main battalion unit in Sacramento. I was living in Reno, married, and had a kid. So I served my last days owed and seperated from military. Whatever the reason was for enlisting, you can't turn down orders. If you were trained by military as a welder, and now have a side business as a welder, you owe the military at the minimum to serve out your contract, period. I really don't understand how anyone can join for a college degree, and then think it's unreasonable to love up to your end of the contract. What would you do if a customer of yours had a contract for your services for 4 years and decided after 1 year they were done with you? Not really sure how you can operate a business and serve in military, in my era it was a NO GO !!!

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Oct 30 at 2020 7:24 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 19:24:18 -0400

Death. That's about the only way you can get out of them. Two of my children died in the same year and couldn't even get a compassionate reassignment to attend the state-mandated grief counseling.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Oct 31 at 2020 6:44 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sat, 31 Oct 2020 06:44:07 -0400

It appears as if you want the Army’s support, utilizing all of the benefits available, but you do not want to meet your commitments. You mention a business, that may be an issue within itself. Bottom line is that the Army has given you everything and you have aparently served honorably, fulfill your commitment and separate from the Army knowing you did your part. The reason no one has gotten back with you is because there is no way out of this assignment unless you do something dishonorable.

I am sure you do not want a negative separation. Look at your options and make a decision.

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Nov 2 at 2020 5:27 AM

SSG Harry Herres — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 05:27:19 -0500

You enlisted then re-enlisted! You go were you are needed. Not what you want

Response by SSgt Thomas L. made Nov 3 at 2020 12:00 PM

SSgt Thomas L. — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 12:00:16 -0500

Any change in orders needs to be in the best interests of the military, not your best interests. Your career in the military comes first. If you weren't ready to put the military first in your life, you shouldn't have re-enlisted.

Response by CPL Joseph Elinger made Nov 5 at 2020 5:21 PM

CPL Joseph Elinger — Thu, 05 Nov 2020 17:21:06 -0500

You can check with Personnel Svcs & see.
I got PCS'd from Ft Bragg to Baumholder that way. Long story short though: ~ "same shit, different day."

Response by COL Ralph Bryan Hanes made Nov 7 at 2020 10:01 AM

COL Ralph Bryan Hanes — Sat, 07 Nov 2020 10:01:48 -0500

Specialist(p), You signed a valid and legally binding contract. The army let you stay put for the 18 months you agreed to. I don't trust folks in the army or outside who have no sense of personal obligation to keep a promise... some of us would call it personal honor. I am rusty on the UCMJ, but given the opportunity, I would be happy to show you the door with an OTH discharge.

Response by PO1 Rexford Dundon made Nov 7 at 2020 7:11 PM

PO1 Rexford Dundon — Sat, 07 Nov 2020 19:11:49 -0500

You signed the contract, now you live with it.

Response by GySgt William Hardy made Nov 14 at 2020 9:25 AM

GySgt William Hardy — Sat, 14 Nov 2020 09:25:45 -0500

I once was taking an American History course when orders came in suddenly for transfer back to the States. All I had left was one class and the final exam. I ended up taking the class over again. There was not delay in orders and no getting out of the orders. In so far as your Fiancée is concerned, that's a problem you need to work out on your own. Stop whining and suck it up. You sound like a spoiled child who can't have it all. As long as you are in the Army, the Army comes first. Screw your "business". That isn't even in the picture. Fact is, if you ruin your time in the Army you have a good chance of ruining your future civilian career as well. Keep you nose clean. Do as you are told. You can start over in 2022, not before.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2020 1:21 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 01:21:28 -0500

SPC, allow me to tell you a story, a true story! when I was 17 I joined the U.S.Navy . when I turned 18 I went to basic training in San Diego, Ca., After basic I went to navy A- school same as AIT became a cook. served 18 months shore duty. My rotation to sea was coming up I didn't want to go so the only logical thing was to separate. But how...… the only way I could find was to get in trouble and fast. Drinking ,fighting, even went AWOL cost me my stripes, my fiancée , and a career in the Navy. At this time, I was 20. never thought that my decisions then could or would affect my life. I was discharged with an Other than Honorable that discharge is something you'll carry with you the rest of your life. I became an electrician raising a family. Something just didn't feel right about my life. while working construction there were times I would have to miss jobs because I wasn't allowed to work them because of my discharge. 17 years ago I found a recuiter that went to bat for me and danced the dance and jumped thru all the hoops the Army put up just to give me a chance to serve my country again .
You see it's the decisions you make right now that hurt your future. So like everyone else in this thread I'll tell you Go to Cuba, If your fiancée truly loves you what's 2 more yrs get that 214 with a honorable discharge leave the Army with your head held high and your future journeys will be somewhat easier . Life isn't easy. Do you know why God gave you two ears and only one mouth? so you would be able to listen twice as fast as you could speak. That's just a crusty old NCO's opinion and advice. if there is anything I can help you with or you just need to talk look me up on here or Facebook. I'll be more than happy to listen and give you advice and/or guidance

Response by CH (CPT) Myron Johnson made Nov 15 at 2020 8:26 AM

CH (CPT) Myron Johnson — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 08:26:11 -0500

SPC Isaksen, as a former chaplain, I had several Soldiers in my office wanting to get out of orders some legitimate, some not. My concern is that you only want to hear how to get out of the orders, unfortunately, you can’t. Instead of using your energy to fight the system, use it to figure out how to adapt to it! One of the best skills you can learn from military service is the ability to adapt. The greatest business people are those who have mastered the art of adapting. I was an MP chaplain once, your are a 31E—a corrections officer, you will have a pretty set schedule. Call ahead to your unit and talk to them about how your skills can be used. I am pretty sure your skills as a welder will come in handy at GITMO! You might even learn some new things. The best thing to to is to figure out how to make it work while fulfilling your obligation. For further inspiration, read about Roger Staubach who fulfilled his military contract first, then went on to have a successful career with the Cowboys!

Response by SSG Bob Teachout made Nov 16 at 2020 1:52 PM

SSG Bob Teachout — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 13:52:47 -0500

Then request to get out the Army now! I see you are on the promotion list for E-5
it appears you want all the benefits of the Army, but not of the responsibilities. You made a commitment to Uncle Sam - be a man and live up to it.
Think about this - when you ETS and get you business going full blast, and then hire some employees - are you going to expect them to live you to their employment responsibilities? Lets say an employee wants 5 months off so he can go play in a Class A rookie league pro baseball league - and if he isnt picked up for advancement to AA pro ball - he expects to get his job back in the fall. Of course you would let him do that - right ?

Response by SSgt Paul Millard made Nov 17 at 2020 10:42 AM

SSgt Paul Millard — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 10:42:51 -0500

As many of the below have stated that facts are:
1. YOU chose to reenlist and the Army agreed.
2. YOU asked for 18 months stability and the Army agreed.
3. ARMY asked for you to move after agreed stability term within you contract term and you do not agree because it would be better for you....

Think about what you are saying, when you took the oath of Service, service is the key word! you serve the Army not the other way around. What if a waiter or waitress served you what they wanted because it was easier for them.

Simply put YOU are being a spoiled child! Feel free to become a conscientious objector, accept a dishonorable discharge and go run your business or be a professional, due the service and duty you swore an oath to complete.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2020 6:59 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 Dec 2020 18:59:34 -0500

I'm going to approach this from two directions, I'm not sure how much either one will help you. There's a lot in this thread, my apologies if you've already answered some of my questions, or received similar advice in another comment.

First, I don't agree with the people saying that you need to just suck it up. In the end you may need to, but that doesn't mean that you can't try and get out of this. After all, if your needs are inconvenient for the Army, they wouldn't hesitate to screw you, so if their needs are inconvenient for you, then I'd say turnabout is fair play. I will echo some other comments which said not to burn to many bridges getting out. You've got a lot of life left, and going to extreme could stick around a long time, but that doesn't mean you can't try to get out of this pcs.

Unfortunately, I am far from an admin guru.

Aside from your career counselor, have you talked to your command about this at all? What was their response? As a 31E, it would seem that GTMO is the place to go. I would think that there would be competition for that job. Hell, is this an accompanied pcs? I'm tempted to volunteer for you. My experience has been that for every pcs/deployment someone doesn't want to do, there are three people wondering why they can't get that assignment. Would it be possible to find a volunteer to replace you? Your career counselor may be able to help you out with this. Also, is this an accompanied pcs?

The second direction I'm going to recommend is to not even try. 18 months will fly by. GTMO was my first duty station, I was there before there were any terrorists, just some refugees. I absolutely loved it. It is a tropical paradise. There's a reason why it was a tourist destination for the most high rolling capitalists before communism. GTMO is admittedly isolated, (though probably less so since there are more personnel there now,) and you probably won't meet any Cubans, but other than military stress, everything else was great.

The scuba diving is suppose to be the best in the world, and there are no tourists because there's landmines all over, so you get it all to yourself! Sadly, I can't speak from experience here, I never got certified because of stupidity, but you can! Fishing is outstanding, It is warm all year round. Running trails were good, and most importantly, I've still never had Jamaican jerk chicken better than I've had there. Not even close, and I've searched.

Speaking of searching, there was a bank robbery while I was there. They caught the culprits before they could leave the base, but the rumor was that they never recovered all the money and there's a couple hundred grand still out there. Happy hunting!

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Dec 5 at 2020 12:35 AM

SMSgt Bob Wilson — Sat, 05 Dec 2020 00:35:06 -0500

Whining? Suck it up. The Army had been good to you--18 months of stability. Check with the University of Maryland for continued education and get married (so she can get quarters allowance). I have not sympathy.

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Dec 5 at 2020 12:48 AM

SMSgt Bob Wilson — Sat, 05 Dec 2020 00:48:17 -0500

Response by SSG Randy Talbot made Dec 17 at 2020 9:25 AM

SSG Randy Talbot — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 09:25:09 -0500

BLUF: You re-enlisted for stability, received that stability, and now owe the army the remainder of your reenlistment time signed for AT YOUR REQUEST.

I guess I’m struggling to discern what your priority is. If it’s your business and education, why in the hell did you reenlist? If your priority is to fulfill the commitment you made, then follow your orders and go where you are ordered.

When I enlisted in 1975, I asked for school of choice. Because of my MOS, I had to enlist for 4 years. When I finished my AIT, I was sent to Fort Riley to the replacement detachment. There were 4 of us from my class they went to Riley. I was considered “excess” and given a choice of cook, grunt, or MP. I said I wanted to work my MOS. I was informed that the army fulfilled its commitment to me and I was now filling the needs of the army. I was then offered to be a grunt or an MP. They took cook off the table, so I chose because what they would choose. Fast forward 18 months, and now I’m in Germany working my MOS.

Fast forward a few years ahead of time. I requested to go to Germany and got orders for Korea. Seems that someone made a mark on a roster and the 21st replacement became the 121st replacement. I asked for drill sergeant duty, recruiter duty, even special forces. All were denied. I came back from an unaccompanied tour in Korea after a year and within 6 months got orders for an accompanied tour to Germany.

You signed a legal document saying that you would serve the needs of the Army when your stability time was over. The Army fulfilled its part of your commitment, now it’s your turn to fulfill your obligation that you freely signed for, without coercion or any other pressure from anyone.

Response by 1SG Rick Seekman made Dec 18 at 2020 10:19 PM

1SG Rick Seekman — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 22:19:48 -0500

Seems like you are all about you.
Suck it up, you're in the Army now!

Response by MAJ John Douglas made Dec 22 at 2020 9:46 AM

MAJ John Douglas — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 09:46:38 -0500

You are a solider and soldiers move around. Nothing has changed on that.

Response by SPC Jacques Perry made Dec 29 at 2020 12:04 PM

SPC Jacques Perry — Tue, 29 Dec 2020 12:04:29 -0500

Sounds like you should get your nuptials taken care of soon cause you're going to Cuba! Your business and school can both wait, that's life and what they call "Self Sacrifice". I had 5 years in service and NEVER had the option to get even a SINGLE class completed, but you can bet your arse I used my GI Bill to the fullest when I got out and got my BS degree. So if you have a welding business and are going to school it sounds like you don't really have a future mapped out anyway, typically it's a business OR school certainly no one has time to do both and do well at either of them. Take the rotation its barely over a year than you'll be ETS anyway, they can't obligate you to extend to meet a PCS length requirement to my knowledge, and the Army will ship you to your HoR but that doesn't mean you can't go back where your business was at and pick it up again. Just remember that if you decide not to report you will be AWOL and you'll lose all of the TANF? post separation benefits you'd get for another couple years if you just finish your time. BTW I tried to get a CoT from Italy to Germany when my two years in Italy was up and it would have been so easy to just drive to Germany and report in for another 3 years there but my CoC tried for whats it's worth to get it set up for me, but no dice. I had to report to Camp swampy (Ft. Stewart) in Georgia. So I sucked it up in arguably one of the shittiest stateside places but I had the best Platoon at 3rd MP Co. and ended up loving it for that. I had plans to marry the lady I met in Wiesbaden and it worked out fine I simply put in for leave and went back over for a month.

Response by CSM Tim Bebus made Jan 8 at 2021 5:46 PM

CSM Tim Bebus — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 17:46:37 -0500

You don't care if you ruin your career? Pathetic! I know many a Soldier who were like you and made these same statements a year later they are trying to get back in. What if your unit was being deployed would you be writing on RP on how to get our of it? The Army honored there end of the contract but you don't want to honor yours.

Response by Kenn Evans II made Jan 10 at 2021 12:09 PM

Kenn Evans II — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 12:09:10 -0500

You initiated a contract, if you do the same as a small business owner and breech it or break it, what happens? They are upholding you to your contract. You should care about ruining your career and future with the Army. You could lose your Constitutional rights, a bad decission made can also prevent you from ever establishing a line of credit with a financial institution. You might get a prepaid credit card but not a business loan or a mortgage. You should weigh out the "ME" aspect and fulfill your contract. Cuba is not bad. Good weather not like Cherry Point and if you put as much heart into it as you have for your business, that time will pass quicker than you expect. If your girlfriend loves you and can wait for you, you have a real keeper. Personally, marriage after serving is best. There are no excuses for lonely days and nights and if you're currently enrolled, the college, they will issue a deferment with documentation and you can resume when you get home and the GI Bill when applied accordingly, will help you reach your goals. "and I'll do basically anything at this point. " to me say's I'll honor my commitment. If you can't honor your commitment, what about the commitment of marriage? What about being a parent? it sets you up well, I cannot commit to anything that will make me a better man, not better than other's, but, that standard which we all hold ourselves accountable. Anything less than an honorable discharge is dishonorable to you and your family.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Jan 10 at 2021 5:19 PM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 17:19:34 -0500

You can try to swap assignments with someone the same MOS and Skill level as you. If that doesn't work, you're out of options. If you try to extend your tour where you're currently at, trust me, you'll FAIL.

Response by MSG Johnathan Mathes made Jan 25 at 2021 6:29 PM

MSG Johnathan Mathes — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 18:29:43 -0500

You really deserve this ratio.. you are a very selfish person.. you made the enlistment contract ....YOU signed the contract.. no one else .. sorry but you get to do your time.. it was because of selfish Soldiers others had to keep going back to worse places like Afghanistan and Iraq.. Korea and yet your here crying “whost me” I got a half way decent assignment but boohoo I got plans .. wtf would you do if you had a no shit got to go in 8 hours deployment.. to wherever the fight is .... do your time and get out .. until then suck it up the Army... per your signature .. owns your ass

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2021 9:51 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 21:51:37 -0500

I’m not going to disparage you like some have in the previous comments. I understand that an individual’s personal life, long-term goals, and future plans are important factors that influence motivation to continue serving.

Talk to someone at the legal office. Talk to someone at the S1, maybe even someone at a sister unit who can give unbiased advice. Requesting a deferment will require support from your Chain of Command, so speak with them too. Remember, the worst anyone can tell you is “No.” If there is a legal/ethical way to get the assignment deleted you should have no shame in taking that avenue.

That being said, if you exhaust all options you may have to bite the bullet. But it’s only a year. If your engagement survives the separation it will only strengthen and solidify your commitment to each other. The market for welding is not likely to crater, so it can also be paused until you return. You can even plan your business strategy in your free time, all while socking away nearly every dime you make. My buddy was stationed there and he did nothing but chill on the beach, work out, and eat at the DFAC.

Stay focused; you’ll be able to move in a positive direction whichever way the situation plays out.

Response by SSgt Chuck “Gunz” Gundlach USMC Ret., MBA made Feb 14 at 2021 4:26 PM

SSgt Chuck “Gunz” Gundlach USMC Ret., MBA — Sun, 14 Feb 2021 16:26:31 -0500

Things have changed with these new generations...WOW!

Response by SGT Jody Beach made Feb 17 at 2021 11:39 AM

SGT Jody Beach — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 11:39:00 -0500

Try to file hardship paper work based on your current financial situation. Also you can help your case with stating you have only 17 months left. To further help that you can bring up the fact that Biden (not my choice for commander in chief) is shutting that base down.

Response by SGT Jody Beach made Feb 17 at 2021 11:46 AM

SGT Jody Beach — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 11:46:22 -0500

File for a financial hardship. You only have 17 months left in service. Do you have finance books to show money you have spent to build business. Do you have school transactions that show you are enrolled?
I would be the first to jump on the "thats the Army" but I am not going to.
And if your going to get married do it now.. Like before Friday. You can have a wedding later. That will also change the game. As of now she is just a girlfriend. Besides why not take advantage of the perks.
I have built my business over the years and completely understand your situation.
Get your facts in order then go see the IG and state your case.
Do not do anything stupid to result in getting kicked out.. That will haunt you in years to come....

Response by COL John Power made Feb 17 at 2021 5:07 PM

COL John Power — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 17:07:35 -0500

I have a friend who is an attorney in the Reserves. He got called up for a year in GITMO. Left a great paying job and a pregnant wife. And he wasn't a full-time soldier. Do your duty man!

Response by SSG David Casey made Feb 21 at 2021 7:02 AM

SSG David Casey — Sun, 21 Feb 2021 07:02:04 -0500

How are you running a business while being active military? Quite a conflict of interest, don't you think?

Methinks you should diligently perform the duties you promised and swore to do when you reenlisted, then continue your education and business operations afterward. If your private interests are worth anything at all, they are worth waiting for. And think of the additions you can make to your resume when you return home!

Think ahead, show excellent performance, and get promoted so can support your family more comfortably - both in the military and as a civilian. Enjoy your time in Cuba!

Dave Casey

Response by SPC West Coleman made Mar 1 at 2021 2:12 AM

SPC West Coleman — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 02:12:12 -0500

Talk to your welding customers and let them know you’re still active duty and being deployed to Gitmo. They will be there when you get back. President Biden has said he is dramatically reducing the usage of Guantanamo Bay and May is still two months away, your orders may change. It used to be only a six month stint back in the old days.

Response by SFC Robert Gingras made Mar 2 at 2021 5:41 PM

SFC Robert Gingras — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 17:41:24 -0500

The military is not some part time job boys and girls. You made a commitment to serve. If you want out because your service is getting in the way of your job ask for a dishonorable discharge? I am sure you will be fine.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2021 2:06 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 14:06:13 -0500

Get your bags packed because your going soldier. The government upheld their side of the contractual agreement now you have to do yours. Your civilian job can wait. Your future wife can wait if she truly loves you and you can postpone finishing your degree until you get back or work with your college to do online classes. No excuses you agreed to the terms now your stuck with it. Part of being an adult soldier Army Strong !!!!

Response by SFC Benjamin Milligan made Mar 8 at 2021 2:30 PM

SFC Benjamin Milligan — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 14:30:42 -0500

The Army did their part...now do yours. If you're the kind of "businessman" that cannot respect a contract or your word...as in oath, then I would not want to be a client of yours.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2021 9:50 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 13 Mar 2021 21:50:37 -0500

Maybe say you are addicted to drugs. How about stick it out bc that shows the kind of man you are. You cannot quit everything just bc it doesn’t suit your current needs. If you quit before your obligation ends how can you earn any respect. You wanna get married? Stupid unless you are gonna have a child. You are not well established enough to get married, wait til you’re 35. Contract a welder while you are away.

Response by SFC Howard Holmes made Mar 16 at 2021 3:56 PM

SFC Howard Holmes — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 15:56:08 -0400

You re-enlisted for STABILITY? So you fulfilled your first contract and thought you were in a position of stability? Okay, either you don't pay attention to what is going on around you, or your command is piss poor. What on God's green earth every made you think that station assignments were stable. The only thing stable is your paycheck and that you have a job. Back in the day you could go to CSM and claim you're gay and that would've got you out - not any longer. If your welding business is going so well, why would you re-enlist? You can take online classes to get your BA, or BS, that's what I did, and after I retired I went to brick and mortar for my MA. There are options for your education, but your business? Well, your primary job and commitment is to the Army. Yes, it is pretty selfish that you think somebody else should go and your stability should be the Army's priority. You must have watched the old commercials and believe that you are an Army of One.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2021 4:06 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 16:06:10 -0400

Being an MP is one if those jobs that everyone pretty much cycles through Gitmo, like going to Bragg if you're ABN, Groton if you're a submariner, Augusta National for the Air and Space Forces...

Response by PO1 RIchard Petty made Mar 21 at 2021 10:55 PM

PO1 RIchard Petty — Sun, 21 Mar 2021 22:55:28 -0400

You sir need to put your "BIG BOY" pants on and do you job that you signed up for. You can finish your degree on line and let your customers know that you will be back for business once you finish your job in GTMO. It will be there once you finish your enlistment and your fiance will be there once you come back to states. Don't go to your career counselor or S-1 to get your orders canceled. I know several people in the Navy that have businesses and guess what they inform them what's going and be back in 10 months to continue on what they was doing. Just do your dam job and quit whining what you want to do.

Response by SSG David Brandgard made Mar 22 at 2021 5:08 PM

SSG David Brandgard — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 17:08:47 -0400

Wow! That is some weak shit there! I'm trying to be sympathetic because I understand you want life to be the way you want it. You should not have re-enlisted. The army took care of you and held up its end. Stop whining and hold up your end. I expect it is just a year like Korea, Panama (was), hondo, and Sinai. Expand your horizons...see another part of the world so you can fully appreciate home. If you are wanting to get married...get married or wait until you get home. I don't see how you can have a hugely successful side business as a spc on active duty. Not talking shit, just looking realistically at your duty day, duty shifts, field time, etc. If you have managed to make it work so far, then you will be able to pick up where you leave off.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made May 1 at 2021 9:40 PM

1SG James Kelly — Sat, 01 May 2021 21:40:45 -0400

Desert.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2021 3:38 PM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 May 2021 15:38:56 -0400

Ah, the old "I don't want those orders" routine. In 1996, I saw a sailor want into the Captain's office and tell him he couldn't go another minute without another man's dick in his ass. He was processed out in 48 hours.... However, I don't think that matters in today's Army. So grab a dictonary and look between "Shit" and "syphilis" and you will find sympathy. Then pack your bags and set your mind on "standing a post".

Response by PFC Shawn West made May 13 at 2021 2:36 PM

PFC Shawn West — Thu, 13 May 2021 14:36:15 -0400

Just now seeing this question, I'm genuinely curious how he's enjoying Cuba.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2021 3:11 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 May 2021 15:11:27 -0400

Made it to Cuba yet?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2021 9:24 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 May 2021 21:24:43 -0400

How's Cuba?