How difficult is it to go from part-time Army National Guard to active duty Navy?

2022-12-17T09:47:21-05:00

Been thinking of changing services and would like some clarification. Currently I'm an E-5 Sergeant working as an MP (31B) in the National Guard, but I would like to transfer to active duty Navy as a Master at Arms at the completion of my current contract (by then I will have 10 years of service). I realize I would be going through the Navy's OSVET program and would probably not retain my ranks grade, but regardless I'm still interested in transferring. Thanks for any feedback.

Response by COL Randall C. made Dec 17 at 2022 10:14 AM

2022-12-17T10:14:27-05:00

Simplest answer is your best answer. Talk to a Navy recruiter.

Getting into the Navy should be easy (assuming you meet all the screening criteria) - you just walk in to a recruiting office* and say you want to enlist.

The questions would be 1) What MOS would be available to you and 2) What grade would you be coming in as (you already mentioned). Your prior experience as a 31B might help, but it's likely to come down to strength numbers.
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Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Dec 18 at 2022 12:15 PM

2022-12-18T12:15:10-05:00

Be prepared for a long wait- Other services are normally not happy with service swaps- cause very little lines up with their component. . You have a better chance than many. Contact USN recruiter- they have the answers.

Response by PO1 Robert Ryan made Dec 20 at 2022 11:15 AM

2022-12-20T11:15:38-05:00

I had a secondary MS of 95B. I elected to get out vof the Army . A year I went to see a Navy Reserve recruiter. He saw I had the secondary MOS of 95B on my DD 214. He was able c to bring me in the Navy as a MA1 (E-6). I went active Navy as an MA1. The Master at Arms rate is now open to all enlisted E-1 and up. I retired in June 1989 as a MA1. More than liely you can be bought in in as an MA2.. (E-5).

Response by SGT David Parker made Dec 29 at 2022 7:54 AM

2022-12-29T07:54:48-05:00

Talk to a Navy Recruiter, you will get in.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2023 7:42 AM

2023-01-16T07:42:01-05:00

Hello,
Unfortunately the Navy will not as you suspect, retain that rank unless crossing to their MP Corps. You will start way behind the power curve will 10 years already for the Navy's rank structure. Be aware of your goal versus actual possibilities of accomplishing that rank at 20 years. Take a close look at their rank in relation to time in service and requirements.
V/r,
Ret. SGM