Posted on Dec 21, 2014
How long is too long to be out of the service to think about getting back in?
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I've been out of the Navy for nearly 13 years and am looking to return to service (I have almost 8 years of service and am 38). I've looked into the eligibility criteria and know I'm eligible, so that's not why I'm posting this question. Also, I'm not really concerned with benefits or anything like that (I already have a graduate level education thanks to the Montgomery and Post 9/11 GI Bills), I'm just looking to find a way to give back while setting a positive example for my son, and I was thinking the Reserves (Army or Navy and either officer or enlisted) would be a good way to accomplish this.
My concerns are "How has the climate in the services changed since I got out in 2002?" and "Am I too old to learn a new career, basically starting over?"
Any advice?
My concerns are "How has the climate in the services changed since I got out in 2002?" and "Am I too old to learn a new career, basically starting over?"
Any advice?
Posted in these groups: 
Prior Service
Re-enlistment
Prior Service Re-enlistment
Posted 11 y ago
Responses: 18
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When I was the XO of a reconnaissance unit in 2000-2001, my HQs Platoon Sergeant was a guy who had fought at Hamburger Hill in 1968 as an infantryman.
He had a 15 year break in active service, and then came back onto active duty as a 19 Delta (CAV Scout), so it can be done.
He had a 15 year break in active service, and then came back onto active duty as a 19 Delta (CAV Scout), so it can be done.
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PO3 Noemi Diaz
The rules have changed since the 70's.... I recently contacted Navy recruiter and told me it depends on your rank- every 5 years of separation, they knock your rank by two. Since I was only an E-4 & have been out 14yrs, my rank would be knocked down to E-2 and they don't take veterans lower than E-3 unless you have a bachelor's degree or 5+years job experience in your rating.
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I was 3 years Army, 6 years Air National Guard, 10 years out, 2 years trying to get back in and 5 years back in as an Officer. If you want to serve, and you meet the criteria, get in and do it.
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I am looking at similar options myself. I don't need any benefits as my career has those covered, but I feel like I still have something to contribute.
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1SG Michael Blount
@PO2 John W. - I'll give you the same advice as SSG Tim Everett - consider coming in as a Drill. I have a unit in Alexandria that would love to have you.
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PO2 (Join to see)
1SG Michael Blount A Drill Instructor? Interesting, I've never thought about it before. How does that work with the reserves?
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1SG Michael Blount
@PO2 John W. - Glad you asked. Assuming you get into a unit (no biggie there), apply for, attend and graduate from the Drill Sergeant Academy at Ft Jackson, SC. You'll then fall in on a Basic Training Company at Jackson. Tour lengths run anywhere from two weeks to an entire cycle - your choice, and subject to available funding.
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PO2 (Join to see)
So that would cover the 2 week portion of drill? Would you do your regular MOS for the weekend drills?
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