How realistic is it to go back on active duty after having been out for almost two years?

Sgt Tom A — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 22:01:55 -0400

I was in the Marine Corps for five years as an MP and after having been out for a while, I think I want to give active duty another go but in the Navy this time. I was told by a Navy recruiter that the best way for prior service to get back on active duty was to join the reserves and wait for a spot to open up. I would rather not wait it out in the reserves indefinitely but I will if that's the only option. Also I am open to an MOS change but Master at Arms (MP again) would probably still be my first choice.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 5 at 2018 11:20 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 23:20:38 -0400

Sgt Tom A I would not limit your choice to only the Navy. I would look at what all the branches have to offer, and then talk to prior service recruiters. Good luck.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 5 at 2018 11:28 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 23:28:45 -0400

My gut feeling is you take a risk by going reserves vs a recruiter who can guarantee you an AD slot.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2018 1:35 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 01:35:43 -0400

Army is wide open for prior service at the moment....I just made a post with what is available for mos.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2018 3:28 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 15:28:13 -0400

Don't forget the Coast Guard. They have prior service enlistments to regular Coast Guard active duty. See if you qualify and listen to what they have to offer. Trying to go from reserves to regular is usually very "iffy" in any branch of service. I wish you the best in your next military chapter, whichever branch it is.

Response by Sgt Tom A made Aug 6 at 2018 4:02 PM

Sgt Tom A — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 16:02:24 -0400

Thank you everyone for your input. I will check out the other branches, including the Coast Guard and I will push for straight to active duty.

Response by SSG Ken Schiffner made Aug 8 at 2018 9:06 AM

SSG Ken Schiffner — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 09:06:34 -0400

Like someone else said, I’d look into the coast guard. They have a law enforcement mission so you past MOS would be a plus. Another route for you would be ROTC. There are full rides out there for ROTC cadets, or you can start with your college money from Uncle Sam and earn a scholarship. Some of the best infantry officers I ever served with were prior enlisted. Good luck.