Posted on Oct 5, 2019
Sgt Josh Baker
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Has anyone separated from the Marines (or other branch) and returned to active duty in the same branch? How was the process? What were your reasons for going back? How was the experience the second time around?

I separated 04/17 and am missing the Corps. I miss the work. I miss the friendships and hardships. I miss being apart of it. I miss our family life all alone in Pendleton. I miss the connections we had with other families. I am trying the whole Air National Guard thing as a substitute for that “feeling” but it’s not working out.

Just wanted to talk to someone who wants to go back or went back active duty to see how they felt after they returned.
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Responses: 5
GySgt Charles O'Connell
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I was honorably discharged in 1984, took a job in logistics working for a company contracted to the Dept of State. For a while it was good. But sitting in rush hour traffic on I95 one evening I thought, "What am I doing". Where is the sense of adventure, of accomplishment, the friggin fun. Came off the interstate and into Recruiters office. I retired in 2002, best decision I ever made.
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Sgt Josh Baker
Sgt Josh Baker
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Thanks Gunny I appreciate it. Semper Fi
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GySgt Charles O'Connell
GySgt Charles O'Connell
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Fair winds and following seas.
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CSM Charles Hayden Passed 7/29/2025
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Sgt Josh Baker How nice! The military is not for everyone. If you enjoy it partake of more! Just do it right and anticipate what the Corps wants, today and tomorrow!

I still do my best to think military. My sons really appreciate and respect my service. I am so Blessed that they do.
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CW4 Craig Urban
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I was a carpenter for nine months in
Thousand Oaks California. I went back in and was sent back to Fort Bliss Texas. This is where I took basic. 44 years working for the army. I think I made the correct choice.
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How was the process of returning to AD after EAS? What were your reasons for going back? How was the experience the second time around?
1SG Retired
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I had a 2 year break when I became a single parent.
I was glad when I went back on active duty, despite losing rank to reenlist.
I missed much of the same things you referenced, but my primary reason was health care for my children.
I have never regretted it.
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Sgt Josh Baker
Sgt Josh Baker
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Thank you for your input 1SG.
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CPL Douglas Chrysler
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If I could have gone back I would have. Even after receiving my Honorable, I was summoned twice for the draft. I did nothing to stop the process. You know, student deferment, etc. But, at the time Anyone with a synthetic prosthesis could not serve. That may have changed, I don't know. Anyway, If you loved it half as much as I did, then run to the nearest recruiter.
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SSG Laurie Mullen
SSG Laurie Mullen
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CPL Douglas Chrysler - The problem is that his unit isn't required to release him. If the unit really wants to keep him until the end of his contract then there is nothing the recruiter can do.
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SGT Sgt
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Sgt Josh Baker - It'll probably be an easy release, but that depends on the command. The recruiter will send a DD 368 (conditional release) asking them to sign off. Make sure you go to a regular recruiter, NOT a PSR, if you are trying to go active again. You'll be looking to fill out a Prior Service Enlistment Package (PSEP).
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Sgt Josh Baker
Sgt Josh Baker
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Outstanding, thank you.
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CPL Douglas Chrysler
CPL Douglas Chrysler
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SSG Laurie Mullen Things have changed since my time.
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