How will an honorable discharge with a reenlistment code of 4 affect entrance into an ROTC program?

PFC Zach Swan — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 15:10:30 -0400

I received a chapter 9 for 2 alcohol related incidents within a year. From what I've read its unheard of to return to active duty with this reenlistment code. Im wondering if going ROTC and commissioning into the guard to later transfer to active is a possibility. My understanding is the guard has more leeway with regards to waivers. Any other information is appreciated.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2017 3:14 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 15:14:58 -0400

I would highly doubt it. A recruiter can give you the most current answer though.

Edit: What's your RE code? The waiver 100% depends on the recruiter you talk to. If there is one you qualify for that doesn't mean you will get it. You really just have to talk to a recruiter based on what I read in a quick search.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jul 24 at 2017 3:16 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 15:16:14 -0400

PFC Zach Swan: I would Not let this keep you down, Private First Class. Going into ROTC is a Very Admirable endeavor.
I am sending many fervent prayers your way, Private First Class-
Margaret C. Higgins U.S. Army Retired: Coach

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2017 3:22 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 15:22:33 -0400

If you have an RE 4 code, you will probably not get that waiver, as an RE 4 is non-waiverable. ARMY, RE-4 Individuals separated from last period of service with a nonwaiverable disqualification (refer to AR 601-280). Ineligible for enlistment except as provided for in paragraphs 2-7c and 2-7d. (See waiverable moral and administrative disqualification.) Disqualification is nonwaivable.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Jul 24 at 2017 3:24 PM

LTC Eugene Chu — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 15:24:14 -0400

I am a former college ROTC cadre at two different schools. While not absolute, I believe there is a 90% chance that you will not be admitted since you are not eligible for reenlistment. Although you are discharged already, I know that active-duty "flagged" soldiers cannot get early discharge under Green-to-Gold.

Best to contact a College Army ROTC recruiter at a local university to confirm if this is the case.

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made Jul 24 at 2017 3:27 PM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 15:27:49 -0400

I believe an RE code of 4 is non waiverable, it usually means you have a medical condition that disqualifies you from service

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Jul 24 at 2017 5:12 PM

SFC J Fullerton — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 17:12:27 -0400

To apply for ROTC, you first have to be accepted into a university with ROTC, then apply to the ROTC program. There are 2 routes, scholarship and non-scholarship. Not everyone who applies for ROTC and is accepted is granted a full ride scholarship. They are limited and competitive. Secondly, there are qualifications to meet before you can apply. The most basic qualifications are the same as to anyone applying for enlistment, then the additional qualifications specific to ROTC and commissioning. Bottom line, if you are not qualified to enlist into the military as a prior service based on the RE 4, you are not going to be qualified for ROTC. However, you should contact the Professor of Military Science at the university you plan to attend to confirm that for yourself. Sorry, not even the National Guard can waive an RE 4. Good luck in college.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2017 8:31 PM

Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 20:31:15 -0400

Hey Zach, just wanted to chime in with my opinion. Im currently trying to enlist as a 09S in the FL ARNG. I think ROTC is definitely the way to go because from what I understand, OCS boards really look down on conduct issues while you were in the service. Furthermore, getting into ROTC is almost a guarantee (FROM WHAT i UNDERSTAND) that and I considered doing ROTC so I did some research on it. The hard part is contracting and getting an officer slot. If you had an honorable discharge and no other incidents, I think you'll be good. I hope this helped and the best of luck with your future endeavors!

Response by 1SG John B. Enlow made Jul 24 at 2017 8:47 PM

1SG John B. Enlow — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 20:47:10 -0400

PFC Swan, I'll be honest with you. The Chapter 9 and RE code are not the problems - the alcohol is. Take care of that first then consider your options.

Response by FN Daniel Sylvernale made Jul 28 at 2017 6:49 AM

FN Daniel Sylvernale — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 06:49:32 -0400

I received that same r-e code. I was told during my time r-e 5 they wouldn't even consider you but a 4 could be doable but difficult.