I was told to retrain for a new MOS, but based on issues with my unit, I'm not sure what to do. What are my options?

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 01:01:54 -0400

My unit has announced it is restructuring, and it is adding/removing MOS's. My slot in the unit is being removed, but ahead of time, I've been given a list of tentative MOS's I can pick from, so I can retrain.

However, based on bad experiences, like not being compensated for the long distance travel, lack of barracks, miscommunication within the chain of command, etc; I wouldn't like to stay in the unit. Also, in the retraining process, I might lose or have a deduction in my sign-in bonus, which I haven't received a portion of yet.

I understand I could transfer to another unit within the state, which could help me find a base closer to home, but there are no open slots for me to transfer to.

The other option would be to wait and see if there are no more slots available for any MOS so that the National Guard cancels my contract, which could open the door to signing for Active Duty. To my understanding, however, they could force any MOS if there are slots open.

Retraining is something that can help me further my military career, but if I had a choice, I wouldn't continue in my current unit. Also, I think about the bonus.

Many NCOs have recommended me that if I have the chance, that I should go Active. It is an option I'm also contemplating, but based on some testimony by fellow soldiers, the unit's not going to want to let me go unless they really have to.

What options do I have regarding all of this, and what can I do to further a solution that could benefit me?

Response by MAJ Javier Rivera made Apr 1 at 2019 7:12 AM

MAJ Javier Rivera — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 07:12:50 -0400

Couple of things here:

1. If you signed up for a bonus and you, due to involuntary reasons, have to reclass then it is not on you. Check with your servicing JAG/IG for confirmation.

2. I have very short knowledge of how NG works but since you are going thru a restructuring and, again, you have to involuntary reclass… have you considered going regular component (active)?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2019 9:00 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 09:00:52 -0400

If going active is something you are considering, talk to a recruiter. Don’t let the rumors of others stop you from pursuing an active duty career. Fellow Soldiers intention may be good but you can’t let hearsay stop you from pursuing your opinions for active duty...Good Luck to you....

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2019 9:23 AM

CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 09:23:59 -0400

I'm not Guard, but if your unit is restructuring and eliminating your MOS, then now might be the perfect time to gain a release to AD.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2019 9:52 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 09:52:30 -0400

You should not be forgoing any MOS-based bonus, as your reclassification would be involuntary.
I would suggest transferring to another unit closer to home as your best option. Interstate transfers are a lot more challenging and would likely cause you to forfeit any bonuses and education benefits that are State-based - probably most of them.
I think this is an opportunity to reconsider your initial choices and go a different way without any penalty. You should take it, if you regret your MOS or unit of choice.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2019 10:50 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 10:50:31 -0400

For your bonus, if the unit is restructuring and having you reclass, there's a specific code to be used in the reassignment PAR that they should use. Don't quote me on it, but if I remember the wording it states "unit reorg 9994" in it. That should allow you to keep the rest of your bonus. If you move to another unit, either with or without slots available or not in your current MOS, you have the potential for being coded as excess, leading to a recoup.
As for going active, your unit can't stop your request, even if they don't want to lose numbers, as the approval authority would be the PR G1. They have the potential to drag their heels on processing it but final decision is higher, they still have the duty to submit it. Double check with the incentive manager for PR, but you should be able to keep your bonus providing you sign for a contract up to or exceeding your current ETS and for your current MOS.
It boils down to your choice though. Guard will keep you closer to home, and allow you to pursue employment and school in an environment you know. Active will send you where they have holes. Everyone here can offer you the advice from their POVs but you will ultimately be the one stuck with the choice.

Response by SGT Eric Davis made Apr 1 at 2019 12:15 PM

SGT Eric Davis — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 12:15:44 -0400

You bonus shouldn’t be affected by the involuntary MOS change. If you like you unit then change MOS and if you wanna go active then try but you need to decide on what you wanna do before it’s too late and you stuck in a MOS you don’t like it enjoy!

Response by SPC Casey Ashfield made Apr 1 at 2019 2:01 PM

SPC Casey Ashfield — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 14:01:33 -0400

Do not wait. Whatever you do, don't wait. There is no guarantee you can get into AD when the NG phases out your MOS and you hit the deadline. If changing to AD is your goal, you need to work on that process NOW. Your CO will have to sign a letter of release so you can transfer, among other criteria because I am sure it has changed. Talk to an AD recruiter about options. They will have a good scope on what MOS are taking soldiers and current needs on where you could go on AD.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2019 3:54 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 15:54:23 -0400

You are in a very tough situation but if they are taking your MoS your going to have to reclass. If you are looking to go AD I would talk to a recruiter and see what would happen. As to the travel pay I would take it to chain of command and go up as needed. Be careful not to piss anyone off while your doing it but if you SL isn't doing anything go to PSG and push comes to shove your LT. might be able to pull worst case scenario go to your first Sgt. If you are paying out of pocket for travel and was told you would be reimbursed that is a big issue.