If being a Marine is so awesome, why is it that there are so many Marines that join the Army and Air Force?

2015-04-30T13:48:59-04:00

If being a Marine is so awesome (I am the son of 2 Marines), why is it that there are soooo many Marines that join the Army and Air Force?

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Apr 30 at 2015 1:51 PM

2015-04-30T13:51:26-04:00

Better pay, benefits and treatment. Easier life. And you still get to call yourself a Marine.

Response by SSgt Timothy Nestor made Apr 30 at 2015 1:57 PM

2015-04-30T13:57:35-04:00

because maybe they can no longer be a Marine and the Army and Air Force will accept them.

Response by MSG Morgan Fiszel, CPCM, CFCM made Apr 30 at 2015 2:05 PM

2015-04-30T14:05:29-04:00

Although not a Marine, I have a known reason. Marines are few and far between. Their MOSs are spread out and limited. Often times they get off active duty and move to some place due to a civilian opportunity then want to be a part of the reserves. If you are stuck in Hartford CT or some other place and all you have is Army and Air around, then that is your only option.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Apr 30 at 2015 2:32 PM

2015-04-30T14:32:13-04:00

They make it insanely difficult to go back into the Marines when you get out. If they do let you rejoin, you often lose rank (at least for a time). Generally speaking, going to the other services, you won't lose rank, or TIG. Add in the "perks" of just being in the USAF or Army...

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 3:03 PM

2015-04-30T15:03:04-04:00

Some of them transfer to the NG because there isn't really a Marine equivalent. I have about 3(4?) Marines in my unit

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Apr 30 at 2015 6:45 PM

2015-04-30T18:45:03-04:00

Im going to answer your question with a short story.

Several years after my time in the Marine Infantry, I was considering doing something with Army National Guard. I was in Las Vegas at the time, and I went down to an ANG recruiting office. As soon as I walked into the door, eyeballing all of this ARMY stuff to see, I thought I might feel just a little awkward at first. Instead though, I felt a sense of familiarity I could not explain...it was not a bad thing, it was just rather unexpected.

I waited around for maybe 5-6 minutes, was greeted by an Army SSGT, we begin our usual discussion about my being a Prior Service Marine, etc. He then hollars to the SFG whom I guess was the Senior Man on post, and says rather empathically "Hey SFG, we got another live one here!" (It became somewhat obvious this was somewhat of a routine for them). The SFG comes out of his office and yells to all of the other recruiters "Hey its that time again, get up here!" I am then asked to stand up for a second, so I oblige. I am suddenly surrounded by 7 Army people all E5-E7, and the SFG calls out his makeshift commands: Gather around our brother. Remove your (ACU blouses). Ready...Post"

Each of the arms stuck out pointing in my direction had various USMC Tattoos on them.

I said Oh, well Whats' up my Brothers and Sister? (yes even she had a tattoo of similar description, albeit a bit smaller) Then everyone starts laughing, and it became clear to me that this was their collectively-speaking favorite thing to do during their routine work-week. I said "I thought I sensed something far too familiar when I came into that door."

The SSgt who I was originally seated with, says "What we have figured out is simply this:
When you want to learn to become a badass, as we all once did, go Corps. Later when you actually want to be better paid for who you are and what you do, go ANG."

I did not ultimately go ANG, as I was trying to match up a job-skill Id have interest in with what the ANG needs were for that State (in this case, Nevada). Seemed at the time most of the options were either MPs, or Motor-T Diesel Mechanics.

But I thought this experience with that particular ANG Recruiting Office...was hysterical. =)

Response by COL Charles Williams made May 1 at 2015 12:15 AM

2015-05-01T00:15:36-04:00

My answer is purely what we would call hearsay TSgt Joshua Copeland. I learned a lot about this from my current SGM, who started his career as a Marine, and was even a member of the Marine Silent Drill Team. He ETS'd, and then wanted to come back, but the Marines were not hiring, so he joined the Army. He has told me (A) the Marines rarely take back prior service Marines, so they end up going to other branches, and (B) he also believes the Marines are focused more than other branches on recruits staying only one term. He believes they, more than any other branch, use and lose a lot of young folks. I think the answer is, they generally don't take prior service back. I will ask a recruiter and see what he says.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2015 1:54 AM

2015-05-01T01:54:05-04:00

I will also add that there is many more Army and Air Force Guard/Reserve units around then Marine reserve units. So many have no choice if they want to remain in and still be close to home. You can never take the Marine out of a Marine.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made May 1 at 2015 12:30 PM

2015-05-01T12:30:46-04:00

So we can teach those poor fellas in the Army what real warfighting looks like.

Response by SFC Joseph James made May 1 at 2015 2:07 PM

2015-05-01T14:07:39-04:00

The question sounds like the start of a joke! " So a Marine walls into an Army Recruiting office..."

Response by CWO4 Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2015 4:30 PM

2015-05-01T16:30:14-04:00

A lot of times, really good Marines, who want to stay on active duty can't get a boat space for reenlistment and are forced out. that leaves only one option for those that really want to remain on active duty...

Response by Capt Andrew Cosgrove made May 1 at 2015 9:34 PM

2015-05-01T21:34:57-04:00

Cutting Scores cause lots of good Marines to be forced out of active duty. Hence terms like "Terminal Lance Corporal"

Response by LCpl Kenneth Heath made May 6 at 2015 1:05 PM

2015-05-06T13:05:05-04:00

Many times it's because the Marine Corps have an overall strength requirement that fluctuates by thousands of personnel... if your MOS is getting downsized you may not have the option of reenlisting. This means your only choices to continue a Military career are the other branches.

Response by Cpl Edward Ramos made May 7 at 2015 10:17 AM

2015-05-07T10:17:15-04:00

I've been out of active service for almost 30 yrs now, but I am sure things have not changed that much. When I was active service, I saw several Marines jump over to another branch of service because promotions were frozen at several MOS and the only way they could advance was by moving to another service. It was hard to get promoted in the 80's, especially when they came up with the "Contract Corporal" concept, where if you signed up for a 6 yr enlistment, you were automatically guaranteed to pick up E-4 at a certain time. This concept took up the vacant positions within certain MOS's and made it almost impossible for guys like me to get promoted. I was an E-3 for almost 28 months with the cutting scores for E-4 for almost 12 months before I got lucky and promoted.

Response by SPC Angel Guma made Jun 3 at 2015 4:30 AM

2015-06-03T04:30:56-04:00

No. Just, No. They are bringing the Devil Dog into the Air Force.

Response by SGT Matthew Schenkenfelder made Sep 1 at 2016 7:02 PM

2016-09-01T19:02:52-04:00

I spent 4 years and 2 months on active duty in my beloved Corps. I voluntarily extended in order to deploy with the squad that I trained. I completed 3 combat deployments as a combat engineer. From being a machine gunner during the invasion of Iraq in 2003 to returning to Iraq in 2004, and finally being a squad leader in Afghanistan's Kunar province in 2005-2006, I got burned out really fast. By the time my last tour was over I just wanted to go home. After 4 years of trying to settle down after war, I threw in the towel on civilian life and decided to try to go back to active duty. I was told that the Marines stopped taking prior service for active duty as of 2009, so I went over to the Army recruiter and the rest is history.

Response by Capt Andrew Cosgrove made Sep 8 at 2016 3:21 PM

2016-09-08T15:21:54-04:00

There is the "OOORAH" answer and then there is the more logical answer based on my interactions with former Marines who are now serving or have served in our sister branches.

1. The Marine Corps is not a large force and as such there is limited space. Pick your reason, but many Marines who go into other services are not able to re-enlist or augment due to "Boat Space" issues. I.E. too many hard chargers for too few spots. They still wish to serve so they choose another service. We still consider them fellow Marines.

2. The Marine Corps is not for everyone. There is a lot of marketing that goes into the recruiting. They don't like the OP tempo, they don't like the MOS they got assigned, they don't like the conditions, whatever. They still want to serve so they transition to another service. The Corps is REAL BIG on the concept of "Bloom where you're planted." and lots of folks can't, won't, or don't want to. I can't blame them. But if they earned their EGA though, we still consider them fellow Marines.

The Corps can best be summed up when compared to the other services recruiting efforts. Think of the slogans. All the other services point to what they can do for the individual. Navy: Not just a job but an adventure, Army: Be all you can be, Army of One, Army Strong, Air Force: Aim High. The Marine Corps went from "We never promised you a rose garden" to "Looking for a few good men" to "The Few, the Proud."

We are just different. Not better, not worse, just different.

If you line up an Elephant, an Eagle, a Lion, and a Shark then tell them that the test is to climb a tree, how valid a result do you think you would get if the task is to protect the Island they are on?

This is what the inter-service rivalries boil down to.

Response by SFC Pete Kain made Sep 8 at 2016 3:23 PM

2016-09-08T15:23:37-04:00

Drug testing.

Response by SSG Joseph VanDyck made Jul 31 at 2017 6:08 PM

2017-07-31T18:08:06-04:00

Could be like my old EMS Shift CPT. He was an 11B1P in the early 80's in the 82nd. He left active duty and joined the USMC reserves as an 0311. Never ever went to boot or their AIT, but still calls himself a Marine. He did 4 years as a reservist.

Response by MSG Michael Lange made Jul 31 at 2017 6:09 PM

2017-07-31T18:09:22-04:00

During my previous life as a 1SG before my USAR unit was deactivated, I had two Marine platoon sergeants. I couldn't ask for better soldiers. They were motivated, in excellent physical shape and the troops respected them. I wish I had four more.

Response by SFC Shane Funkhouser made Jul 31 at 2017 6:10 PM

2017-07-31T18:10:30-04:00

Although we all have our reasons mine were simple. At least before OIF. less time deployed more time for my family. Didn't hurt that it was so much easier once I got used to push ups rather then pull ups.

Response by PO1 Edward Pate made Jul 31 at 2017 6:11 PM

2017-07-31T18:11:22-04:00

In 1980 when I went through Navy boot camp we had a recruit who had been a Marine in Vietnam in 1970. Lots of great stories, he wanted to come back in and get technical training.

Response by CPT Joshua Hill made Jul 31 at 2017 6:22 PM

2017-07-31T18:22:19-04:00

It's been more than a few years, but when I was on recruiting duty it almost impossible for a prior service prospect to get in to the Marines, from any branch, even Marines. There were only two factors that might, a that is a big might, changes their chances... if they had stayed in the Marine Reserves after ETSing, and they were a shortage MOS... Other services were less restrictive, and had less problem reclassifying someone to a new MOS, could write E3's and E4's all day long, E5's and above were a little more restrictive depending on the original MOS and new MOS - may or may not lose rank... From reading other comments, it sounds like not has changed.

Response by SGT Brent Scott made Jul 31 at 2017 6:29 PM

2017-07-31T18:29:53-04:00

Personally kids join the marines and think that they are 10' tall and bullet proof, then reality sets in and they realize that all army soldiers are their heros and they want to be a hero

Response by LTC Russ Smith made Jul 31 at 2017 6:38 PM

2017-07-31T18:38:41-04:00

When a Marine joins the Air Force the collective IQ of both services goes up exponentially.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2017 9:33 PM

2017-07-31T21:33:05-04:00

Cause sometime you you get stuck in a job you don't like. Army offers basically same life style but more opportunity. Not that we still love the corp but when they have no funding it sucks.

Response by CW4 Angel C. made Jul 31 at 2017 9:56 PM

2017-07-31T21:56:07-04:00

As for going into the Army. Maybe they wanna be all that they can be. The Army is full of opportunities and coming from the Marines you're likely gonna be in the top 50% of your Army peers. I think it's a win win for Marines and the Army.

Response by Cpl Thomas Kifer made Jul 31 at 2017 10:02 PM

2017-07-31T22:02:32-04:00

Several reasons. Promotions are faster. Possibly more fields that apply towards civilian work when one gets out. But I'm a purerist, did I spell that right? I love the Corps. Its history, its uniform, the level of respect I get from the people who know me. What I believe in. And though I'm no expert on the discipline in the other branches, I just feel taller, prouder and feel unstoppable.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jul 31 at 2017 10:02 PM

2017-07-31T22:02:54-04:00

While being a Marine is a point of pride, it's also extraordinarily taxing on the body and soul. After a while, for me, I just didn't want to do it anymore. I know this is blasphemy, but the truth is the Army has a better quality of life, more opportunities for education, more military education, is better for the family, better on the marriage, better and diverse assignments, more NCOPD, you don't have to be an Alpha Male douchebag all the time, the bases are nicer, the quality of life is better, I could go on and on.... Frankly, you do the Marines to say you did it, but you join the Army to actually have a career where you aren't always taking a backseat to the "Needs of the Corps, if the Corps wanted you to have a wife, they'd have issued you one, divorces are expected lifestyle".... The Army's big green weenie is more gentle =o)

Response by SPC Rory J. Mattheisen made Jul 31 at 2017 10:24 PM

2017-07-31T22:24:04-04:00

Because being a Marine only sounds cool.

Response by MAJ Don Bigger made Aug 1 at 2017 7:31 AM

2017-08-01T07:31:00-04:00

If I was going to stay on active duty, I would have stayed in the Marines. Since I knew I would be going into a Reserve Component after college, I opted for the Army. Reason? Very few Reserve Marine slots available for advancement without traveling a pretty good distance. No rocket science about it. I suppose I could have gone the Air Force route, but I wanted to stay in the 'military' vs the 'service' :)

Response by MSgt Mark Bucher made Aug 1 at 2017 10:50 AM

2017-08-01T10:50:21-04:00

TROLLING for flamers

Response by SFC S.t. Helms (Ret) made Aug 1 at 2017 1:54 PM

2017-08-01T13:54:31-04:00

Spent 10 years active (Army), 12 in the (Army) guard. Had many soldiers that were ex marines (oops sorry... former). Although they were excellent soldiers, they still walked around like they were better and could not let go of their marine corps heritage. Kept trying to bring their traditions in the guard. When I called them "ex-marines" they would demand "former marine". So I responded with "so you are a quiter" and "no longer wanted to be in the marines"? Conversation general ended there.

Response by SSgt Stephen Milburn made Aug 3 at 2017 8:17 PM

2017-08-03T20:17:24-04:00

The Marine Corps is Small and only Three active Duty Divisions as you move up in rank it gets crowded The Army is a Large Organization it gives opportunity to those who want to continue to serve.

Response by SSgt Jerrol Olson made Aug 3 at 2017 9:31 PM

2017-08-03T21:31:36-04:00

A couple reasons.
I will not repeat many of the above. One that I will say is that, When you run across a prior active duty Marine, you can tell. Either because he was a shit bag, got out, joined another service and runs his c*ck holster about "when he was a Marine". Or he was squared away and you just can't keep up with the tempo/work ethic of the Jarhead, he says nothing and you know he was a Marine.
The End.

Either way you know the soul of a person and there are many reasons why they had EAS'd. I EAS'd after 10 years. And looked at reenlisting with the Guard due to the proximity (employer education, desire etc) of the base. I couldn't bring myself to it when I saw how they threw themselves at me ..etc. I put it off until I was in a place to go with USMC again. Its the only way to go.

Re-affirmed after deploying and .....I'll leave that there. S/F

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2017 11:52 AM

2017-12-19T11:52:40-05:00

If the Army had more pride as an “organization” .. not unit pride, the Army would be ok. Also, take away the patches and badges, and Tab. That’s all Soldiers care about is how they look in uniform, but don’t know doctrine, not all but some. If you look “High Speed” you know more in the Army.... GTFOH..smh. Take the chest candy away nobody would attend the schools.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 20 at 2017 10:47 AM

2017-12-20T10:47:48-05:00

Good question I served my 1st enlistment in thr Marine Corps and I will forever cherish my time. However the Army offered way more advancement opportunities.

Response by PV2 Mark Zehner made Dec 20 at 2017 11:09 AM

2017-12-20T11:09:09-05:00

Army is awesome!

Response by SGT Robert Hawks made Dec 20 at 2017 12:25 PM

2017-12-20T12:25:29-05:00

The simple answer is that there are more chances for advancement. In the Marine Corps you can be a lance corporal for five to six years in the Army you can make sergeant in four years. The Corps has around 100,000 active duty the Army has over 500,000.

Response by MAJ Daniel Flynn made Dec 20 at 2017 2:21 PM

2017-12-20T14:21:31-05:00

More MOS choices.

Response by Cpl Crystal Galvan-Casas made Dec 20 at 2017 3:17 PM

2017-12-20T15:17:46-05:00

You must be around the only 2.

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made Dec 20 at 2017 3:35 PM

2017-12-20T15:35:15-05:00

Stay in your lane, airedale.

Response by CH (CPT) Heather Davis made Dec 20 at 2017 6:41 PM

2017-12-20T18:41:29-05:00

The Army is the only branch that extends a service members career. The blue to green program where one can serve enlisted, Warrant Officer and Officer.

Response by Sgt Michael Vasquez made Dec 20 at 2017 6:56 PM

2017-12-20T18:56:03-05:00

There was no more room for me on the Corps. Force reduction so I ended up ANG. Wasn't only Marine there

Response by LCDR Tim McKenzie made Dec 20 at 2017 6:56 PM

2017-12-20T18:56:50-05:00

Because Marines often live on boats. Boat life gets old.

Response by SSG Darrell Peters made Dec 20 at 2017 9:03 PM

2017-12-20T21:03:05-05:00

It has to do with Jobs and number of Jobs. Their was once 12 Medical residence in the Army. The Army Decided they did not need 12 Medical Residence in the Specialty of Medicine they were in. Yet the Airforce Did. So in the Lobby of the Hospital I see Doctors Smith Jones and Brown Wearing Army Green. About a Week Later Doctors Smith Jones and Brown were Wearing Air Force Blue. Same with the USMC If they don't have a space for you and you want to stay in you are going to have to go to another service. Some Go to the Navy a lot go to the Army Particularly Combat Arms. I saw a 60 Minutes Report a long time ago where a USMC Pilot Went to the Navy flying the same plane doing basically the same job. Why? The Navy had a larger quota for that particular need.

Response by Sgt Jon Ridout made Dec 20 at 2017 9:48 PM

2017-12-20T21:48:28-05:00

I started out in the ANG then I grew up and decided it was time to be a man and joined the Marine Corps.

Response by GySgt Gregory Robeson made Dec 20 at 2017 10:09 PM

2017-12-20T22:09:01-05:00

Because they couldn’t hack it in the USMC....but still wanted to be in the military.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Dec 20 at 2017 10:16 PM

2017-12-20T22:16:36-05:00

You know this is going to open up a boatload of inter-service jabs.....

Response by LTC Trent Klug made Dec 20 at 2017 10:57 PM

2017-12-20T22:57:14-05:00

My reason for re-enlisting in the Army was very simple. I made Sgt. in the Marines in 2.5 years (meritorious Cpl. And meritorious Sgt.) My re-enlistment option was where the Marines needed me. That was Camp Lejeune. My then wife didn't want to move there. I got out.

3 months later and a dead end job, I went back to see the Marine recruiter, only to be told they weren't taking prior service, but the Army was. That's where I went and I've been Army ever since.

Response by Mike Delaney made Dec 20 at 2017 11:30 PM

2017-12-20T23:30:57-05:00

It has a lot to do with the opportunities provided by the Army to rank up and get better pay, where as the Corps doesn’t have as many opportunities. Some Marine officers are what they call Mustangs, who didn’t start as an officer but rather an enlisted man and worked his way up through experience.

Response by Sgt David Wyble made Dec 20 at 2017 11:33 PM

2017-12-20T23:33:25-05:00

Because they want to be living walking God's! Damn near impossible in the Corps. Yet a highly attainable goal for a hard-charging Devil Dog in the army full of Manning's and Bergdahls! :D

Response by SP6 Gawad Abernathy made Dec 21 at 2017 12:34 AM

2017-12-21T00:34:47-05:00

I did

Response by Cpl Timothy Woodruff made Dec 21 at 2017 12:39 AM

2017-12-21T00:39:51-05:00

This Marine never joined the Army or any other branch of service. I wouldn’t lower my standards!

Response by MGySgt Theodore Loepp made Dec 21 at 2017 7:20 AM

2017-12-21T07:20:29-05:00

Because they don’t promote as quickly as others branches

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2017 8:08 AM

2017-12-21T08:08:22-05:00

Damn I must of read 100 comments.. and not a single person made a joke about being "the son of two Marines" .... The military has gone soft lol

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2017 9:00 AM

2017-12-21T09:00:16-05:00

They Marines teach you discipline they make you military for life at 51 I join the Army National Guard did a tour overseas about to retire at the age of 62 I take nothing from the Army NG but I truly don't believe I could have withstood being a marine at that age in a combat arms MOS as greatest shape as I'm in skills of a Marine at that age is better suited for the Army National Guard as I salute the Marines forgiving me a mentality like no other to be able to be Army National Guard until I'm 62 that's my reasoning

Response by SrA Bill Curtin made Dec 21 at 2017 9:26 AM

2017-12-21T09:26:22-05:00

I was Security Police in USAF and there were plenty of marines, they all rotate as Training instructors for basic trading and cop school. Not sure where else they went in USAF.

Response by Cpl Kenneth Sternberg made Dec 21 at 2017 10:39 AM

2017-12-21T10:39:42-05:00

More choice of duty stations.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2017 11:46 AM

2017-12-21T11:46:19-05:00

It's simple really. We get treated like absolute dog c*** and then get told where the best over and over and over again. There is the sense of pride in being a marine but after a while you kind of realize that unless you're going to make it a career there really isn't much of a reason to stay. Granted there are a few job fields the Marine Corps does better than the other branches, I'm sorry army but our infantry is far superior maybe not in equipment but definitely in training. But as for every other job you start to realize that not only are you treated better in the other branches but they tend to have both better funding and better qualifications that translate into civilian life, So the question becomes this do I want to be treated like c*** for the same pay as the other guys with a slower promotion, or do I actually want to injoy life in the military

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2017 1:05 PM

2017-12-21T13:05:27-05:00

They retake the asvab and score high enough and they don't like the taste of crayons no more.......just a joke don't get all offended.

Response by LCpl Troy Gwyn made Dec 21 at 2017 1:35 PM

2017-12-21T13:35:36-05:00

My company commander was in the Army during Vietnam. He would tell us how Marines rescued his unit while in Vietnam. And how, after college, those Marines led to him wanting to become a Marine officer.
So, I'm thinking it's more about just wanting to serve.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2017 2:29 PM

2017-12-21T14:29:07-05:00

I know we aren’t allowed to join the Air Force. 3 of my buddies were turned away from the Air Force after being prior service marines

Response by CPT Kraig Stuart made Dec 21 at 2017 4:02 PM

2017-12-21T16:02:46-05:00

I went from the RA to the ARNG. I found if you wanted to shoot, the NG was the place. If you were willing to put in the effort you could shoot. You got support, every thing you needed. I worked my way up to being the OIC of the states marksmanship unit and coach of the rifle team. In our travels to Matches we ran across members of several branches who envied out support. For the most part they were shooting on their own dime with restrictions on what the could and could not do with their privat weapons and ammo. Although the Marines are suppose to be the riflemen, this is the reason they and other branches cannot compete with the army in the Interservice, National Matches and the International Sniper Competitions.

Response by Cpl John Barker made Dec 21 at 2017 4:03 PM

2017-12-21T16:03:49-05:00

Once a Marine; one is enough

Response by MSG Loren Tomblin made Dec 21 at 2017 4:06 PM

2017-12-21T16:06:35-05:00

I don't like Marines. It took three Marine Boots to kick my butt back in the day when I was fresh out of the jungle wearing my "Pretty Ribbons" when they insulted me. One got a broken jaw from my arm cast, one was rendered childless but the third one somehow got behind me and the broken jaw kicked me in my teeth. But, they knew I had been there. lol

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2017 7:41 PM

2017-12-21T19:41:58-05:00

More Specialties and duty stations to choose from.

Response by SGT James Clark made Dec 21 at 2017 8:33 PM

2017-12-21T20:33:03-05:00

They found out they wanted to be in the best branch of the military THE ARMY that's why.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2017 10:58 PM

2017-12-21T22:58:34-05:00

There may be some truth to this, however I promise you there have been, are now, and will be millions who wear our eagle, globe, and anchor and could never fathom wearing a different uniform. Semper Fidelis -

Response by SSG John Aylward made Dec 21 at 2017 11:04 PM

2017-12-21T23:04:57-05:00

I had a platoon sergeant in my army unit that came over from the Marines. He told me the reason was career advancement. It was tough to get rank in the Marines.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2017 12:32 AM

2017-12-22T00:32:46-05:00

Joined the Marines in 2008 got out due to reduction of force in 2008. Marines wouldn't take me back in due to stupid tattoo policy. So I went to the Army in 2016. Knowing I was still serving I was happy just to be in another uniform. Also the army has alot more professional options and seems more goal orientated.

Response by SFC Denise VanLaarhoven made Dec 22 at 2017 8:51 AM

2017-12-22T08:51:46-05:00

I'm confused... several people have said "better pay"... An E5 in the Marines gets the same pay as an E5 in the Army. Same medical and dental, same BAS.... So, unconfuse me... at least be honest and say, "cuz I'm tired and I need a break, and y'all don't work as hard for that same pay".

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2017 8:56 AM

2017-12-22T08:56:19-05:00

It was pretty simple for me. After leaving active duty Marine Corps coming back to my home state all the Marine Reserves had was a bulk fuel company in which I was uninterested. So following suit of some of my Marine Brothers I talked to the ARNG and had several options as to MOS's.

Response by SGT Lisa Fields made Dec 22 at 2017 10:01 AM

2017-12-22T10:01:30-05:00

I learned early on its there's almost as many marines in the army as the corps rofl most of my senior leadership when I was a young dumb private in the army were marines.
If the corps won't take u back you got plenty of company in the army.

Response by LCpl Roger Garcia made Dec 22 at 2017 3:49 PM

2017-12-22T15:49:52-05:00

Cause you get promoted faster. Duh.

Response by LTC Anthony Broussard made Dec 22 at 2017 4:02 PM

2017-12-22T16:02:15-05:00

My experience with this question goes back to my Freshman year in college 1973. Campi were filled with Vietnam vets. I was 18 sitting in class in my Army ROTC uniform when a 20 something guy leans over and says, “pretty brave to wear that uniform to class.” I said I had ROTC Lab/Drill 20 minutes after this class ends and had no time to go back to my room and change. He smiled and said that although a career in the military was totally not cool in ‘73 I had at least picked the right Service. He said that he was a multiple Vietnam tour Marine discharged and going to school on the GI Bill and that as a communications specialist he found himself out in the bush as an RTO with US Army, ARVN, even ROK. He said before working with the Army he only knew one way of taking a hill, the Marine way, everybody up and on line assulting. He said until he was an RTO for his first Army Infantry Company he never knew you could hide behind things and shoot at the enemy while the rest of the unit maneuvered to get the best of the enemy. He said The concept of Fire and Maneuver was alien to the Corps in Vietnam. He said that was when he realized being a Marine bad ass charging straight into enemy fire was not the best way to take a hill or get back to the States alive. I smiled and thanked him for his service and confirming that I had made the right Service choice. I earned my Ranger Tab 2 summers later as a Cadet and never gave a second thought to who was a bad ass.

Response by Sgt Eddie Keator made Dec 22 at 2017 4:21 PM

2017-12-22T16:21:14-05:00

Numbers please... when you say so many... is that more than 10, more than 100... and please, no hearsay bologna ... facts please.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Dec 22 at 2017 7:26 PM

2017-12-22T19:26:47-05:00

They couldn't get in the Navy.

Response by SPC Dennis Gurevitz made Dec 22 at 2017 8:10 PM

2017-12-22T20:10:25-05:00

My personal opinion and only that, is that Marines enjoy being Marines and enjoy service to their nation. But the Marines Vorps being a smaller branch of the Armed Forces do not have as many opportunities for advancement that larger services offer, plus the Army most likely have more job specialties available, same with the Air Force. So if one wants to make a career out of the military promotion and special job availabities are important.

Response by A1C Ron OKeefe made Dec 22 at 2017 8:34 PM

2017-12-22T20:34:36-05:00

While in the AF, had a 1Sgt (e-7) 16 yrs Marine, went to AF for more stable family time as did other former Marines I served with. An e-4 and an e-5.

Response by SGT Vernon Cole made Dec 23 at 2017 5:58 AM

2017-12-23T05:58:45-05:00

Some join the Army to get a higher rank they couldn't get in the Marines and switch back to the Marines after their Army enlistment and get to keep the rank they achieved in the Army.

Response by SSG Ben Gilstrap made Dec 23 at 2017 8:56 AM

2017-12-23T08:56:27-05:00

After my Active Duty time, I joined the Reserves, went to Drill Sergeant School and eventually became the Company Senior Drill Sregent.
Unfortunately, the reserve Drill Sergeant component always has vacancies and is in constant need for E-4 (P) through E-6 to refill it's ranks. Yes, I also served as a recruiter.
Being on a Navy base, half a mile from an Air Force Base and maybe fifty miles from Parris Island and Beaufort Marine Corps Air Station but over 100 miles from the closest Army installation, it made the most sense to recruit from the ranks of those getting out of other branches.
During my time in that unit, I was able to recruit only one prior service Army but two from the Navy, two from the Air Force and about 15 from the Marine Corps.
If you want to see something cool, take a trip to a basic training unit during the summer when the reserve component is doing their rotations and watch two (Marine) Army Drill Sergeants compete with eachother on the parade field.
The Army does not perform rifle movement in cadence during marching D&C. The Marine Corps does. It for sure is a sight to see two Maines try to out do eachother with a bunch of Army privates.

Response by LCpl Jeff Moore made Dec 23 at 2017 9:37 AM

2017-12-23T09:37:09-05:00

Ok i served in a marine infantry unit and at that time our deployment schedule was 1 year state side 6 month deployed. It was very family friend, and was not easy to get promation to e4, as in the Marine e4 is a NCO postion. We dont have spc postion.

Most of my fellow marines switch service to get a new mos which was more deploymemt friendly for family life, or cause they where unable to change MOS. Some where forced out durning military down sizing. Remember the marines are only at 184k right now. Back in 92 when i join it was 184, by the time i got out it was 172 in 96, and my only option to reenlisted was become a cook or stay a grunt with no hope of picking up e4 for another year as their was a promation freeze.

So alot of my fellow marines where forced out. And while the navy and army where also downsizing they where able to pick up trained marines vs raw civilians. Some of my marine buddies switch as they still had a desire to serve, and the army or navy or air force had a opening they wanted.

In 2009 2010 the marines where cut again in size from 202k to its current 184k. So again Marines where denied re enlistment, and the other service while also facing cuts could take marines vs civies. Also remember the army has had a very hard time meeting it recruitment goals in some years heard in 2016 is was 3 in 10 that applied could make it pass the entry requirements. So service members forced out of other branch are a easy fill.

Response by SSG John Mitchell made Dec 23 at 2017 11:49 AM

2017-12-23T11:49:19-05:00

The prior service Marines that I served with all told me basically the same reason for the switch. The Mythos of being a Marine as a young, dumb & full of you know what appeals to their youth. As they get older, they start thinking farther down the line for a career after service. Alot has to do with Rank. It takes a special breed to serve period, but it takes even more to do the full 20. If you do, if you went in at 18, you're retired at 38. What are you gonna do for the next 30? That's where a switch becomes a viable alternative. School options are not always available, at least when I Reenlisted, in your current Organization.

Response by SFC Familia Gonzalez made Dec 23 at 2017 1:31 PM

2017-12-23T13:31:57-05:00

I spent three years out of twenty as an Army Recruiter and you wouldn’t believe how many prior service Marines I put in the Army. When I left Recruiting Duty, I got my first Platoon (Infantry) in Germany and was surprised to know I had three prior service Marines in my Platoon. None of them were Marine Infantry, but Infantry was the only thing the Army was offering any prior service...

Response by Sgt Wayne Garmon made Dec 23 at 2017 5:05 PM

2017-12-23T17:05:53-05:00

They can't cut it. You don't join the core for schools and perks. You join the corps to go to war and shoot people.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 23 at 2017 11:22 PM

2017-12-23T23:22:57-05:00

Once you get out of the Marines it's too hard to get back in..So you go to the Army..plus I was a Ranger qualified Marine.. Infantry in both, not alot of difference...Marines are more discipline...

Response by Cpl Matthew Kessler made Dec 24 at 2017 5:14 AM

2017-12-24T05:14:23-05:00

As a Marine and a soldier, I feel like the reason behind it is the much smaller reserve Force the Marines offer. I wanted to get my degree, the closest marine reserve unit that help my mos was nearly 3 hours away, the national guard unit was 20 min and the army reserve was like 30 min away. It's comes down to making a decision of convenience. You can also make the switch without needing boot camp. Transition is nearly flawless. I had great experiences with both but ultimately, I am forever a marine.

Response by SFC Greg Samuels made Dec 24 at 2017 6:58 AM

2017-12-24T06:58:16-05:00

Promotions are quicker.

Response by Lt Col Bg Smith made Dec 24 at 2017 8:27 AM

2017-12-24T08:27:24-05:00

Having been a Marine NCO with two tours in Vietnam and an 05 in the Air Force, I left the Marines to go back to school. I had been injured in the Marines and could not pass the physical requirement for my previous MOS, and the Air Force offered me a commission based on my college and past Marine Corps experience. So there are many reasons. But unless you have done both you will never truly understand. I think it is so individual that there is no single answer. After both the Air Force was really different from the Marines. I am the proud father of an Army Sgt First Class. My opinion is that we all served and should be pround of that. We should all celebrate each other, we all have different missions.....

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2017 10:13 AM

2017-12-24T10:13:01-05:00

Easy they cannot maintain our standards of our Glorious Corps. Served many joint tours! Thomas Mobley . MGYSGT. ret, Additonally many join national guard so they can be closer to home stay closer to their families, after so many deployments!

Response by Cpl Branden Lightsy made Dec 24 at 2017 11:25 AM

2017-12-24T11:25:32-05:00

The reason why I joined the Army after the Marines is because the Army gives bonuses and promotions. When you have a newborn, it's hard to say no to a signing bonus and promotion. Still to this day I have the most confidence in the fighting ability of the 3rd Marine Regiment than any other unit I've been in.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2017 12:57 PM

2017-12-24T12:57:48-05:00

The Army and Air Force have lower standards for enlistment, retention, and promotion, especially in regards to physical fitness. As people age (and military life will age you faster), they find that their bodies at 30 cannot perform the way it did at 22, but when all you've known your whole adult life is the military, its difficult for people to re-enter civilian society, especially when it means going back to school or working entry level positions next to 20 year olds. They've come to far in their careers to go backwards, so they find a rpute more suited to their abilities.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2017 1:15 PM

2017-12-24T13:15:35-05:00

Marines also have no equivalent to the (Air) National Guard. That might have something to do with it, too, I suppose.

Response by SPC Jonathan Jenkins made Dec 24 at 2017 1:45 PM

2017-12-24T13:45:12-05:00

Too bad that's all bullshit. You get the same pay. Everything is the same, except the sex. In the Army we don't fuck dudes.

Response by Capt Hansel Bumgarner made Dec 24 at 2017 2:00 PM

2017-12-24T14:00:11-05:00

Perhaps they hope they can help add a little class to them. My father was a WW2 Marine. A Combat Engineer with the 1st MarDiv, he was with them when they reestablished the East China Marines at the end of the war. He was discharged as a Sgt. . Later, he went through the Marine PLC while attending college, intending on becoming a pilot. One of his frat brothers came up to him at the end of his semester just before graduation and told him “Hey, the Air Force will take your PLC training and give you a commission and you can fly for them and not have to do all, that Marine bullshit. He first flew the F-86 and later several other types. He left as a Major.

Response by CW5 Jack Cardwell made Dec 24 at 2017 3:24 PM

2017-12-24T15:24:30-05:00

I had a mix of Active duty and National Guard. My buddy at AIT, Marine. First duty assignment Ft Bliss, TX , best friend served as a radio operator in Nam as a marine. Joined the NG, best friend in the Guard, served in Marine Corps. Worked full time for NG, 3 our of 4 employees i hired, former marines. Yesterday a friend came to see me. Retired from the Guard. We shot on pistol team together. Yep, another MARINE ! Going to call another friend today. He was in the Guard, retired State Trooper..... also a Marine! Must be a plague!

Response by Cpl James Smith made Dec 24 at 2017 3:44 PM

2017-12-24T15:44:20-05:00

Interesting....I went the other way, Army to Marines, the only reason I would go Army now, and I have thought about it, is because of my age, the only thing I can do is National Guard. But I would be amongst family, because of the high number of Navy and Marine proir service in the same boat...pun, gotta get the uniform fix at 40+, so go Guard!

Response by Lt Col Barry Sullins made Dec 24 at 2017 5:08 PM

2017-12-24T17:08:59-05:00

I can see the Air Force. But the Army? Really? Worst service of them all and I was in all four.

Response by 1SG Walker Cole made Dec 24 at 2017 8:02 PM

2017-12-24T20:02:41-05:00

Even Marines have heroes.

Response by Cpl Daniel Bowles made Dec 24 at 2017 8:15 PM

2017-12-24T20:15:03-05:00

I went ANG out of the Corp and it sucked so I went active to get out of the gard then I went to ft benning where they made me go back through boot camp but one of my drill Sgt was a former marine so he took to me and I went and told him this sucked it was nothing like the Corp and he told me go ranger that's where most marines go and it is more like the surrounding like the Corp so I went that route and there was a lot of marines there but it still wasn't the marines

Response by SSG Jim Lentz made Dec 24 at 2017 9:19 PM

2017-12-24T21:19:36-05:00

My reason for switching to the Army was the lack of availability of a USMC Aviation reserve unit in my area. I had a USAR Drill Sergeant Unit in my neighborhood (walking distance) and was able to go from PFC to SGT in 9 months.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2017 10:17 PM

2017-12-24T22:17:28-05:00

I personally went from the Marine Corps to the Army. I tried to re-enlist but it was during Obama’s drawdown and because I was in 29 palms when my reenlistment package had to be in, as well as the boat spaces went down cuz the government shut down in 2013, I got denied reenlistment for my MOS. I could have LAT moved but decided to get out and try college. Realized college wasn’t for me and tried to get back in the Marine Corps but due to their new tattoo policy I got told I could enlist but got told I could enlist in the Army so here I am now. The Army is way less disciplined and militaristic as I expected but it isn’t that bad. I just came to the realization I’m a Marine that happens to be working in the Army

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2017 10:32 PM

2017-12-24T22:32:25-05:00

Cause even the Army and Air Force need a few good men.

Response by Sgt David Hesser made Dec 25 at 2017 9:06 AM

2017-12-25T09:06:39-05:00

The Marines have a 8 year plan that for most means you are not going to retire a Marine most Marines do not know this especially if you are infantry because your body will be so beat up, now the Army and Air Force are a little smarter here, why spend money on training when you can grab someone already trained.

Response by SSgt Ben Cavell made Dec 25 at 2017 9:49 AM

2017-12-25T09:49:41-05:00

After getting out, a friend talked me into attending a ANG drill. Kinda like hang around, for a bit. Next thing I know Im surrounded buy former Marines who eyeballed my tatoo. Well one thing led to another, next thing I know, I was a New Mexico ANG member. I broke away from Guard to Reserves to attend Total Army Instructor Course, along with another instructor course. Then back into the Guard with a promotion, Training soldiers coming into the guard from other services, in the Warrior Transition Course at Ft. Knox, White Sands, and Santa Fe. With the Marines I spent most time in Nam. Then Recon in Reserves. Loved it, but had more fun time with ANG.

Response by MGySgt Freddie McDonald Jr made Dec 25 at 2017 9:55 AM

2017-12-25T09:55:51-05:00

It's all abou opportunity. One can go as only far as they could go in one branch so they go to another. It's like going from one like job to another. Only difference is going from one culture to another while still wanting to serve your country. No shame.

Response by PO3 David Greeley made Dec 25 at 2017 1:58 PM

2017-12-25T13:58:08-05:00

I can't speak for others, but I knew a couple of military personnel who had been in different branches of service. The first one was drafted in the Army during Vietnam and served as a medic. got out and a few years later reenlisted in the Marine Corps and did one enlistment. He got out, reenlisted in the Navy and became a Hospital Corpsman because loved the medical field and stayed as a HM until he retired. The other one served in all 4 services because he wanted to experience each branch of service.

Response by SGT David Greth made Dec 25 at 2017 5:13 PM

2017-12-25T17:13:23-05:00

My dad was USMC 0300 1959-1964. Wouldn't let him change MOS. Army said "Pick MOS". He went Telecommunications and retired as an Army CW2. NEVER would have happened in the Corps. Plus we got duty stations in Taiwan and Germany. Again, not happening in the Corps. I liked travel so I did Army, picked MOS, tour in Germany and tour in Korea. - Being able to pick your MOS is pretty important in my book.

Response by Sgt Jeff Weamire made Dec 25 at 2017 5:24 PM

2017-12-25T17:24:45-05:00

Because all of the hard shit is done and we can out excel any soldier or Airman

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 25 at 2017 6:36 PM

2017-12-25T18:36:47-05:00

In a simple answer: life happens.

Response by Phil Young made Dec 25 at 2017 7:34 PM

2017-12-25T19:34:34-05:00

To see what its like to do less with new equipment.

Response by SGT Bryan Remines made Dec 25 at 2017 7:37 PM

2017-12-25T19:37:29-05:00

Once a Marine always A marine! We sometimes we take a cation join other branches of service. We do not need to go through their boot camp! If they want to be a Marine they have to go to our boot Camp

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2017 12:21 AM

2017-12-26T00:21:52-05:00

I was denied reenlistment in the Marines, I did get a 30K exit bonus. But I still had a good enlistment code, so i joined the Army.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2017 2:08 AM

2017-12-26T02:08:07-05:00

My cousin's waiting till he's up and he's switching to the army. His explaination: army literally offers you more on terms of compensation and advancement. I'd say just as well their more direct style complements most teams very well.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2017 6:47 AM

2017-12-26T06:47:33-05:00

SFC Morgan explained it best in his comment. After 9 years active duty in the Marines I took the money during Force Reductions and got out. Several years later I wanted back in but was wrapped up in a civilian career and there was not a Marine Corps Reserve unit near me. There was, however a Army Reserve Unit in the same city I am living in. With a few adjustments in customs and courtesies I am back in the military serving my country as a soldier finishing a 20 year military career. I LOVED the Marines but here I am, a Soldier. Love it as well.

Response by SFC Darrell Adams made Dec 26 at 2017 10:46 AM

2017-12-26T10:46:01-05:00

There are many reasons. For me it was the opportunity to go to Europe. The Marine Corps has limited duty stations, whereas, in 1989/90 at the time, the Army had a lot of based in Germany. Not the case now.

Response by Sgt Cam Giannetti made Dec 26 at 2017 12:34 PM

2017-12-26T12:34:18-05:00

Because earning “The Title” is an honor unto itself, a mark you will wear all your life. Being a Marine is awesome, but it’s a hard life. Making a career and earning a comfortable living which you may choose to do later for benefits and quality of life is a different matter. They are still Marines.

Response by SSG Scooter Drake made Dec 26 at 2017 5:45 PM

2017-12-26T17:45:53-05:00

You know I spent 14 years in the Army and saw many ex Marines and the story was always the same "they down sized my MOS or did away with it". So if they still wanted a military career they had to transition to another branch. As far as Marines being so badass, my battery was attached to the 1st Marine Expeditionary as artillery support for the invasion of Iraq in 2003. They were a great team to fight with and would do it again but I saw really no difference in the intensity, discipline and fighting will we all fought together as a team in the worlds largest sandbox under some extreme, butt puckering conditions. To some it up, the enemy doesn't care what branch your in they just want to kill you.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2017 9:02 PM

2017-12-26T21:02:26-05:00

Generally I saw two types of marines join the army when I was active. Most joined because they had plateaued as at a lower rank in the corps and felt that the opportunities for advancement in their field were better in the Army. These Marines seemed to do well. The other type I encountered and far more infrequently was the type that were mediocre marines and thought they could succeed in the Army with minimal effort. They did not do well as a soldier in my experience

Response by SGT Robert Hawks made Dec 26 at 2017 9:15 PM

2017-12-26T21:15:41-05:00

Simple more chance for advancement in the Army

Response by Sgt Tammy Burger made Dec 26 at 2017 9:35 PM

2017-12-26T21:35:18-05:00

B.S.

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Dec 27 at 2017 4:06 AM

2017-12-27T04:06:46-05:00

The answer is simple: Because they can receive the same benefits with an easier life. Additionally, Marines get promoted faster of they join the army... the corps is relatively small in comparison.

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Dec 27 at 2017 4:10 AM

2017-12-27T04:10:07-05:00

Yeah... in your dreams, Doggie.

Response by LTC Michael Garrison made Dec 27 at 2017 9:51 AM

2017-12-27T09:51:59-05:00

The only branch with upward mobility is infantry. The specialty branches are so small it's hard to make them a career.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2017 2:23 PM

2017-12-27T14:23:18-05:00

I walked into the Army recruiting station about four months after EASing from the Marine Corps. I had my "I love me book" which seemed to blow the Army recruiter away. Basic things I expected and was used to being an everyday thing in the Corps were suddenly praised. I was blown away at how I was treated. It was like I was a person. An unfamiliar feeling after eight years of Marine Crops infantry. I have a lot of friends I served with that joined Army and told me it was "So much easier, dude. The responsibilities we had in the Corps as E-3 through E-5 are things E-7's and up do in the Army." The entire experience blew me away. If my divorce was final, I'd be a freakin Soldier right now lol

Response by SFC Jonathan Barker made Dec 27 at 2017 2:41 PM

2017-12-27T14:41:52-05:00

In my opinion, it doesn't matter one way or another. The Marine Corps is a great branch of service, yet it is not for everyone.

As long as we stick together and support one another, remembering that we are ultimately part of the same team, the only thing that can stop our country are the citizens within.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Dec 27 at 2017 2:51 PM

2017-12-27T14:51:41-05:00

Not sure about today but I remember a friend of mine from the 90s who was a small arms repairer in the Marines. When his reenlistment came up he was told that he could reenlist but only as a rifleman. He was mad, ets'ed and joined the Army as a small arms repairer. He told me that was how the Marines did things.

Response by SPC David Willis made Dec 27 at 2017 2:57 PM

2017-12-27T14:57:53-05:00

A lot of people don't know this, but when you join the corps they give you a standard issue lobotomy and hold your brain until you leave service. Now unfortunately its not a perfect system as a Marine conducts the surgery and, well his brains been cut out as well so he doesn't always get the whole thing. This can cause unauthorized brain cell regeneration (punishable by UCMJ under code ID-10-T) but if a marine gets lucky and isn't caught he often ops to join a force that looks favorable on freer thought. :) love yall devil dogs though!

Response by SSG William Fairbotham made Dec 27 at 2017 4:08 PM

2017-12-27T16:08:57-05:00

It's simple. I hated my job in the Corps. I loved being a Marine, to this day I still feel that they honor their history and heritage better than any other branch. But when the time came for re-enlistment I asked to change my job, "no" asked to change my duty stations, "no" asked to change units, "no". So I got out and joined the Army, did what I wanted to do to begin with anyway, and experienced more duty stations that I never would have had the opportunity to see. Needs of the Marine Corps is more important than individual wants or needs.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2017 7:56 PM

2017-12-27T19:56:28-05:00

I was an 0311 in the Marines. There's not much room for advancement since the Corps is so small. I enlisted in the Army reserves and I have several MOS'. There is more room for advancement in the Army. I do miss the culture of the Corps though, the camaraderie is second to none.

Response by PO2 Michael Mayeda made Dec 27 at 2017 10:14 PM

2017-12-27T22:14:10-05:00

Hard to make higher rank

Response by SFC Charles Kauffman made Dec 27 at 2017 10:56 PM

2017-12-27T22:56:07-05:00

Marine, I am so sorry that you were treated with anything other than the respect that you have earned.
Recruiters, to me, are a necessary evil, and low on the totem pole regardless of rank.
Fuck 'em!

As a snake eater, I was always thrilled to find out that we were receiving support from Marines. The Corps always kept them so pissed off with bullshit, they were always ready to kill SOMETHING!

I love Marines.

Oooorahhh

Response by SFC Ricky Esckelson made Dec 28 at 2017 8:00 AM

2017-12-28T08:00:27-05:00

I did the same thing, USMC 1970 73, 1ST MAW, to the Army 37 years in the Army, retired SFC, three trips the sand box.

Response by MSgt Chuck Cuellar made Dec 28 at 2017 9:59 AM

2017-12-28T09:59:06-05:00

As a former Marine recruiter I can tell you why. The first response from a young man of why not to join the Maines is boot camp is too long and too hard. Second most young people have no clue that the Marine Corps has pretty much all the same jobs ( just as not as many), the pay and benefits are the same, and there are education benefits. Than you have kids that are only in it for the school and money and the Army and the Air Farce bait them with all kinds of incentives.

Response by Cpl Kent Mitchell made Dec 28 at 2017 10:23 AM

2017-12-28T10:23:51-05:00

There's a saying that might tell the story: "I love the effing Marine Corps and the Marine Corps loves effing me."

Response by SGT Isaac Fragoso made Dec 28 at 2017 8:46 PM

2017-12-28T20:46:47-05:00

When I was on active duty and a young buck, I always played the sibling branch rivalry. I was in the Army and found that I had the same drive, could shoot the same and could out PT any worthy challenger. I have always had a respect for the Marine Corps but the reality is the only thing I saw was a very sharp uniform and some very cocky people who thought they were the bomb and couldn’t even tell you about basic marksmanship. I was a paratrooper, and very proud to be one, one day while at a Piggly Wiggly in North Carolina (Sanford, near Ft. Bragg), the cashier told me I had joined the Army because I was afraid of the Corps. She went on to telling me her boyfriend was shipping out soon, I asked her what his MOS was thinking he’d be an 0311 or something badass. Her answer was supply. I laughed, grabbed my stuff and left politely as I was in uniform. No disrespect to quartermasters. Truth is this, you have pogues in all branches and true warriors as well. Each branch represents with distinction. I’m older now, obviously out of the service and the pride I have for all services is immense. The branch rivalry is fine and dandy but remember we all serve the same cause. God bless you all, thank you for your service and Happy New Year!!!

Response by SGT Benedict Ramos made Dec 28 at 2017 8:47 PM

2017-12-28T20:47:33-05:00

I have run into a lot of former Marines who did stints or completed their military service in the Army or Air Force while driving as a trucker for over twenty years. The reason there are Marines in the Army is because of the fierce competition for rank. Many former Marines I have talked to were excellent Marines passover for advancement into the senior NCO ranks because of available positions. Every former Marine who I met strived for excellence in the Army, and they were all Paratroopers or Rangers. However, they were always Marines first, and most were disenchanted with the Army because of the quality of most soldiers.

Response by CPT Bob Andersen made Dec 29 at 2017 10:47 AM

2017-12-29T10:47:37-05:00

I served in the Marine Corp for 6 years, life sucked as a civilian, went into the Army for 19 years. I was a mustanger and retired as Captain. Army so much easier for rank advancements then the Marines. Might be the reason. You have already proved yourself as a man/women now go for the money. Semper Fi

Response by PO2 Sam Payne made Dec 29 at 2017 11:35 AM

2017-12-29T11:35:20-05:00

I was Army then Navy. Army is easier, Chair Force is easiest (just observations)

Response by Capt Karlos Nordinsifeller made Dec 29 at 2017 2:01 PM

2017-12-29T14:01:22-05:00

When you get “timed out” of the Corps the ANG will take you, promotions are faster, more benefits, longer rotations at one location, more opportunity to work in specific fields. I have known 2 marines who went to seal teams, my best friend went to SF and then onward and upward, and a good friend transferred from LAV to tanks (due to the size differences that wasn’t possible in the Corps). The guys who went to tiered units had no complaints, the guy who went green to gold for the helo program loved it (93) and the only other complaints were about the difference in military discipline, and the idea of “it’s not my job” as opposed to “stay in your lane “

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2017 11:01 PM

2017-12-29T23:01:51-05:00

It is easier to promote and get paid for your level of leadership. E-3 in USMC infantry often has the same responsibility as an E-5 or E-6 in the Army.

Response by SSgt Thomas Hirschey made Dec 30 at 2017 4:29 PM

2017-12-30T16:29:06-05:00

Hahaha, great question. As a 20 year Marine, I believe it’s because we are so hard and tough on them. They still want to serve but want a life that’s a bit more comfortable.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2017 5:44 PM

2017-12-30T17:44:12-05:00

After removing the jar,they realized they can fight along their Hero's,so off to the Army they went....can't say what the ones that went air force were thinking... (Father and older brother are Jarheads)

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2017 8:01 PM

2017-12-30T20:01:30-05:00

Three things that comes to my mind. 1. You Earn the Title of Marine not given, 2. First to Fight, First to Die. 3. The Army and the Air Force have more opportunities for advancement and technical expertise than the Marine Corps. But to your answer why being a Marine is so Awesome, I highly suggest that you ask those two Marines. Semper Fidelis, Always Faithful!

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2017 9:02 PM

2017-12-30T21:02:52-05:00

Re-enlistment headaches and admin in general...

Response by Sgt Gerardo Casteleiro made Dec 31 at 2017 12:35 AM

2017-12-31T00:35:54-05:00

What is the real number for this “soooooo many”?

Response by SGT Benedict Ramos made Dec 31 at 2017 4:31 AM

2017-12-31T04:31:11-05:00

Competition for advancement in the Corps is fierce, and most Marines who end up enlisting in the Army have been passed over for promotions. They will find that the Army offers more opportunities to change MOSs or to advance quickly in the Combat Arms. However, most of the Marines I have met, who joined the Army, chose the Infantry because of quick promotions, and they were all Airborne Infantry or Rangers.

Response by Cpl Dennis DeEmo made Dec 31 at 2017 10:06 AM

2017-12-31T10:06:28-05:00

It's called retiring to the country farm!

Response by SSG Tom Pike made Dec 31 at 2017 10:25 AM

2017-12-31T10:25:06-05:00

Had one former marine in my basic training platoon back in 1982. He wanted to fly helicopters and back then Army would make you a warrant with 2 years of college, Marines required 4 years and he only had 2, so he went army so he could fly 2 years sooner. I was 18 and like most recruits just out of high school, he was in his mid 30's and the old man of the company. Drills messed with him for the first 5 minutes realized he could max the pt test and pretty much left him alone after that.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2017 11:38 AM

2017-12-31T11:38:59-05:00

I left the USMCR pre-9/11 after 8 years in. When I wanted to get back in, the Marine recruiters wouldn’t even answer the phone or let me through the door. 3 MOS’s, PME caught up, college degree, and could knock out a 250 PFT on demand. I wanted to stay reserve side because of family and Work issues but I wanted to serve someway somehow.

I did a little thinking and went to the ARNG recruiter with my paperwork. In 20 minutes I had a unit and billet picked out.

There was some culture shock initially and more than a few hiccups on the s1 side, but overall it was a good call.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2017 1:26 PM

2017-12-31T13:26:41-05:00

Once you are out of the Marines it is often difficult to get back in. Especially after a number of years. Also the NG has a state mission that as a Marine reserve you would not be part of.

Response by SGT Nathan Hanna made Dec 31 at 2017 4:02 PM

2017-12-31T16:02:23-05:00

Most of the Marines I met in the army came over for jump school.

Response by SGT Kim Dixon made Dec 31 at 2017 8:28 PM

2017-12-31T20:28:57-05:00

For me I tried to back into the Marine corps but I had children, the Army had me sign a waiver and I did. Plus I wanted to be a M.P. I got the opportunity in the Army.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2018 4:15 AM

2018-01-01T04:15:18-05:00

Marines obviously join the Army or especially the Air Force to completely embarrass most of them out on the range. How bad is It? Half of them unq. And then another 25% I'm guessing don't qualify the second time around. I figured what the hell I'll shoot unsupported as everything is supported by some object you know wouldnt be there in a real situation and got a 45 of 50 or whatever it was for Air Force qual. They look at you like Whoa! Haha!!!

Response by SPC James Cooper made Jan 1 at 2018 10:46 AM

2018-01-01T10:46:29-05:00

Not only that, but my nephew as a Marine was offered a bonus to go through Army Infantry School!

Response by SPC Joshua Kemp made Jan 1 at 2018 4:53 PM

2018-01-01T16:53:24-05:00

Marines are ready to die and army will die if we have to lol.

Response by Cpl Jim Canning made Jan 1 at 2018 7:54 PM

2018-01-01T19:54:05-05:00

I served in 8th Marines, if I had to do it again, I would in a heartbeat. The reason I joined the Army National Guard and not the marine reserve was because there was a National Guard unit close by and the marine reserve unit was over 4 hours away. Then I found that the guard deploys more than any reserve unit, they deploy for both state and federal issues and you can go to the same schools as active troops. Once we deployed to Iraq, there were other advantages. I always thought I wouldn't want to go to war with a guard unit. Then I deployed and learned that guard units have resources that active units can't compare with. I would go into combat with a guard unit anytime now.

Response by SFC Jon Bruce made Jan 1 at 2018 9:30 PM

2018-01-01T21:30:02-05:00

I know for me, after 9 years in the marines I decided to get out. After a 6 year break, the Marines wanted to drop me by one rank and that put me over RCP. The Army let me in as if I had never had my break in service. I got my rank and time in grade I had when I got out of the Marines.

Response by SSG Lance Wendling made Jan 2 at 2018 9:25 AM

2018-01-02T09:25:12-05:00

The USMC, because everyone needs some curtains to wipe their Jimmy with on the way out the door.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2018 4:41 PM

2018-01-02T16:41:44-05:00

Alot of the marines I met it was due to medical reason or promotions.

Response by PO1 John Young made Jan 2 at 2018 5:44 PM

2018-01-02T17:44:41-05:00

IYAOYAS

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2018 6:47 PM

2018-01-02T18:47:26-05:00

I tried to get back into the Corps after I ETS in 1996. The Recruiters started dogging me about how I should have never gotten out, and they really liked the excuse of I wanted to use my MGIB. They continued to try to treat me like a PVT and basically wanted me to beg them to let me back in. Finally I told them to fuck off, I ain't beggin for shit, and went across the hall to the Army Recruiters. Normal everyday Marines, I am proud to call brothers but Marine Recruiters, those guys for some reason think they can treat Prior Service like shit. Hell, I was combat Marines and these knuckleheads were a bunch POGs.

Response by SgtMaj Kenneth Dillon made Jan 2 at 2018 7:13 PM

2018-01-02T19:13:25-05:00

When I was on recruiting duty, we were not allowed to re-enlist prior Marines. I walked several down the hall to the Army. That was painful.

Response by MSG O'Connor Pat made Jan 2 at 2018 8:12 PM

2018-01-02T20:12:34-05:00

My first four years of active duty was in the USMC, lots of pride, but had the worst, oldest equipment and few opportunities. After a break in service I went back to the USMC to reenlist and was having a difficult time getting the recruiters the make it happen. The recruiter said "You F'd up, you got out", so when the Army recruiter next store said he could enlist me I listened and enlisted within a week, best decision I ever made. The Army was full of opportunity for promotion and schools and everything we had was brand new. If I had to do it all over again I would have joined the Army first.

Response by Sgt Chuck Schneider made Jan 2 at 2018 9:55 PM

2018-01-02T21:55:59-05:00

They’re looking for something easier to commit to.

Response by MSgt Bryan Cox made Jan 2 at 2018 11:55 PM

2018-01-02T23:55:43-05:00

Better life style but still want to be a part of the military.

Response by SSG(P) Dan Keene made Jan 3 at 2018 4:11 AM

2018-01-03T04:11:38-05:00

Because those Marines figured out they didn't really have to stuff their head into that jar! Simmer down, just talking sh-t. Not anti Marine.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 3 at 2018 11:34 AM

2018-01-03T11:34:01-05:00

As a former Marine now in the Army, it was because the USMC wouldn't let me do the job I wanted to do IN the USMC. I switched to the Army, but still love the Corps.

Response by SFC Adam Miller made Jan 5 at 2018 10:15 AM

2018-01-05T10:15:38-05:00

As someone who spent thirty two years Army I respect the Marines. Many of them became adopted Soldiers because there isn’t a large Marine Reserve so it was about location, MOS opportunity and promotion. It didn’t mean there was anything wrong with the USMC just trying to balance all of life and goals. Semper Fi to all my adopted brothers and sisters.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Jan 5 at 2018 10:39 AM

2018-01-05T10:39:48-05:00

The Marines I knew who went AD Army or Reserves did so for various reasons; however, a couple were (obviously) prior service who wanted back into the corps, and were bitter about the fact that the corps didn't want them back, preferring new recruits to retreads.

Don't know if that's a common occurrences, but I heard it from more than one person.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2018 11:03 AM

2018-01-05T11:03:20-05:00

Better shit easy shit and you will always be a marine few and the proud first

Response by GySgt David Weihausen made Jan 5 at 2018 11:38 AM

2018-01-05T11:38:38-05:00

As a recruiter and an admin chief, I saw Marines leave active duty for numerous reason but most often because of a spouse. After 6 months, the spouse has usually left and they wanted back in the Corps but would loose rank and time. In order to avoid those hits, they would usually pick another branch. Invariably, they hate what they have to put up with in the other branches, i.e.- lack of discipline, esprit de corps, leadership, but aren't willing to take the hit to rank and pay to get back in the Marine Corps.

Response by MSgt Tim Gulledge made Jan 5 at 2018 12:12 PM

2018-01-05T12:12:15-05:00

Pay scale is the same so explain better Pay?? I retired a Marine MSgt E-8 did 20 years one day had three years time in grade at retirement. I worked around all branches most were still E-6 E-7 at 20

Response by Sgt Robert Delgado made Jan 5 at 2018 6:07 PM

2018-01-05T18:07:38-05:00

To improve the quality of those other forces. Just kidding.

Response by Cpl Christina McKenzie made Jan 5 at 2018 7:54 PM

2018-01-05T19:54:10-05:00

Marine musicians have to either change jobs or change branches to serve in the reserves. For us it’s a question of “Do I learn a new job? Or do I stick with what I’ve been passionate about for most my life?”

Response by MSG Frederick Otero made Jan 5 at 2018 8:04 PM

2018-01-05T20:04:21-05:00

It is plot by the Marines to get the rest of the services up to their standards. Remember that the Marines were on the verge of being swallowed up by the other services and they never forgot that and that is why once a Marine always a Marine. Just saying.

Response by SFC Domingo M. made Jan 6 at 2018 1:46 AM

2018-01-06T01:46:23-05:00

Back in the day, we arrived at the induction station and somewhere along the process they lined us up abreast of each other and started at one end, Army, Marine, Army, Marine and that was that.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2018 1:52 AM

2018-01-06T01:52:13-05:00

I notice a lot of marines try 18x and fail and end up in all places in the army

Response by GySgt Joe Tajc made Jan 6 at 2018 8:58 PM

2018-01-06T20:58:50-05:00

I served with a Marine who had been in the Guard after Vietnam. He wanted to continue serving as a reservist, but there just wasn’t a Marine Reserve Unit close enough to him. I also recall Marines who couldn’t re-enlist in the Corps because they had maxed out on their time in grade, but the Army would still take them.

Response by MSgt Theron Tj Jensen made Jan 7 at 2018 8:49 AM

2018-01-07T08:49:33-05:00

Promotion opportunity

Response by PO3 David Davis made Jan 7 at 2018 10:33 AM

2018-01-07T10:33:07-05:00

In public we were only allowed to ware our Dress Uniform or working uniform. No camo or detail uniforms.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2018 3:43 PM

2018-01-07T15:43:15-05:00

Because its like an early retirement

Response by SPC Robert Aiken made Jan 7 at 2018 4:21 PM

2018-01-07T16:21:41-05:00

What do you mean better pay. An E5 with 5 years of service get paid the same amount whether you in the Amry, navy, air force, or marines. Paid grades are all the same.

Response by LCpl Stephen Martinez made Jan 7 at 2018 4:58 PM

2018-01-07T16:58:06-05:00

They offer us lots of money and it's easier enlistment

Response by Cpl Jeffrey Derkatch made Jan 8 at 2018 8:56 AM

2018-01-08T08:56:44-05:00

Because if you can’t stand the heat get out of the fire

Response by PO2 Manny Diaz made Jan 8 at 2018 11:44 AM

2018-01-08T11:44:32-05:00

They loose their taste for crayons.

Response by SMSgt Paul Ringheiser made Jan 8 at 2018 2:36 PM

2018-01-08T14:36:02-05:00

I was tired of Mickey Mouse. Found that a lot of senior NCOs in the AFRES were like me. Into job performance more than MM stuff.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2018 4:55 PM

2018-01-08T16:55:14-05:00

As an E-2 I may not have much status or ground to speak of. However, a small talking point in favor of uniforms off military bases would be basically for civlian morale. When i was a kid and i saw a soldier I felt proud and patriotic and safe, it was awesome seeing a soldier. My family still feels the same way, civlians love soldiers where I am at (Im sure the deep blue is different). It is also great for soldier morale, I know it made me feel good about mt uniform when my chain of command basically igonered me with my pay , travel, supply and health issue. Depeneding on the situation and case soldiers may suffer from low morale and it is an issue basically all units have. Seeing peoples smiles and love for you does give a morale boost. my argument with a grain of salt, i have no ground to speak on as I have yet to earn myself a title in the military and my argument is based off of novice ... but seeing a soldier in uniform is badass and makes you proud to be american and even though your teeth hurt so bad you cant sleep and you cant get care for them becuase of our mediocre health care, resorting to buying my own supplies after arriving to my unit 8 months ago and still have not received a single piece of gear, Have not been reimbursed for my travels in month, and a whole other pile of issues ... getting smiles and thanks does help.

Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Jan 8 at 2018 5:18 PM

2018-01-08T17:18:02-05:00

It has been my perception, that because the Army is the largest service, it is easier for enlisted personnel to get promoted up to E-6. Having served on both Army and Air Force installations, I perceive that the Air Force treats its enlisted personnel (and tenants from other services) better. (Better food, more on base amenities, etc.) MacDill AFB is an example, and the active duty folks, even the officers, call retirees "Sir."

Response by Cpl Brian Ruby made Jan 8 at 2018 8:05 PM

2018-01-08T20:05:34-05:00

Because it is easier and safer if you want to be a lifer.

Response by PFC Donald Scalzo made Jan 9 at 2018 10:04 AM

2018-01-09T10:04:34-05:00

Because we need qualified people in the army and they are still marines just in army uniforms

Response by Cpl Jim Gilstrap made Jan 9 at 2018 1:42 PM

2018-01-09T13:42:22-05:00

Not sure I agree on the MOS reason. My one USMC MOS was actially transferable to several ARMY MOS's. My first school covered half of my MOS was equal to 41C and 45G......so the other half was at least one more.

Response by Cpl Billy Smith made Jan 9 at 2018 3:12 PM

2018-01-09T15:12:56-05:00

Because it is so "lackodaisical", it's like being on vacation.

Response by Cpl Rob George made Jan 10 at 2018 1:17 AM

2018-01-10T01:17:50-05:00

Prior service of other branches join the Marines. So apparently it goes both ways. It depends on opportunities, life situations, and locations as to the branch a person will rejoin.

Response by Capt Christian D. Orr made Jan 14 at 2018 10:02 PM

2018-01-14T22:02:05-05:00

Three words: Quality of life.

Response by CMSgt Steve Pennington made Jan 14 at 2018 11:27 PM

2018-01-14T23:27:09-05:00

Being a Marine IS awesome. I served across the airfield from the Marines at Danang Airfield. It is not at all uncommon for people to serve in more than one branch, as I did. Your life, your career and your interests can change with experience, age and education and your path through life can change.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2018 12:54 PM

2018-01-17T12:54:46-05:00

Simple answer: As the smallest service there are fewer E-6 and above billets for enlisted and fewer O-4 and above billets for officers. These are the minimum ranks required to retire with 20 years of service. That's why there are many former Marines but few retired Marines.

Response by PO3 James Foley made Jan 20 at 2018 8:26 PM

2018-01-20T20:26:26-05:00

I was always told "Once a marine, always a marine"

Response by CW5 Randall Hirsch made Jan 21 at 2018 9:58 PM

2018-01-21T21:58:59-05:00

I joined the Army Guard to help pay my way through college after getting out of the Corps. I tell people I joined the Guard to help raise the standards. LOL

Response by MSgt Don Dobbs made Jan 22 at 2018 4:38 PM

2018-01-22T16:38:36-05:00

During my tenure as an MTI. An ex marine who had joined the MTI corps was asked by our Squadron Commander why he had joined the Air Force. The TSgt MTI ex marine looked our Major square in the eye and said "I got tired of being in the military, Sir".

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2018 12:30 AM

2018-01-23T00:30:25-05:00

When I was 17 and up until I was 21, the Corps was exactly where I needed to be. Adventure and perceived glory. Deployments, field time, floats, AND way too much beer and PT.

When the Career Jammer come looking for me to reup, I had had my fill of the field life and wanted a change. The only change I was going to get was getting cross-deck to another battalion and sent on another float. It didn't matter that I had awesome line scores and pro-con marks. I chose ETS.

When I decided to come back on Active Duty after being bored in the private sector, the Corp wanted to take a stripe and send me back to the exact same unit I got out of. Even the Army wanted me to stay infantry, and I had to strong arm negotiate for more intellectually satisfying job.

Over the years, I always got asked which service was better. I am convinced still that they both served a need in my life at the time. neither was better or worse. The Marine Corps taught me positive life habits and to be a man, while the Army gave me opportunities to to put those life habits to good use and excel. No complaints and no regrets.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2018 9:53 AM

2018-01-25T09:53:10-05:00

I’ll tell you why. Try being in a MOS where promotions suck and when it comes time to get out, you have Army and Air Force drooling over you like you’re a steak dinner. Begging you to join and willing to give a promotion or two as well. So more money and easier work. We are that good and stand out like a diamond in the rough.

Response by SSgt Torey Pride made Jan 25 at 2018 10:06 AM

2018-01-25T10:06:17-05:00

Because it's easier

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Jan 25 at 2018 10:49 AM

2018-01-25T10:49:15-05:00

I had a friend who had been in the Marines as a grunt. He joined the Army Reserves and became a medic, then an LPN, then an RN. Trick was that they drilled in civilian hospitals, which required state certification. The Reserves paid for this and even put him on active duty while he completed The University of Pennsylvania nursing school. "IVY LEAGUE". Can't beat that

Response by PFC Pamala (Hall) Foster made Jan 28 at 2018 6:12 PM

2018-01-28T18:12:37-05:00

In the Army, one of my AIT Cadre was Marine Corps and man was he a great mentor to all he trained. IF ANY Marine got too close to the females, they got told in cadence: ARMY Built MARINE CORPS trained try to touch you get broke! One day, I got the 'shake don't break' saying from a Brat and his Gunny gave the look, he came over and offered HIS apology for 'insulting a lady of fine caliber.' Gunny finds out I was an Army PFC at 38 first enlist, buys me tea and anytime they seen me it was 'HI MOM, can we escort you?' Marines AND Army are gentlemen and when they have to leave one branch, they go into the other to make sure EACH remains a gentleman to the ladies and fights to H*** and back, coming home together.

Response by GySgt Stephen Hogarth made Jan 30 at 2018 12:40 PM

2018-01-30T12:40:20-05:00

Being a Marine builds character. Eventually, some of my fellow Marines decide that it is time to be a little more relaxed. Yeah, we joke about our brothers and sisters in arms, i.e. "On a joint exercise, the AF couldn't stay in a 5-Star Hotel, so they received hardship pay." Although this is not entirely true, it isn't too far off the mark (at least back in my day). Some Marines prefer the special bond we have with our Marine brothers and sisters and choose to stay Marine Corps Green, others get to a point where they want something that is a little less stressful. "Promotions are better" is an MOS-specific discussion. Some MOS' in the MC promote faster than lightning, while some are slower than molasses. Often, the promotions are polar - the AF/USA fast promotions are slower in the MC, while the slower promotions in the AF/Army are fast in the MC... But that is fluid; what's fast today will be slow tomorrow.

I once considered getting out because of slow promotions, but I stuck around, and then the flood gates opened.

Response by Capt Sabrena Goldman made Feb 2 at 2018 7:48 AM

2018-02-02T07:48:21-05:00

Many marines I know stated they were in a waiting list to be Recon. Many were tired of waiting and went SF. Also MARSOC is still smaller in numbers and a young cousin. Many Army SF cadre assist in development. Yes there is a difference in the uniform but the goal and the guts are still the same. One just prefers push ups to pull ups... lol

Response by SFC Ken Thompson made Feb 3 at 2018 7:59 AM

2018-02-03T07:59:15-05:00

The short answer is a life after the Marines. Simply the Marines are a primary combat branch. MOS's designed around combat. There are few opportunities to receive job skills for the civilian sector. Once a Marine always a Marine. There is more training and more available skills in the Army, Navy and Airforce. Better career advancement in the Army
So a few years as a Marine, many take a look at what is available when they get out. Transfer branches. Gain skills. Plus former Marines tend to advance quickly.
My medical platoon sgt and first sgt at my last assignment in the Army were both former Marines

Response by PO1 Gery Bastiani made Feb 5 at 2018 8:35 AM

2018-02-05T08:35:08-05:00

back in 81 when I reenlisted in the Seabees after being out for a few yrs in my training class I had a few Marines that switched over and became Seabees

Response by Sgt Joseph Baker made Feb 10 at 2018 12:57 PM

2018-02-10T12:57:58-05:00

Lack of billets is the main reason. Many good NCOs competing for limited slots. Being small means the Corps can't hide bodies very well. My son's Army Reserve unit had 4 former Marines. At a change of command ceremony prior to deployment, I was able to spot 3 of them just by observing their pressed uniforms and military bearing. Now they are setting the bar for the Army from within.

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Feb 15 at 2018 11:13 PM

2018-02-15T23:13:29-05:00

1. The Marines only let 20 percent of their first termers re-enlist.
2. They are tired of all the crap they have to put up with in the Marines.

Response by GySgt Leo Rochon RETIRED made Feb 16 at 2018 11:20 AM

2018-02-16T11:20:08-05:00

I think it's just the competitive nature of the Marine Corps. Far more young Marines get out each year than are retained because there is simply no room for them in the smallest of the four main branches of the military. First term Marines have to compete for a spot (boatspace) in the career force, much like competing for a spot on a football team. Many young Marines simply get cut every year, so they go to other branches like the Army to continue a military career. Only the top, and most competitive Marines get selected for retention. It really is one heck of a process with service record against service record competition for the limited number of slots available. That's why the Marines have so many "badasses", those are the ones who make the cut. I don't think it's so much that they like the Army, it's that they COULDN'T stay in the Marines, and there are usually more openings available in the Army and Air Force.
How often do you hear of Army & Air Force going Marine Corps? There's only so much room on first string ;)

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2018 12:39 AM

2018-02-22T00:39:58-05:00

Flexibility to write new chapters in their life.

Response by PO1 Dave Dextradeur made Feb 22 at 2018 1:57 PM

2018-02-22T13:57:55-05:00

What is a SEABEE (or CB)? A CONFUSED BASTARD! What is a Marine? A CB WITH A LIGHT DUTY CHIT!

Response by Cpl Herbert Jones made Feb 26 at 2018 5:48 PM

2018-02-26T17:48:56-05:00

In my situation, I was limited as to what MOS I could go into when it came to reenlisting in the Corps because of how close it was to the end of the fiscal year, and I knew my life would be hell if I stayed in the MOS I was in.
So...at the time it seemed that leaving the Corps and going Army would be the best for my career/family situation.
I love the Corps, but I'm thankful for the Army for teaching me job skills that I've been able to use to provide for my wife and kids.

Response by SFC Stephen Kelley made Mar 2 at 2018 8:11 AM

2018-03-02T08:11:41-05:00

I am a retired Motor Sergeant from a Combat Engineer (Mechanized) unit. About half of my troops were former Marine, Navy, Air Force. The knowledge that they brought to my unit was an asset. We had M113A2'S as the primary vehicles for troop transport. It was good that I didn't have to teach them how to pull a pack and put it back in. The troops that I received from AIT tended to be undertrained when I got them. The Army relies on the unit to provide the final training.

There is nothing to be ashamed about a cross branch transfer.

Response by SSG Eddye Royal made Mar 10 at 2018 9:39 PM

2018-03-10T21:39:38-05:00

I have friends that where Marines, and we trained together, and I’m Army Highly tried. I told him I would take him to MEPS station because I neeeded check my OCS stats at the time, when we went, he had to go back through BT not AIT, but some due to change in career or MOS. Due to his age, and other factors he couldn’t relist for various that the Mariines stated to him. But the ARMY did accept his racking, with no problems.

Now some Marine part from my friend will need to be re-trained, both BT, and AIT. Then a bonus might be in order. That is what I have found. You will need to also check the current Regs.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 11:59 AM

2018-03-12T11:59:26-04:00

It will cost you a tour in the USMC to find out why. Start with MCRD and go from there. Everybody deserves a little R&R. It really comes down to more choices though, due to limited boat spaces. Retreads (PS USMC) usually lose at least one stripe, often more depending on how long they have been out. If they picked up a high tech MOS they likely aren't coming back in any branch anyway. They get whatever MOS HQMC offers, and will get one of their 3 duty station choices (E. Coast, W. Coast, Overseas <Okinawa> and that's about as specific as it gets. The other services sweeten the deal with MOS, possibly retain rank, and maybe a bonus. Plus with all the Reserve and Guard units around the U.S. folks can serve at home and maybe work or go to school. Bottom line: USMC doesn't promise a Rose Garden for retreads. That's why folks need to think hard and long before getting out of USMC. Once their mind is made up, don't look back other than to remember their time in the Corps.

Response by PVT Raymond Lopez made Mar 12 at 2018 4:09 PM

2018-03-12T16:09:27-04:00

The Air Forces lives much better than any one else!!

Response by SSG Walter Corretjer made Mar 28 at 2018 2:23 AM

2018-03-28T02:23:31-04:00

I had always been in the Army (active,reserve and national guard), but I have always respected the marines.
The USMC deserves all of our consideration and admiration,for the great mission they are prepared off and perform.
" Semper Fidelis"

Response by Sgt Harlin Seritt made Mar 28 at 2018 9:53 AM

2018-03-28T09:53:25-04:00

I have two very good friends I served with in the Marine Corps. They actually got out a year or two before I did. Unfortunately, they were not able to find decent jobs (this was in early 90's) and wanted to go back in the service. The Marine Corps at that time and from what I know of today don't typically allow returns to the Corps unless there is a critical MOS shortage. And the longer you've been out, the more difficult it is to be allowed back in.

Response by Cpl Phillip Brame made Apr 13 at 2018 2:29 PM

2018-04-13T14:29:21-04:00

If your parents were chosen to be Marines and graduated from MCRD and then joined the Fleet they are awesome being a Marine is tuff stuff that is why they will never have to do a recruit training for any other branch. That alone should tell you something about being a Marine. You will hear many other stories about why we chose to be multi service warriors but the truth is all other military basic branches are easy for marines because all Marines pocess the skills required to be in any branch and are able to adapt and overcome and we like to prove it to ourselves. Semper Fi!!!

Response by 1SG Lance Farrar made Apr 16 at 2018 7:50 AM

2018-04-16T07:50:45-04:00

I had always wanted to be a Marine. I didn’t always want to be a ground radio operator in the infantry. I did however want to be in aviation( helicopters) The Corps wouldn’t didn’t want to help with the change so my only option was Army aviation. As others have stated there is no shortage of former Marines in the Army Guard.

Response by MSgt Alejandro Hernandez (RETIRED) made Apr 22 at 2018 11:35 AM

2018-04-22T11:35:17-04:00

No Air Force member has ever said “I should have joined another branch ever”.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2018 8:00 PM

2018-04-22T20:00:48-04:00

The short answer is because the Marines is a young mans game and we get old, especially when you come from combat arms MOS's. I'm so glad I started out in the Marines, but after all that time as an infantry Marine, it took it's toll on me. However, I wanted to keep serving, and being from Texas with all my state pride, I decided to do so time in Texas Army National Guard. I remember one time a Soldier walked into the office while three of us standing there, all with 1st Mar Div combat patches when he ask us, "why do so many Marines come over to the National Guard?" One of the Soldiers that came from the Marines gave a great answer. He said because the Marine Corps is like the NFL and the Army is like the NBA, and you don't see to many 40 something year olds in the NFL.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2018 6:30 PM

2018-04-23T18:30:18-04:00

You'll have to join to find out.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2018 4:36 PM

2018-04-26T16:36:03-04:00

This is just the latest in a series that never stick to the issue. Some give honest answers, but the rest is a food fight with a lot of self-proclaimed bad-assery, insults, and digs. The bottom line is that people do what they do for many reasons. Joining in a volunteer military is a buyer's market and people often shop around for a better deal. It's human nature. Everyone serves for similar but sometimes totally different reasons. Since we're all part of the Total Force that it takes to perform the mission, just enjoy the ride and take pride in the fact that we are part of the 1% that sign the dotted line to serve in the World's Finest military. That is not up for debate. I chose to be a Marine, but that was my choice. I respect the service of all others and wish you well. We should never lose focus of the fact that although we all gave some, some gave all.

Response by MGySgt Jerry Suarez made Apr 27 at 2018 2:09 AM

2018-04-27T02:09:48-04:00

To all that say better pay and benefits you are wrong!! One branch does not pay better than another and the benefits are the same. Your pay grade determines your pay and your MOS may get you a few extra benefits but the medical, dental and college benefits are the same. With that said there maybe more Marines in other services and it may be attributed to the corps not having some MOSs that others have. Also once a Marine yo no longer have to go to any other services basic training and normally you will join with a higher or equivalent rank you had on the Corps. Others desiring to earn the title must go through recruit training regardless of paygade or time in their previous service. Those may be a few of the reasons Marines get out and join other services.

Response by Sgt Johnny McCalom made Apr 27 at 2018 3:16 AM

2018-04-27T03:16:54-04:00

There are many reasons Marines join other branches. Some got out and what the wanted in the USMC as a profession there was no boat space but found it in another branch can be one example. Other times they just want a change and found that in another branch.

Response by SGT Mike Clark made Apr 27 at 2018 5:05 AM

2018-04-27T05:05:37-04:00

I'm the son of a Marine, and for that reason I have a great deal of respect for the USMC. It's a tough place, for sure. When I was with the 1/11 FA at Ft. Lewis, WA, my barracks mate was a US Army SSG, and he was a Marine, and had served in Viet Nam. Had a combat action ribbon, too. I don't know why he was in the Army (either forgot to ask, or forgot what he told me). In US Army Advanced Infantry Training one of my fellow trainees was former USMC. The reason he was in the US Army was because of family -- he had 2 children, and at his pay grade the USMC wouldn't let him serve on active duty, or at any rate, permanently. And on reserve he couldn't accumulate rank fast enough. So he joined the Army. He was a gung-ho as he could be -- a great soldier, and I am sure would make a good leader. I was aware that later he joined the US Army Rangers (2nd / 75th), so he found the part of the Army that is most like the Marines.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 27 at 2018 10:58 AM

2018-04-27T10:58:11-04:00

If they find out you can read and write and both your parents are married (legally) to each other, they will put you out of the Corps as disqualified! LAMO!

Response by CW3 Michael Clifford made Apr 29 at 2018 8:54 PM

2018-04-29T20:54:07-04:00

In going through CID school as the only single Army guy and a car, I quickly a friend to my three single Marine classmates. We were inseparable for the entire course. Also, not being a drinker, I became their designated and the Marines told me a joke that has be my favorite since 1978. So here goes:

Wanted to be treated well but promoted slow, join the Air Force. If you want to be treated like sh** but promoted fast, join the Army or Navy. If you wanted to be treated like sh**, promoted slow and be damn proud of it, become a Marine.

Response by Cpl Robert Thomson made Apr 30 at 2018 9:52 PM

2018-04-30T21:52:39-04:00

Earning the title of US Marine was an accomplishment that can never be equaled. I have many things in my life that I am very proud of in addition to being a Marine. If I had decided to join another branch after completing my hitch in the corps, it would not have diminished the pride I feel having served with the finest warriors on the planet! I think the question is a very narrow minded and disrespectful one. The Marine Corps will always be great regardless of what some do following a tour. People cross over to different branches from all of the branches for many personal reasons.

Response by Sgt Devin Hammond made May 1 at 2018 2:43 PM

2018-05-01T14:43:33-04:00

I was Army before I join the marines i like the Marines better they set all over the world

Response by CPT Richard Fematt made May 1 at 2018 6:37 PM

2018-05-01T18:37:29-04:00

first off there is no SFG or Ssgt in the Army there are SFCs and SSG, anyways i joined the Army after 16 years active duty due to reduction in forces after the Gulf War and Cold War were over. The Corps needed to get rid of 18,000 SNCOs so in my case i received a small severence package and a DD-214 that annotated Honorable Discharge Convenience of the Government. I only had 4 years to retire, so here i was 3 daughters no job and a working spouse. i went back to school and obtained my Nursing Credentials...long story short was promoted to 1LT deployed to Iraq as a Civil Affairs Officer promoted to CPT and after 12 years in the reserve retired with 28 creditable yesrs of service and a nice pension!!!

Response by SPC Justin Burd made May 4 at 2018 4:20 PM

2018-05-04T16:20:15-04:00

I served with several prior Marines in an ANG engineer unit when we were in Iraq. I was a former 11B paratrooper, and we were all told that MONG engineers was the “closest to being in the infantry” that the MO guard had. My fireteam leader was a prior Marine in friggin Beruit, Lebanon when the Barreks got bombed by a VBIED back in the day. We all realized that we loved serving, we just didn’t love all the bs that came with being in the Regular Army/Marines. Just my two cents.

Response by MSgt John Christopherson made May 8 at 2018 10:58 PM

2018-05-08T22:58:39-04:00

For me it was a location issue. I wanted to got to college in my home town after my active duty time. There were no marine reserve units anywhere near Fargo ND so I joined my local ANG unit. However, a few years ago the Marines came to Wahpeton ND but too late for me, I'm retired from the Guard now. My son is considering it though.

Response by Conner Fleury made May 13 at 2018 9:05 PM

2018-05-13T21:05:49-04:00

Although i am not yet a marine. The answer is more of a physiological answer. Marines are the best of the best without a doubt. But their is a reason for that. Marines are like the neglected dog in the back yard with the shitty kennel in the mud. And gets the crappy dog food. Marines get all the left overs from all the other branches. And are expected to make due with what they have. And if they are not able todo their job the get bitched at. To answer this shortly. The marines isnt for everyone. Some people cant handle the expectations they are held to to keep that best of the best mentality. And the constant fuck fuck tricks that ncos and other higher ups are doing to the lower ranking soldiers.

Response by SSgt Gerald Davis Jr made May 18 at 2018 8:53 PM

2018-05-18T20:53:28-04:00

After 9 years active I joined the reserves. 1977 and gas got so expensive I couldn't Fford to drive to the armory. The National Guard was 6 blocks from my house. I talked to the 1st Sgtbwho was glad to transfer me. He brought the papers out an said just sign here. I told him I couldn't. He ask me why. I told him, "That says Spec 6, I'm a SSgt. He retyped the papers and I signed.

Response by GySgt Moses Lozano made May 20 at 2018 1:34 PM

2018-05-20T13:34:09-04:00

Either because their MOS has frozen promotions (because of E-9s who refuse to retire) or they think they will get promoted faster in the Army (which isn't guaranteed).

Response by CW3 James Ives made May 21 at 2018 2:30 PM

2018-05-21T14:30:24-04:00

A former Marine is Marine for Life. They make one hell of a fine to excellent Soldier. More opportunity in the USAR,ARNG that's a fact. I speak from my own past. Veteran VN,and Persian Gulf War. Served proudly. Semper Fi

Response by Lt Col Jim Bemis made May 26 at 2018 9:20 PM

2018-05-26T21:20:12-04:00

We recruited a lot of Marines into the Air Force Reserve in my day. It was beneficial to us to replace those reservists from the Vietnam bulge that were retiring, and it was beneficial to the Marines because we had more fully paid slots at all ranks than any of the other service reserves (at least at the time.) And before someone starts accusing us of poaching, we actually got the blessing of all of the other reserve branches before speaking to any of their folks, active or reserve.

Response by SSgt Robert Prest made May 27 at 2018 11:38 PM

2018-05-27T23:38:08-04:00

Because we are still Marines, only with a different job. I was a 10 year Marine in the Army for 10 years, one day seven years in I got pissed at something and said well that's not the way we do it.

First Army duty station 85 was 2/7 Cav and went to combat with C Co 2/187 Air Assault, 101st Airborne just before I retired 95.

Now I'm a Marine Garryowan Rockasan with a Screaming Eagle for a combat patch.

The best of the best, at least in my mind. :)

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Jun 2 at 2018 11:11 AM

2018-06-02T11:11:13-04:00

Usually you get to PCS more often and you get to go TDY alot more. Then there is off duty time. You're not cleaning your equipment all the time or begging for a pass to go off base. It could be for a hundred reasons why marines join the ARMY or Air Force. But you'd really have to ask a marine.

Response by MAJ Syd Johnston made Jun 2 at 2018 9:07 PM

2018-06-02T21:07:25-04:00

Because they are so much damn easier!! Faster promotions, a tent and cot as well instead of a shelter half and and thin ass sleeping pad. I made it from Corporal in the USMC to Major in the USA in just about 10 years. Marines are Spartans everyone else are just regular Soldiers and the like save for special forces.

Response by 1stLt Richard Hardin made Jun 6 at 2018 8:27 AM

2018-06-06T08:27:00-04:00

The reason the ratio is so hi because you don’t have to go back to boot when your a marine how ever the other services have less stress and faster rank advances

Response by Sgt Edward Moore made Jun 6 at 2018 9:44 AM

2018-06-06T09:44:32-04:00

Their brains catch up with them.

Response by SGT Charles Aspinall made Jun 8 at 2018 2:32 PM

2018-06-08T14:32:32-04:00

Before I retired from the Army Reserves, there were several NCO's in my unit who were all prior service Marine Corps. They didn't get into specifics but said policy is if you leave the Corps and want to reenter military service the only branch available is Active Duty Army, National Guard, and Army Reserve. I think this policy applies Navy and Air Force as we several prior service from those branches as well. Why I don't know.

Response by SGT Charles Aspinall made Jun 8 at 2018 2:56 PM

2018-06-08T14:56:12-04:00

My experience has shown that Marines who go to other units in the Army Reserves make them better. Often with combat experience, discipline, and a positive attitude.

Response by Lt Col James Wiley made Jun 9 at 2018 2:53 PM

2018-06-09T14:53:18-04:00

My ANG unit said Combat Communications on the door. If we could get people trained at the first part, we could send them to training everywhere for the second part. At any given time, up to half the unit would be off somewhere at a school or exercise with pay and per diem building retirement points. Even the unit medic had been a Navy corpsman with the Marines. At one exercise that was supposed to be an evacuation, the squadron began issuing rifles and setting up perimeter defense, gaining top marks from inspectors.

Response by 1SG George Quinones made Jun 13 at 2018 10:02 AM

2018-06-13T10:02:53-04:00

I would dare say the reason is quality of life, many Marines that I've met in my lifetime, experienced being in the Marines was no different than serving in the US Navy. Others have moved because their MOS has been deleted with no opportunities for advancement. More importantly, they want to continue to served their in some capacity.

Response by LCpl Martin Lutz made Jun 13 at 2018 10:14 AM

2018-06-13T10:14:31-04:00

Being a Marine was awesome but it was very difficult. Four years was enough, then I became a cop, ten years later I joined the Ohio Army national guard. I signed up for a try one (year). Thought that too many people didn't know what was going on including the staff NCO's. I was looking to reclaim some memories of what it was like in the Marines, but could not find that feeling. At the time the guard unit I was in, had motivational issues, too many (student) wanna be warrior types. They shot poorly on the range, did not understand or care about the finer points of marksmanship or many other aspects of combat or policing, since this was an MP unit. At my low rank I was a leader or at least felt like one, I squared away stuff that these college kids would not or could not do. Marines try other branches of the service to see how the other half lives, maybe it's the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence? Glad I saw for myself, I found out just how awesome the Marine Corps is.
Long Live 3/2

Response by A1C Ronald Harris made Jun 13 at 2018 4:07 PM

2018-06-13T16:07:08-04:00

My guess is the Airman's Club. Always booting those fools out.

Response by SSgt K Fuel made Jun 13 at 2018 5:00 PM

2018-06-13T17:00:47-04:00

I served with a 10 year Marine turned AF. His reason was simple. When he was young, single and crazy the marines were exactly where he needed to be. The core was his family and it was all that mattered to him. As he got older, settled down and became a father though it made sense to dial it back. He still wanted to serve but in a capacity more suitable to raise his family. He also said that even though he knows he could of easily served all 20 as a Marine, he coulden't shake the feeling that he could end up being a liability to those around him since his priorities had shifted. He felt it was in everyones best interest to serve the second half of his career in the AF. I thought that was an great explanation. I tell you what though, he was no doubt the sharpest AF NCO I ever served with.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2018 7:41 PM

2018-06-13T19:41:25-04:00

I tried every recruiting office besides navy and coast guard. Army NG was the most appealing. After 10 years, I don’t regret it.

Response by SSgt Jimmy Jackson made Jun 13 at 2018 8:32 PM

2018-06-13T20:32:53-04:00

My NCOIC was prior Marine. Had us running PT in formation in the afternoon. Not that far, but the other guys would already be at the club.... We lived.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2018 11:03 PM

2018-06-13T23:03:57-04:00

Though the Marine Corps is the only service I had enlisted in and retired from, I can honestly say that the opportunity for advancement is much better than the Corps as a whole. But I can say that I was very fortunate to be in an MOS that had opportunities for me to grow and advance in. After serving almost 13 years in the Corps, I was selected as a Warrant Officer in the Data/ Communication Maintenance field, (2805) and retired as a CWO3 at the MEB level. There are certain MOS fields that have an end of tour for your first enlistment. I don’t know about today’s services because I have been retired for the last 24 years from the Corps. But as I have said before to each his own. Semper Fidelis to all and all for one.

Response by LTC Bob Forrest made Jun 15 at 2018 7:11 PM

2018-06-15T19:11:50-04:00

I think the main reason is the small size of the Corps. Because it’s so small, it has far fewer opportunities for advancement than the Army or Air Force have.

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Jun 17 at 2018 4:05 PM

2018-06-17T16:05:10-04:00

Well, to be a REAL tough person, you need to go submarines. :)

Response by MSG Randy Rucker made Jun 18 at 2018 11:29 PM

2018-06-18T23:29:50-04:00

There are as many reasons as there are Marines that join another branch of service. I don't care what the reason is, I only care that they serve. I was in the military for over 20 years, now I'm old and cant serve. Thank God there are men and women that will defend and serve this nation the same as I did when I could. Listen to the B.S. about each branch and which one is best, bottom line is each branch serves a specific part of the battlefield, but together, the protect and defend us old and young that can't do it anymore, the same way I did it for them when they could not.

Response by 1SG Bill Melen made Jun 20 at 2018 4:05 PM

2018-06-20T16:05:58-04:00

I can easily answer that. It had to do with the Corps enlisted promotion system. I did 4 yrs in the Corps and got out in 1970 with 10 months time in grade as a Cpl. At the time many of lower enlisted in aviation units would have good pro and con ratings but couldn't get promoted because their unit moved around so much. I was assigned to Cherry Point but when I got there the bulk of the unit was doing bombing practice at Roosevelt Roads for about 6 weeks. The unit returned and about 3 months we went to Yuma for about 6 weeks, returned to Cherry Point. The unit would put personnel in for promotions but it took 3-4 months to make it to HQMC and back again. If the unit was deployed then the promotions would be given to a unit (like the supply unit across the street) that rarely deployed. Supply had guys making CPL within a year but aviation unit had LCPLs with 2-3 years time in grade. I finally got promoted to CPL in Nov of 1969 after returning from Nam in June 1969. I had 31 months time in grade as a LCPL.

In 1976 I joined the ANG as a Spec4 and 10 months later (Mar '77) enlisted in US Army. I had to come into the Army as an E-2 in a combat arms MOS (they didn't want most of the prior service personnel from VN at that time). I made E-3 out of basic/AIT. I pinned on E-6 after 2.5 years in a Army Cav unit and E-8 by 10 years in the Army. 5 years later I was selected (and graduated) the USASMA. I never did get promoted to E-9 because the Clinton Administration drew down the Army below 500,000 and my CMF was cut from 6 E-9 positions to 3. I had to retire 2 years later because of the Army's up-or-out policy of 24 years for E-8s. I did 4 in the Corps, 1 ANG and 19 in the Army. Total 23 years active duty.
Marines that join the Army usually make rank very fast. Every day Marine Corps life was harder than Army Combat Arms basic/AIT !
MY HEART WAS ALWAYS WITH THE CORPS ! SEMPER FI

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2018 11:43 AM

2018-07-06T11:43:17-04:00

I'm a Marine, 2007-2011. Got out cause my boat space filled up (waited too long to re-enlist). My home town had a Marine Reserve unit, which I did join on a voluntary basis, but shortly (6months) decided I didn't like doing the part-time Marine mentality thing so I joined the ANG as the same MOS I had in the Corps. Boom! I'm now Army. I did attempt to rejoin active Corps but they weren't accepting prior service at the time, which is when I went Army. No particular reason why I switched, just happened to be what worked out. Besides, I serve this Country, not just one particular Branch. Doesn't bother me being Army and prior Marine.

Response by Capt George Kent Brashear made Jul 8 at 2018 1:39 PM

2018-07-08T13:39:36-04:00

Everyone is special in his/her own way and their wants and needs should be respected by the rest of us. Let's keep that in mind when responding.

Response by SPC Edwin Lee made Jul 11 at 2018 1:49 PM

2018-07-11T13:49:43-04:00

As an Air Force Brat, I was already bad ass. My lifer dad, a Bataan Defender, and POW friend of Marine SGM Charles R. Jackson (read his book), told me that if Vietnam was still hot and heavy, to go Marines because I would know the man next to me could shoot. His two weeks of constant contact with Japanese seaborne infantry was proceeded with showing Air Corps mechanics how to operate bolt action rifles as they moved up to Quinauan Point. When I finished college he told me to do two years enlisted in the army, their choice as to MOS, so if I decided to go to OCS I would have a clue, which only enlisted could get. In AIT my nickname was Going Ho. My MOS was Nuclear Weapons Electronics Specialist. I thought being chosen for that meant I was mentally healthy, but that was not all what they wanted in nuclear weapons, they wanted "nuclear reliability" and "zero defects". They wanted men who would scare the Red Army, who would be sure that warheads would work and who would carry out emergency destruction of any spare warheads to prevent capture of the spares. I also volunteered to learn to jump T-10's, which was a step further, and I did. That made me more useful for inaccessible "broken arrows". After my ETS, I went to law school and also passed Foreign Service Exams, written, oral, then medical, and security clearance s. In the FSO entry class, when we had made the cut in class to continue, the Department of State advised us that for certain posts the Department had a preference for prior government employment--and by that they said "not the Post Office". To avoid the two slots for Tehran, this was the end of October '79, I put Yemen first and then safer places. The next morning the head of the course told me I was the first to know his assignment. Airborne may never jump operationally and Marines may never storm a defended beach, but there are other uses for people who will do such things.

Response by Sgt Roy Hale made Jul 13 at 2018 2:44 AM

2018-07-13T02:44:58-04:00

Army Reserve out of location

Response by SSG Kevin K. made Jul 13 at 2018 12:08 PM

2018-07-13T12:08:48-04:00

Because even the Army and the Air force need Heros......

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2018 1:51 PM

2018-07-18T13:51:06-04:00

Are the board results out yet

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Jul 19 at 2018 6:03 PM

2018-07-19T18:03:24-04:00

Because the average Marine makes a superior soldier. ;)

Response by Sgt R Scott made Jul 20 at 2018 10:55 PM

2018-07-20T22:55:29-04:00

Sounds like Sgt B. Scott or should I say B.S. Scott couldn’t make it a real Bootcamp, Marine Corps Bootcamp! Don’t forget there BS what ARMY stands for,
Aren’t
Ready for
Marines
Yet

Response by SFC Rick LaFace made Jul 22 at 2018 2:26 AM

2018-07-22T02:26:35-04:00

It's because the Marines don't take their own back if they ETS and decide to rejoin. The last I knew the Navy is the same. They (Marines) are the smallest branch numbers wise so they can afford to be selective. From what I've witnessed during my own career (retired Army) it's a lot harder to get promoted in other branches but also harder to lose rank where as in the Army you can climb fast in a given MOS but also lose rank for minor infractions.

Response by CPL Jack Nixon made Jul 25 at 2018 9:53 PM

2018-07-25T21:53:13-04:00

The answer, I believe, is if you like being in the military and the retirement package but you don't want some one ragging your ass all the time then the Air force is not a bad way to go.

Response by Sgt David Hutchinson made Aug 2 at 2018 7:57 AM

2018-08-02T07:57:07-04:00

It’s a quality of Life issue, I would never change my 8 years in the Marine Corps but had I not suffered a TBI and got medically retired I would have been looking to talk to the Air Force recruiter. At the end of the day think about the fact that If you are a Marine, you don’t have to attend any of the other Services bootcamps.

So if say you are an E-5 in the Marines and you can cross over and become an E-5 in the Air Force, you basically are getting the same pay and benefits for less stress and less chance of physical damage (understand there are exceptions)

One last thing to think about when you hear Marines talk to someone and they say “were you in the military?” The Marine usually replies “I’m a Marine or I was in the Marine Corps.” Not a simple yes because no matter what the other military services think, it’s not all the same.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 4 at 2018 12:28 PM

2018-08-04T12:28:42-04:00

For me, the Army kept their end of the contract. The Marines did not. On the other hand, the camaraderie in the Marines is a lot better amongst all Marines. For the Army, you didn't get that until you got into a combat MOS, especially rangers or special forces.

Response by LTC David Jones made Aug 8 at 2018 8:01 AM

2018-08-08T08:01:39-04:00

As a former Marine 0311(and l loved the Marine Corps), I have always said this. The Marine Corps is the best place to learn to be a soldier, but worst place to soldier due to lack of opportunity and the limited nature of the Marine Corps. The training I received in the Army was so better in many ways. More resources, a more robust footprint etc. Now, if the Army would do something about discipline and adopt the Pinks and Greens it would be an awesome place.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Aug 8 at 2018 12:55 PM

2018-08-08T12:55:44-04:00

Promotion!

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Aug 8 at 2018 1:02 PM

2018-08-08T13:02:49-04:00

Cause we are awesome

Response by Cpl D L Parker made Aug 13 at 2018 10:52 PM

2018-08-13T22:52:49-04:00

Being a Marine is awesome. Being in the Marines suck!!!

Response by LCpl Michael Cappello made Aug 16 at 2018 8:19 PM

2018-08-16T20:19:06-04:00

First of all, not everyone is cut out to be a Marine. Second, not every Marine is suited to such a life. Some of them wish to remain in the military, yet live a much softer life. Third, most times a Marine will EAS and discover that civilian life is not for them. The Army will generally give a Marine a large bonus as well as increased rank, to join. Remember this. We will NEVER have to go through Boot Camp ever again. No matter which branch of service we choose. Also, there are quite a few prior Army "retreads" in the Corps. I was in boot camp with one. Yes. He had to go through Marine Corps Recruit Training. I will also be willing to wager that those Marines who joined the Army are the most squared away and motivated soldiers in there respective units. I'll put money on that.

Response by Cpl Bernard Bates made Aug 20 at 2018 11:06 PM

2018-08-20T23:06:34-04:00

In my case I was stationed on Okinawa I met an Okinawan girl. The Corp said if we wanted you to have a wife we would issue you one. I got discharged when I got back to the states Joined the army and went from Pfc to SP/5 in 13 months. My time in the Corp plus leadership academy in the Army paid off. I went to Vietnam in 65-66. 3 Months before my time was up, I was offered a commission as a 2nd. Lt. I turned it down because I had only been married for 8 months and I would have had to spend another year in Vietnam. When a Marine joins the army You make Rank a lot faster. Being the Corp is a lot smaller it takes a lot longer to get promoted. My wife and I have been married 54 yrs. Semper fi.

Response by Cpl Kenneth Meier made Aug 26 at 2018 7:24 PM

2018-08-26T19:24:38-04:00

For R&R

Response by Cpl Demetri Crawley made Aug 28 at 2018 7:47 AM

2018-08-28T07:47:08-04:00

I understand, but I choose to stay Marine only!!!

Response by SSG Stephen Bender made Sep 7 at 2018 6:49 PM

2018-09-07T18:49:24-04:00

The Marines rarely enlist prior service candidates even from the Marines. Hence, Only options usually are the other branches. Now this may have changed but definitely the case up to 1996.

Response by GySgt Chuck Truitt made Sep 8 at 2018 9:16 PM

2018-09-08T21:16:34-04:00

Being a Marine is not easy. The day to day, and week to week requirements are more intense than the other services on average, and it can certainly be brutal at times. For the most part there is quite a price to pay to be an active duty Marine. Many, after paying their dues and leaving the Corps, still miss the military, but don't want quite the intensity so they choose a lower intense occupation that still has a military structure.

Response by GySgt Chuck Truitt made Sep 8 at 2018 9:17 PM

2018-09-08T21:17:20-04:00

Response by SPC Kenny Watson made Sep 9 at 2018 7:46 PM

2018-09-09T19:46:22-04:00

I never served in the Corp. I served in the Army and Air Force. Both were great.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Dec 9 at 2018 7:26 PM

2018-12-09T19:26:37-05:00

Promotions are better.

Response by Cpl Dave Dziados made Jan 1 at 2019 11:17 AM

2019-01-01T11:17:11-05:00

I'll tell you this.i was a marine for 8 years my reason for moving to the army was a matter of rank and promotions.i was 0311 infantry.during the time I was in it was harder being infantry to get promoted after you make cpl. So I made a deal with the army for rank and joined.long story short it didn't work out as planned.they sent me to ft Dix and since I was a marine I didn't have to do army boot camp so that alone made my transition very hard I knew absolutely nothing about the army I spent around 6 months at Dix as a troop handler since they had no idea where to to send me.then I got orders to Germany and up in Frankfurt and guess what?again about 4 months receiving troop handler lol.finaly they sent me to an infantry unit so almost a year in the army before they sent me to an actual unit.2/4 infantry upon arrival I find out my unit is attached to an morning battalion who is attached to a Pershing missle battalion.a friggin mess my whole time in the army.

Response by SPC Nancy Greene made Nov 7 at 2019 3:24 AM

2019-11-07T03:24:14-05:00

Excellent question! I would venture to say it probably had to do with possibly a reenlistment bonus, an opportunity to change MOS, choice of Duty Station, possibly a promotion upon reenlistment, special educational opportunities, offer for being commissioned as an Officer, or many other reasons for re-enlisting! Just a few of my ‘educated’ guesses!

Response by Sgt Justin Pratt made Nov 18 at 2019 8:51 AM

2019-11-18T08:51:26-05:00

Once you get out of the Marines and try to assimilate back into society they won’t always take you back. Marines get out and miss it and want to get back in but can’t get into what they want. A buddy of mine wanted to get into Recon and couldn’t so he tried the Army. They accepted him and 3 others who are all now Green Berets. Also if you don’t promote in the Marines because you get passed over twice you are forced out. So Marines talk to Army recruiters and transfer to the Army once their orders are finalized!

Response by Cpl Matthew Caldwell made Jan 7 at 2020 7:57 AM

2020-01-07T07:57:51-05:00

Air Force Chow Halls

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Jun 10 at 2021 3:15 PM

2021-06-10T15:15:35-04:00

I think there are a few different reasons:

Some are forced out due to limited spaces. but want to continue to serve. The other branches seem to need them so it is a win-win.
Some get out voluntarily but miss being in. Only a few can get back into the Marines due to our structure, so they join other branches.
Some want all of the benefits of military service but would prefer for it to be easier, so they join a branch with lower expectations.
I realize this is an old post but I have been busy trying to create a better flavor crayon.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Jun 10 at 2021 6:39 PM

2021-06-10T18:39:57-04:00

They want a cushier life.

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Aug 6 at 2021 6:14 AM

2021-08-06T06:14:57-04:00

The Corps is so awesome, staff and senior NCOs (even officers) from other branches keep asking these questions. As for the answers:. The Corps is small, meaning there are fewer opportunities to broaden your career. Likewise, training opportunities can be harder to come by, which is also true for promotions. The other services, particularly the army and air force have more comfortable lives. I have known several people go from the Corps to other services. Their reasons usually fall somewhere in the ones I listed

Response by SGT Alan Martinez made Jan 20 at 2023 3:15 AM

2023-01-20T03:15:23-05:00

Its post USMC. Once a Marine always a Marine.