If I enlisted in the NG, but now want to go active duty AF, can I do it? How difficult is it and how long will it take?

2017-10-25T20:21:54-04:00

I enlisted with the army national guard but I don't ship off to basic until January 29(3months from now) but I realized that I just want to do active duty instead, can I get out off my guard contract? Will it be Hard? Or take a long time to do so? And how fast can I join another branch once am out of the guard

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 9:04 PM

2017-10-25T21:04:55-04:00

Since you haven't shipped, it can possibly be done. But bear in mind it's going to take some serious paperwork and prolly get the WTF sneer from your Recruiter

Response by 1LT Kevin Chapman made Oct 26 at 2017 3:03 AM

2017-10-26T03:03:10-04:00

Well, I did something kind of similar to this myself. I tested for the ASVAB with the Navy and ended up enlisting into their DEP program, and a month before my official ship date I changed my mind and joined the Army. Take in mind, your recruiter will be highly upset. But just ensure that you're positive about making your decision. Good luck!

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2017 10:53 AM

2017-10-26T10:53:49-04:00

As of now you do not owe the NG anything since you haven’t shipped, so as stated above talk to the AF recruiter ASAP and let your NG recruiter know your intentions. PFC Chapman is correct, your recruiter will be highly disappointed, but if this is the move you want to make take their emotions out of the equation. Good luck and remember to make the right choice for you.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2017 11:09 AM

2017-10-26T11:09:18-04:00

Everything the guys above me have said. This is a huge decision on your part, and will have a large impact on your career. Do not let a recruiter's emotions get in the way of that.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Oct 26 at 2017 12:01 PM

2017-10-26T12:01:48-04:00

I suspect you're stuck, but work with an Air Force Recruiter to see what might be arranged. Sometimes the NG will let you go, but they may not. If they don't, go to the required basic and AIT training, join your unit, and then go talk to the Air Force recruiter again. Eventually, your enlistment will be up and you'll be free to make whatever choices you want. BTW beware of thinking the grass is greener on the other side of the fence. I love the Air Force, but there are come military occupations where you are better off by far in the Army.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2017 10:20 AM

2017-10-27T10:20:05-04:00

Both of these Warriors are correct its a luck of the draw it depends on the needs of the Air Force and the desire of the Recruiter. If the Air Force has openings they will take you if there arent any the Recruiter gets nothing by putting you in so he wont. You will have to sell yourself to that recruiter.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2017 12:59 PM

2017-10-27T12:59:34-04:00

You can apply to do a 368 after your training, however, it may not get approved and you will have to wait until you ETS

Response by SSgt Wayne Graff made Nov 23 at 2017 11:12 PM

2017-11-23T23:12:44-05:00

Talk to the personnel office and see what they can tell you. Those are the people that handle these things.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2018 4:16 PM

2018-01-04T16:16:14-05:00

You can do whatever you want until you ship. You are not obligated to go to BMT. If you want to go Active Duty it is a VERY simple process. All you do is tell your recruiter you want to go Active Duty and he will need to DEP discharge you. He may try to convince you otherwise but he has to do it if this is what you want. Let me know if you need any help with the process.