If prior service have to redo BCT, but are MOS-qualifed, do they redo AIT?

SGT Steve Bogucki — Tue, 21 May 2019 22:05:16 -0400

I've been doing some research on returning to active duty after a break longer than the three years that requires one to have to go back through basic training. That makes sense to me. My question is whether the prior service soldier would have to re-do AIT if they are returning to duty with the same MOS that they were previously qualified.

Intuitively, it makes sense that if a break in service requires one to have to re-do BCT than they should also have to re-do AIT. On the other hand, if you're MOS-qualified, you're MOS-qualified. Right?

I'm in the early stages of talking to a recruiter, so I'll eventually have solid guidance on this, but since I am still in the preliminary stages, I was wondering if anyone here has any insight. Thanks!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2019 10:16 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 May 2019 22:16:10 -0400

When did your IRR time end?

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2019 10:52 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 May 2019 22:52:59 -0400

There might be ways around this, but they are often changing the rules, so I am not entirely sure. One way I have seen in the past (may still work) is going National Guard first, as they usually allow you to stay out much longer without going back through training (probably because they have to put you on active orders and pay for you to go). After doing an initial contract you can rejoin the Regular Army potentially without having to retrain because Guard time counts towards service time (just not active), meaning as long as you didn't have another long break in service afterward, you might be okay. Just a thought.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made May 21 at 2019 10:58 PM

CW4 Craig Urban — Tue, 21 May 2019 22:58:01 -0400

What is it with you people? Do you not have a phone? Call hr.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2019 12:53 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 May 2019 00:53:11 -0400

It depends on the MOS. The MOS propenent determines who is still qualified in their MOS. That's not to say you'll even be allowed to retain your MOS. It comes down to what the Army needs

Response by MAJ Javier Rivera made May 22 at 2019 6:58 AM

MAJ Javier Rivera — Wed, 22 May 2019 06:58:28 -0400

Lots of great answers here, but as we all know, things change frequently.

You need to get with a recruiter and get the latest and greatest. Regarding AIT, there is a big change for you to reclassify since you fall under USAREC’s Business Rules which is nothing but a fancy name for ‘needs of the Army”.

Good luck on your endeavors!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2019 1:50 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 May 2019 13:50:57 -0400

I had a similar situation. I had a long enough break in service that I needed to go back to BCT but I was going back into the same MOS. I remained MOS Qualfied and did not need to go back to AIT. If you have anymore questions let me know. Going back to BCT as an E-5 is gravy. Good luck brother.