If transitioning to AD from the NG while staying in the same MOS, what are the chances that I might be able to pick my duty station?

SGT Marcus Bright — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 18:38:17 -0400

Hi everyone I currently have 5months till my Ets date from the NG and I plan on going AD. My current mos is 88m but I have a secondary mos of 13b from my Marine Corps AD time. I have about 3 questions and would really appreciate if someone guidance. I understand the needs of the Army comes 1st and I’ll be really appreciative just have the opportunity to serve on a full time basis again.
1) If staying 88m what are the chances that at MEPS I’ll be presented with options on a duty station?
2)Are prior service able to receive a bonus if they have them or an opportunity to get an Airborne contract
3) What is it like being an 88m on AD?
Again I know the needs of the Army comes 1st but those questions stuck out in my mind. I’m just grateful to be able to get a 2nd chance at a great career.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2021 7:18 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 19:18:58 -0400

By your question, I am guessing your 368 still has yet to be returned. Either way, you'll know if you will be keeping your MOS or changing when you speak to the Career Counselor at MEPS when you're all done with the other fun loving processes. If the slot is open then you should be able to keep it. You can try and get choice of assignment, but I doubt it will happen. But, that's a guess on my part. It is MEPS that will answer that. Yes, prior service can get a bonus....if one is available. As for Airborne...again, the Career Counselor will be able to answer this one.

Of course, this is assuming you've made contact with a Recruiter and are awaiting 368 approval. If you have NOT spoken with a Recruiter and have NOT filled out a 368, you may want to move most rikki tik.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2021 8:17 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 20:17:05 -0400

1 all depends if they have a slot for u on a base u are looking for.
2 no bonuses
3 take what you can get.

Response by 1SG Mitchell Smith made Aug 31 at 2021 6:40 AM

1SG Mitchell Smith — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 06:40:43 -0400

(3) 1-6 are nice for travel, promotion etc. However, as I worked with HRC the Head of the Spear is smaller at the Top with limited spaces/slots 7-9.

Some advice, learn the promotion system on the numbers.....1SG/CO have so many low enlisted they can promote each month- same goes for the "Big Army"

Transportation 4 Life!

Good luck!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2021 7:42 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 07:42:12 -0400

You're always at the mercy of what USAREC and the MEPS has. However, generally speaking you can get training or location of choice in your enlistment and reenlistment. 88M usually need skill level 1 and 2 Airborne. I've never seen a prior service receive a bonus.