Is it possible to serve in multiple branches of the military ?

PFC Cinnamon Hack — Fri, 31 Mar 2017 22:57:58 -0400

I have this weird fascination of being the "jack of all trades" as a civilian i did things from cosmetology, to truck driving and allot in between. I recently just swore into into DEP (army) and already making plans to see if I can cross train into other MOS fields and eventually after my contract to other branches (USMC? Navy? Air Force)

Anyone here serve in 2 or more branches? Any tips?

Response by SFC George Smith made Mar 31 at 2017 11:04 PM

SFC George Smith — Fri, 31 Mar 2017 23:04:35 -0400

I have dealt with Folks who were marines or Air Force and Came to the Army ...
some times there is a lag in training or Qualifications ...
Start with One and do your Best for Now... and Down the road when you are getting ready... then Look at Moving to another branch...or Changing MOS's...

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2017 11:13 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Mar 2017 23:13:38 -0400

PFC Cinnamon Hack It is possible to serve in multiple branches and some RallyPoint members have served in multiple branches. Master your current MOS before you request to cross train into other MOS's. If you like the Army, I would stay there rather than moving to another branch. I would encourage you to use your educational benefits.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Apr 1 at 2017 12:35 AM

CSM Charles Hayden — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 00:35:28 -0400

You are not in yet! There is always a chance you might appreciate your first MOS! STEADY! Do not jump too quickly. Time and a little experience solve many doubts. You might look for "Jessica Lynch's” book. She tells how MT was in Iraq. And, how she was a POW!

Response by SGT Audie Blackwell made Apr 1 at 2017 1:19 AM

SGT Audie Blackwell — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 01:19:11 -0400

A friend of mine did 4 years in the Navy then retired as a Major in the Marine Corps.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2017 1:47 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 01:47:28 -0400

PFC Cinnamon Hack as a Company Commander I had several people who came from the IRR that served in the Marines before. Depending on the service you are going to, where you are coming from, and how long you have been away you may have to redo your basic training. Also, you may have to do their individual training to learn a new trade/job/MOS if they do not have the same type of job that you had before. If your goal it to switch from service to service then you should look into what job you want to do in each and what you have to do to be qualified for them. But do not look too far ahead that you are not able to focus on the here and now and be successful. Good luck.

Response by SPC William Weedman made Apr 1 at 2017 5:22 AM

SPC William Weedman — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 05:22:33 -0400

Considering the Army has so many career fields, switching services might not be the best answer. If you talk to any of your senior NCOs at your first unit, you might find several are on their second or even third MOS. The reasons I heard were because in some MOSs it is very hard to gain the rank you need to stay in. I've been out for over 20 years but it used to be if you were E-4 you were forced out after 10 years, E-5 was 15 then forced out, E-6 though, you were forced to retire at 20. There were a few who like you either disliked the duties or got bored with their MOS and wanted something different. Every MOS is different, and every assignment is different. The thing about the Army is generally if you don't like your situation you can change it!

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Apr 1 at 2017 6:16 AM

Maj Marty Hogan — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 06:16:36 -0400

Happens a lot. Crew chiefs, engine mechanics, security and more ...we get them from Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Army. We have people move from the air side as well. SFC George Smith and CSM Charles Hayden have sound advice.

Response by CPT Andrew Wright made Apr 1 at 2017 7:05 AM

CPT Andrew Wright — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 07:05:20 -0400

Prior service from any branch will most likely find it hard to get into the Air Force. Spend a few years in the Army and look into a commissioning program like ROTC. All the branches have ROTC but you will have to look around for a college that has the branch of service you want. If you end up in a medical field (Doctor, Nurse) all the branches want you. Best of luck!

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Apr 1 at 2017 9:10 AM

Sgt Wayne Wood — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 09:10:21 -0400

Paratrooper in the Army & then moved to the Marines... you get used up real quick...

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Apr 1 at 2017 9:45 AM

SSgt Terry P. — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 09:45:36 -0400

PFC Cinnamon Hack For myself--served in in Vietnam as a Marine,but retired from the Army years later.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2017 10:04 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 10:04:27 -0400

my middle school teacher served in all 5 branches in one form or another, he suggested air force and here I am. best way to do it is to start in the marines, so you don't go down in rank when transferring. other than that, it's totally possible, be it difficult.

Response by SFC Dave Beran made Apr 1 at 2017 10:38 AM

SFC Dave Beran — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 10:38:18 -0400

Wow. Nice question. When I was in I encouraged my troops to pick up a second MOS. Most Senior NCOs have more than one. I knew many people who changed branches of service. Don't remember any of them having problems.

Your first priority should be to become the best you can at whatever you have chosen. Don't get distracted by the slow times. They happen to everyone and busy work can be tedious and boring. But use this opportunitys to educate yourself. Most bases offer college courses.

Give it your best and you will flourish.

Response by SrA Kelly Richard made Apr 1 at 2017 10:41 AM

SrA Kelly Richard — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 10:41:42 -0400

As a jack of all trades myself, I'd stick with one branch, and if you want change MOSs or AFSCs within that branch. Every branch has every job that the others have, but how they go about it might vary slightly. You can switch jobs and still follow a path for promotions, but switching branches could make it more difficult or cause delays. Sometimes there are very valid reasons for switching, but just because you want to try a little of everything, isn't. I'm not trying to crush your dreams, it's just I understand what it is that you want, and after being in myself, and having an Air Force job who's nick name is "jack of all trades" I'd say you can go Air Force now while you still have the chance of stay your path, but once you're in, stick with it, like others have said.

Response by CW3 Harvey K. made Apr 1 at 2017 10:52 AM

CW3 Harvey K. — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 10:52:42 -0400

Heinlein said it all, "Specialization is for insects".
The best advice I can give you is to seek to be a polymath, and not a dilettante.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2017 11:49 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 11:49:44 -0400

Much easier in the reserves to go from one branch to another. I went from active duty Marines to Air National Guard to Navy Reserve back to guard in my 25 yrs. It's a little more difficult for active duty but not impossible. It will depend on the needs of that branch of service. The Marines and Coast Guard will require you to attend basic training regardless of you being prior service from another branch.

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made Apr 1 at 2017 12:20 PM

CSM Thomas McGarry — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 12:20:12 -0400

I guess it's possible-I once served with a guy who was in the Marines, them Air Force and was now in the Army.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2017 12:42 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 12:42:40 -0400

I joined the navy, corpsman , served with the marines, then went army

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Apr 1 at 2017 12:49 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 12:49:10 -0400

I started out as a USMA Cadet, went Navy ENL, then Seabee OFF and then off to Antarctica. I never intended to morph like I did, but it just turned out that way. Absolutely make sure your orientation is correct. It's not the World's job to go out of its way to satisfy your wanderlust. Do something and do it very well. IF you come across an opportunity to redefine yourself to both yours AND the MIL benefit, that's what you should be looking for. My experience has been if you focus on being stellar, stuff happens you'd never dream of and take you places you'd never give a thought to. Enjoy the journey.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Apr 1 at 2017 1:29 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 13:29:25 -0400

A medic I served with in the Guards, joined the Naval reserves in the mid 2000's, just recently retired from the service.

Response by PO3 Donald Murphy made Apr 1 at 2017 2:07 PM

PO3 Donald Murphy — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 14:07:04 -0400

Go submarines. Stay submarines. You'll get to do tons of different jobs, get paid killer money, eat like a queen and get all the recognition you need. Your East Coast duty stations are pretty cool too:

Groton, CT
Norfolk, VA
King's Bay, GA

West coast? The choices are:

Bangor, WA
San Diego, CA
Pearl Harbor, HI

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2017 2:31 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 14:31:35 -0400

I served in the Navy, Army, and Coast Guard from which I retired. I definitely saved the best for last.

Response by SSG Steven Borders made Apr 1 at 2017 2:38 PM

SSG Steven Borders — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 14:38:47 -0400

PFC Cinnamon Hack I father has served multiple branches MSgt Private RallyPoint Member and I have known a couple of guys who were Marines first then went Army. I have inquired myself about Active Army to Active Air Force and it was a no go. I have been told you can go Active Army to Air National Guard but I would have to go down to an E-3 to do it.

Response by SSgt Robert Marx made Apr 1 at 2017 3:57 PM

SSgt Robert Marx — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 15:57:12 -0400

Good luck pursuing your dream! I served 8 years active in the USMC. I had 2 months of leave which I took as terminal, missed the military so I enlisted with the Army National Guard. I believe that the National Guard is phenomenal for you get intense training, especially as you give it your all, and you get to go back home on Sunday night. The call ups to active duty definitely give a change of pace but you can make the most of it and hone your MOS skillset. I joined the Air National Guard after 2 1/2 years of being a grunt and I was blessed to be able to retire from it. My back went out, as in disk degeneration disease, and my 19+ years of service was counted as the necessary 20 years. My last 4 years were the most brutal because I suffered with my condition, needed 2 surgeries, and could barely walk by the end of it. I was afraid pretty much the entire time after my diagnosis which came from civilian doctors on my dime but I had to document on my required annual health assessment that the powers that "B" would give me the boot. I hated to lack the ability to carry my own weight but I kept on going until ordered to stop. My opinion, for whatever it is worth, would be to find the MOS or AFSC or rating that you love doing in one of the services and stick with it. Become the best possible by getting all the training, schools, and degree programs that you are allowed to get. Remember that every military base has an education center with probably many college programs that you can enter. The job then that you performed will have a civilian counter part and so you can keep going in your chosen vocation. God speed to you & yours.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Apr 1 at 2017 4:35 PM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 16:35:43 -0400

I felt I made the best choice the first time and spent all My time in the Air Force and if i had it to do over again I'd make the same choice. I do respect what the members of other branches of the armed Force do but each of us has to find our place in that service to our country. My introduction to the Army was infantry training as a Cadet at a Military Academy which did help when i entered the Air Force. We had active duty Army Officers and NCOs there to train us and woke to reveille at 0600 and taps was at 2200, in between We were very busy.

Response by TSgt Joe C. made Apr 1 at 2017 7:24 PM

TSgt Joe C. — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 19:24:29 -0400

I've had multiple friends serve in another branch before crossing over to the Air Force...so in short, yes it's possible.

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2017 10:35 AM

MCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Apr 2017 10:35:07 -0400

Cinnamon, if you are really looking to be a JoaT, then join the Coast Guard. We have 22 career fields (the army has well over 100 MOSs), so right off the bat, we're more generalized than the other services. My rating (MOS) required more than 22 Air Force AFSCs to get the job done - and there were still things I did on a nearly daily basis that weren't covered. In the other four branches, you will do a job and VERY rarely do other stuff that isn't job related. You may end up with an instructor slot or recruiting billet, but that's about it. With the Coast Guard, we do it all the time!

I served 6-years in the Army (Infantry), then came to the Coast Guard, where I finished out another 20 years and retired.

Response by Capt Gregory Prickett made Apr 2 at 2017 2:32 PM

Capt Gregory Prickett — Sun, 02 Apr 2017 14:32:54 -0400

It's more common in the Reserves and Guard than active duty. I was Army (Infantry), then Air Force (Security Police). We had prior Navy and Marines, too.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Apr 3 at 2017 6:04 AM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 06:04:23 -0400

I've served with and worked with those that have changed branches.

Response by Maj Mark Lilly made Apr 3 at 2017 11:03 AM

Maj Mark Lilly — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 11:03:28 -0400

I spent 5 1/2 years in the Army flying helicopters and as a Warrant Officer I felt my options were limited. I resigned from the Army and joined the Air Force. I then flew for another 21 years and then retired. I found serving in the Air Force to offer a lot more opportunities. Going from one enlisted rank to another in another service doesn't really offer much more than a new mission in a new uniform. You can do unlimited jobs in the Army at all levels. Tired of being leg in the infantry, go Rangers. Tired of Rangers, go Special Forces, tire of that go to Delta. If you don't want to work in supply, finish your college degree and go to law school and join the JAG corps. Changing branches of service is difficult to say the least.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2017 12:16 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 12:16:13 -0400

At the same time? Never heard of it. One at a time? Have at it. Be prepared to lose rank every time you switch and go to another Basic or Boot Camp, depending on your choice. Plenty have served in more than one and if you have time on your hand's research it and find out more. Why not dedicate yourself to doing the best you can in the Army? If that doesn't work then go from there. Your plate is going to be plenty full once you ship to Basic so that's what you should focus on for now.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Apr 3 at 2017 12:49 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 12:49:49 -0400

My daughter served 12 years in the Air National Guard as a Supply Technician. She got out as a SSgt (E-5) after she finished her BSN. A decade later, she joined the Navy Reserve Nurse Corps and was recently promoted to Lieutenant Commander (O-4) and is serving as a Medical Detachment OIC. BTW she's also a nurse practitioner with the VA.

Many specialties are common across the Services especially in the combat support and combat service support. Supply, maintenance, finance, contracting, transportation, IT, and to some extent personnel specialties have many common skills and knowledge in all the services. Daughter found her way into the Navy by comparing the offers of all the Services for her skills, knowledge, and capabilities as a Nurse Practitioner. The Navy Reserve gave her the best deal in terms of rank and date of accession. Recommend you do the same if you want to change Services. Visit with a recruiter from the Service you are interested in going into after you current obligation is completed. Don't overlook the Coast Guard.

Best of luck!

Response by Sgt George Lawrence made Apr 3 at 2017 1:12 PM

Sgt George Lawrence — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 13:12:13 -0400

Yes, but time in grade required in each service depending on the MOS may slow promotions. But not always. Have a good friend who went through the Marine Corps PLC (Platoon Leader Course) sort of like ROTC, in college. After completing OCS and TBS, went to flight school. Flew A4 Skyhawks in Vietnam. Transitioned to the Marine Corps Reserve, as a captain, and went to medical school. After med school transferred to the Navy (the Marine Corps does not have its own medical personnel) and became a flight surgeon. Some years later, transferred to the Air Force as a flight surgeon. Retired as a Colonel. His promotions came with no delay but of course due to the specialty. Additionally, moving from Lt. Col. to Colonel was very competitive. He said that the reason he made the cut was due to the fact that the general making the decision said it was his duty as a combat fighter pilot and that he had maintained flying status as a flight surgeon.

Response by SSG Richard Reilly made Apr 3 at 2017 1:25 PM

SSG Richard Reilly — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 13:25:46 -0400

Not to sure about today but when I went to PLDC (google it I'm old) I had a SPC(P) that had more service stripes than the CSM giving the speech. He was in various other branches.

Response by SSgt GG-15 RET Jim Lint made Apr 3 at 2017 11:23 PM

SSgt GG-15 RET Jim Lint — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 23:23:19 -0400

I hope so! I did 7 yrs in USMC, and 14 in the Army, all active duty. I had lots of fun!

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 3 at 2017 11:56 PM

COL Charles Williams — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 23:56:39 -0400

I suspect you could, if you timed it just right.

Response by Cpl Zach Wellborn made Apr 4 at 2017 1:36 AM

Cpl Zach Wellborn — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 01:36:30 -0400

If you don't join the Marines first lol

Response by SGT Kevin Leake made Apr 4 at 2017 3:15 AM

SGT Kevin Leake — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 03:15:24 -0400

When I was at FT Hood in 75 had an E-5 that had been in 4 of the 5 branches, then in 80 in Germany had a medic that used to be in the Marines and switched to Army.

Response by SSgt Christopher Brose made Apr 4 at 2017 6:25 AM

SSgt Christopher Brose — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 06:25:33 -0400

I have served in three. Army Reserves 1979-'82, Navy '83-'89, Marine Corps 1996-2006.

The thing I learned from doing this, which I now forward to you as a tip, is that each service cares about its own manning issues and training investment, which can work against you when trying to change career fields. When I was in the Army Reserves and wanted to go active duty, the Army didn't want to let that happen until their Reserve component could fill my billet, which would have meant an indefinite wait. The Navy, on the other hand, couldn't care less about the Army's billet requirements, and they were happy to enlist me in the active duty Navy with my choice of jobs.

Years later, after 4 years of college and some bumps in life's road, I wanted to enlist again. But this was during the Clinton drawdown, so it was tricky. The Air Force wouldn't talk to me, and both the Navy and the Army only wanted to consider it if I would come back in in my previous MOS. The Marines didn't care about any of that, and long story shorter, I was able to enlist and get the new training and new career I wanted.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2017 7:11 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 07:11:48 -0400

It's possible, but keep in mind that every time you switch branches you'll be demoted down to an entry-level pay grade. I definitely wouldn't want to spend a career being paid E-4 salary the whole way through. As long as you like your MOS, sticking to it for E-7+ is the way to get proper compensation for your skills.

Response by SFC Marcus Belt made Apr 4 at 2017 7:16 AM

SFC Marcus Belt — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 07:16:50 -0400

Yep. Four years in the USN, the last 15 in the Army.

Response by SPC Geoffrey Jenkins made Apr 4 at 2017 7:44 AM

SPC Geoffrey Jenkins — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 07:44:51 -0400

It is very much possible,
I was regular Army,Navy,Army National Guard,I deployed in three times to Iraq with the ARNG,

Army 4yrs,Navy 6yrs,ARNG 14yrs

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2017 9:32 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 09:32:44 -0400

Yes - it's possible.

Response by SCPO Carl Wayne Boss made Apr 4 at 2017 5:48 PM

SCPO Carl Wayne Boss — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 17:48:37 -0400

Not at the same time. But once your Enlistment is up in one Branch, there's nothing keeping you from going and signing up with another. I originally enlisted in the Active Duty U.S. Coast Guard in July of 1972, then transferred into the USCG Reserve in July of 1976 to complete my obligation.

After my obligation was complete, I signed up to serve in the Arizona Air National Guard/U. S. Air Force in 1979, where I served for 7 years as an Crash/Rescue Firefighter/EMT & Asst. Chief of Fire Dept. Technical Services (and Fire Prevention Specialist) with the 161st AZANG Air Refueling Group at Sky Harbor International Airport.

Then in Oct 1986 I returned to the U.S. Coast Guard Select Reserve for another 20 years. I served for 10 years with over 130 other Reservists, as a Senior NCO in a Totally Reservist manned Small Boat Unit called the U.S. Colorado River Patrol, on Arizona's Colorado River.

After that I served another 10 years as a Recruiter in USCG Recruiting Office Phoenix, during about half of that tour I roamed the State of Arizona in a Rolling Recruiting Office that we built in a Large Customized UPS Style Van, I'd probably still be there if I hadn't been "required" to retire in March of 2006!

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in BOTH Services. I had the opportunity to Work shoulder to shoulder with a large number of very selfless, extremely knowledgeable, rabidly dedicated Patriots, that this Great Nations is/was very lucky to have working in their behalf.

I learned a lot from them all, whether peer or subordinate, Male or Female, Officer or Enlisted. I would never have grown into Man I am today without the experience they gave me and their dedicated association.

I miss all the troops, Both Active Duty & Reserve, that broke their butts and gave Me, their Leader their ALL, especially those who had to drive 600 miles or more one-way, just to make it to their Drill weekends every month and Active Duty for Training Periods every year, they all gave 150% and more. I truly believe, the money they were paid from the Federal Budget, was the Best Ever Spent by the U.S. Government... We did a lot of Good and saved a lot of lives, both Civilian and Military through the course of our collective efforts/careers.

Hope that answers your question Private... There's plenty of ways to be of Service... Go pick the Service where you think you can do the most good for the greatest number of our fellow Countrymen.

Oh and be sure to check out the Education opportunities available through All the Services too, some can be had while you're actually serving and then VA Education Benefits are available after you get out. Use all the opportunities to your maximum advantage, you won't regret it!

Good luck Young 'ne and God's Speed in all your Future Endeavors.

Response by CPT Albert Cross made Apr 20 at 2017 2:49 PM

CPT Albert Cross — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 14:49:07 -0400

Years ago, when I went through boot camp at MCRD San Diego, we had a guy in our platoon who had already done four years in the Air Force and four years in the Navy. I always wondered if he went on to serve in the Army also.

Response by SGT Catherine Talento made Apr 21 at 2017 11:56 PM

SGT Catherine Talento — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 23:56:50 -0400

It is possible to serve in multiple branches but it seems you are putting the cart before the horse. From the sounds of your posts you are DEP right now which means you haven't even been to basic or AIT. If you are having questions about other branches now maybe you need to determine if the Army is really the branch for you at this time. You can go Blue to Green from the Navy and Air Force but it is harder to go to the Air Force from the Army unless you are in very specific career fields.

From reading your posts and responses I'm getting less a desire to be a jack of all trades and more a lack of understanding with what you want to do. You're young that's natural but you're about to make a very serious life changing decision. Please make sure you are 100% focused on the task ahead, becoming a US Army soldier.

Best of Luck to you

Response by 1SG James Jennings made Apr 25 at 2017 9:01 AM

1SG James Jennings — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 09:01:28 -0400

After serving in the Navy and Naval Reserves, I switched to the Army National Guard. I started in Infantry, then went to Armor, and retired out as 1st Sgt in Field Artillery. The reason for the mos changes was moving for my civilian job. I did a total of 42 years

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2017 11:02 AM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 11:02:32 -0400

If you are really wanting to switch branches after your contract with the Army is up - keep this to yourself until about a year from your ETS - if your supervisors know you are not invested in staying with the Army, you run the risk that they will think twice before giving you a school or other training due to the fact that they will lose you and not get the return on their investment in you. If you still want to try and go directly from the AD Army into another service without a break in service - at about a year out - go to the recruiter for the other branch and see what they have related to your MOS or another field to cross train into. Remember that you might not be what the other branch wants - each branch has different requirements that may be different for a current military member than what is required by a new recruit. I served on AD in the Navy, had a ten year break and then went into the Army National Guard. The unit that I was in wasn't a good fit - I was getting my degree as a paralegal and want to move to a legal slot - there were none available in my state, so I had to look at the Air Nation Guard. So, I have served in 3 branches of the service during my 23 year career. I can tell you that I had the most fun with the Army, grew the most with the Navy (I went in at 18) and had the most opportunities in the Air Force. Good Luck

Response by TSgt Ray Lewis made Apr 25 at 2017 3:42 PM

TSgt Ray Lewis — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 15:42:15 -0400

I served 4 years Army and 19 years AF. In the Army I was a jack of all trades.
Light truck driver, Heavy truck driver, mail clerk, morning report clerk, personnel clerk,
platoon leader driver, cook and last but not least an MP.
AF. I was an Air Policeman, a marksmanship instructor, a member of the AF Rifle Team,
and a Disaster Preparedness NCO.
So you see it dosent hurt to know a lot of things.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2017 6:43 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 18:43:16 -0400

I served 6.7 years USN as a nuke submarine electrician. Got out for 8 months. I rejoined the USNR to complete 17.5 years service. At that point I lateral transferred over to US Army reserves. My Navy MOS followed me. They also awarded me a 2nd MOS for my civilian computer career (no school at all). I did about 5 years USAR, along w/a year in Iraq, got out, and joined the MD National Guard for 3 years. When that contract ended, I went back to the USAR for about 7 years. In total, I have 34 years service. I spent 24 years AT THE SAME RANK, which I believe is a world record. Transferring services does not help your career advancement. You do know everything about everything, but my retirement is $1100 bucks/mo and healthcare. Peanuts. On the flipside, I do make $200K/yr as the DoD guru in cyber engineering w/the highest level clearances. In all that time, I always used my military training to enhance my civilian career. It worked. If you can stand being nothing more than an E-6, you can do it. I wouldn't advise it. It's a tough row to hoe.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2017 1:27 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 13:27:58 -0400

2 more things to consider - that the Recruiter might not know or will tell you - Time in Service TIS carries over to all branches - BUT Time in Rank TIR - E3 to E4, etc - starts over in each branch - so if you are an E3 in the army with 4 years TIS and 1 and 1/2 hrs TIR - when you switch over to the other branch - you have 4 yrs TIS and 0 TIR credit on the new enlistment. This was not explained to me twice - I didn't question it when I went from the Navy to the Army Guard (since I had a ten year break in service) - but when I switch from the Army Guard to the Air Guard - I lost almost 2 yrs TIR and had to wait 2 more years to get promoted from E4 to E5.
Depending on the needs of the other branch that you want to go into - you might have to take off a strip - go from E5 to E4.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2017 3:25 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 15:25:53 -0400

Been there done that
Just give your current Service a chance, and later consider MOS switch VERY carefully

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2017 8:35 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 20:35:15 -0400

I have served 33yrs all reserves, Navy 8yrs Supply, Army 5 Combat Engineer and Air force 20 Crew Chief. I am Air Reserve technician civilian job. Just select what branch you may want to go into and go to recruiter. Air Force only branch that decreases your chance of getting killed in combat.

Response by CW3 Doyle Frost made Apr 28 at 2017 9:13 AM

CW3 Doyle Frost — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 09:13:46 -0400

Four years USAF - autopilot/compass systems specialist, B-52's, KC-135's, B-47's. Two years USN - Aviation Electrician's Mate third class, A-4 Skyhawks. Seventeen and a half years Army, retired as a the unit Maintenance Officer of an ordnance company.

Response by FN Charlie Spivey made Apr 28 at 2017 10:21 AM

FN Charlie Spivey — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 10:21:42 -0400

I had an UNcle who was a a Boilertender in the Navy from '38 to the end of the War. He got out and reenlisted in the Army. He retired from the Armay and was an Engineer on a Tug at Ft. Eustice.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Apr 29 at 2017 3:24 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Sat, 29 Apr 2017 15:24:03 -0400

When I was on Recruiting tour the Army still had the Split Option Program where 17 year old High School Juniors could go to basic before their senior year. It sold like hotcakes, even my own son went to basic and was in a Reserve unit. I got six in one month. Unfortunately the powers that be, decided that these soldiers could enlist in any of the other services as an initial enlistments but the Army had to treat them as Prior Service. We were out of the market, as far as Recruiting Command was concerned I had betrayed them

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2017 4:13 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 30 Apr 2017 16:13:25 -0400

I have in my twenty-six years in the Marine Corps met exactly one person who served in all four branches, the Marine Corps being his fourth. I cannot recall how many totals combined years of service he had accumulated; I'll guess eighteen for argument sake. So, here's the problem, let's say you served five years in each branch a total of twenty years and obtained the paygrade of E-5; yay, you accomplished your goal, but are retire as a Marine Corps Sergeant, I am assuming because is the last branch you served in and retired. Congratulations now you draw E-5 pay over twenty years ($1,700 per Month) instead of possible E-9 pay over twenty ($3,000 per Month). Good luck! And I am not even sure it would be possible today, and even if it were, I would not recommend it. The only upside you can call yourself "Marine" Sorry, I could not restrain myself, LOL!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2017 9:34 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 30 Apr 2017 21:34:26 -0400

The mastering of the MOS is crucial, sound advice from the prior comments. You will need to become the SME of you MOS and people will listen to you and follow your advice because you know your stuff. I transitioned from the USMC to the Army over 20 years ago and became an SME of my field, you gain the respect from all no matter the level. However just jumping because you want to learn more is different than what you can teach to increase the ability of others, you need to focus on you being absolutely proficient.

Response by SFC Keith Rome made May 1 at 2017 6:34 PM

SFC Keith Rome — Mon, 01 May 2017 18:34:21 -0400

I don't what the rules are currently, but my first 4 years were Air Force 30351 ATC radar repair tech. 8 months after honorable discharge, I joined the Army 11B7V. Airborne Infantry. Retired after 16 years, for a total of 20 years.

Response by SFC Terry Murphy made May 9 at 2017 9:48 AM

SFC Terry Murphy — Tue, 09 May 2017 09:48:23 -0400

There is a second line to that adage jack-of-all-trades, it is master of none! Before you go and think about all the things you want to do, pass basic training in the army and mastering your own skill then and only then will you be able to go to a different branch or A different MOS.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2017 11:07 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 May 2017 11:07:12 -0400

It is possible, but I personally wouldn't recommend it. I served 4 years and some change in the army then got out for 3 years. I then re entered the military, this time Air Force and have been in for 14 years with the AF. The benefits are all the same in every branch, but the mission and life is drastically different. I would focus on what type of lifestyle or job you really want and stick with it. It can hurt your promotion timeframes switching services. I also wouldn't go from the cushier branch (airforce) to the army or marines, just because the mission is completely different. I may be impartial being an ex recruiter, but the quality of life in the AF has been in my opinion, a lot better than other branches. Best of luck.

Response by SSgt Ray Delp made May 10 at 2017 11:32 PM

SSgt Ray Delp — Wed, 10 May 2017 23:32:46 -0400

RM1 as a retired USCG I also served in USN and USAF that's 3 upon discharge from USN I joined
USAF lost time in grade but kept grade but was REQUIRED to take and pass all training up to E-5
or be rifted to E-4 it wasn't easy and just made it. upon discharge from USAF enlisted in USCG but
the only reason I was able to do that was because of my prior job in USN. I also had to get a waiver
from Washington and also lost time in grade. So check everything out before you jump!

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2017 9:17 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2017 21:17:54 -0400

I've served in the air force, army and currently air guard. The switches were easy. Going from active duty to guard was a diffucult transition because us prior service do most of the work, know our jobs and get promoted after the people who don't know their jobs. I'm switching to the reserves next. Each branch has its good and bad.

Response by SFC Ronald Widiger made May 11 at 2017 9:54 PM

SFC Ronald Widiger — Thu, 11 May 2017 21:54:01 -0400

USAF and US Army (NG)

Response by PO3 Susan Fisher made May 12 at 2017 1:37 AM

PO3 Susan Fisher — Fri, 12 May 2017 01:37:28 -0400

Joined Army Reserves right out of high school, 1976. Was a corpman.Went active duty Navy 1988 and was a Deisel mechanic. Loved both.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2017 8:59 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 13 May 2017 20:59:04 -0400

8 years navy 1974 to 1982, army from 1982 to 2001, retired 1sg /E8 22 yrs plus of active duty

Response by SFC Ron Gitzendanner made May 14 at 2017 11:03 PM

SFC Ron Gitzendanner — Sun, 14 May 2017 23:03:17 -0400

I served in the military for 28 years, retiring eventually from the Army Reserves. My service included time in the Georgia Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve, Active Army and Army Reserve.

Response by Cpl Paul Arcusa made May 15 at 2017 8:45 PM

Cpl Paul Arcusa — Mon, 15 May 2017 20:45:19 -0400

My take is that joining our Armed Forces simply to satisfy an urge to be a "jack of all trades" is a pretty selfish motive. It indicates no knowledge of, or concern for, the brotherhood/sisterhood of the American Patriot who serves his/her Country because of a feeling of gratitude and respect for Her. There is no respect or commitment to compatriots, no dedication to anything but personal satisfaction and telling people "look what I did"... This is a far cry from people, and I have known some, who entered one branch of military service and at some point after being discharged entered another branch for reasons that were for the good of the Country, and not a personal whim. I expect that some people will not agree with my opinion, and that is just fine... understand that my reply is based on the original reasoning posted for enlisting, and my personal views regarding respect and honor, to which I am entitled.

Response by SMSgt Patrick Sampson made May 16 at 2017 2:33 PM

SMSgt Patrick Sampson — Tue, 16 May 2017 14:33:02 -0400

yep, did it. Joined the USARMY as a medic. After basic at fort sill I was supposed to be at Ft leninwood... but the Army needed FDC more than medics so I was reassigned. After 5 yrs of that I transitioned to Tach-medical-evac in the USAF. Spent most of my time in the field. Transitioned to USSOCOM and it was like being back in the Army. Pulled a tdy on the USNS Mercy in California. So think of it...Army trained, USAF e-8 serving on a ship.

Response by CDR Kenneth Kaiser made May 19 at 2017 11:02 PM

CDR Kenneth Kaiser — Fri, 19 May 2017 23:02:16 -0400

I would concur with some of the others, while it may be possible moving to many times will limit your advancement potential and with the more rank you gain the more control you have. I would say in order to satisfy your desire to expand your horizons, get into an interesting area like intelligence or something like that there are a lot of disciplines and assignments within that area that will give you exposure to other disciplines while you hone your own. That way you grow and learn at the same time and it is interesting. Of course you won't be able to talk about it but you will enjoy.

Response by Cpl Phillip Brame made May 19 at 2017 11:14 PM

Cpl Phillip Brame — Fri, 19 May 2017 23:14:58 -0400

What are the two services tha you are interested in changing your lifestyle for? I am a dual service member USMC/Army.

Response by SGM Joel Cook made May 19 at 2017 11:22 PM

SGM Joel Cook — Fri, 19 May 2017 23:22:23 -0400

It is possible but you will generally lose rank or gain rank slower. My brother first went Army National Guard and went as far as SGT. He transitioned to Air Force and had to take a cut to E-3. He got as far as SSgt/E-5 again. He then transitioned back to SPC/E4 in the regular Army again making SGT/E5. He then had enough of the military after about 14 years and transitioned to US Air Force reserve. Went to about three drills, hated everything that was going on and went AWOL. He then went through UCMJ and received a discharge. He wasted a good chunk of his life and ruined his military reputation in the end. If he would have stayed Regular Army or Air fForce he probably would have attained E7 rank and had a decent retirement. Now he has none, but he is a vet.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2017 1:39 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 20 May 2017 01:39:36 -0400

Yes, I have served honorably in both the Army and Marine Corp.

Response by SMSgt Bill Helton made May 25 at 2017 5:33 PM

SMSgt Bill Helton — Thu, 25 May 2017 17:33:47 -0400

I enlisted in the US Army August 1964 and was discharged July 1967, as a Radio Relay and Carrier Operator. I enlisted in the US Army Reserves in 1981 as an Instructor and was given my rank of Sgt E-5 when I enlisted, after one year of enlisting I was promoted to E-6. In June 1983 I transferred to the Air Force Reserve as a Chaplain Assistant and kept my paygrade of E-6. I served in the USAFR as a Chaplain Assistant until I retired on May 7, 2003 when I turned 60 years of age. I also served on 2 Navy Ships as a civilian instructor teaching College Algebra, USS Mitcher and USS Bataan. While on the Mitcher I also the Lay Religious Leader and was presented a Letter of Appreciation by the Captain in the Bay at Mykonos, Greece. While on the Bataan I roomed in the Marine section and roommates were the 2 Hoover Craft pilots.

Response by SSG Paul Porter made May 25 at 2017 5:42 PM

SSG Paul Porter — Thu, 25 May 2017 17:42:19 -0400

Absolutely, and sometimes even before your contract with one is up (inter service transfer, just has to be approved by your command). I was an active Marine for 13 years, got completely out for 3 years, joined the Air Guard and then got a conditional release to the National Guard without losing any rank. Most MOS's will transfer over to other branches if you want. Each branch has their strengths/weaknesses and good/bad points, all depends on what your looking for.

Response by SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. made May 26 at 2017 10:31 PM

SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. — Fri, 26 May 2017 22:31:20 -0400

Yes it is. I enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1965 and stayed till 1974. Made SSGT in Aviation Supply. Exited service and worked for a John Deere dealer in Oregon. Joined Air Force reserve in 1975 at McChord AFB. Trained as C141 load Master, made Tsgt (E-6). In late 1977 our unit was cut to nothing. I enlisted in US Army and went to FT Bliss as a Chapparal Missleman. While at Bliss I was redesignated to the Medical career field. Became a Patient Admin Clerk. Honor graduate from Brooke Army Med Center, then to Walter Reed, then Germany. Germany became a Classified Courier. For 3 yeaars drove the length and width of Germany. Next to National Training Center as OPFOR member 11B30. Then to Fort Sill. Became System Manager of hospital information systems. A job which I held for over 12 years as military and civil service. So I went from E-1 to E-6 in 3 services. Then to GS-7 and retired. Finished up as a Dr. of Health Care Administration. At 70 years of age I am still taking classes and online learning. Education is fascinating. Also volunteer with a Wolf Rescue Sanctuary several weeks each year. If you set your mind to it you can do anything.

Response by CPT Brad Wilson made May 27 at 2017 1:15 AM

CPT Brad Wilson — Sat, 27 May 2017 01:15:11 -0400

Yes. My dad spent 8 years in the Marines 4 in the Air Force got out for about 10 years then joined the National Guard and retired after 13 years

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2017 12:07 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 28 May 2017 00:07:19 -0400

Become CID

Response by SSgt Carrie Foster Campbell made May 28 at 2017 10:03 PM

SSgt Carrie Foster Campbell — Sun, 28 May 2017 22:03:31 -0400

I for one served in the Air Force and in the Army. My only advice, has was in my case when switching services you may lose a rank/ pay grade. I spend more time in the Air Force. (Active and Reserves). Also know when I enlisted in Army I was in the AF Reserves, after my service in the Army I returned back to my AFR unit

Response by SGT Kenneth Stelly made May 29 at 2017 5:03 AM

SGT Kenneth Stelly — Mon, 29 May 2017 05:03:48 -0400

Geez, only one person barely answered her question.... Problem paying attention to detail is an issue to some.... ANSWER... YES! You can go from branch to branch and you can also in the Army, train in multiple MOS's.. Plus, check this out. After you become a non commissioned officer, you can apply to become a warrant officer and get it if you meet the qualifications and I know you can. To me and most other veterans I know, a warrant officer is the best rank in the military and to become a warrant officer, you will be trained in several MOS's before graduating as a warrant officer. A warrant officer is a technical advisor.. I have friends to this day that are now retired and was marine then army then air force. And another that was Army then went air force and retired, and another dear friend buried in Arlington that was marine then army...I hope I answered your questions and I hope that anybody else that comments, answers your questions as well.... You are a go getter and you seem very motivated. I would love to have a troop like you and I would do everything I can to help you advance and achieve your goals plus I would convince you that what you are looking for is becoming a warrant officer... The Army need troops like you. Troops line you set an example to others and motivate others to be all they can be.... Drive on and good luck to your future endeavors....

Response by PO2 Robert Hunter made May 30 at 2017 12:52 PM

PO2 Robert Hunter — Tue, 30 May 2017 12:52:41 -0400

Yes.

Response by SSgt Dustin Broome made May 31 at 2017 11:28 AM

SSgt Dustin Broome — Wed, 31 May 2017 11:28:27 -0400

I agree wth most responses. Stay focused and do the best you can with your first enlistment. To keep it short and to the point, if you plan on going into multiple branches, join the Marine Corps first. You'll only have to attend one boot camp...

Response by SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. made Jun 1 at 2017 1:27 PM

SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 13:27:47 -0400

Yes; I have previously responded. But I served 8 1/2 yrs in USMC. Than 2 Yrs in USAFR, Than little over 12 Yrs in USA. Than Federal civil service. Biggest thing now days is you have to watch what rank/paygrade you are as you move up. You will come to an up or out time. I was lucky I did my changes between 1965 and 1988. Enjoyed military life and training.

Response by SGM Douglas Lack made Jun 1 at 2017 11:20 PM

SGM Douglas Lack — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 23:20:22 -0400

I have served in 2, Air Force and the Army, and had a friend that was in 3. I retired with 25 years active time. My advice is the same as some of those above. Put your heart and soul into one MOS at a time. If you like it stay with it. I was not totally happy with the job I had in the Air Force so I got out went to college for awhile then decided to try the service again but wanted a different job. They told me had to do what I did before because it was a critical career field. I said no I don't and went and talked to the Army recruiter who offered me a different path. I spent the next 20 years and ended up qualified in several MOS's, some because of cross training some changed because of the rank I held but all of them were interesting and challenging.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2017 11:36 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 Jun 2017 23:36:51 -0400

While I was in the Marines in administration, there was a staff sergeant who had served one enlistment in each branches of service. I don't know if I would recommend it. Clearly up to you though.

Response by LT Louis McKellar made Jun 4 at 2017 5:59 PM

LT Louis McKellar — Sun, 04 Jun 2017 17:59:18 -0400

I enlisted in the USAF in 1973. In September 1981 I transferred to the USAFR. In July 1982, I transferred to USN OCS. I retired in 1994.

Response by COL John Hudson made Jun 5 at 2017 9:07 AM

COL John Hudson — Mon, 05 Jun 2017 09:07:32 -0400

Your desire is noted, if not your inexperience. However...each of the several Services offers many of the same opportunities, albeit wearing a different color. Why attempt to sample them all via alternative means when one can experience essentially the same in the Army? Consider: I entered the Army as an E-1 of Infantry, eventually wearing E-7 rank. Next, Flight School made me a pilot and an officer; WO-1 to CW2 in combat, then accepting a Commission to 1LT of Infantry (again?) but this time in a much higher leadership role with even more opportunity. Promoted to Captain one year later with more responsibility. In time, I transferred to Quartermaster (Major), later attending the Inspector General course. As an IG I saw Lieutenant Colonel, then became an Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officer (EPLO) (Colonel) but not done yet. I went to Iraq as a Combat Generalist, Commander of Combined Joint Task Force Shield and retired as a Colonel, 30 years. So, numerous aspects of ground combat, Aviation, Quartermaster, Inspector General, and Combat Generalist (2x Vietnam, 1x Balkan Conflict, and almost 4 years in Iraq). I was allowed to sample and grow in quite a number of fields within a unique military environment that I would never have seen had I simply jumped from one service to another. Something to think about.

Response by SPC Robert Marquardt made Jun 6 at 2017 11:53 PM

SPC Robert Marquardt — Tue, 06 Jun 2017 23:53:02 -0400

I originally wanted to go Navy but did not have a high school diploma at the time, but the Army said they would take me, so I joined the Army as a 67y10 (attack helicopter repairman, Cobra helicopters.). After I got out I had trouble finding a job in aviation. So I decided go back in and gave the Navy a try. I was lucky, my ASVAB scores were real good (Army-95.95 , Navy-98, (raw scores)). When I went into the Navy I had to drop 1 paygrade. The training for the Navy was easier than I expected. I enjoyed both branches. But would recommend which ever MOS you chose that you see what the requirements are for an equivalent civilian job is and get that training while still in. Give it your all and you should do OK.

Response by CPT Michael Casey made Jun 8 at 2017 10:11 AM

CPT Michael Casey — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 10:11:44 -0400

I was in the National Guard and the joined the Coast Guard for four years. After that I reenlisted into the National Guard. While in the Coast Guard I met many individuals who had been in other services. One who had been in the Army, Navy and then joined the Coast Guard.

Response by Cpl Jeff Ruffing made Jun 11 at 2017 2:24 PM

Cpl Jeff Ruffing — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 14:24:12 -0400

USANG 1979 - 1980
USMC 1980 - 1986
USA 1986 - 1992
USN 1992 - 2000

I kept changing because I wanted a different job, different experience. I got it. Just bear in mind the differences in the branches and how each branch does business. No different from changing job in the civilian community.

Response by SFC Don Frazier made Jun 13 at 2017 6:55 PM

SFC Don Frazier — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 18:55:04 -0400

Yes it is one at a time. I started out in the Navy Seabees in Gulfport Mississippi and ended my career in the Army NationalGuard deployed to Iraq from Hattiesburg Mississippi.

Response by MAJ Glenn Lasater made Jun 19 at 2017 12:27 AM

MAJ Glenn Lasater — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 00:27:52 -0400

Two ways to "serve" in other branches;

1-after completing an enlistment in one branch, enlist in a different branch. I served in the Air Force and then the Army and know many vets who've served in more than one branch.

2-Take an assignment to a joint command. Joint commands are staffed by personnel from two or more branches and work together for a common mission.

I'm not aware of any method of cross training between branches because each branch has it's own particular organization and mission.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 8:41 AM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 08:41:57 -0400

I am currently serving in my 3rd branch, Navy, Army, now AF... commissioned in the Army in 1990! I have a friend that stayed Army that is soon to pin on General, I am soon to pin on LtCol. You lose some by switching branches but you also gain a lot of appreciation for service in the military as a whole. Balance your life with the mission of each service but consider serving as a privilege regardless of the branch you serve... cultures are different in each branch. I am often asked which branch I like the best, honestly each one was excellent for that time period of my life. But, consistancy might have served me better...

Response by SFC Tony Bennett made Jun 20 at 2017 11:50 PM

SFC Tony Bennett — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 23:50:57 -0400

I don't see much advantage to serving in multiple branches. As you progress in experience and rank there's not much to gain and much to actually lose by jumping branches. Find what you love and make it your own. However IF you do decide to jump branches, do it as early as possible to minimize the impact on your career progression.

Response by SSgt J.D. Bowser made Jun 21 at 2017 1:55 AM

SSgt J.D. Bowser — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 01:55:04 -0400

I served in the USMC 93-03 NAVY 04-08 ARMY 08-14. Retired as SSG.

Response by MSgt Brian Potvin made Jun 21 at 2017 2:39 AM

MSgt Brian Potvin — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 02:39:59 -0400

ummmm....yes. You can serve in any branch for which you qualify. I know several folks who have jumped between the Air Force, Marines, and Navy.

Response by Cpl Mike Harris made Jun 22 at 2017 10:56 AM

Cpl Mike Harris — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 10:56:55 -0400

What everyone has said is all good but some branches will not take you if you were a marine

Response by Cpl Phillip Brame made Jun 22 at 2017 3:30 PM

Cpl Phillip Brame — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 15:30:45 -0400

I did it 15 yrs in the Marine Corps and 15 yrs in the Army.

Response by SPC Franklin McKown made Jun 23 at 2017 8:38 PM

SPC Franklin McKown — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 20:38:25 -0400

Start with the USAF they are the most picky,The Army is gruelling and hard, I suspect the Marines are close,HOWEVER the NAVY has an EXCELLENT education system A LOT easier basic than those two as well. ...however the AIR FORCE won't take anyone else in their ranks as I recall.

Response by GySgt James Marchinke made Jun 26 at 2017 3:40 PM

GySgt James Marchinke — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 15:40:46 -0400

I started out in the Corps and Aviation was getting over strength and was told to become a grunt 0311 or get out; I crossed over into the Army Aviation and continued for another 17 years

Response by PO1 Lowell Burdell made Jun 27 at 2017 12:40 AM

PO1 Lowell Burdell — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 00:40:25 -0400

Yeah, started out as an 11E20 senior rifleman then went navy for 14 years, became an 11E30 SSG (Tank Commander M60's) then back to Navy to retire. It can be done and passing MOS skill tests as an SSG was not that difficult for me. A lot of specialties are the same essentially from branch to branch, but just have a different name. Go for it.

Response by SA Donald Brown made Jun 28 at 2017 9:17 AM

SA Donald Brown — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 09:17:11 -0400

Yes it is. I enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1987, then transferred tobactive US Navy in 1989.

Response by COL Dale Dahlke made Jun 28 at 2017 5:29 PM

COL Dale Dahlke — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 17:29:16 -0400

Air Force then Army Guard

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2017 10:25 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 10:25:21 -0400

Sure is possible. If it's what you aspire to do, then do it. It takes a little time in the service you're in and a certain level of knowledge in your field but once you've got that, you can switch. Just keep focused on your goal and it'll happen, I have several friends that have served in multiple branches.

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Jun 30 at 2017 12:07 PM

CAPT Hiram Patterson — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 12:07:09 -0400

I served in the Army National Guard and Air National Guard as enlisted and then the Navy as a commissioned officer. It's not unusual for enlisted to go to another service once they've served their obligation but it depends what the needs and requirements are of the next service you are considering. You may actually be reduced in rank a grade if you transfer to another service. If you really want to make a service change, be the best soldier you can and give it a chance as you may chnage your mind and stay in the Army. If you really want to change wait until maybe the last year of your enlistment and talk to another service's recruiter and determine if you really want to make a change.

Response by SPC John Curtis made Jul 5 at 2017 3:45 AM

SPC John Curtis — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 03:45:53 -0400

I served in the Army and later switched to the Sir Force, since I, along with a few other Special Forces trained troops, were going to be "ON-LOAN" to them for an extended period of time and they could pay us more pay additives and provide us with better housing, if we became a part of the Para-Rescue group. We were there to address a specific internal threat that grew in to a major problem for our Pilots and their safety. The Air Force is where I would go and stay if I were making it a career. They just provide much nicer goodies for their troops and if you listen to one thing, get your degree while you are on active duty, if possible. I did, but, it took me much longer than most, because, I never knew where I would wake up the next morning.

I miss that youthful excitement and that desire to blaze one's own path. I would never want too, nor would I try to take that away from you; however, I will tell you, so that when that day comes you don't feel like you failed, life is going to throw you some curve balls. Many of the people you believe will always be there for you will disappear, especially, if you need them to sacrifice a little to help you. You're going to be taken advantage of and some will take yrars to recover from. Most of all, you're going to find that people, as a whole are not worth the energy, your health, nor the emotions you will waste on them. That's the hardest thing to reconcile, as one passes from a young person, to a cautiously optimistic mature adult. Adderall, we serve for those people who share our country and for those who can't defend themselves or to make an entity pay for harming a defenseless person or for threatening or harming our people. We don't serve to preserve material things, because, it's the people who make it what it is and worth sacrificing everything, even though you don't know the vast majority of them. I have had to refocus my mind on the ones I know and love and work for them.

Just enjoy your youth; never compromise your integrity, because, you'll never get it back; if you want to sample other branches, once you focus your unwaivering attention on those you are currently serving with and have fulfilled your enlistment, go for it. Just, remember that one thing that I suggested you do, above all others, get a degree. There's too many locked doors that only a degree will open, these days and life changes. You could find yourself out of the service, even though you wanted to continue to serve. You have to have that contingency.

Best wishes to you and PLEASE, DO NOT SELL YOUR SOUL TO GAIN FAVOR WITH SENIOR
NCO's or Officers. I saw it happen to some of our support prople and they all regretted it and some found themself caught up in a mess. If you can't get it by busting your ass, then leave it on the table for someone else and you'll always be respected, even by those who will try to take your integrity.

Lastly, if you don't get chills when you see that flag being raised, you need to consider another career.

HOO-RAH!

Response by SFC Jimmy Sellers made Jul 5 at 2017 11:58 PM

SFC Jimmy Sellers — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 23:58:25 -0400

Yes, I served 6 years in the Marines and 19 in the Army. The Marines have the hardest initial training, Boot Camp. Therefore, since I had already completed Marine Boot Camp I did not have to attend Army Basic Training.
However, if you were to go from the Army, Airforce, or Navy to the Marines, then you would be required to go through Marine Boot Camp.
The best thing to do is to complete a contract (usually 2 to 6 years) with one branch of service then join another branch as soon as possible. If you wait
Too long you will likely lose motivation to re-join and your training may expire, meaning that you would have to be re-trained. Honestly, after serving in the Marines, the other branches will seem easy. The Marines really are the hardest to get into and instill the highest level of discipline.

Response by SSG Nat Dillenback made Jul 6 at 2017 7:41 PM

SSG Nat Dillenback — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 19:41:18 -0400

Settle down, Francis. Get into one first. You may like your first job. Now, If by chance you don't: The Army is usually pretty good about letting you reclass once maybe twice, but keep in mind the military rewards and promotes based on experience and expertise. So, if you keep bouncing around laterally you are never going to bounce up and that can cost you years and you have grade requirements to hit if you are planning on hittin' 20. Other branches aren't always as forgiving, I left the USMC for the Army because the USMC wouldn't let me reclass and I hated my job. Some services will take rank, time in grade or make you re-do basic. Get in, sniff around you will make a much better decision once you have a couple of years experience in any mos/branch.

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Jul 9 at 2017 4:21 AM

SGT Joseph Alanzo — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 04:21:51 -0400

AFTER you get out of one you can Join anther one

Response by SPC Christopher Perrien made Jul 13 at 2017 1:52 PM

SPC Christopher Perrien — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 13:52:56 -0400

At(multiple branches) the same time? No. MOS jumps are possible, Having 2 MOS's at the same time is not, unless they have change things recently.

Response by MSgt Carl Longenecker made Jul 18 at 2017 3:24 PM

MSgt Carl Longenecker — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 15:24:29 -0400

Of course you can serve in more than one branch or component. I started with four years active Air Force, did a year Army National Guard, four years Active Army, then a long break in service while I earned my Bachelor's Degree and worked as an Army and Air Force Contractor. Then another year Army National Guard, and finally the past 12+ years in the Air National Guard. And for the past 14 years I volunteer with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, and recently joined the Civil Air Patrol as a volunteer pilot. So yes, you are never tied to just one branch or component of the military.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jul 21 at 2017 1:02 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 01:02:26 -0400

USMC 99-04
US Army 2005- Present

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jul 21 at 2017 1:03 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 01:03:15 -0400

https://www.stripes.com/news/20-years-4-branches-servicemember-is-part-of-exclusive-club-1.298471

This guy served in four branches! Admittedly in the reserves...

20 years, 4 branches: Servicemember is part of exclusive club

From the Marine Corps to the Navy, the Army to the Air Force, Jesus Yanez has served in four of five military branches. Will he retire before he tries the Coast Guard?

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2017 1:06 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 01:06:18 -0400

Yes as a civilian. When I was at a Field Office as a military special agent, we also had a civilian agent in the same role. However, he was also in the National Guard in the same job (but different unit, and obviously branch, but still over Army). Another example is another Army National Guard CI Officer I know who is obviously a reservist, but on the civilian side, is an NCIS Agent.

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made Jul 21 at 2017 1:20 AM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 01:20:44 -0400

yes it is possible - I have met many that have served in a different branch before joining the Army - I have met folks that were in the Navy, Marines, and 1 prior Air Force. Not sure how difficult it would be now, as both the Air Force and Navy do not have MOS's that combat arms would fit into.

Response by SFC Tom Michael made Jul 21 at 2017 9:57 AM

SFC Tom Michael — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 09:57:06 -0400

Yes, but go into the Marines first so you won't have to attend but one boot camp/ basic training. I've known many and I was one.

Response by TSgt Prescott Pranke made Jul 26 at 2017 11:09 PM

TSgt Prescott Pranke — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 23:09:07 -0400

Absolutely YES - I served 10 + USMC, 8 + Nati0nal Guard, 7 mos Active AF, 3 1/2 Air Force Reserves - total just over 22 years

Response by SSG Chris Gursky made Jul 29 at 2017 5:48 AM

SSG Chris Gursky — Sat, 29 Jul 2017 05:48:40 -0400

Yes, I joined the Navy at 17, in boot camp we had a soldier and a marine going thru with us. After I came off active duty I went into the army with my younger brother. Served 3 active Navy and 8.5 yrs active Army.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jul 29 at 2017 6:12 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Sat, 29 Jul 2017 18:12:27 -0400

Is it possible ? Sure. I have met people who have been two or three branches. met a USAF COL that was enlisted in he Army and Marines, also fought in Korea....maybe no longer relevant. A buddy from college went AD enlisted Navy, ETSed, went to college, joined the ARNG, then transferred to the ANG, retired as a MSGT. Probable? Unlikely. Considerations
- the USMC doesn't recognize anyone else's basic training. You will do it again for them. Recommend you start there if this is your goal.
- you will likely lose rank each time you hop.
- your MOS in one is a consideration for another.
- it will likely take you four enlistments to do this. Renetry is tricky. That is 12-16 years. Do you want to be a 40+ year old PFC? Also consider that you may rack up injuries along the way.
- if commissioning is in there anywhere, that is something that varies widely over time based on needs of the service. It will likely be the terminus of this junket. Officers branch transferring is difficult. I have seen two succeed (Army Infantryman to Navy Helo Pilot the other was an Army Warrant Attack Pilot to USCG Helo pilot).
- reclassifying inside a service happens, but it is always to an understrength MOS, vice "hey! That's cool I wanna do that!". Used to be the BEAR program in the Army. If your MOS is thin, you won't be able to leave. If the gaining MOS is overstrength, you won't be able to leave.

Would recommend you focus on the one at hand and see what happens. Positive performance opens doors.
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Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2017 11:06 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Aug 2017 23:06:13 -0400

Serve out your first term. If you still want to, go see a navy recruiter and fill out a dd form 368 and submit through your chain of command. Try to get that 368 around mid august as new job slots open generally on 1 october.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2017 1:32 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Aug 2017 13:32:36 -0400

Hey cinnamon. Honestly, if you're only dep'd in, as an army person, quality of life may be important to you, it may not be. Join the navy or air force. I'm not being at all sarcastic. The army recruits the worst out of the four branches. People can complain I said it, but oh well.

Response by PO2 Steven Hardy made Aug 8 at 2017 9:26 AM

PO2 Steven Hardy — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 09:26:15 -0400

About half of my company at USCG boot camp were prior service; from all branches. After that, there was always at least one prior service guy at each unit I was assigned to. Even one unit that was only 24 people strong had one prior Navy guy.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Aug 10 at 2017 6:24 PM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 18:24:45 -0400

I had a MTI (Military Training instructor) friend when in the AF who has s served in Army, Navy, Marines and AF.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2017 9:25 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 Aug 2017 09:25:48 -0400

The simple answer is yes. I served 4 years in the Marines, a year National Gaurd, and have been in the regular close to a year.

Response by SrA Kelly Richard made Aug 16 at 2017 7:14 PM

SrA Kelly Richard — Wed, 16 Aug 2017 19:14:22 -0400

I'm curious to know if you are still in DEP or where you're at in the process! Hope all is well!!

Response by PO3 Sherry Thornburg made Aug 16 at 2017 10:44 PM

PO3 Sherry Thornburg — Wed, 16 Aug 2017 22:44:48 -0400

Yes. Knew some people when I was in that seemed to have a goal to be in all services.

Response by Sgt Robert Rader made Aug 17 at 2017 2:29 PM

Sgt Robert Rader — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 14:29:06 -0400

Ran into a guy at a Marine reunion about 20 years ago in Charleston, SC, who enlisted in the Army at 15 and subsequently the other three branches. His first enlistment was during WWII.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 4:20 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 16:20:41 -0400

I served in the Marines, Navy, Army and now I'm back in the Navy! I've loved the journey. No regrets.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 4:39 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 16:39:11 -0400

My father served in the Navy in WW II, but in the Army after he received his masters degree. It didn't seem to be a problem for him, but I am not sure that military "job hopping" would necessarily be good from a career standpoint.

Response by SSG Katherine Likely made Aug 20 at 2017 2:44 AM

SSG Katherine Likely — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 02:44:25 -0400

I started in the navy 4 1/2 years as a heavy equipment operator. Worked with 17 while assigned with 31stRNCR. while still with the navy i went out a couple of times to drive tanks with the Santa Cruz, California outfit. I liked it and transferred into the army where is served thru Dessert storm as a 88 mike. After coming home in 1991 i stay with the army for a year then with 11 others transferred into the Air Force, most of us weren't happy there and we slowly transferred back into the Army where i stayed till 2005 - when i was put out to pasture - injuries from desert storm.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2017 2:41 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 02:41:11 -0400

Proud member of both Navy and Army. Served Navy active duty for 4 years and now in the Army Reserve and plan to go active duty.

Response by SSG Norbert Johnson made Aug 24 at 2017 4:01 PM

SSG Norbert Johnson — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 16:01:03 -0400

YES. Yes you can serve in multiple branches. I served in both Army and Air Force, My Brother-in-Law served in Marines and Air Force. I had a good friend who served in Marines and Army. Both my brother in law served in the Marines during Vietnam and their remainder service was their "Retirement" Branch. I on the other hand, Served Army during Vietnam War and a 3 year stint with the Air force only to return to the Army for my final departure in 93. One thing prevalent that I did not like was the loss of one Rank on each change of service. While you acquire more skills, your advancement is retarded during the process.

Response by Sgt Diego Rodriguez made Aug 24 at 2017 8:29 PM

Sgt Diego Rodriguez — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 20:29:59 -0400

I knew one guy who was Marines first 10 years then switched to Navy for 12. I knew another who did Marines, Army, Navy Air force and retired in the Marines after 20 years of service. So yeah, its possible, but both said its a pain in the ass switching.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2017 10:39 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 22:39:19 -0400

As of November I have been serving in the USAF after serving in the Army for over 9 years and multiple MOS's. So yes, it is possible. A pain none the less, but if you really want to it's possible based on a few things as well as if you're going Reserve/Guard or Active.

Response by LCpl Jeff Moore made Aug 27 at 2017 11:58 AM

LCpl Jeff Moore — Sun, 27 Aug 2017 11:58:01 -0400

To shine in the military, you need to master a set MOS. So if your talking abiyt jumping mos and branches already you going to probable not have a good time.

I have had friends that changed branches but often after serving thier 1st 4 year enlistment.

But general you wont be swapping out MOS ever other year or such. I seen a few go from infantry to the air wing after their set enlistment.

Check your contract some MOS require you to do x amount of time in that field.

Response by Sgt Doug Kemp made Sep 1 at 2017 11:52 AM

Sgt Doug Kemp — Fri, 01 Sep 2017 11:52:15 -0400

I spent 13 years in the Marine Corps and got my honorable discharge a year-and-a-half later I join the Army National Guard and the different units I was within the guard there were many prior service members from the Marines, Navy, Airforce, and Coast Guard

Response by SSG Ray Elliott made Sep 5 at 2017 4:12 PM

SSG Ray Elliott — Tue, 05 Sep 2017 16:12:51 -0400

It is possible to serve in two branches of the Armed forces. I did it 6 years active duty in the Navy in a Weapons rating, and after being out for a little over a year I went into the Army as a Bandsmen. I would say concentrate on your first enlistment, and see how it goes, you may like it in the Branch of service you've selected. There are some disadvantages to changing services, most likely it will include a reduction in Rank, and you may or may not have to go through Basic training again depending on which Branch you are going from, and which you are going to. Going from Navy to Army I didn't have to do Basic training again, but it might be different the other way around.

Response by Maj Robert Dudley made Sep 15 at 2017 3:11 PM

Maj Robert Dudley — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 15:11:34 -0400

Yes. I spent 3 years in the army and 17 in the Air Force.

Response by Cpl Scott Bradway made Sep 21 at 2017 7:56 PM

Cpl Scott Bradway — Thu, 21 Sep 2017 19:56:10 -0400

Yes. I am one of those who have and one of the few that went from the Army to the Marine Corps instead of the other way around. I know that a large part of that is due to the fact that only the Marine Corps require everyone to go through their bootcamp. Once you do it becomes obvious why. I had to go through "twice" and I would do it again if I had too! Actually, I should have joined the Marine Corps in the first place because that were my home was!

In all reality, it's fairly easy to go through one branch to another once you've completed the full enlistment term you signed up for. I in truth went Army to Army National Guard to USMC. The "guard" or reserves will usually release you once you've completed enlistment with whichever branch you want to go active in.

My advice is that you join the Reserve or National Guard first if you aren't sure of what you want to do. All lot of people end up leaving the military bitter and with a bad attitude because of an emotional decision to join. Worse yet, the get a bad enough attitude while they're in that they get kicked out!

I would love to help you figure out if the military is really what you want and which one you should join. It really makes no difference to me because I don't have any recruitment goals I'm suppose to meet! I don't have to lie because I gain nothing from any choice you make but going into the military and serving your country is great choice for some people!

Scott Bradway
Army/USMC Veteran

Response by SGM Joel Cook made Sep 23 at 2017 2:39 AM

SGM Joel Cook — Sat, 23 Sep 2017 02:39:54 -0400

Yes, my brother did two years Army National Guard then transferred to active Air Force in the same Field of Heating and Air Conditioning. He stayed four years and got out SSgt. Then went regular Army in another MOS lost rank to SPC did four years and got out. Transitioned to Army Reserves didn't like any aspect of it and got out with a BAd Conduct Discharge. He did a total of 11 years never getting above the pay grade of E5. A lot of wasted time and nothing to show for it and no retirement. Try to attain the paygrade of E-6 at least so you can get a retirement.

Response by PO2 Steven Parker made Sep 24 at 2017 9:41 PM

PO2 Steven Parker — Sun, 24 Sep 2017 21:41:29 -0400

Yes I served 4years active Navy,2 years Navy Reserve ,2 years Air Guard,30 years Army Guard.Retired 38 years Total.

Response by SPC James Lunn made Sep 26 at 2017 7:39 PM

SPC James Lunn — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 19:39:13 -0400

Sure. Inter service transfers happen everyday! I had 8 strait active Air Force, 4 Army Guard. 3 mos's in the end.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Oct 3 at 2017 3:58 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Tue, 03 Oct 2017 15:58:36 -0400

While stationed in Thailand in 1972, a Chief Master Sergent, who was our first sergentwas assigned to our squadron. He had over 30 years in both the ARMY and Air Force. Didn't know what his original AFSC (MOS) was, but he finished 24 years in the ARMY as CSM. He knew a lot about aircraft maintence, so he was most likely in aircraft maintence.

Response by SGT Mike R made Oct 6 at 2017 10:45 PM

SGT Mike R — Fri, 06 Oct 2017 22:45:30 -0400

Yes and technically 5 different (Active Air Force AFSC 291x0/491x0 511x0 Commo) Air Force reserve (431x0 crew chief) Active US Army (35E/74G RaTT Commo) Army National Guard (25B commo, 45B/K/G Armament) US Army Reserve. This was all completed upon contract completion for each branch. Never got an enlistment bonus or re- up bonus. I was bored with Air Force and had a lot of fun and enjoyed the army years.

Response by SGT George Duncan made Oct 8 at 2017 5:24 PM

SGT George Duncan — Sun, 08 Oct 2017 17:24:34 -0400

yes

Response by SPC Panzerdeal Deal made Oct 9 at 2017 3:58 AM

SPC Panzerdeal Deal — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 03:58:23 -0400

Everybody I knew had 2 and we worked em side by side. As a 16 P [ SAMman] we trained infantry style, despite slinging sidewinders for a living..we had to pull our own perimiter security [ up to 5 clicks out] frrom the night defense positions, [ndp] not being equipped for night ops.
So yes, it is possible to have 2 sopecalties or more, I trained 54 E , NBC defence, my 3 rd year in Korea, ] which is a big reason why the Army runs "Specalist" instead of Corpral these days...the ONLY pay grade [ E-4] to recognise you actually have 2 schools [ Basic and AIT] under your belt. Take pride in whatever you do..it's probably more than most civvies do even after they get up of a morning.

Response by SPC Panzerdeal Deal made Oct 9 at 2017 4:34 AM

SPC Panzerdeal Deal — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 04:34:51 -0400

Enjoy it while you got it..there's nowhere to go from "UP".. I actually had 4 schools under my belt, if they REALLY wanted to count em up in 90 when I ETS'd totally..basic [1] AIT for Chapparal [ 2 OSUT at Bilss] a 54E, Divisional NBC school, Camp Casey, Korea, prior to service in the NBC room for D 2 -61 ADA, [3]. and 11 B relcass at McCoy 89..[4]. Didn't help the rank points or pay, but I knew i did it well..that's all that really counts. Wether the Military recognises it with hard stripe or not..

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Oct 9 at 2017 5:09 AM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 05:09:18 -0400

Just one at a time, I have known people that have changed service branches, that's their choice if they chose to do so. Myself I enlisted in the Air Force and never had any intention of changing to another Branch of the service and didn't. One friend however, was Navy, came to USAF and later returned to Navy, He felt more at home there. Worked with a few that went from the Marines to Air Force. Some with Army backgrounds went to other services or from other services went Army. Although each branch serves the United States once You have found a home and are comfortable with it there are adjustments to any change. Each person has to decide for themselves how well their skills will transfer into another service, how far back may this put Military career progression and what is to be lost or gained by the transition. You have to choose whatever path You are comfortable with but whatever We have in common there are differences. Keep in mind there are hundreds of different jobs You could have in each individual branch of the service and maybe cross training is better than finding a new home. In the long run a decision You have to male Yourself. Whatever You do don't do it on an impulse, look into it first, research then decide.

Response by LCpl Stephen Arnold made Oct 12 at 2017 1:14 PM

LCpl Stephen Arnold — Thu, 12 Oct 2017 13:14:04 -0400

I think you need to focus on whichever branch you join first and foremost, and the reasons you chose that. It's not like working all the departments at Target, you should be building some love of whichever branch you join.

I joined the Marine Corps and loved it, but when I got out there were no reserve units close enough to me. I joined the National Guard because I had friends enlisted, and I ended up retiring from the Guard with almost 25 years total. I enjoyed the Guard, met some tremendous people, but my first love will ALWAYS be the Marine Corps.

Do yourself a favor, focus on whichever branch (I think you said "Army".) If it's the Army, be Army Strong, Be All You Can Be (Just don't be an Army of One, those folks suck!)

Response by PO1 William Van Syckle made Oct 16 at 2017 12:35 AM

PO1 William Van Syckle — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 00:35:34 -0400

I started my career in 1974 in the Army. Got out in 1981 and went into the Air NG. From there, I went to USCGR and in 1985, the Navy came to me. I went into the Navy until my retirement in 1998. I have a total of 24 years in the U.S. Armed Forces. Would not trade a minute of it. I should add that I stayed in Law Enforcement those 24 years and became a federal officer from 1999 until my retirement in 2011.

Response by Capt Claudia Valentine made Oct 22 at 2017 7:38 PM

Capt Claudia Valentine — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 19:38:17 -0400

Yes you can as long as you have a good discharge. My brother was drafted into the Army in 1970 and in the mid 70s he joined the Marine Corps Reserve.

Response by SPC Brandon Alexander made Oct 24 at 2017 8:32 PM

SPC Brandon Alexander — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 20:32:27 -0400

I did. I served 4 years of active duty in the Air Force as an aircraft hydraulics journeyman, and after I got out and moved back home to Texas, I joined the Army National Guard for 6 years. One thing I can say is there is definitely a difference between branches. You really see that when you serve in more than one. Me personally I enjoyed the Air Force more, mainly because of the job I had while I was in

Response by PO1 Ernie Johnson made Oct 29 at 2017 8:36 PM

PO1 Ernie Johnson — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 20:36:05 -0400

I started playing off with 2 1/2 yrs in the Army Reserve, I was able to get released and then spent 20 yrs in the Navy.

Response by SFC Richard Baerlocher made Oct 30 at 2017 3:52 AM

SFC Richard Baerlocher — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 03:52:37 -0400

Yes you can serve in other branches of the military after you are discharged from your current service branch. You will have to check though because there are other factors at work here. I haven't seen any go from the Army to the Marines, but the other way around. My uncles started in the Marines and Army respectively then both switched to the Air Force. They both also served in the Korean War.

Response by SSG James Behnke made Oct 30 at 2017 7:16 AM

SSG James Behnke — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 07:16:31 -0400

Not sure I could offer any good advice on how to accomplish this goal, however.... I do know of individuals that have served in three separate branches after 12 years of Active Federal Service. I believe they had breaks in service, which I don't think had much, if any effect on their transition from one branch to the next.

Response by TSgt Tim Walker made Oct 30 at 2017 10:05 AM

TSgt Tim Walker — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 10:05:15 -0400

I entered the Marine Corps in 1980 did
four years after which I enlisted in the Navy and did eight years. I finshed in the Air Force retiring with a total of 21 years.

Response by MSgt Neil Greenfield made Oct 31 at 2017 4:28 PM

MSgt Neil Greenfield — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 16:28:34 -0400

I did. I first entered the Army in 1979 and served till 1986 working in MI (Berlin, Ft. Meade) and then entered the Air National Guard in 1986. Except for a break sometime around 1994/95 when I made a brief change to the Army Reserve, I wound up serving 14 years in the Air Guard. I went into the Air Guard specifically for the advanced training in satellite communications electronics I received.
In the Air Guard, I served in three squadrons, 2 of which were Combat Communications Squadrons and the third was an Air Control Squadron. I saw more of the field working in these tactical units than I did when I was in the Army. There are parts of both services that I miss, giving me a split personality at times ;-)
Serving in more than 2 services may give you a bigger adventure, but I'm not sure if you'll advance as far as you want to. But maybe that's not that important to you. The other problem is that some of the other services may require you to go through basic/boot camp again, which is not exactly what I'd be looking to do.

Response by Maj Dale Smith made Nov 3 at 2017 3:51 PM

Maj Dale Smith — Fri, 03 Nov 2017 15:51:21 -0400

I started out in high school in Junior Army ROTC for 3 years, then 3 years of AFROTC in college as well as one semester of NROTC because I was fascinated with celestial navigation. I was comissioned in the Air Force and flew for 18 years, and then spent the next 20 years as a Navy defense contractor designing GPS systems. Experience in three services can give you a great appreciation for how to manage differing assets at the HQ and NAF level. It also gives you some insight when in an AOR, as to what other foreces capabilities are, and how to task them to work in consonence. I found myself once creating a tactical deception for the Navy to implement and my primary job was air asset tasking for the AF. Knowledge is power, but as others have stated here, don't cross train to another service before you know your current MOS. Your knowledge becomes useful to other services in the E-5 and above range.

Response by PO1 Steven Bonnell made Nov 3 at 2017 9:09 PM

PO1 Steven Bonnell — Fri, 03 Nov 2017 21:09:35 -0400

Coast Guard as Active, then several years later, NAVY as Reserve .. Electronic Technician for BOTH.
Pick a field you are GOOD AT .. and that is NEEDED.

Response by TSgt James Carson made Nov 7 at 2017 3:28 PM

TSgt James Carson — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 15:28:16 -0500

YES. People who joined, say the Army would join the Air Force once their Army hitch was done. When one service branch was short of people there was inter service transfers done. During Viet nam it happened at times. I knew X Navy and Army people, and one Marine that joined the Air Force.

Response by SSgt Joe Kerr made Nov 7 at 2017 8:45 PM

SSgt Joe Kerr — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 20:45:13 -0500

navy then air force so yes you can but its getting harder with the budget constraints etc

Response by LTC Jim Chapman made Nov 8 at 2017 7:07 PM

LTC Jim Chapman — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 19:07:45 -0500

Well, let's define served. I was in the US Navy, 1969 to 1973. Did two tours in Vietnam and came home at the end of my 4 year enlistment. I then joined the Army National Guard on a "Try One" program which allowed me to join at my active duty grade, E-5. After a year I could separate if I didn't like it. I stayed and went to the Oklahoma Military Academy for one year and was commissioned a 2nd Lt. in 1975. I retired as a LTC, Field Artillery, in 2000, 24 years later.

In 1974, I got a job via the Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Act with the US Air Force at Vance AFB, OK. I then served with the Air Force as a civilian for the next 34 years. My speciality was Financial Management and I served right along side Air Force personnel doing the same exact job.

So, I believe that I served for the Navy, Army and the Air Force in some capacity. I had different jobs in each branch of service, but I did my best and had a very rewarding career.

I can't really comment on whether you can go directly from one branch to another without some compelling skill. I was able to go from a Navy Radarman (Ops Specialist) to a Field Artillery Officer because I had the time to go to the Army schools and learn my new trade.

Still, you can serve different services if you're motivated to find out how to get it done. Please notice, I never served in the Marine Corps, although I certainly wish I had done so.

Response by PO1 Jim Kerick made Nov 8 at 2017 10:52 PM

PO1 Jim Kerick — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 22:52:41 -0500

I served 8 years in the Navy, Active, then did 9 years in the National Guard including a tour in Iraq. My job was basically the same, computers. I know people that have done active in both. There are programs run by the services where they recruit from one service to another, sometimes called "Blue to Green" Navy to Army, or "Green to Blue" Army to Navy.

Response by Matt Redmond made Nov 9 at 2017 3:52 PM

Matt Redmond — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 15:52:16 -0500

Yes, I have a friend that retired out of the air force after his 20. His first seven years was in the Navy and he was RIF (Reduction in Forces) out. He then applied to the AF and completed his twenty...

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2017 9:11 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Nov 2017 09:11:20 -0500

yes I served in navy, then the army and then retired from the navy. Here are the issues if you did marines first you never have to do boot camp again. When I went to army I had 40 plus mos that I was qualified for due to electronic background from navy, so going other way will require school. I find the army is more restrictive for promotion. Air force while it will take rank will not take quals and you will have to do all schools and quals equal to rank in 2 years which can be hard for higher ranks. most branches will not accept leadership courses and all will have to be done up to rank you are at before promotion. time in rate is lost. and if you have a break in service more then 2 years you will be demoted to e3 and below. navy has prior life conversion which can get you up to e6 but no time in service/rate. also there is high year tenure which can force you out before retirement. thus changing services makes promotions harder and retirement questionable. I find navy has best jack of all trades in schools where army teaches you to run or test or fix a single piece of equipment and another mos required for another job and when you get to staff sgt and above you are just admin with no hands on where navy you are admin but still subject matter expert for a large amount of equipment in your div.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2017 4:05 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Nov 2017 16:05:03 -0500

You are I've served in the Marine Corps as an Infantryman, and currently in the Navy as a Master at Arms. Not all MOS's cross over. I have an Army MP in my unit who had to go through Navy A School even though it's the same basic job. I have also another in my unit who was Marine Corps Infantry, Air Force Security Forces, and now Navy Master At Arms. He did not have to attend A school transitioning from the Air Force. We also had a member go Air Force PJ from Navy and another go over to the Corps.

Response by SSG Billy Mcgill jr made Nov 14 at 2017 9:26 AM

SSG Billy Mcgill jr — Tue, 14 Nov 2017 09:26:19 -0500

Yes I has several friend that has served in two branch. I also had one that served in three in the pass

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2017 9:31 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Nov 2017 21:31:31 -0500

I served two branches, Navy for 9, Coast Guard for 12. Very similar jobs, OS was my rating. Predominantly a sea-going rating. Worked at a MEPS for my last 3 years in the Navy and met quite a few people switching services or prior service entering a different branch. One guy was entering into his third branch of service. You'll find your niche eventually.

Response by TSgt William Meyer made Nov 15 at 2017 6:51 PM

TSgt William Meyer — Wed, 15 Nov 2017 18:51:37 -0500

I started out active duty Navy, got out, after a few years went Army reserves, than went ANG, back to the Army reserves, and ended my career in the Air Guard ( 2 OEF/OIF deployments) retired in 2007. Only went to basic with the Navy.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2017 11:14 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 11:14:24 -0500

Not at the same time, no. lol I have served in the Navy, the Army and the AF, of which I am still in the AFreserve. :) Maybe not on active duty, but in the reserves you can branch jump all you wish. :)

Response by SPC Richard Lawver made Nov 16 at 2017 11:57 PM

SPC Richard Lawver — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 23:57:52 -0500

I have a good buddy I served with in the army. After his tour was up in the Army he I listed in the Marines and served for 2 tours in Irac and 1 in Afghanistan so yes you can serve in more than one branch but only one at a time.

Response by PO3 Steven Guess made Nov 24 at 2017 12:50 AM

PO3 Steven Guess — Fri, 24 Nov 2017 00:50:08 -0500

Back in the 70s I knew several SeaBees that went airforce Redhorse . You got a pay grade jump . I was looking at it when the airfarce disbanded it, so scratch that idea

Response by MSG John Wirts made Nov 24 at 2017 8:00 PM

MSG John Wirts — Fri, 24 Nov 2017 20:00:35 -0500

I served in the Army and Air Force, I would say don't change service without a much better reason then you just gave. I joined the Regular Army in 1962 for three years. When I Ets'd I was out for 9 months then joined the California Air National Guard for 6 years. Things were not going well so I quit the Air Guard and Joined the Army Guard for 2 years. Things were not going well there so I joined the \Army Reserves 20 years. I retired in 2005. If you change service you have to remain in your last service for ten years before you can retire. If you change service at 15 years in you have to stay in that service for 10 years until you have 25 years in, if you get caught in a downsize before then you may not be able to retire!

Response by CW4 Jack Livella made Nov 27 at 2017 4:27 AM

CW4 Jack Livella — Mon, 27 Nov 2017 04:27:51 -0500

served as combatives instructor and later OSI Agent in USAF from 1959-1970. before switching to US ARMY as a CID agent.....appointed as a WO1 and eventually retired as a CW4

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2017 10:17 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 28 Nov 2017 10:17:36 -0500

You can serve anywhere. My Lt started as a Marine now he is AF. There was a guy who went to every single branch.

Response by SSG Kelan Eckerman made Dec 2 at 2017 6:00 PM

SSG Kelan Eckerman — Sat, 02 Dec 2017 18:00:42 -0500

I believe that you can serve in any of the branches you want as long as you qualify and have completed your prior commitment with an honorable discharge. I am a prior active Marine and retired from the Army after serving over 20 years combined. I have had numerous MOS's in the Army due to having to switch at reenlistment time to get into fields that had the opportunity to get promoted. Been retired now for 27 years after serving 21 years and proud of it. 1st Sgt U. S. Army retired and former active Marine Sgt.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2017 8:35 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 03 Dec 2017 08:35:41 -0500

I'm currently an NCO in the Army National Guard. I've been enlisted, active duty Navy, NCO active duty Air Force, enlisted, Army Reserve, Commissioned Army National Guard, and now... NCO Army National Guard. The military has never been a 'career' for me (even though I started this ride in 1980), it was just a way to give back to our good, old USA.

Response by SSG Philip Evans made Dec 4 at 2017 12:06 AM

SSG Philip Evans — Mon, 04 Dec 2017 00:06:33 -0500

Anything is possible if you desire it enough! I originally started in the US Naval Sea Cadets when I turned 14, and then enlisted during Viet Nam as a Data Processing Tech in the Navy. I made it to E-5 and finally switched to the Naval Reserves after the war. I made E-6 and went up a number of times for E-7. However the rate had closed with virtually no promotion potential. I looked for other career options and was accepted into a "Special Warfare" unit on the condition that I would cross-train and swich rates to "Gunners Mate". I worked in the armory for several years, completed the requirements for conversion and made GMG1 (E-6). I was assigned to a PBR "boat" crew and eventually was "Riverine" qualified. When the "Riverine" community was merged into "Naval Special Warfare" I was qualified as a "Combatant Craft Crewmenber". Finally, I started having some health concerns and was told to consider a desk job. Being a member in a "closed loop" Special Warfare Unit, I was allowed to approach other branches of the service to see what they might offer. I was offered a "Ranger Slot" in the Army National Guard in a Battalion that was reclassified as "Air Assault". I accepted the transfer as a Staff Seargent (E-6), was given an ASI="G", and then in my late 40's, successfuly completed "Infantry School". I was assigned to the Recon Platoon as a Squad Leader and after 5 years in the ARNG I finally took retirement. My total span with the military was 36 years. Have Fun!

Response by CW4 Dennis Pisseri made Dec 4 at 2017 9:54 PM

CW4 Dennis Pisseri — Mon, 04 Dec 2017 21:54:21 -0500

Yes Navy 1964 to 1968. Army reserve 1969 to 1993.

Response by PO2 Jonathan Novak made Dec 6 at 2017 6:43 PM

PO2 Jonathan Novak — Wed, 06 Dec 2017 18:43:59 -0500

I served in the Marines 92-96 as a 4421 legal pogue. After EAS I activated myself on IRR and lateral moved to 5811 MP. Did a year and change them left the Marines for good.

2005 I signed up for the Navy Seabees as a Steelworker and kept E4 and advanced to E5 before deploying to Kuwait/Iraq in 07.

As a truck driver you'd easily slide to seabees and youd also pick up experience in other construction equipment. Dump dozens scrapers graders excavators etc etc.

It's good to plan but don't neglect the present. When you are a year from EAS then start planning your move.
FYI
I had a blast in the seabees.

Response by PFC Brandon Strawn made Dec 9 at 2017 9:44 AM

PFC Brandon Strawn — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 09:44:53 -0500

I heard back in the late 90's you can go from Air Force to Army but not the other way around....I think after being in the Army that you can't serve any other branch...Just what I heard talking to recruiters

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2017 8:05 AM

LTJG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 11 Dec 2017 08:05:48 -0500

I would say not at the same time; however, joint service may be as close as you get to serving in all of the branches.

Response by Randy Semroska made Dec 20 at 2017 11:46 AM

Randy Semroska — Wed, 20 Dec 2017 11:46:32 -0500

My son was in Marines for 7 years and transferred to Army last year. He has a lot more opportunities with Army than was available in Marines.

Response by PO2 Richard Blakey made Dec 24 at 2017 9:00 AM

PO2 Richard Blakey — Sun, 24 Dec 2017 09:00:57 -0500

ME US ARMY 1978 TO 1982 AND 1982 TO 1992

Response by Cpl Frank Cooper made Dec 27 at 2017 12:34 PM

Cpl Frank Cooper — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 12:34:38 -0500

Yes I served in USMC,USCG,ARMY NATIONAL GUARD for Alaska and Washington state and did a combat tour in iraq 2004 - 2004. Going into the Marines first eliminating going into any other branches boot camp

Response by AN Corey Benkelmann made Dec 27 at 2017 8:25 PM

AN Corey Benkelmann — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 20:25:07 -0500

Not simultaneously, but when I was in A-school we had a transfer from the Marines who I want to say was a Staff Sargeant.

Response by SFC Manuel Sandino made Dec 28 at 2017 10:05 PM

SFC Manuel Sandino — Thu, 28 Dec 2017 22:05:37 -0500

Former Marine, at my first ODA in 7th SFG there were 5 of us former jarheads to include the team leader. Before I joint the Army after leaving the Corp, I visited the AF recruiting office...I was turn away for been a former jarhead. It all worked out in the end. Met many guys with two or more prior service in different branches, so its doable not really practical if you want to advance.

Response by PO2 Steven Parker made Dec 31 at 2017 9:08 PM

PO2 Steven Parker — Sun, 31 Dec 2017 21:08:12 -0500

I served in all three branches Navy, Air Force and am retired Army.

Response by SSgt Alex Montano made Jan 1 at 2018 3:56 PM

SSgt Alex Montano — Mon, 01 Jan 2018 15:56:43 -0500

Wait long enough, you will get your chance to integrate at a joint forces base, or overseas mission. You will get your taste for the other services. Be the best at where u are, then everything else will align itself, just wait and see...

Response by Capt Tom Brown made Jan 1 at 2018 3:58 PM

Capt Tom Brown — Mon, 01 Jan 2018 15:58:35 -0500

How did this work out for you??

Response by CW5 Edward "Tate" Jones Jr. made Jan 1 at 2018 3:59 PM

CW5 Edward "Tate" Jones Jr. — Mon, 01 Jan 2018 15:59:42 -0500

By jumping around you may get a diverse exposer to the world, but will limit the heights to which you might rise by picking a career and becoming professional in it. It's a matter of "jack of all trades; master of none."

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Jan 1 at 2018 4:44 PM

PO1 Rick Serviss — Mon, 01 Jan 2018 16:44:21 -0500

That's interesting. Jack of all trades, ace in none.

Response by SGT Kevin McCourt made Jan 7 at 2018 7:34 PM

SGT Kevin McCourt — Sun, 07 Jan 2018 19:34:14 -0500

Give it time. After a hitch it or 2. You will feel like a jack of all trades. After my time in, in varios units that had nothing to do with my MOS. I found myself doing what engineers do, ordnance, Aviation. Etc. None of which you can claim to have done, as very little is put on your 214 as to what you actually did in the service.

Response by CW5 Randall Hirsch made Jan 8 at 2018 10:18 AM

CW5 Randall Hirsch — Mon, 08 Jan 2018 10:18:59 -0500

If you go into the Marines first, you will not have to go through any other basic training. If you go into another service and go through their basic training and decide to go into the Marines you will have to go through boot camp.

Response by Capt Donald Gazzaniga made Jan 9 at 2018 11:59 AM

Capt Donald Gazzaniga — Tue, 09 Jan 2018 11:59:14 -0500

I was a Marine, but Sgt. McDowell, now deceased served in all three branches, the Army, Navy and Air Force. He put in 33 years.

Response by CPT Brian Roberts made Jan 10 at 2018 6:46 PM

CPT Brian Roberts — Wed, 10 Jan 2018 18:46:48 -0500

I served in both the Marine Corps (enlisted 1989 - 1992) and then in the U.S. Army (officer 1992-1998), so the answer is YES. It is possible to serve in multiple branches. I did it through a "Conditional Transfer" through my Congressperson. But I'm sure there are other ways to amok it happen.

Response by PO1 Kevin Arnold made Jan 10 at 2018 10:55 PM

PO1 Kevin Arnold — Wed, 10 Jan 2018 22:55:51 -0500

Yes its is possible to serve in various services, even though it is tempoary. In the Navy I was TAD or tempary assigned duty to the Army. I got trained at Fort Derusy to go to Afghanistan. While there I was in an Army Uniform with Navy Insignia. When I was done I went back to my permanent duty station in the Navy.

Response by SGT Charles Cameron made Jan 11 at 2018 1:09 AM

SGT Charles Cameron — Thu, 11 Jan 2018 01:09:57 -0500

I have served in 2 branches. I served 6 years in the Active Army, 3 years in the National Guard, and then 3 more years in the USNavy Reserves, attached to the USMC. Before I changed, I did full tours in each branch. I was able to utilize the skills I had from each time in to enhance my value and knowledge. I learned new and different skills from each branch that increased my respect and comradeship for ALL of my extended family. The one thing I do regret is that when you cross over in services, you lose one to two ranks, having to "start over" going up the "rank ladder". If you're willing to go thru the training to an extent...again...go for it. But remember, that your first enlistment will make the most lasting impact on your military...and civilian life. You'll get used to doing things a certain way, and a change in branches can be a type of "culture shock". It's exciting to try and do new things, just be aware of all the aspects before you make your decision.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Jan 13 at 2018 4:10 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Sat, 13 Jan 2018 16:10:01 -0500

Keep in mind not every service is eager to accept prior service members, often it can come with a voluntary reduction, which if you make a career out of this can affect you in income and retirement.

Response by SFC Alan Payne made Jan 15 at 2018 2:41 AM

SFC Alan Payne — Mon, 15 Jan 2018 02:41:21 -0500

You can do different nations if you really want to get froggy. I started in the British Army, then USMC, then NC Guard. Serving in different nations isn’t uncommon in the British Commonwealth and i met lots of folk in the Guard that had been in. The other services including coasties. Quite common for Army and Marines to switch also.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 21 at 2018 5:09 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 17:09:45 -0500

Army Aviation to Air Force CSAR back to Army to retire.

Response by PO3 William Carrien made Jan 22 at 2018 2:19 AM

PO3 William Carrien — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 02:19:09 -0500

I have served with people with more than one branch affiliation. Whether it be Army/ Navy, Marine/Army. I myself was Navy/ Coast Guard.

Response by CPO Scott Daly made Jan 23 at 2018 11:56 AM

CPO Scott Daly — Tue, 23 Jan 2018 11:56:48 -0500

I was in the Navy from 85-89, the Marines from 90-94, and the Coast Guard from 99-2012. The Navy wasn’t a good fit, I liked the Marine’s but I was home much to raise my children. I retired from the CG, it worked out well for me. The draw backs are starting over and learning all the particulars of the branch you’re in.

Response by PO2 Tim Hawks made Jan 23 at 2018 9:57 PM

PO2 Tim Hawks — Tue, 23 Jan 2018 21:57:20 -0500

My Dad served in the Navy in WWII, and the Army during Korea....

Response by SPC Tommy Dean made Jan 24 at 2018 4:55 PM

SPC Tommy Dean — Wed, 24 Jan 2018 16:55:25 -0500

Of course. Hell, in today's military you can be two different sexes while in only one branch. The sky's the limit.

Response by SrA Michael Risney made Jan 28 at 2018 1:10 AM

SrA Michael Risney — Sun, 28 Jan 2018 01:10:55 -0500

Everyone has posted good advice, one thing that comes to mind is that it seems to me that the people I have known that have been in multiple branches promote slower. As with anything, some people do bust on through and promote fast anyway
I would agree that whichever branch you choose, stay with it.
Retrain and learn a new skill. The closer you are to your final date of separation (hopefully retirement), try to find a job that translates well to the outside world. Medical is one of the really good crossovers. IT has been good for people also.
Being a highly trained killer is always exciting, and a adrenaline rush, but the matching job pool is just a little small on the outside ;)
Good luck, make it fun !!

Response by SPC Anthony Gallegos made Jan 30 at 2018 8:57 PM

SPC Anthony Gallegos — Tue, 30 Jan 2018 20:57:31 -0500

Yes! I had a friend who Served in 4 Branches. He started in the Navy, went into the Marine Corps, Army and finished in the Air Force. Just as long as you finished your enlistment.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2018 10:49 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 10:49:44 -0500

Don't get ahead of yourself, figure out if you love what you do (it sometimes takes a while) and then go from there.

Response by LCDR Arthur Glover made Jan 31 at 2018 11:41 AM

LCDR Arthur Glover — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 11:41:50 -0500

I think as long as you qualify you can serve in any branch. My best friend served in the Marines, Navy Reserve and finally the Army. However, if you want to make a career of the military, I suggest that you stick to one branch and ride out a 40 year career.

Response by PFC Stephen Eric Serati made Feb 4 at 2018 11:55 AM

PFC Stephen Eric Serati — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 11:55:05 -0500

Multitasking:-)Interesting !!!

Response by SFC Freddie Porter made Feb 4 at 2018 7:22 PM

SFC Freddie Porter — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 19:22:30 -0500

BLUF; Yes. Not concurrently however. Once you complete your mandated (contracted) AD period and returned to Reserve status,you can apply for enlistment into a second branches. The recruiter for the branc your applying for has the guidelines on how to get you released from the branch you are leaving. Depending on the new branch you select however, you may need to attend that branches Initial Entry Training

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Feb 4 at 2018 8:06 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 20:06:32 -0500

Well, this guy did four branches... admittedly it was the Reserves, but still, in theory it's feasible to hit a bunch...

https://www.stripes.com/news/20-years-4-branches-servicemember-is-part-of-exclusive-club-1.298471

20 years, 4 branches: Servicemember is part of exclusive club

From the Marine Corps to the Navy, the Army to the Air Force, Jesus Yanez has served in four of five military branches. Will he retire before he tries the Coast Guard?

Response by SSG Katherine Likely made Feb 5 at 2018 1:52 AM

SSG Katherine Likely — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 01:52:51 -0500

i spent 4 1/2 years in the navy as a heavy equipment operator, was in the army as a truck driver and then 2 years in the air force as a nothing, went back into the army.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2018 2:06 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 02:06:43 -0500

I served in the Army with a great XO who came from the Marine Corps. When asked why he transferred to the Army 82nd. Airborne Division, he stated he wanted to jump out of perfectly good airplanes. The Marine Corps lost a good officer, one of the best I served with. Salute!

Response by MSgt Carl Longenecker made Feb 6 at 2018 4:46 AM

MSgt Carl Longenecker — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 04:46:42 -0500

Of course you can, though as others have pointed out, being flexible and changing AFSC/MOS several times may be necessary. I served 21+ years, including three combat deployments, between 1975 and mandatory age 60 retirement in 2017.
1975-1979 Active Air Force - SIGINT Analyst
1979-1980 Army National Guard -Medium Helicopter repairer
1980-1983 Active Army - SIGINT Analyst
1983-2004 Break in service for College, Defense Contractor
2004-2005 Army National Guard - Flight Operations
2005-2017 Air National Guard - Cyber Systems Operations/Client Systems
2017 Retired from the Air Force as a Master Sergeant

Response by SGT Kimethe Hinnant made Feb 7 at 2018 9:26 AM

SGT Kimethe Hinnant — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 09:26:48 -0500

Yes

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 11:21 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 23:21:56 -0500

Yes

Response by CPO Daren James made Feb 9 at 2018 11:49 AM

CPO Daren James — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 11:49:34 -0500

I'm an example of crossing over. Worked 10 years in the Navy as an OS and after an 8 month break in service, enlisted in the USCG to the same rate and grade I departed the Navy from. The Coast Guard was in need of OS's so I was able to get my rank back and was sucessful in requesting the west coast. I guess the main thing to look for is do the branches of service have the same MOS your working in, if not crosstrain into a job that does.

Response by SMSgt Jeff Kyle made Mar 2 at 2018 11:04 PM

SMSgt Jeff Kyle — Fri, 02 Mar 2018 23:04:12 -0500

Marine Corps 4 years, Air Force 21 years. Retired as a SMSgt

Response by Sgt Raymond Mirabile made Mar 8 at 2018 9:05 PM

Sgt Raymond Mirabile — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 21:05:33 -0500

Re: The comment on Jessica Lynch's book. You're kidding! She got into a truck accideny because the convoy got lost then they were attacked by the enemy. Had no real combat training, broke her legs and was taken to an enemy hospital. Rescued by SF soldiers then had the GALL to accept a Silver Star! PC at its worst! Correct me if I got anything wrong.
She should be an embarrassment to any soldier. I am a Marine vet and I am embarrassed for the army.

Response by SGT Tony Shope made Mar 20 at 2018 3:02 PM

SGT Tony Shope — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 15:02:18 -0400

I had a good friend of mine. He was a Navy Chaplain serving with a SEAL team in Central America. He continued his college and became a Surgeon and transferred to Delta. He learned some of the things he though changed while working with SEALS. Thus he finished his medical degree. Went to Brag and saw DELTA need folks who could multi task. Thus at his 10 year or so point he went Delta. His words to me were well I can do the job, fix both the internal and mental things that follow the missions. He was not complete until he could participate, and help heal. He is now retired and is a part time minister and a full time fire fighter. To each his own but I suggest you do as he did and master your primary skills.

Response by SSgt David Marks made Mar 21 at 2018 10:19 PM

SSgt David Marks — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 22:19:22 -0400

It is possible. I went through tech school in the USAF, with an individual that had already served in the USMC. He finished his contract with the USMC, then he joined the USAF.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 22 at 2018 12:00 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -0400

It is possible but each time you jump you lose seniority in the job and grade. The mode rank you gain the less likely you are to be accepted into another branch without losing rank.

Response by Cpl Aussie Kimble made Mar 23 at 2018 9:01 PM

Cpl Aussie Kimble — Fri, 23 Mar 2018 21:01:18 -0400

i was a cpl in the marines e-4 in the marines is equivelant to the army e-5. i had more under me as a e-4 then most army e-5s. more responsibility more authority and more respect from my command. huge slap in the face going into the army. zero respect for lower ranks. e-5 didnt respect the job you did no matter how good it was. it was an utter shock on how the army worked.

Response by PO1 Richard Nyberg made Mar 25 at 2018 8:07 PM

PO1 Richard Nyberg — Sun, 25 Mar 2018 20:07:36 -0400

I served in the Army from 7/1966 to 5/1975 and went into the Navy from 10/1976 to 1/1988 and retired. I was in the Army Reserve in between. My last Mos in the Army was 17K40 and the Navy recruiter said it crossed over to the OS rating in the Navy but after I went in as an O/S 2 I found out it wasn't even close. 17K is a Doppler type Radar and is closer to the Fire Control Tech rating. I had fun though. I retired an OS1

Response by SGT James Call made Mar 29 at 2018 3:32 PM

SGT James Call — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 15:32:55 -0400

Yep. U.S Army Vietnam, Combat engineer, artillery,- California NG, Medic, Clinical Spec.-USNR, Corpsman,-USAFR, Crash & rescue Fire Fighter, Utah National Guard, Medic, Clinical Spec., USAR, Clinical Spec.

Response by SSG Victor Barac made Mar 29 at 2018 5:41 PM

SSG Victor Barac — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 17:41:57 -0400

I entered the Air Force 28 May 75 and served 4 years as a Twin-Engine Jet, Aircraft Maintenance Specialist. (Crew Cheif) I then wanted to cross train and the AF said no. I checked with an Army recruiter and was trained in Attack Helicopter Weapons Electronics and served an additional 6 years. I am now employed as an Industrial Machinery Mechanic repairing machines that produce large diameter Steel Pipe for the Oil and Natural Gas industry.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2018 7:20 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 19:20:54 -0400

#airforce won't take prior service. Navy does under certain conditions. Marine corps will but you'll have to go through basic all over again

Response by PO3 David Helms made Apr 4 at 2018 10:47 PM

PO3 David Helms — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 22:47:06 -0400

As a Navy Hospital Corpsman I served in the Navy: boot camp, hospital corps school and naval hospital at Camp Pendleton MCB. Then I went to field medical service school and served in Vietnam wit Marine Air Group-16, 1st Marine Air Wing, where I flew MedEvac. I had a full Marine Corps sea again and full Navy seabag.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2018 12:09 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Apr 2018 00:09:20 -0400

Here is the thing about MOS's as being apart of a company in the force and how valuable you become can be a doable edge sword as you try to move up the chain of command. You are in line and have to wait your turn at gathering another MOS . If your request is out side the box and not one that is that companies mission you would have to transfer to and different unit or force to be a universal soldier as did I. After 21 years and 5 different Army divisions and Air Force out my job list is 11 MOS's . added to 20 years building America including miles of I-75, lakes ,ponds bridges ,homes and helping others is a way of life and you will never be without work.
.

Response by MSG Bill Gerke made Apr 5 at 2018 7:39 AM

MSG Bill Gerke — Thu, 05 Apr 2018 07:39:46 -0400

I did it USMC 1968-1970/Active USMCF 1973-76. Move & Join New York Army National Guard 1977-2006. You be surprise at how many former Marines did that.

Response by SGT Steve Fryer made Apr 6 at 2018 7:48 AM

SGT Steve Fryer — Fri, 06 Apr 2018 07:48:34 -0400

I served as a Marine 0351/8151/0321 from 1984-1988. I had a 13 month break 88-89 and joined the Army National Guard, then transferred to the Army Reserve and became a drill Sergeant in 90'. I served till August 1995. On January 27 2007, I reenlisted in the Army National Guard and did a tour in Iraq 07-08 and Afghanistan 10-11.
If you go Marine 1st, you will not have to repeat basic training. If you enlist in the Army and want to go Marine you will have to complete USMC Boot Camp.

Response by SFC Michael Albert made Apr 10 at 2018 3:01 PM

SFC Michael Albert — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 15:01:32 -0400

I served in the Navy and the Army. Served with a bunch of guys who had multiple tours with other branches, Marines to Army, Army to Navy, Air Force to Army etc. At least that was possible from the 1960s to the 1990s. Guess they still allow it.

Response by 1LT Raymond Roberts made Jun 16 at 2018 8:38 PM

1LT Raymond Roberts — Sat, 16 Jun 2018 20:38:45 -0400

I started Coast Guard and went Army (which you don't hear often, usually it is the other way). I have met a few three branch guys as well.

Response by SGT Darryl Dykes made Jul 22 at 2018 10:34 PM

SGT Darryl Dykes — Sun, 22 Jul 2018 22:34:22 -0400

I suggest that you concentrate on the Army, do the very best you can do learn how to do your chosen job. Once you finish AIT go the extra mile. Study on your own, use the internet to learn more about the job you chose. Read the Commanders reading list for enlisted persons. The list is laid out for you to be a better soldier. Jumping around the services does not make you a better soldier. You will be able to add as secondary MOS later in your career.

Response by SPC Jeff Hogan, M.S., M.P.S. made Aug 10 at 2018 2:42 PM

SPC Jeff Hogan, M.S., M.P.S. — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 14:42:30 -0400

since this was written quite some time ago i'm curious what your experience has been.

Response by SSG Norbert Johnson made Aug 10 at 2018 6:44 PM

SSG Norbert Johnson — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 18:44:54 -0400

Respectfully, PFC Hack, I served in both the Army and Air Force. The Army for the Rank advancement potential and the Air Force for the Technical Skill as well as the University of the Air Force credit transfer, or Degree. You progress slowly in the Air Force compared to other services but you can't match the Food, Shelter, the flight time with any other service... the Navy tell you different... They have good food but the quarters.. I will stick to the Air Force for that. Just like the Army, I held 3 AFSC at the same time and in the Army 3 MOS/s at the same time. Makes you valuable to the team concept because you can fill in with competence.

Response by SGT James Call made Aug 11 at 2018 6:42 PM

SGT James Call — Sat, 11 Aug 2018 18:42:33 -0400

It was. I have been told that now you can't. I served in the Army (Vietnam vet) as a combat engineer, artillery man, automatic weapons, Medic, & Clinical Specialist & am airborne qualified. Active Army, CA. Army Guard, Utah Army Guard, Naval Reserve (Corpsman) and Airforce Reserve (Crash & Rescue Firefighter). What a ride !

Response by SCPO Stephen Brown made Dec 5 at 2018 4:41 PM

SCPO Stephen Brown — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 16:41:43 -0500

Served in US Army (1965-1971) and US Navy (1973-1994).

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Dec 5 at 2018 4:55 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 16:55:46 -0500

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2019 2:54 PM

CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Jan 2019 14:54:05 -0500

I did. USMC, U.S. Army, Ohio Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve. Retired.

Response by Sgt Leo Herod made Mar 3 at 2019 4:05 PM

Sgt Leo Herod — Sun, 03 Mar 2019 16:05:42 -0500

I think you have a GREAT idea. Having direct experiences from all the different branches makes you more well rounded.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 7 at 2019 8:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 20:41:12 -0500

I did 22 yrs in the AF reserve component came back to active duty as an AF guy in an Army unit and was switched to the Army..... Go figure

Response by MSG Mamerto Perez made Jul 4 at 2019 7:26 AM

MSG Mamerto Perez — Thu, 04 Jul 2019 07:26:07 -0400

I took Basic Training with a ex-Marine, Navy, Air Force and told us young recruits that the last enlistment in the Army was going to be his last and Retired.

Response by SSG Dwayne Soblosky made Oct 14 at 2019 9:20 AM

SSG Dwayne Soblosky — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 09:20:51 -0400

I served 12 years in the US Navy and 15 years in the US Army with a 6 month break in service.

Response by PO1 Dee Lee made Oct 14 at 2019 9:46 AM

PO1 Dee Lee — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 09:46:33 -0400

I served 3 years in the Air Force and 17 years in the Navy. I had to go to boot camp again but it was well worth it to me.

Response by CPO Arthur Weinberger made May 3 at 2020 8:18 PM

CPO Arthur Weinberger — Sun, 03 May 2020 20:18:27 -0400

It is possible to serve in more than one branch. With a name like Cinnamon food service would be your best option.

Response by CW4 Robert Mixon made Aug 12 at 2020 8:30 PM

CW4 Robert Mixon — Wed, 12 Aug 2020 20:30:11 -0400

Yes

Response by CW4 Robert Mixon made Aug 12 at 2020 8:30 PM

CW4 Robert Mixon — Wed, 12 Aug 2020 20:30:23 -0400

Yes

Response by 1SG Charles Hunter made Nov 17 at 2020 9:38 AM

1SG Charles Hunter — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 09:38:03 -0500

In response to your headline question, "Is it possible to serve in multiple branches . . ." Yes, many have, but not at the same time.

Response by SSG Samuel Kermon made Feb 4 at 2021 3:40 PM

SSG Samuel Kermon — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 15:40:34 -0500

Started in the Marines, went to the Army Reserve, and finally landed in the National Guard. I switched MOS's twice but ended up doing many things. Think about what you are really looking for; adventure, change, challenge, whatever. You may find that changing your perspective in your current position may be what you are really desiring.

Response by Sgt Ed Beal made Apr 8 at 2021 3:00 PM

Sgt Ed Beal — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 15:00:51 -0400

You should have started as a marine then army would be easier and air force and navy would be summer camp physically speaking.