Is there a limit to what you can request in regards to a reenlistment ceremony?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 02:06:37 -0500

Is it possible to request certain personnel be in attendance, such a spouse currently on a rotation (non-combat), or to request it in a different city or state?

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Feb 20 at 2019 4:45 AM

PO1 Rick Serviss — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 04:45:53 -0500

I think those are reasonable requests and your CoC will support it if it won't interfere with your unit's mission. I asked to be catapulted off an Aircraft Carrier and reenlist in the air but the Skipper denied it because the ship's schedule couldn't support it. No harm in asking.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2019 4:47 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 04:47:55 -0500

For your re-enlistment you may request whatever you like, none of that has anything to do with the contract and is not guaranteed. The extras like performing the ceremony in special locations and things of that nature are all up to what the command has access to and is willing to do. Going to another state, unless you are in an airial unit o seriously don’t that. Have a spouse brought back off rotation is definitely out of the question, their mission trumps your re-enlistment. Just be realistic if you are staying it not about the perks of the ceremony so don’t hold your breath.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2019 7:02 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 07:02:33 -0500

Each of your requests sounds reasonable and seem like they can be accomplished. A re-enlistment ceremony is meant to be special and memorable. Only advice I would give is to ensure that any request you have should take into consideration how to best honor the act of re-enlistment. It’s a time honored tradition and must remain sacred. As long as you don’t dishonor the meaning and significance of the ceremony, you will be okay. An example of a “bad” re-enlistment was the Airforce NCO who executed the oath of enlistment using a sock puppet, I don’t recommend doing that. Congratulations!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2019 8:33 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 08:33:41 -0500

You can request anything you like. Whether your command is willing to entertain it comes down to how you arrange it. The Army is not going to fly your spouse back from a rotation or fund your travel to a different location. But, if you take a 4 day pass when your spouse comes back and travel to the Grand Canyon with your reenlisting officer, that would be a normal request.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Feb 20 at 2019 11:20 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 11:20:16 -0500

I assume you are active duty, the military cannot put an expense behind your re-enlistment. You can always request guests (at least those that can gain access to the installation), Family etc. As for your spouse returning from a distant assignment or location, maybe, if they are within travel distance and a pass will not interfere with official requirements. As for other states etc. not at all likely unless your installation is a stones throw. Too many variables, I hope this provides some insight. Thank you for your service.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2019 1:46 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 13:46:33 -0500

It all boils down to timing and coordination. If the parties involved are willing to make it happen, it will happen. Best of luck to you!