Prior Service Marine: Is option 40 authorized for prior service?

2016-06-17T15:26:48-04:00

I'm a prior service Marine 0311(11b), I got out in August of 2015 and I'm thinking about going back in as long as I can make it to Ranger Batt. My question is this: Is option 40 authorized for prior service? Some folks are saying if you fight for it enough you'll get it as long as it's approved by the recruiting command, others are saying its a definite no. Anyone have any experience with this?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2016 3:48 PM

2016-06-17T15:48:46-04:00

Honestly wish I could answer that question but if I could go back in time I would go to Reg. In a heart beat

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Jun 17 at 2016 4:17 PM

2016-06-17T16:17:20-04:00

USAREC (Army Recruiting Command) is bound to HRC business rules pertaining to prior service. This changes frequently, but the link below gives the general current guidelines. I have never seen option 40 open to prior service. However, 18X Special Forces Candidate is often available to prior service E5 and below, if otherwise qualified. Doesn't hurt to ask for opt 40, but bottom line they can only offer what is available and the Army isn't bending over backwards for prior service. http://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/current-and-prior-service/continue-serving/active-duty/prior-service-business-rules.html

Prior Service Business Rules

The Prior Service Business Rules acts as a guide for Soldiers who are interested in reenlisting in the regular Army.

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Jun 18 at 2016 12:32 PM

2016-06-18T12:32:56-04:00

I personally know a prior service Marine who is currently serving in the 75th Ranger Regiment, and I believe that he had a 40 option.

Response by Cpl Jon Westbrook made Jun 19 at 2016 12:02 AM

2016-06-19T00:02:49-04:00

Thanks for the answers. Ill figure it out one way or another.

Response by Cpl Jon Westbrook made Oct 2 at 2018 9:24 PM

2018-10-02T21:24:31-04:00

For anyone that finds this on the web looking for answers, as of now(October 2018) due to Time in Service requirements for E5, you cannot join the Army as prior service unless you enlist 18x or needs of the Army. Basically this means your best shot at Ranger Batt is getting Airborne in your contract and volunteering for RASP. Otherwise youre headed to Hood or Bragg.

As for me, I'm finishing my degree and joining the AF. Hit me up if you have any questions.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2018 6:14 AM

2018-11-04T06:14:56-05:00

Hey, so me being a E5 in the marines as a 0331 I'm curious if you had a 18x and you went to airborne, sopc, and selection but you dont get selection could you apply there for 11x do you know if you could do this. Or could you in airborne switch you contract to 11x