Posted on Jun 17, 2016
Cpl Jon Westbrook
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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?
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Cpl Jon Westbrook
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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.
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SSG Infantryman
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Honestly wish I could answer that question but if I could go back in time I would go to Reg. In a heart beat
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Sgt Machine Gunner
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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
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Prior Service Marine: Is option 40 authorized for prior service?
Cpl Jon Westbrook
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Thanks for the answers. Ill figure it out one way or another.
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SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA
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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.
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SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA
SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA
8 y
I have confirmed that he did enlist with a 40 option.
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PO3 Hospital Corpsman
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Can you please explain how he landed the opt 40?
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SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA
SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA
>1 y
Well, I don't have contact with him anymore, but I would assume that he talked to his recruiter.
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SFC J Fullerton
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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
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