Stay an enlisted Marine or go officer in another branch???

2015-05-30T00:39:49-04:00

I have proudly served in the Marine Corps Reserve for over 13-years. I currently possess a Bachelor's degree and will be receiving a Master's degree in December 2015.

At this point in my military career, I don't know if I should stay an enlisted Marine or go officer in another branch. I'm 35 in September and the Marine Corps will not commission anyone over 35 years of age. I can choose to go Warrant Officer but reserve billets are scarce.

I would like to hear your opinion on my situation.

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made May 30 at 2015 12:44 AM

2015-05-30T00:44:30-04:00

Which do you want? Which would you find more satisfying? Which can you make a career of? Your answer lies there.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 12:49 AM

2015-05-30T00:49:04-04:00

Reserve retirement calculator... Punch in some ranks and some points. After you play around you're gonna be asking, "Which OCS should I attend?"

https://www.hrc.army.mil/calculators/retirementcalc.aspx

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 1:02 AM

2015-05-30T01:02:25-04:00

It might be too late at 13 years, you have to look into it most services have a maximum of 10 years federal service as an enlisted person. However I would seize the opportunity to get my commission of it presented itself. I served 10 years as a Marine and I'm an armor officer in the Army and I love it. It's a different world and has its own set of duties and responsibilities. If you don't comission seek Warrant Officer of you can.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 1:09 AM

2015-05-30T01:09:24-04:00

The military is great, but you have to use it to your benefit. Don't put your career on hold. You worked hard to get your degree, so go officer if you can.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 1:26 AM

2015-05-30T01:26:33-04:00

Try the Army.

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made May 30 at 2015 1:42 AM

2015-05-30T01:42:57-04:00

btw if you decide on OCS I will think very highly of you. Nope not biased or anything lol.

Response by PO1 John Miller made May 30 at 2015 2:02 AM

2015-05-30T02:02:54-04:00

Have you considered LDO, if the Marine Corps has that program?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 2:15 AM

2015-05-30T02:15:01-04:00

If another branch offers it, I would take it. Even if you could commission in the Marine reserve I would think there would be fewer pay billets available for both commisioned as well as warrant officers in the USMC. The Army has the best chance to get promoted and stay in paid billets more frequently. You can choose between National Guard or reserves and you can even transfer back and forth between the two. I've worked with many former Marines that have gone Army and had a very satisfiying career and they never lose the title of Marine as you know once a Marine always a Marine. One more piece of advice: officers have more administrative and management responsibilities; while they definitely have opportunities to exercise leadership it's usually more indirect. I know many NCOs with bachelor's degrees or higher that prefer to remain an NCO because they prefer pushing troops to being a "desk jockey". so therefore you want to look at both lifestyle and benefits; good luck to you!

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made May 30 at 2015 2:27 AM

2015-05-30T02:27:02-04:00

Congrats on earning the MS in December.

Response by SGT Kevin McCourt made May 30 at 2015 2:36 AM

2015-05-30T02:36:01-04:00

I would go for it. Look into direct commision, if possible. The worst that could happen. You get RIFted back to your enlisted grade. But when you retire, you retire at the highest rank held. I knew plenty on active duty that did just that.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made May 30 at 2015 2:37 AM

2015-05-30T02:37:04-04:00

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member that question will just vary imensely depending on every individual's feelings. I have met MANY Marines who would rather remove their own genitalia with an MRE spoon before giving up their EGA. I will say congrats on your educational accomplishments no matter what decision you make. To get a masters while serving is one royal pain in the butt and no easy feat. To get it done in time to still make the age cutoff for OCS is even a greater accomplishment. Semper Fi.

Response by SGT John W Lugo made May 30 at 2015 2:37 AM

2015-05-30T02:37:12-04:00

Congrats first of all , second regardless what you decide make sure you stick with it till the end of your 20. I made the mistake to get out after 12 year's and regret it. As for your situation I would say don't be too proud to leave Marine Corp if you have no additional options for advancement, join another branch to get what you want out of the military,at the end of the day you and your family is what counts the most.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 3:00 AM

2015-05-30T03:00:28-04:00

There are a surprising number of Marines who join the Army for Special Forces. Well, not a massive population, but it seems like there are always two or three and they usually have the same story. They wanted better training and promotion opportunities. If becoming a warrant is the route you want to go and you look decent in a dress uniform and have good writing skills then you might consider doing a branch transfer and trying for Special Forces. On average, only 2-3 out of 7 warrant slots per company are filled.

Response by LTC David Stender made May 30 at 2015 8:39 AM

2015-05-30T08:39:05-04:00

Melvin,
Make sure you know the rules, if you convert to be an officer, you must serve 10 years to retire as an officer. At 13 years in and let's assume a year to get all your ducks in a roll; that's 24 years and you will just have made Major. Both jobs or needed and have their own satisfaction but they are much different

Response by CPO David Welsh made May 30 at 2015 12:04 PM

2015-05-30T12:04:26-04:00

If you have the opportunity, go for the gold and be an officer. Life is much better and the pay is greatly enhanced. The goal is to work for the best retirement you can obtain. At 13, it sounds like you have decided to make a career out of the military so the next goal should be your retirement plans. I know it sounds like a long way off, but believe me, time flies and it will sneak up on you quickly. I have a friend who retired as an O-5 and makes as much in retirement as I made on active duty. Congrats and good luck with your decision.

Response by COL Ted Mc made May 30 at 2015 12:44 PM

2015-05-30T12:44:36-04:00

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member - Staff; Go for it. You can always attempt a "cross branch" transfer once you have your commission. [Hell, you might even get it.]

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 1:06 PM

2015-05-30T13:06:58-04:00

Once a marine, always a marine, even if you a LTJG in the Coast Guard, which is my vote, by the way!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 1:18 PM

2015-05-30T13:18:08-04:00

I would stay where your at. I may not be a marine but you have already done this much time so far. You would have to be starting over again. But in the end...follow your dream on what you want to do.

Response by PO2 Larry House made May 30 at 2015 1:51 PM

2015-05-30T13:51:31-04:00

If I had the option for you I would do it Warrant Officer is a good deal. I had the chance to go Warrant Officer when I was in and did not do it wish I had now. It was a program Navy & Army had E-5 Navy to Warrant Officer Army. I wish I did it so if you have a chance turn two get it done.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 30 at 2015 2:49 PM

2015-05-30T14:49:22-04:00

"You think 007 is Cool, I am 007" LCDR Montel Williams on the DC Schools Speaking Tour. One of my favorite Intel Officers that went from Marine Enlisted to Naval Officer.

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made May 30 at 2015 4:53 PM

2015-05-30T16:53:30-04:00

Congratulations on your service, degree and upcoming Masters degree! Excellent accomplishments!!! I was enlisted for 5yrs (both AD/Res) before I pinned my Gold Bar on. I've always thought that every service member, regardless of situation, education, etc. deliberately CHOOSES whether to go the officer route or stay in the NCO side of the house. I guess some people do get swept into things. I can't comment on other services but I believe the USAR and ARNG can commission up until 41. I imagine if you wanted to stay on active duty there might not be good options for you. I will tell you that the likelihood of being assessed back to active duty to to finish your career as an Army Reserve Officer other-than/including AGR have been good over the last decade. I spent my last two years on active duty. The talent, skills, and dedication that made you a Staff Marine NCO with 13yrs would be put to use DAY 1 within the Army. Good luck with the decision!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 6:18 PM

2015-05-30T18:18:01-04:00

Is that a serious question? Officer 100%of the time

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 8:56 PM

2015-05-30T20:56:57-04:00

Did exactly that. I was a SSgt in the SMCR and am currently a WO1 going through flight training in the Army. It is rewarding in a different way. As others have posted, it totally depends on what you are looking for. Semper Fi and good luck. Message me if you have any questions.

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 11:53 PM

2015-05-30T23:53:43-04:00

I am a LT in the Navy but was a Marine for 10 years before I got my commission as a Medical Service Corps Officer. The Navy is different but I have never regretted my decision. What is you degree in? If it is a business degree than research the MSC-IPP. It's the Medical Service Corps Interservice Procurement Program. You can get commissioned latest by your 42nd birthday.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2015 1:13 AM

2015-05-31T01:13:41-04:00

Congratulations to your up coming graduation . Good luck to what ever you do.
Just remember you make the best of what ever you do . The branch you chose is less important as what you do when you are in that branch . You know the Marines and Navy somewhat Look at the other branches what they can give you . Will you be working in your career path goal using your new degree ? Having the experience in your area of study is a plus when you retire or if you stay in the reserves to any employer you may apply too.

Response by CMSgt Richard B. made Nov 4 at 2015 10:17 PM

2015-11-04T22:17:57-05:00

One of the officers I served with in the Army National Guard was in the same situation (and grade) as you. He decided to lave the USMCR, join the ARNG and attend OCS. He retired a few years ago as a COL. And of course, he'll always be a Marine.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Nov 5 at 2015 2:08 AM

2015-11-05T02:08:09-05:00

What does your gut say? Follow your instincts

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2015 2:38 AM

2015-11-05T02:38:43-05:00

Leaving the Marine Corps would be hard, but you will soon have your Master's degree. Tough call, but talk it over with your family. I know you will make an informed decision as the leader that you are. Semper Fi Marine!

Response by LCpl Ash Carson made Nov 5 at 2015 2:54 AM

2015-11-05T02:54:59-05:00

I would look into all the branches and see what they have to offer. You had worked too hard not to be the happiest you can be. Congrats on earning your degree and keep up the great work.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2015 3:09 AM

2015-11-05T03:09:48-05:00

You can't beat the pay here on the Dark Side, but you have to also be ready for a lot more responsibility in terms of decision-making while having less responsibility and hands-on ownership of your equipment or people.

For instance, my enlisted flight engineers are responsible for maintaining my aircraft, running checklists during operations, and taking ownership of the aircraft once it's parked; my part comes in from engine starts onward when my decisions directly impact the safe operation of the jet and the safe return of the crew. It's not any better or worse, just different, and there's more of an on-the-spot decision-making process.

While we all work together, it really is an apples-and-oranges contrast in terms of your daily activities. You have to be sure you're both ready for and willing to make that change. Whichever way you decide to go, good luck.

Response by SFC Walter Williams, Jr. made Nov 7 at 2015 3:20 PM

2015-11-07T15:20:13-05:00

SSgt Alegria,

Congratulations on your education path. What you need to do is find out as much information that you can get about becoming an officer. Find out what the requirements are for your situation. Once you have completed that task, then you need to weigh the pros and cons and see which one will best suit you.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2016 2:06 PM

2016-04-12T14:06:39-04:00

Has me wondering if anyone would take a retired jarhead with a degree. LOL.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2016 9:58 AM

2016-05-06T09:58:04-04:00

Hey bro, I was an active duty Marine for 11 years; left as a SSgt. I went to Army OCS at the age of 31. If you have a chance to become an officer I highly recommend it. What I do now fits me a lot better. Now I just realized this thread is a little old. Hopefully it worked out for you. Semper Fi.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 12:39 PM

2016-05-12T12:39:06-04:00

Well this is an old post...but for those who want to do it...good luck. I did 10 years in the Marine Corps. Before I went to the Army. I was excited at first and was proud to get my commission but it's a different world. First you get treated like a child until your a Captain and graduated Captains Career Course. Even then your still treated as a junior Captain until you finish your command time (combat arms-I don't know about the other branches). The best time I had was a Platoon Leader but that time fly by...the your put on staff for eons until you got to the Career Course. Then again on Staff until you pick up command, by this time you're already almost 6 years in the Army. I was commissioned at age of 30 and I'm 36 now-I got people who are 3 or 4 years younger than I am I charge of me as Majors...because they started after college. I don't mind. But I did learn the Marines taught me great stuff as an NCO but toss all that put the window because people have feelings and you have to be the professional. Now I don't brother correcting people...it's that type of environment. Not better but it's different world...so those want to become an officer good luck 90% staff, 10% with your Soldiers.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2016 2:11 PM

2016-06-03T14:11:34-04:00

Look into WO first. If you can get a commission elsewhere than go for it. The title will always be yours. Now its time to think about retirement benefits.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2017 12:54 PM

2017-04-25T12:54:53-04:00

Have you spoken with an OSO? They used to not count enlisted service against your for the maximum age requirement but that was for prior-service coming back in enlisted. An OSO or USMCR folks should be able to give you a direct answer. In your case that would mean they would subtract 13 from your age and arrive at 22 for purposes of coming back in (again as enlisted). Depending on your MOS you might consider applying for WO in a different MOS that has more billets. Supply Officers used to be mainly Regular Officer billets. Don't know about now because I retired in 98, but a few did it in every WOBC class while I was in. Some went for Range Officer if they had experience and were a high shooter, others just got into fields that HQMC thought they had the ability to retrain in based on their experience and ASVAB scores. It ultimately comes down to the needs of USMC and this may be another route that you may not have considered. The Active boards are competitive but are still based on the "best of the fully qualified" concept. That means that you may have a better looking package based on your experience and fitreps than someone else, and if so you have a shot. Reserves is a different deal but check with USMCR or an OSO to be sure. I'd say stick with USMC if possible, but that's a personal choice. You already have a lot going for you and if you could keep your foot in the door it would likely pay off. Either way, thanks for your service and best wishes Marine. S/F. Will

Response by Maj John Bell made Apr 25 at 2017 1:15 PM

2017-04-25T13:15:22-04:00

While serving as the OpsO for Company F Marine Security Guard Battalion (Embassy Duty) I had a disagreement with a career State Department Officer (SDO) about the Memorandum of Understanding between the Marine Corps and The State Department. The Ambassador, a political appointee, was present when the SDO said "I am an SES-__, that makes me the equivalent of a One Star Marine Corps General" At which point I, and the ambassador (a former Army Sgt) nearly wet ourselves laughing.

Don't know that it helps with your case, but food for thought.

Response by SSgt Tim Cross made Jun 3 at 2023 10:14 AM

2023-06-03T10:14:58-04:00

How long before you are eligible to be a master sergeant on the Corps? Also , having civilian education will help to make Master Guns after you become a master sergeant. Lots of Marine Corps Reserve higher ranking SNCO billets require you to reassign to higher headquarters when you get promoted. Does this make you go wayyyyy out of town ? Like and airplane commute ? Also lots of national guard recruiters are more user friendly. They have a shortage of warrant officers in most states. Being a SNCO and degree puts you way ahead of the curve going that way. As a warrant you will make nearly the same money plus a little more ... a W1 is a little more than and O1 , W2 is more than an O2 all the way to W4. The last I heard in the guard a warrant is promotable doing the same job all the way to W4 ( a little more pay than a major ). Then you can be W5 eligible ( just a little bit less than a full colonel O6). I know it all ain't about the money, but I've never seen a warrant who was unhappy about being a warrant. They might be salty and crusty etc., but they seemed satisfied with their path. No one really bothers them. A warrant nearly literally tells his boss ( at least a LtCol or above ) what to do by saying "Sir or Ma'am, my assessment is this and I recommend this or that. Sir I would do this. I would not do that. I'm the resident expert here sir. Etc "
Good luck