Posted on Jun 30, 2016
2LT Nathaniel Koch
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I got out in 2013 to go to school and get my degree, I am re entering the service this time with the ARMY as an officer and I want perspectives on how one deals with the Branch change.
Posted in these groups: 0b761d13 Inter-ServiceB04bb539 MarinesAmerican flag soldiers Soldiers
Edited 8 y ago
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Responses: 20
CW2 Carl Swanson
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When I changed from the Corps to the Army, I thought it was going to be really different. For me, it wasn't that big of a deal. I went into Armor and we had a similar attitude about mission accomplishment. Many units have the Esprit that you expect from the USMC. It will take a little to adjust, but I never had any problems. Remember, you are in the Army now and no one wants to hear your "when I was in the marine corps" stories about how the USMC does it different or better. Assimilate and embrace where you are and you will have a good time. I knew several guys who had switched over and every one of us was successful. I have a friend who is still on active duty who just pinned on his Eagle (full bird Colonel) and he started off in the Corps too.
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Cpl Fletcher Haizlip
Cpl Fletcher Haizlip
8 y
Well said ,keep that attitude and you will succeed
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SPC Kirk Gilles
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I see many USMC who come to the Guard. They have much to offer if presented appropriately. The phrase "This is how us Marines did it" should be avoided. Also, stubbornly refusing to comply with Army methods, regs etc (Marksmanship) is a big deal. See why the Army does it the Army way. Chances are it makes sense for the Army. But exemplifying the courage and toughness of Marines is always motivational. A secret: Army respects what USMC goes through, no need to pile on.
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PO1 John Miller
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2LT Nathaniel Koch
I had a few Sailors over the years who were former Marines. They were all about "I'm a Marine! There's no such thing as a former Marine! Once a Marine always a Marine!"

Until I explained to them that their uniform and ID card now said US Navy and not US Marine Corps. I think you should start to think along those lines, that you're no longer a Marine. You are now a Soldier (or will soon be a Soldier).
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PO1 John Miller
PO1 John Miller
8 y
LTC Paul Labrador
A friend of mine is a former Navy PO2 and now is an Army CPT. He seems to have "adjusted" to transitioning to the Army and going from PO/NCO to Officer. The only time he really lets his Navy roots show is during the annual Army/Navy game when he roots for Navy. He didn't go to Westpoint so he's got no ties to Army. Then again he didn't go to Annapolis either, LOL...
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LCpl Nicholas Hines
LCpl Nicholas Hines
8 y
PO1 John Miller - you should know that it's not just a title, it's a mindset and a way of life.
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LCpl Mark Riley
LCpl Mark Riley
8 y
"I would not add in the corps we did this way " remember if he says that it was probably more efficient than how you're doing it
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PO1 John Miller
PO1 John Miller
8 y
LCpl Nicholas Hines
You've also got to realize that you are no longer in that way of life. You are now part of a different mindset and way of life. In this case the Army.
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