What advice does anyone have for being a Linguist? Is there much of a difference between how Army and AF linguists conduct their duties?

C Eaves — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 23:25:49 -0400

What advice does anyone have for being a Linguist? Is there much of a difference between the way Army and Air Force (besides airborne) linguists conduct their duties?

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Aug 4 at 2020 11:40 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 23:40:29 -0400

Comparing Apples to Oranges- Army will be in FOB or with units in the AO. USAF will be at bases, etc.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 4 at 2020 11:55 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 23:55:41 -0400

They're very similar. The biggest difference would be the branch itself and how they conduct their day to day duties/big military stuff. If you want to be a linguist and your biggest concern is which branch then you need to look at the pros and cons of those branches, not the job itself.

You also have to keep reclassing in mind. Becoming a linguist is a very long process and difficult. If you go army and fail the schools then you will be reclassed to needs of the army. Im not sure about the airforce, but its something to look into.

Response by CSM Chuck Stafford made Aug 5 at 2020 6:43 AM

CSM Chuck Stafford — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 06:43:51 -0400

As has been stated before, the job is the job, regardless if it's on a mountain, in a tent, in an office or on a plane. With technology today, you may or may not be on the continent of your target language; geography is just not that important. That being said, I am biased towards the Army -- having been a career "35" series soldier. If you want to be challenged - go Army. If you want to an easier life, go Air Force -- there are nuggets of truth in the USAF life is easier stories ;-)

If you have any questions, just ask ---

Good luck on your decision

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Aug 5 at 2020 9:22 AM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 09:22:11 -0400

Most branches have linguists. The question is what branch cultures speaks to you because that is the difference. Culture is where the different shades of grey are. Also the mission is slightly different depending on the branch as well.

Response by A1C Maranda Storm made Sep 21 at 2020 3:05 PM

A1C Maranda Storm — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 15:05:39 -0400

Whatever you choose, be prepared for one Hell of a beast after basic training when you’re learning your language.