Posted on Dec 30, 2013
What happened to assignment SWAPS? Do they still exist? Should there be a website for this?
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Remember when if you got orders for somewhere and you knew another Joe who wanted to go there and wanted to where they were you could swap with them if you were the same MOS and skill level?
Does this still happen? There should be a website you could go on and see this information daily.
Posted in these groups: 
PCS
PCS
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 11
1SG (Join to see)
Tried to do a swap as a SPC many moons ago. I was a SPC, buddy was a PFC, same MOS, so same skill level. Branch denied it w/o any explanation. Point is the appropriate branch(es) would have to agree and my personal recent experience with my branch was not favorable. So many layers, possible MACP, EFMP, so may different things. Would be yet another layer of bureaucracy on an already bloated system. I'm afraid execution would be a bridge too far with the current personal tempo, BDE closures, Voluntary Early Release Programs, and a war still going on with no clear end in sight. As mentioned above though, would be interesting to see/watch the implementation...
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SFC Mark Merino
CPT Aaron Kletzing DEFINITELY! Personally, I never knew anyone who successfully did it. All I know is happy spouse, happy spouse.
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SFC (Join to see)
Definitely think all the PCS assignment managers should have a direct number to their mobile phones on hear, because in the end it is up to them anyway. But if there were another way possible, then I would gladly welcome it on here.
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Assignment swaps would be a great thing for the Army. I think all Soldiers should have access to systems like EDAS. I never understood why the Army continues to deploy the same Soldiers numerous times when I'm sure there are Soldiers of the same rank and MOS who would volunteer in a heart beat if they had the option. It would be the same with duty assignments. Instead of just sending someone to lets say Drum or Polk I'm sure if they put the option out there someone that wants to go there would volunteer for it.
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That used to be Branch specific for a lot of the assignment swapping. Branch would verify that TOS/TIS/Rank/EFMP/etc all matched up and if so, the switch could happen. It was more prevalaent in the case of Soldiers graduating AIT/OSUT and moving to their first duty assignment. I do concur though, an HRC supported website would be an interesting idea.
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SSG Robert Burns
Yes I do remember coming out of AIT that was pretty common. Everyone is basically equal at that point. As easy as it was then I think it could be just as easy now.
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AR 614-200 Section II discusses Soldier-initated Assignments. Ch 5-11 is titled Exchange Assignments. The regulation is dated 26 Feb 09. This may help many.
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They used to be in the Army Times and last I saw this was in 1999. I even had someone call me for switching spots if it worked out. I would like to see a website so that Soldiers could benefit from it.
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No, they don't exist anymore and it was a bad choice for whoever decided to stop it! I honestly believe it should be reinstated immediately. I know of several Soldiers who did use the program and loved the assignments that they swapped for.
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I would like to see a system where soldiers can see every units TDA/MTOE slots and "apply" for those positions. Branch's responsibility would be to filter out those who actually qualify or are eligible and then that Command team can "hire" who they want.
You know, much like the real world operates not just sending people places randomly.
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I do think that RP is the best vehicle for this type of thing and it would be relatively easy to create. Simply an "On Assignment" tab filtered by MOS, rank and destination. Maybe even a wish-list section.
Then if someone sees something they like or are interested in, message that other person then get into contact with your branch managers. Done.
Then if someone sees something they like or are interested in, message that other person then get into contact with your branch managers. Done.
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It can still happen but it would be a branch matter. There are many variables that must be considered such as dwell time, SQI's and ASI's, EFMP status, etc.... I think soldiers do not have enough control over assignment choices which I have always found hypocritical since our senior leaders always emphasize seeking a variety of assignments. I was in divisional units for 15 years while others sat in TDA slots because they got in the clique.
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