Will I have any additional freedoms as an NCO (E-5) going through 11B OSUT as an 18X?

2021-09-16T10:56:34-04:00

I recently got my conditional release approved to go from the National Guard to Active Duty. I went to MEPS this week to start the process and will be returning next week to lock in my job and training dates. The biggest reason I’m trying to see what will be available to me as an NCO in OSUT is because there’s a lot more additional training I’d like to do on my own to better prepare for selection. I’ve heard that I might be either dropped into the AIT portion of OSUT or could possibly do the whole thing. Not real sure which to expect since I’m the first one my recruiter deals with in this situation. Has anyone else been through 18X as an E-5+? If so, what was your experience like? Feel free to PM me if you wouldn’t mind talking about it 1 on 1. I’d like to make sure that myself and my family are prepared and know what to expect. Thanks in advance.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Sep 16 at 2021 11:10 AM

2021-09-16T11:10:30-04:00

First, I believe you will find that an 18X contract is only available for new recruits. If that is the route you are thinking about, don't worry about 18X, get an Airborne Contract and apply for selection when you hit your unit. It's an Army priority, so if you qualify, you will get your shot.
Unless things have changed drastically, free time and OSUT are not synonymous. However, being a grunt should be pretty damn good training to get you used to humping a rucksack everywhere.

Response by SFC James Cameron made Sep 16 at 2021 11:27 AM

2021-09-16T11:27:28-04:00

There are several things to be aware of and to prepare yourself for. First, TRADOC is a whole different animal in and of itself. As an NCO it’s going to frustrate you. Play the game because it’s not designed for you, it’s designed to mold civilians into Soldiers. Be the sponge and do not be afraid to ask questions so long as they aren’t “why are we…” Where the CMF 11 manager injects you into a training cycle may upset you it’s nothing personal. Ultimately it’s going to come down to your specific Battalion and Company’s policy and how much of an issue they have experienced and had to react accordingly to when it comes to prior service trainees.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2021 11:51 AM

2021-09-16T11:51:24-04:00

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/what-will-infantry-school-be-like-as-a-prior-service-sgt-from-the-marines-that-already-has-a-combat-deployment-under-their-belt-goin-army?cid=milAvOr44455Mi&urlhash=6810565

Check out my answer on this post.

What will infantry school be like as a prior service SGT from the marines that already has a...

I’m still active in the Marines I am during the conditional release program to go over to the army without getting out and going back in I just don’t wanna be treated like some dude when I’m going through the infantry school and I want to know how long it will be for me being prior service because the recruiters don’t have much of an answer for me

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2021 1:00 PM

2021-09-16T13:00:54-04:00

So for the 18X contract I had a few prior service in my class when I joined that had the same contract.So you will get placed in whatever phase they drop you in. That is up to the person in charge at the time. Next you will go through whatever training they do at the the time of course. They may give you Saturday off depending your training battalion. Following that SF will come to meet with you and other future prospects that have an 18X contract as well and will answer your questions. When graduation is done you will go to airborne school. No if and or buts about that. Then you will go to selections if you wash out you will be welcomed to your new home with the 82nd. Easiest way they have filled their ranks over the years. Wish you the best of luck

Response by SGT Trip Heaverly made Sep 16 at 2021 3:53 PM

2021-09-16T15:53:13-04:00

Yeah, you don’t need to do Log PT day because you’re rank is too high.

Response by SSG Brian L. made Sep 16 at 2021 8:05 PM

2021-09-16T20:05:17-04:00

Dont be a dirtbag

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Sep 17 at 2021 9:21 AM

2021-09-17T09:21:14-04:00

We had a couple NCOs reclass when I was at OSUT, and they came in around week seven or eight. They got to sleep in a separate room from the rest of us, and the Drill Sergeants weren't really up their ass too much, so long as they were doing what was expected. While they were NCOs they were to be treated as fellow OSUT trainees by us, and they were never put in a leadership position; though they did get to play Op-For vs us newbies on our week-long FTX. Probably the most fun they had. Your mileage may vary however.

As far as what happens after OSUT for the 18X contracts, I don't pretend to know. Good luck, embrace the suck.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2021 3:03 PM

2021-09-17T15:03:06-04:00

To add on to what others have said, especially SFC James Cameron - TRADOC is a different animal in itself, and every unit works a bit differently. I know through my cycles I have had a few prior service mixed in. NORMALLY I don't mess with them much. If they start to just goof around and they are causing problems, or being a distraction, then I might be taking them aside and correct the issue. Just be an NCO, play the game, and in all honesty, you won't be messed with. As for any additional benefits, may or may not have time off on the weekend (Depending on training requirements), and in some places prior service sleeps in the same barracks as everyone else, but separated.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2021 9:43 AM

2021-09-18T09:43:03-04:00

Not at 30th ag but when you get down the trail should be a little easier as long as you act like an e5 and adult