Posted on Mar 8, 2018
SPC Commissioned Officer Candidate
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Currently civilian. Signing my contract with Army National Guard next week: 09S, direct ship, Federal OCS after BCT, then BOLC-B at Ft. Sill (14A). Due to lack of enlistment bonuses for officer candidates, I’d like to negotiate guaranteed slots in one or more special training schools into my contract. Think airborne, pathfinder, air assault, marksmanship, etc. Why? Paid adventures, preparation for future rebranching or CAD, and personal growth. Has this been done before?
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COL Deputy G2
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If it was regular Army you could. I did it when I first enlisted. With the Guard you can’t. NGB would not approve it. Unless you are going to an Airborne unit they won’t do it on your enlistment. and if your going to 14A then it will not happen cause there are no airborne ADA units.
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SPC Commissioned Officer Candidate
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I see. Wishful thinking, I suppose. Thank you for responding.
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COL Deputy G2
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I worked at NGB. Airborne slots went unused. Just keep asking for it. Eventually it may happen.
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SPC Commissioned Officer Candidate
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SPC David Willis
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You can TRY to negotiate anything into your contract. Whether or not your recruiter can make it happen is another story.
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SPC Commissioned Officer Candidate
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That’s what I’m hoping. Thanks for taking the time to respond.

Regarding the abilities and attitude of recruiters, I’ve read countless horror stories of shady dealing and general ineptitude. Fortunately, I’ve been blessed with a great recruiter. When we first met, he could tell that I had done my research and had all the necessary documents squared away. Since then has gone above and beyond. If anyone who reads this knows of a way I can have him recognized or rewarded for his professionalism, without his knowing and without portraying myself as a try-hard brown noser, please advise. Recruiting and retention needs more people like him.
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SFC Civil Affairs Specialist
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The Army does not have a bartering system. If it's available, you can request it, and it's usually just one unless it's Airborne with Ranger follow on. Those other schools are usually offered as a reenlistment bonus, not on an initial contract. Basic marksmanship is provided in basic training, so technically yes it's In your contract.

Good luck
- Danny
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SPC Commissioned Officer Candidate
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Understood. I don’t expect it to be an option, and I’ll sign regardless, but the extra incentive would be nice. Thanks for the response.
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SFC Civil Affairs Specialist
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You got it
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