Posted on Feb 23, 2015
SGT Howitzer Section Chief
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I am currently in the USMC Reserves as a 5811 on a contract extension until 2017. What is the process to try and get switched over to active duty right now? I've heard only Intel and Counter Intel slots were open. I wouldn't mind doing C/I from the small amount of information I've been able to gather about it.

But where do I start?
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Capt Cyber Systems Operations
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Edited 10 y ago
Okay, here's what I know about the process. This is what I was told by both AF and Navy recruiters, so it should be similar with the USMC. The thing that makes it harder to go from the Reserves/Guard to AD is that you are not a new recruit. Most of AD's accessions are allotted for recruits. Since you are a SGT, they would essentially have to find you a spot like they would a SGT that is PCSing from another duty station. This affects re-enlistment numbers, promotions, and force shaping. Basically, there would be one less SGT spot on AD that they weren't counting on disappearing.

Does that make any sense? It's what I was told when I looked at making the switch, but it could be way off. Anyone that has a better grasp please confirm or correct me.
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Capt Cyber Systems Operations
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10 y
SGT (Join to see) I see what you're saying. When I was looking at it, I had to talk to the regional recruiting HQ.
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SGT Howitzer Section Chief
SGT (Join to see)
10 y
I just came off of Recruiter Aide for 2 months and tried to get the ball rolling while I had all the time in the world to get it started and RS Louisville has 3 reserve units within 100 miles of it and they still didn't have the appropriate answers. Some recruiters said a regular recruiter could put the package in, Some said to get with my career planner and some said I would have to contact a prior service recruiter. The PS recruiter didn't know what the heck he was talking about since I was still serving. He was talking about me dropping rank to go in...I know that's not the case.
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Capt Cyber Systems Operations
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You would think that one of those guys would have a clue.
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MSgt Flight Chief
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If you want to change branches it's very easy to go PS to USAF active duty SOCS.
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Sgt Alan Voracek
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Sgt. Vied, start with a recruiter. I myself transitioned from reserve to active duty over 20 years ago. The process was relitively easy. The process was basically the same as when you signed on the dotted line for the first time. Meetings with the recruiter, physical, the whole 9 yards. Just an FYI. If your entire career thus far has been all reserve duty chances are very good you will lose rank. I did. And that can be frustrating. Once on active duty though I made the best of it and enjoyed my time on active duty. Good luck in your endeavors Devil Dog!
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Capt Daniel Goodman
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There's a section in it on USMC OCS, of you might care to glance at it....
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