Am I able to do my boot camp when I'm 17?

Thomas OReilly — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 11:45:21 -0500

I've already sent out a form to a local recruiter. And I got a letter back stating he will send me a package when I turn 17. Inside the package will contain; Brochures, pamphlets, etc. Just so I can get an idea of what is in store for me. The main reason why I'm asking is because I'd like to know if I'm able to do my boot camp when im 17. And when I turn 18 I can head straight in. But, their is another problem. I'm the last O'Reilly in our family that is able to keep the O'Reilly name going. Is their any way they can deploy me in combat, and not have to worry about being post ponied due to me being the last one with the O'Reilly name? If any of you all can answer these questions for me I'd really appreciate it. I'm currently 16, and I'll turn 17 Aug. 10.

Response by SGT Mark Estes made Nov 7 at 2018 11:50 AM

SGT Mark Estes — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 11:50:51 -0500

You should talk to a recruiter and get the real information from him. You can join at 17 1/2 with parents co signature. I joined in high school and started basic after. I’m not sure about the marines but the army had a program called delay entry where you could do basic during the summer after junior year then AIT after high school. But that was quite some time ago. I hope the best for you!

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Nov 7 at 2018 11:03 PM

SSgt Dan Montague — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 23:03:54 -0500

You can only enlist when you are between your jr and sr year if you are 17 1/2 and have parent consent. You cannot go through boot camp before you graduate HS. When I was a recruiter I did have 2 kids graduate early, do boot camp and then walk on the stage for their HS graduation.
Be advised, that you can only be in the DEP for 1 year. If you enlist early you may find yourself shipping the Sunday after you graduate.
As for your name, they are not that strict about it. You should still mention it, but it will not hold you back from deployments.