I have a buddy who recently joined AD and wants to switch to reserves. Is this possible?

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 14:28:00 -0400

READ UPDATE!!

He's OCONUS and has mentioned he will purposely fail a PT test, and I talked him out of it. He wants to move to the Reserves, but from the looks of it, he CANNOT. He heard what he needed to hear and the consequences of Malingering. I appreciate the responses, but any answer after this edit, will not be read by myself.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 2:29 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 14:29:02 -0400

*he said he would like to take that route*

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 2:33 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 14:33:00 -0400

Why would we want someone in todays army that does not want to be in the army? He should just get out and be done with it if he does not want to do it.

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made Jul 22 at 2016 2:51 PM

SSG Carlos Madden — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 14:51:16 -0400

If he's the kind of person who would fail a PT test to get out instead of going though the proper channels, it'd probably be better for all parties involved if he got out. He's going to have to take PT tests in the Reserves too and failing one isn't really a good course of action just because one doesn't like their current situation. It sounds like your Battle may need a reality check.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jul 22 at 2016 3:33 PM

SGM Erik Marquez — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 15:33:34 -0400

There is no Chap 22 - I regret my personal decision, separation in AR635-200
Your buddy is in for his term of service that he signed a contract for unless involuntarily separated.
But I gotta tell you, in most future employers (or reserve commander) eyes, anyone who fails on purpose because they dont like a temporary situation they made for themselves is not worth thier time, effort, loyalty or financial compensation.
He made a decision (enlisted for a chosen MOS), its not fatal, and its not permanent.. finish the term of service he signed a contract for and move on, lesson learned.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Jul 22 at 2016 3:34 PM

SGT Dave Tracy — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 15:34:21 -0400

Anyone willing to tank their APFT because they want something better isn't exactly living the Army Values; and as an NCO in the Reserves, that's not the kind of "soldier" I want to deal with.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 3:40 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 15:40:44 -0400

Well, first off, and SSG Carlos Madden stated, if he would intentionally fail an APFT, then we don't need him in the Infantry. that being said, however, he is locked in right now. For OCONUS, Branch mandates 12 month stabilization before action is taken (no reassignments, progression schools, etc) barring extenuating circumstances (Compassionate reassignment). They will not re-compartmentalize him to the Reserves or the National Guard until he is at least 12 months on-station.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Jul 22 at 2016 3:56 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 15:56:53 -0400

If he is chaptered out due to APFT failure, the reserves are not going to touch him.

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Jul 22 at 2016 3:59 PM

SFC J Fullerton — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 15:59:20 -0400

Fail a APFT on purpose? Don't need somebody like that in any component. Perhaps military service is not for him at all. And no, he can't just switch to the Army Reserve. He has a contract he is locked into until his ETS date. If he doesn't make it to that date, then likely the Army Reserve won't be an option for him anyway.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 4:43 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 16:43:37 -0400

If I were the one who would approve/disapprove his application he would not have the option.

Response by SGT William Martinez made Jul 22 at 2016 4:44 PM

SGT William Martinez — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 16:44:37 -0400

Wow,your friend needs to get out of the service...

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 5:06 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 17:06:13 -0400

yes its possible but the route suggested is not

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 5:21 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 17:21:33 -0400

bar to re enlistment, general discharge dont want to be in ok gtfo

Response by SFC David McMahon made Jul 22 at 2016 5:24 PM

SFC David McMahon — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 17:24:00 -0400

Tell your buddy to do his time and walk away. He will create more harm by trying to circumvent the system.

Incidentally, a contract is just that. I know of no case where you can "change your mind" and go reserves.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Jul 22 at 2016 6:36 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 18:36:39 -0400

If he fails PT he also fails the Reserves to tell him that if he is going to play that route, then he is in fit to serve all.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 7:09 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 19:09:18 -0400

UPDATE. I appreciate the feedback guys

Response by Capt Michael Greene made Jul 22 at 2016 8:00 PM

Capt Michael Greene — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 20:00:02 -0400

This could be just a temporary depression.

Your buddy has been in 7 months. If I can recall that far back, that is when the training assignments have been completed and the "real Army" starts. He's been yelled at and made to push hard for 7 months. Now the rest is relatively easy. In Germany? Love it. Enjoy the recreation. Learn to ski. Take trips to France and Switzerland, etc. Then he might see the whole situation differently and become a squared away soldier.

Response by Col Rebecca Lorraine made Jul 22 at 2016 8:30 PM

Col Rebecca Lorraine — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 20:30:08 -0400

Sounds like someone not mature enough to accept commitment and responsibility. He will not do any better in the Reserves. I recommend growing up, finish your commitment and shine even when the going gets tough. That is a larger reflection of character and you must live with yourself.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Jul 22 at 2016 9:14 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 21:14:57 -0400

Correct me on this but 11B initial contract is three years? That includes OSUT correct? If so, what is his major malfunction? He's damn near the half way mark. Maybe he needs a gut check. Before looking at what he'd get for getting out, look at what he'd LOOSE for getting out that way. That "high speed severance pay"? Has be looked at it? It's NOT what you think it is, and you're going to a unit that will put the screws to you to get him away from them. I'm NOT dogging out 11B's yet, but let's be real.....there are these wonderful creations in between your legs called BALLS. Grab hold and squeeze. Now go finish up your enlistment or at least fight for it, and be a man on the way out.
Hello My name is Matt Swan. The originator (at least the first one it was used on) of the "Magic Bullet", and I approve this message.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Jul 22 at 2016 9:17 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 21:17:55 -0400

There are always openings in the DB for those who don't want to Soldier! You can check the book, 'From Here To Eternity' for examples!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 10:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 22:41:13 -0400

So, I would recommend that your buddy complete his 3 years and 22 weeks of his RA contract. Then when it's time to reenlist he can tell his career counselor that he wants to serve in the AR for the last 4 years and 30 weeks of his contract.

Response by Capt Chris McVeigh made Jul 23 at 2016 12:06 AM

Capt Chris McVeigh — Sat, 23 Jul 2016 00:06:13 -0400

Screw that. If he plans to intentionally fail a PT test why would we want to enable him at all?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2016 12:28 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Jul 2016 00:28:58 -0400

Not possible, he signed a contract and is required to fulfill it. Once he is ready to ETS, he can then sign for the reserves or NG. However, if he is chartered due to APFT failure, he more likely will require a waiver, and in today's Army, such waiver will probably be denied. Pass the APFT, get promoted, fulfill your obligations, get out with a RE 1 in the DD-214 and an Honorable discharge.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2016 2:03 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Jul 2016 02:03:00 -0400

Usually this conversation is the other way around. A lot of my friends want to switch TO ACTIVE COMPONENT. The reserves is hard when you go to battle assembly and go through the usual goat rope. It is hard to build teams and get a substantial amount done. You miss the camaraderie and high speed training and discipline. I agree if you are that apathetic about your career that you would purposely fail an APFT, the Army doesn't need you. I can train a Soldier on how to correct any deficiencies but apathy is not one of those things.

Response by SFC John Hill made Jul 24 at 2016 12:17 PM

SFC John Hill — Sun, 24 Jul 2016 12:17:23 -0400

First of all he signed a contract. If he fails to meet his commitments, and is chaptered out, what it says on his DD-214 will follow him for the rest of his life. Most job application forms will ask “Have you ever been in the military? If yes, include copy of DD-214."

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2016 12:40 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 24 Jul 2016 12:40:07 -0400

I had something similar happen in the Air Force. This person failed his PT test. He received a letter of Counseling and began his remedial PT. He was tested again and failed. He received a letter of Reprimand and continued his remedial PT. He tested again and failed a third time. He was discharged with a General Discharge. All during this time I informed him that if received anything other than a Honorable discharge he could lose benefits like the GI Bill and could impact his future employment opportunities . He did not want to listen and he did end up losing his GI Bill and some other benefits. I would highly recommend to that you tell your friend not to go down this road. It will end up causing him/her more problems later in life.

Response by SGT James Paige made Jul 24 at 2016 1:52 PM

SGT James Paige — Sun, 24 Jul 2016 13:52:40 -0400

How long is his contract? I would not fail a PT test. That will not do anything. He might get kicked out and then the reserves will not take him. And don't go AWOL either. Because they will put you out for sure and screw up his education and any VA benefits. The GI BILL and VA benefits are worth staying in for.

Response by SPC Roger Giffen made Jul 24 at 2016 5:12 PM

SPC Roger Giffen — Sun, 24 Jul 2016 17:12:07 -0400

The young man signed a contract. I would not want him in my unit if his word means nothing.

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Jul 24 at 2016 5:19 PM

Sgt Dale Briggs — Sun, 24 Jul 2016 17:19:49 -0400

What a turd, he should be embarrassed to be a non hacker, a guy who falls out on runs etc, whether intentionally or can't do it. it's not like the PT requirements are daunting IMO they're very minimal. He'd be a disgrace in back in the day, he might even get his ass kicked a bit. I'd cycle him completely out with a general discharge, and be done with the worthless shit. Why keep him in and get someone innocent hurt?

Response by SPC James Anderson made Jul 24 at 2016 5:56 PM

SPC James Anderson — Sun, 24 Jul 2016 17:56:18 -0400

My brother an I had a deep discussion about this topic, basically we wondered why the military doesn't give people more chances to get out. A lot of people get swayed into longer enlistments by the bonuses and 4 years can be a very long time when you find out you dislike something. Give people an out after basic, have them reup for AIT, then another chance to get out. A reup for 6 months of active duty. 6 months of active duty will show people if they are going to like it or not, then bring in 2-4 year enlistment bonuses. The military is not for everyone period. This would allow people who cant cut it or just don't like it to get out with no penalty and the people that end up staying in 4 years or more will probably be a higher quality individual and one more suited for the military. By the time your at the end of your first enlistment you would have needed to volunteer 4 times. That should weed out people like this easily.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 11:28 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 11:28:11 -0400

Very sad, grunts do not need boys like your friend. We need MEN.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 12:55 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 12:55:38 -0400

His DD214 will forever say failed to meet standards. I had a good friend who purposely failed the APFT to get out and to the day he died he never got over the shame.

Response by CSM Felipe Mendez made Jul 25 at 2016 1:00 PM

CSM Felipe Mendez — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 13:00:06 -0400

The army revise such policy years ago. Consientious objector is the only way he can get out under honorable discharge. Unless it has change again, he is out of luck

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made Jul 25 at 2016 1:04 PM

CSM Thomas McGarry — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 13:04:24 -0400

I certainly hope not!! One trouble with society today is that people sign and then no longer want to honor their obligations-I've found that in my military career those that fail in the military general y fail in life!!

Response by Carlos Sanchez Sr. made Jul 25 at 2016 1:46 PM

Carlos Sanchez Sr. — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 13:46:26 -0400

Give him a Dishonorable Discharge and begone with him!!!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 1:54 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 13:54:33 -0400

It is entirely possible if his 1st Sergeant will sign off on it. If he's a shit bag though, which I assume he could be, it's not gonna happen.

Response by SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres made Jul 25 at 2016 2:04 PM

SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 14:04:26 -0400

Your
buddy is a weakling, unfit to be an Infantryman ( which I am) and i don't think he should be serving in any capacity with his lackluster attitude and weak state of mind/being.... Yes, it may be a stretch; but your friend is weak-sauce in my opinion. Should kick his ass outside the gate of your base. Let your team leader know, if you love our Nation and the Army that fights for it - you will alert your chain of command so that they can police this turd up!!!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 2:16 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 14:16:49 -0400

tell your friend to quit being a pussy bitch and do his commitment like everyone else

Response by PFC Brock Hanna made Jul 25 at 2016 2:24 PM

PFC Brock Hanna — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 14:24:31 -0400

Not a guy I would want watching my back.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 2:27 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 14:27:10 -0400

This one is easy. He Being 11B there is not a lot of money being spent on his AIT or high security clearance. We do not want people on our teams that do not want to be there. Simple. I would assist him to make the transfer for the good of the Unit and himself. There are plenty of people that want to be where he is. Failing PT closes more doors.

Response by SGT Kyle Rascon made Jul 25 at 2016 2:40 PM

SGT Kyle Rascon — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 14:40:30 -0400

Yeah it's called suck it the fuck up.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 2:42 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 14:42:53 -0400

Please don't encourage a dirtbag that would purposely fail his PT Test to get booted to try the Reserves. If he can't fulfill his 2-3 yr commitment on AD, do the military a favor and just separate

Response by Sgt John Garrett made Jul 25 at 2016 2:51 PM

Sgt John Garrett — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 14:51:51 -0400

Is malingering no longer punishable under the UCMJ? I would tell your friend that this behavior is more likely to send him to a lower pay grade.

Response by Sgt Chris Lima made Jul 25 at 2016 3:35 PM

Sgt Chris Lima — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 15:35:05 -0400

A guy in my old unit wanted to get out BAD. He was not that smart, so his idea was to eat his way out. By his thinking, if he got kicked out for being fat, it would be better than just quitting. So he ate big macs all day and got very unhealthy and very fat. Then the command found out what he was doing and hit him with NJP (I forget what for) and put him on weight control (run for lunch).

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 3:42 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 15:42:24 -0400

Let your friend know that if he goes that route he risks getting barred from reenlisting. A new policy came out this year that states if I am correct that NOW a BAR can follow you from active duty to the reserves and national guard. I have a soldier right now in that situation and a reserve recruiter told him the reserves won't touch a soldier with a BAR.

Response by SFC Wayne Theilen made Jul 25 at 2016 3:48 PM

SFC Wayne Theilen — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 15:48:49 -0400

Don't need a troop like that watching my 6. Get out of my beloved Army

Response by PO2 Nasser Montes made Jul 25 at 2016 3:48 PM

PO2 Nasser Montes — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 15:48:51 -0400

The Dude should just man-up and finish his contract....!

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Jul 25 at 2016 3:48 PM

SGT Craig Northacker — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 15:48:58 -0400

I would think failing a PT test would have other ramifications - none of which would be good for him either short or long term.

Response by SGT Michael Davis made Jul 25 at 2016 3:49 PM

SGT Michael Davis — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 15:49:01 -0400

Is that worse than getting as close to a 180 as you can while in theater because the mitt CSM is the biggest tool you ever saw? CSM Johnson you know who you are if you're reading this you know what to do to yourself tonight.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 4:23 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 16:23:01 -0400

If he is chaptered negitivley his RE code is going to be a 2 at best, more than likey a 3. Which as a recruiter I can tell you he will not be eligible to enlist into the reserves or guard but McDonalds would probably hire him. Tell him to quit whining and finish out his initial contract and then he can get out and go into the reserves.

Response by MAJ Seth Goldstein made Jul 25 at 2016 5:32 PM

MAJ Seth Goldstein — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 17:32:52 -0400

This is the first real life lesson for your buddy. He signed the contract so make good on that. Not to mention he's an 11B and someday another soldiers may be depending on him to save his/her life.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 5:40 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 17:40:09 -0400

This is a huge problem throughout the army and its the NCOs who no longer want to put in the effort to try and motivate these soldiers he obviously wanted to be in at some point he just needs some guidance and discipline to regain that drive again no to be kicked out and let to essentially get screwed by big army I don't know the whole situation and I understand there are some lost causes out there but it's still worth a shot to atleast try to motivate him

Response by LCpl Steve Smith made Jul 25 at 2016 7:25 PM

LCpl Steve Smith — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 19:25:27 -0400

How many years is his contract? 2?

Response by SGT Kaye Fiorello made Jul 25 at 2016 8:38 PM

SGT Kaye Fiorello — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 20:38:20 -0400

Seriously? I guess neither of you realize the PT test is the same for active and reserve. All he will end up with is finishing his contract in the IRR, no pay due.....

Response by LCpl Steve Smith made Jul 25 at 2016 8:45 PM

LCpl Steve Smith — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 20:45:40 -0400

You Know what, I change my mind I don't want to know how many years his contract is. by the looks of it from everyone's response, tell him to get get out because no one here would want him in their fighting hole. The boy gets a grain of sand in his pussy and he wants to go home to mommy, Fucking worthless Boot. Sorry SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member but your friend is dead weight. I'm sure he's a good friend to you but as a Soldier, you know as well as everyone here he doesn't belong.

Response by SP5 Mark Hale made Jul 25 at 2016 9:13 PM

SP5 Mark Hale — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 21:13:50 -0400

Suck it up buttercup, if you can't handle 11 bang bang you won't handle any thing

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 9:44 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 21:44:35 -0400

Recycle his ass a couple times and then make him a cook if he keeps his dumb shit up. STOP CODDLING THESE FUCKERS!!! They are supposed to be Soldiers. What happens later down the line if you keep giving them what they want? Men might die because of this piece of shit, that's what. I can't even believe you're asking this question. Maybe you outta be replaced!!!

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 10:21 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 22:21:31 -0400

I would strongly urge you to inform your friend that intentional failure is not the solution. As others have said, he needs to suck it up and find satisfaction and fulfillment in the commitment he made. He is not very far into his contract and is most likely experiencing a serious readjustment to his new life and surroundings. He's far from home and even the awesomeness of Germany is lost on someone who might be homesick. As he gets into the rhythm of his job and makes new friends in his unit, he will find that his job will get easier and he may enjoy what he's doing. I would also recommend he talk with his Chaplain for some broader perspective.

Response by SPC Dennis Manning made Jul 25 at 2016 11:00 PM

SPC Dennis Manning — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 23:00:08 -0400

In my day, infantry was a 2 year commitment. I'm guessing it still is. Two years ain't squat. Do his time and get out. Tell him to suck it up, buttercup.

Response by GySgt Carl Munford made Jul 25 at 2016 11:32 PM

GySgt Carl Munford — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 23:32:36 -0400

He DOES need to "Suck It Up". If he fails the PFT or PRT, he will be on the "run for lunch" until he either passes or his current contract runs out. In any case, his life will be a living hell. His NCOIC needs to get knee deep in his shit and try and motivate this misguided Soldier.

Response by CPL Justin Hill made Jul 25 at 2016 11:50 PM

CPL Justin Hill — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 23:50:55 -0400

You know when I was getting my chapter 15 for my multiple times late to PT I thought maybe Active duty was not for me and then I grew a pair and changed my whole attitude and stopped hitting the snooze button! He will make a choice whether that choice is fail out or except his contract and pony up he will have to deal with the consequence that comes along with that choice! And for you being his friend you should encourage him to take advantage of all the resources the army has and he can walk out of his contract when it's over as somebody be cause he will be just another fish in the barrel trying to scrape by if he gets chaptered out!

Response by SFC Jon-Michael Britain made Jul 26 at 2016 12:44 AM

SFC Jon-Michael Britain — Tue, 26 Jul 2016 00:44:53 -0400

You advised him if he purposely fails the APFT and gets chaptered, the USAR or the ARNG may not want him. The best thing he can do is finish out his term and then join the USAR...

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 1:20 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Jul 2016 01:20:31 -0400

We do not want him unless he is willing to finish his current obligation and pass the APFT.

Response by SSgt Thomas Scott made Jul 26 at 2016 5:48 AM

SSgt Thomas Scott — Tue, 26 Jul 2016 05:48:07 -0400

Does he work for the same government that will change the terms of your contract or even extend it with out consent? Then why can't he use their rules to his advantage? If they didn't like him they would work to get him out. But heaven forbid he want to get out. They will work to make sure he can't. Bottom line is if he wants out and knows what to do, so what. Ball in their court. Do they keep him in? In the process get everyone at his job upset because he does a half ass job? Is it worth the time and effort? I don't think so.

Response by SFC Michael Poole made Jul 26 at 2016 11:52 AM

SFC Michael Poole — Tue, 26 Jul 2016 11:52:51 -0400

Sounds to me like your friend needs some additional PT training say 3-6 extra miles a day. 200 sit-ups and maybe an extra duty to keep him strong until he passes all his APFT's.

Response by SSG Ayron Hirschler made Jul 26 at 2016 11:55 AM

SSG Ayron Hirschler — Tue, 26 Jul 2016 11:55:46 -0400

Seriously, he made a committent by signing the dotted line. He should read the Army Values everyday until his next PT test and whatever he finds deep within himself will be revealed. Only HE can choose the direction he wants to go. I would hate to have another Patriot regret and exploited for a dumb decision.

Response by SPC Burst Mode made Jul 26 at 2016 12:37 PM

SPC Burst Mode — Tue, 26 Jul 2016 12:37:20 -0400

His "friend."

Response by SGT Michael O'Mahoney made Jul 26 at 2016 12:43 PM

SGT Michael O'Mahoney — Tue, 26 Jul 2016 12:43:15 -0400

Good fail your PT test. Bye Felicia!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 6:32 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Jul 2016 18:32:45 -0400

I would first ask why he wants to go the reserves? Second, I would ask maybe a different mos, 11b might not be his thing. Then if he continued to tank his PT test because he is just plain unhappy, coc

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 9:39 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Jul 2016 21:39:05 -0400

This solider has no military bearings !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! NO BALLS WEEKEND WARRIOR

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2016 8:10 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 08:10:32 -0400

Plus, the Reserves don't just take anyone. Even if he tells them why he wanted out, what does it tell them about his commitment issues? I wouldn't accept him. He probably wouldn't show up for Drill or AT.

Response by PO2 Brian Harringgton made Jul 27 at 2016 9:49 AM

PO2 Brian Harringgton — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 09:49:42 -0400

anyone who wants to fail a pt test to get out is a total looser there are many ways of getting out and so with the army the military should have height weight standards and phyiscal agility test before a recruit is considered for the job in the military i have seen peeps biger then sumo wrestlers in the navy and wonder how they pass there pt test let alone run a milie and a half am no runner myself and I weigh in 130 lbs at 511 but seeing whale she he blows is another story in its own self

Response by Ryan McMasters made Jul 27 at 2016 11:47 AM

Ryan McMasters — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 11:47:26 -0400

Aren't you allowed to request an ELS in your first year of service? Someone told me they did that when they decided the army was not for them. My BCT DS also used to preach that as a viable means of getting away from him, lol. Sounds like this may be the best for everyone in that situation.

Response by 1SG Chuck Schnepfe made Jul 27 at 2016 1:35 PM

1SG Chuck Schnepfe — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 13:35:39 -0400

I had a Soldier at Fort Bliss that was determined to get out like that. I explained early on that he had an obligation to fulfill and that if he kept on this path it would end in a Court Martial and jail. Low and behold he pushed it to that point. Failed APFT'S, repeated FTR, threw out all of his uniforms and finally struck a Senior NCO. 6 months in the brig at Quantico later, he got to get out.

Response by SSG Tom Fuller made Jul 27 at 2016 2:09 PM

SSG Tom Fuller — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 14:09:04 -0400

Article 115, UCMJ - Malingering

Response by PO2 Raul Opjeck made Jul 27 at 2016 2:15 PM

PO2 Raul Opjeck — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 14:15:15 -0400

Lets article 15 his lazy ass for dereliction of duty, smoke his ass for two months, bar him from reenlistment, then give him a general discharge.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2016 2:26 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 14:26:38 -0400

Shit i would take his place in the Active duty and he can take mine in the reserves

Response by Cpl Dan A. made Jul 27 at 2016 2:41 PM

Cpl Dan A. — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 14:41:24 -0400

Excuse my French. But why the fuck is this even a discussion? He wasn't drafted, he volunteered and signed the contract. Too damn bad if you don't like it, should have thought out the decision a little more... Too , shut up, do the job you ASKED FOR, and when your enlistment is up get the fuck out because if you don't want to than we don't want you to either.

Response by SGT Steve Farrington made Jul 27 at 2016 2:55 PM

SGT Steve Farrington — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 14:55:43 -0400

Sounds like it's time to send his lazy ass home.

Response by SPC Mike Moulton made Jul 27 at 2016 3:07 PM

SPC Mike Moulton — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 15:07:12 -0400

Change mos, and suck it up you signed the paper. My worst regret is getting out ( honorable discharge).

Response by SGT Aaron Hall made Jul 27 at 2016 4:07 PM

SGT Aaron Hall — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 16:07:27 -0400

The grass is not greener on the other side. I was HONORABLY DISCHARGED after fulfilling my active Army contract. I swiitched to Army NG and it has a whole new element of stupidity.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2016 5:45 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 17:45:39 -0400

If he fails a PT test, I don't think the guard/reserves would take him. If he wants to fail on purpose just to get out after only 7 months, he might as well finish his obligation in Leavenworth.

Response by CPL Terry Perry made Jul 27 at 2016 6:04 PM

CPL Terry Perry — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 18:04:28 -0400

Tell him to put his big boy pants on

Response by 1SG Kevin Henderson made Jul 27 at 2016 6:52 PM

1SG Kevin Henderson — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 18:52:46 -0400

Tell him if he can't hack it then why would the reserves even want him.

Response by A1C Peter Anthony made Jul 27 at 2016 7:26 PM

A1C Peter Anthony — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 19:26:31 -0400

Suck it up and act like a man! This is the real world ! Not high school!!! You should be proud to serve active duty for the finest army in the world and an infantryman on top of that!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2016 8:07 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 20:07:12 -0400

He's seven months into his first contract. So counting his OSUT, he's roughly around 4 months into his first duty station. Of course it sucks. Units are tough on the new Privates. Just keep your nose clean, do what you're supposed to do, stay motivated, and things will get better in time.

Response by CMSgt Mike Esser made Jul 27 at 2016 9:38 PM

CMSgt Mike Esser — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 21:38:19 -0400

Sounds like he needs a good mentor to help him with his oath and some career planning.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2016 9:43 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 21:43:01 -0400

As an NCO, I would be wondering what brought him to the point that he feels he must leave the service. What is going on with the soldier and can the issues be fixed to give him a better outlook and maybe help him strive to do his best? Sit down with the soldier and talk to him. Most of the time there are underlying issues that cause someone to get to the point of wanting out.

His leader should be mentoring and encouraging him and if there are other problems, they need to be brought to the surface with his leadership. If the problem stems from his leadership, he needs to use the open door policy to the next higher person in his NCO support chain and if that fails, start moving up the chain of command.

Response by Col Rebecca Lorraine made Jul 27 at 2016 11:51 PM

Col Rebecca Lorraine — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 23:51:02 -0400

Great advice to your buddy. That is a great way to take care of each other. That is what makes our military so awesome most of the time!

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made Jul 27 at 2016 11:58 PM

Sgt Charles Welling — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 23:58:59 -0400

He signed the line, he should have the honor to do what he committed to. Maybe honor is the problem. Oorah!

Response by MSG Andrew White made Jul 28 at 2016 12:27 AM

MSG Andrew White — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 00:27:43 -0400

HE IS A LOSER!!! HE WANTS CIVILIAN LIFE!!! HE TOOK A SPOT FROM SOMEONE WHO WANTED TO SERVE!! SEND HIM TO BE A COOK!!! HE WILL REALLY HATE HIMSELF!!!

Response by PO3 Jeff Webster made Jul 28 at 2016 1:57 AM

PO3 Jeff Webster — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 01:57:11 -0400

Coming from someone who didn't have the choice. I was discharged after failing to many consecutive PFT's. This was not due to laziness or wanting to get out. I had sustained a shoulder injury in May of 2005. Underwent physical therapy had waivers and still could not perform to standards. I still was honorably discharged but only because of the circumstances. So essentially let your fucking balls drop be a man and get on the ball or they're going to slam you out with a OTH discharge and than it can follow you around the rest of your life

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2016 2:21 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 02:21:05 -0400

Honestly, there's only two ways to get out of the military without ruining your career chances, and that's by waiting until your contract is up or retirement. In my case it was medical retirement. However, the modern military suffers from horrific morale and dismal pay, let alone the physical demands on the body. Leadership need to address this and stop being lazy. I was always plagued with poor leadership that were always looking for an excuse not to do their jobs.

Response by MSG Don H. made Jul 28 at 2016 4:55 AM

MSG Don H. — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 04:55:58 -0400

“Whoever does not have the stomach for this fight, let him depart, give him his money to speed his departure, since we wish not to die in this man’s company."

-William Shakespeare, Henry V, Act IV Scene III.

Response by SSG Gerald King made Jul 28 at 2016 2:03 PM

SSG Gerald King — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 14:03:31 -0400

When I was in Germany in 1968, we had a PFC that wanted out. He was in the ASA which was a 4 year enlistment at the time. He tried everything from acting crazy to goofing off. The CO told him that he signed up for four years and he was going to serve EVERY day of it - no way out. And, if he kept it up, he would just get more lousy details and maybe spend the balance of the 4 years in the stockade. I left Germany a few months after that and never did learn what happened to him.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2016 2:29 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 14:29:02 -0400

A Soldier like that needs to be seperated from the rest of the herd and put into another position where he can't infect others. I won't really consider the risk of having him around when the risks are high, especially on deployment if he has that mentality in garrison.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2016 2:29 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 14:29:57 -0400

First off it's not so easy to just get out of AD because you don't like it. Did you even read your contract that you signed? It was you who raised your right hand and took the oath right? Well your buddy, not you - sorry. Anyway, you must toughen up and just do your best - don't just give up because you don't like it - stick with it and fulfill your obligation and then see where you are at the end of that. Maybe you should've done your homework and tested the waters by joining the Guard or REserves first? Well too late for that now isn't it? Just be positive, focus on what is in front of you and do your best - don't give up!! It's not only you that you are letting down, it's your Country.

Response by CW3 Doyle Frost made Jul 28 at 2016 2:41 PM

CW3 Doyle Frost — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 14:41:17 -0400

This almost sounds like a mindset similar to that disgraceful Bergdahl. Don't think I would want any part of this young troop, if he, in fact, has not the basic fortitude to honor his voluntary committment. Have seen other comments, by wiser and sager voices than mine, but then again, none of us are there to see to this young troop. That is what it is going to take, senior intervention and management by his chain of command.

Response by Sgt Tom Beard made Jul 28 at 2016 4:10 PM

Sgt Tom Beard — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 16:10:29 -0400

He should do like one of my NCOIC's did. He got Fat Boyed out of the Army went right to the USAF recruiter and was in like Flynn. Hell they gave him a stripe to E-5. Sent him to Travis for a month of medical refreshers. Then up to Elmendorf AFB, where he became our NCOIC. He was replaced 3 months later much to our relief. Then 6 months later he was Fat Boyed out of the USAF.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2016 6:37 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 18:37:43 -0400

Most commanders in the reserves won't take him if he is flagged. Also, if he is 11B he will have to reclassify... But he is flagged... No school for him. Dead weight.

Response by PO1 Aaron Sporseen made Jul 28 at 2016 11:18 PM

PO1 Aaron Sporseen — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 23:18:52 -0400

Sure, he can fail his PT. And get bounced out completely, without chance of Reserve time. Or, he can do his Active tour and enlist in the Reserves. There's a reason it's called a contract.

Response by PO3 Darin Scherer made Jul 29 at 2016 4:04 AM

PO3 Darin Scherer — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 04:04:41 -0400

Let him flunk and get booted. An OTH or General will get you far in life. Maybe Assistant manager of a 7-11.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 6:05 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 06:05:09 -0400

Why are we giving advised to bonehead who don't want to stay active. Hell let him screw himself up and his life. I hope he fail and kick out.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2016 7:26 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Oct 2016 19:26:30 -0400

It's very easy to go from Active to Reserve you just have to have patience and wait for his term to be up then reenlist as reserve.

Response by SP5 James P made Oct 27 at 2016 5:50 PM

SP5 James P — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 17:50:53 -0400

From the other responses. I see a bunch of A-Holes. you are ht reason that people want to get out. You make the Army what it is and if you are the A-Holes you are in the is board then you are the one at fault not this guy who doesn't want to be there. You are the reason I got out. If you can not take a soldier and make him/her into the best they can be then you failed and you do deserve the rank you were.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made May 9 at 2018 11:09 AM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Wed, 09 May 2018 11:09:48 -0400

Your friend needs to adult up and complete his contract.