I was told that as a prior service, basic would be different in some aspects. I just want to be prepared. What will be different?

PFC Kyle Frank — Fri, 06 Mar 2020 19:09:13 -0500

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2020 7:12 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Mar 2020 19:12:47 -0500

I agree as I am preparing as well to go back to BCT

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2020 11:04 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Mar 2020 23:04:04 -0500

I know of someone who was an E5 when they went back to basic. He still went through everything that the privates went through. Of course with being an E5 though, he definitely got treated with respect by his fellow comrades. I know if the drill sergeants would have heard otherwise it would have been a mess. The drill sergeants actually spoke to him when he got there and told him that they respected the rank he achieved and what not, but had to complete the training with the company all the same. I hope this clarifies.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 7 at 2020 2:30 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Mar 2020 02:30:52 -0500

The difference is that you will be older (probably) than those in BCT....and also that you've been thru BCT before while they have not?

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 7 at 2020 9:41 AM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Mar 2020 09:41:03 -0500

Ever watch the movie "Groundhog Day"? Meet the new boss, same as the old boss. Totally new if you're going USMC.

Response by SPC Richard Zacke made Mar 7 at 2020 9:39 PM

SPC Richard Zacke — Sat, 07 Mar 2020 21:39:40 -0500

PFC Kyle Frank When I went through Army basic we had several prior service and they were seperated right when we got off the cattle car. Later I got to know one and asked him about it...he said they took them aside and had a talk about what not to say about BCT...I believe his name was SSG Taylor and he told me that because of his rank he was'nt expected to finish BCT but he was former SF and loved the PT. He out ranked our junior DS and was the same rank as our senior DS. It was kinda funny.

Response by Cpl Bernard Bates made Mar 8 at 2020 12:04 AM

Cpl Bernard Bates — Sun, 08 Mar 2020 00:04:59 -0500

I joined the army after 4yrs in the marine corp. I was CPL. I had to give up a stripe to PFC. I requested to go thru basic training in the Army. They wouldn't let me. I went from Pfc. to SP/5 in 13 months. That was in 63-66. If you joined the Marine Corp as prior service in another branch you would have to go thru Boot Camp. When the Marine Corp started drafting because of Vietnam. An enlistee could make Sgt. in 4yrs. If you were drafted into the Marine Corp. You could not reenlist. Semper Fi.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2020 5:23 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Mar 2020 17:23:51 -0400

Being prior enlisted, you know there’s a regulation for this. As a current Drill Sergeant, I advise that you look up TR 350-6, Chapter 4-15 (p66). There you will find the answers in black and white. With regard to overall treatment, you will be viewed separately than the IET population and will more than likely be given more responsibility in efforts to assist the cadre. Take advantage and maximize your time reliving BCT by perfecting the basics and assisting your fellow Soldiers as they endure the Army culture for the first time. Be a leader. Be remembered for all the great things. Leave an impact. Good luck and hope this assists you in your future efforts. DM me if you have any other questions.