If the Army is trying to downsize then why can't Soldiers voluntarily be released from active duty?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Mar 2014 17:00:00 -0400

If the Army is trying to downsize then why is it impossible for Soldiers, like myself who have everything set up for after seperation, to be released from active duty. My MOS is overstrengthed last i checked. My ERB has me as a surplus soldier. I have a $36,000 scholarship waiting for me on top of the GI Bill i have earned.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Mar 18 at 2014 6:12 PM

SGM Matthew Quick — Tue, 18 Mar 2014 18:12:06 -0400

It's all about timing...would you be willing to separate early and lose your GI Bill benefits?

Response by COL Randall C. made Aug 27 at 2014 1:52 PM

COL Randall C. — Wed, 27 Aug 2014 13:52:45 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member, if you are within 180 days of your ETS, the Army has started the Early Voluntary Early Separation Program which will be in effect until January 2016: http://www.armyreenlistment.com/Messages/MILPER/Enlisted_Voluntary_Early_Separation_Program_14_002_20140102.pdf

Response by SrA Joshua Hagler made Sep 1 at 2014 1:04 AM

SrA Joshua Hagler — Mon, 01 Sep 2014 01:04:11 -0400

Its purely because you want to get out, Air Force does the same thing. If you want out and have a life outside of the military, they do everything to keep you. If you want to stay in and have a life inside the military, they will do everything to get rid of you. At least this has been my experience.

Response by CW3 Dylan E. Raymond, PHR made Sep 1 at 2014 7:36 PM

CW3 Dylan E. Raymond, PHR — Mon, 01 Sep 2014 19:36:59 -0400

My recommendation is take some courses while you are on active duty and use TA. Dont waste time waiting to be released. At the end of the day you should be able to list the things that you got while serving in the military and hopefully it matches the goals for wanting to join in the 1st place.

Dylan