USMC Reserves trying to go Active, what's the process?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 17:43:09 -0500

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?

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2015 6:47 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 18:47:36 -0500

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.

Response by Sgt Alan Voracek made Dec 23 at 2015 9:52 AM

Sgt Alan Voracek — Wed, 23 Dec 2015 09:52:44 -0500

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!

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Apr 13 at 2018 11:30 PM

Capt Daniel Goodman — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 23:30:11 -0400

https://www.thebalance.com/united-states-marine-corps-platoon-leaders-course-3332801

I realize this wasn't wharnyoud asked about, howecer, I just thought I'd send it, on the off chance you might not have heard of it. !I didn't kmowmifmyoud wanted to go this route, or how far you'd gone with an associates or bachelor's get, however, I just thought you might possibly find it of interest, it tends to ne less!well kmownmtham the ROTC or OCS programs....

US Marine Corps Platoon Leader Course: What You Need to Know

The Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Course (PLC) is an alternative for NROTC or OCS for college students who wish to become commissioned officers.

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Apr 13 at 2018 11:30 PM

Capt Daniel Goodman — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 23:30:42 -0400

http://www.ocsfoundation.org

I thought you might also find this of interest, as well....

OCS Foundation

SERVICES FOR: Candidates Alumni Officer Families

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Apr 13 at 2018 11:31 PM

Capt Daniel Goodman — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 23:31:17 -0400

There's a section in it on USMC OCS, of you might care to glance at it....