What's it like going from Army to Marine Corps?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 20:02:54 -0500

I'm considering making the change from the Army Reserves to the regular Marine Corps. My time in the Army is (supposed) to be over this month, so I feel like it's time to buckle down and decide. I already know the gist of it; Lose my E4 (to E2 at best) and repeat IET, so there's no need to point that out.

What I'd like to know is people's personal experiences with doing this. Specifically, what are the pros and cons?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2015 8:08 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 20:08:04 -0500

You might be able to get E-3. You will have to go through basic training again. But other than those it is a big difference in mentality. In the Army you are a Soldier but in the Corps you are a Marine. And that title is something you have to earn and own. I did the reverse I went from the Marines to the Army and to this day I still catch myself using Marine terminology and still have that Marine state of mind. I won't say it's a night and day difference but the mental and physical aspects are just that. Look on YouTube for the video drill sergeant vs drill instructor and that is an accurate portrayal of the differences in basic training. If you do switch I will say good luck.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2015 2:09 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Dec 2015 02:09:11 -0500

I have no idea, because I would never consider doing such a thing, lol.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2015 1:40 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 Dec 2015 01:40:46 -0500

I went from the Marines Corps to the National Guard to the regular Army. If you were a active duty soldier I soldier I would advise against it. Before you make a final decision to get out of the Army make sure you talk to a Marine recruiter to ensure you can switch. I did back in 06,07 and its was an ordeal to say the least.