Would you delete your Hawaii assignment in order to go to Fort Hood?

2015-05-24T15:57:37-04:00

I am currently on assignment to be stationed in fort shafter, HI. However, I am afraid that I will get bored very quick in Hawaii. I've never been to Fort Hood but I hear nothing but negative things about the place. I would like to go to Fort Hood because my sister and her husband are there. I am also not trying to be on a constant deployment rotation because I'm just getting off the trail and I need a break. In other words, I don't want to always be in the field or deploying all the time. Any suggestions?

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 4:03 PM

2015-05-24T16:03:13-04:00

Why would you get bored in Hawaii?

Response by TSgt Kenneth Ellis made May 24 at 2015 4:28 PM

2015-05-24T16:28:42-04:00

My first assignment was Elsworth South Dakota. I saw my first blizzard. I had to eat K rations for the next three days. No power no heat. And you are worried you might be bored in Hawaii. Lol.

Response by SPC Nathan Fanton made May 24 at 2015 4:54 PM

2015-05-24T16:54:43-04:00

Sounds like you need to make a pro-con list. And then give weight to each item either positive or negative. Putting stuff like that on paper can often help you see things that you would not have before. Hope you make a decision you will be happy with.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 5:58 PM

2015-05-24T17:58:15-04:00

Wow, The struggle is real. I visited out there and loved it. I was never stationed there but if you have family and can be with them that is something should be taken into consideration. I loved Hawaii. If I could go out there for a few years I would. The traffic is horrible. The shopping is bad. It is a very small island but I love the ocean. I could never get bored of the beach.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 5:59 PM

2015-05-24T17:59:21-04:00

Hood is another name for ghetto. But to each their own.

Response by SrA Daniel Hunter made May 24 at 2015 6:20 PM

2015-05-24T18:20:41-04:00

I have heard, the thing about being on an island in the middle of the Pacific is, you're on an island in the middle of the Pacific. I would pick Hood, but that's me. Having family there would be a nice bonus.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 6:42 PM

2015-05-24T18:42:12-04:00

Try something new. An open mind can make the best out of either assignment. Good luck with your choices.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made May 24 at 2015 6:43 PM

2015-05-24T18:43:11-04:00

I got one cookie offered to me by the Army at the 9.95 year mark.......Station of choice (based on what they have available at that moment). They had Hawaii and I was so happy. I called the now-ex, and she said ask for Fort Carson, CO. I turned down Hawaii and got Carson....then headed to Iraq. I went to Hawaii for a few weeks in 2010 and it is just gorgeous. Be warned, a lot of homeless in cardboard boxes, and those cardboard boxes could probably sell for $150,000. The place is not cheap. It is very beautiful. But in my opinion, the most beautiful place is Alaska. My wife says Singapore is very beautiful as well, but I wouldn't know....yet.

Response by LTC Gavin Heater made May 24 at 2015 6:59 PM

2015-05-24T18:59:23-04:00

I served in both HI and TX. HI was fun, but from 88-92 there was a lot of field time and missions to other Asian counties and JRTC. TX was less fun from 92-95, but Austin is fun and Dallas is not far either. HI is definitely very expensive. I was in S. Korea before HI in 87.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 24 at 2015 7:08 PM

2015-05-24T19:08:05-04:00

I understand, After 2 years at CINCPACFLT, I volunteered to do a year at NSGA Adak, AK. My DIVO and Chief let me know that they would have kept me in Pearl if I wanted but after 2 years I was burned out on the place.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 7:19 PM

2015-05-24T19:19:23-04:00

My first duty station was Hawaii and absolutely loved it. Never got bored, but it is all of what you make it. If you are adventurous and like to hike, snorkel, scuba dive, etc you'll be in heaven. Downsides: Op tempo is incredibly high on Schofield. Not sure about Shafter but I imagine much of the same. I wouldn't worry about boredom though. If you get tired of one island, hop to another.

Response by MSG Scott McBride made May 24 at 2015 7:26 PM

2015-05-24T19:26:39-04:00

Depends on what's at Hood. Otherwise, hell no! Hawaii was awesome.

Response by SSgt Charles Edwards made May 24 at 2015 7:37 PM

2015-05-24T19:37:45-04:00

1). Embrace the suck. That's the nature of military life anymore. Deployments are associated with service it might as well be issued to you.

2). Take advantage of traveling to places that would otherwise cost an arm and leg to live. The military is good about this. Hawaii is a nice locale for any service member and while the "honeymoon" may be over after two weeks, there are far worse places to be.

3). To curtail boredom, find a hobby. MWR at every base has something that could peak your interest. It's Hawaii for crying out loud.

4). It's understandable about the negative things you've heard about Ft. Hood. However, I believe a lot of it has to do with the shootings that drew national headlines for a few weeks.

5). I can understand being around family would be a nice little perk. My brother was in the USAF the same time as me and while serving with him would have been nice, being in the same unit or base would most likely get old rather quickly. Maybe your relationship is better, but space is everything.

In the end, my advice would be to take what assignments you're given. If you really want to go to Ft. Hood, try a remote tour. I honestly don't know how the Army operates when it comes to assignments, but going somewhere that is a mandatory one-year tour in the Air Force usually results in base of preference. Best of luck in your endeavor.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 7:38 PM

2015-05-24T19:38:23-04:00

I can't believe you actually asked this!!!! Hawaii is NICE!!!! 85 degrees everyday!!! If you are half way intelligent, then you will never run out of things to do there.

If you are one of those people who sit around then complain that there is nothing to do, then you'll be bored.

Go learn how to surf, dive, get a sail boat and go sailing, explore the other islands. I would go back in a heart beat.

Response by PO3 David Fries made May 24 at 2015 8:01 PM

2015-05-24T20:01:04-04:00

I was there for three years. It was awesome. However, my best friend hated it. Just like anywhere else, it is what you make of it. There is plenty to do if you want to look for it.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 24 at 2015 8:25 PM

2015-05-24T20:25:12-04:00

Ft Hood: Corps mandates, Division mandates, Brigade mandates, Battalion mandates and Post mandates. It has a big city feel to it. Motor pool road is several miles long.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 8:29 PM

2015-05-24T20:29:30-04:00

You should go to Hawaii not fort hood. I wish go back and slap myself for picking to leave Hawaii to come to "the great place" so called fort hood at the end it's what you make of it. Adivce pick hawaii

Response by SGT(P) Daniel McBride made May 24 at 2015 8:33 PM

2015-05-24T20:33:01-04:00

You'd enjoy fort shafter. I was stuck in scheduled myself. Big army attempts with not enough big army knowledge or big army budget. If you get shafter, you're blessed. I wouldn't delete it

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 8:35 PM

2015-05-24T20:35:29-04:00

The only fun thing about Hood was the surrounding cities Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, etc...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 8:38 PM

2015-05-24T20:38:53-04:00

I would, here's why:

OPTEMPO
The OPTEMPO in Hawaii is very high. If you have a family, I can tell you first hand it put a strain on my family greatly. I am less than 50 days from leaving Hawaii now, and out of the 4 years I've been here I am finally enjoying the island.

I've also been stationed at Fort Hood. There were good things and bad things about the assignment, it truly depends on you as well. I loved the education benefits there vs Hawaii. I'm not saying our mission wasn't as demanding, but Hood had a greater sense of family.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 8:37 PM

2015-05-24T20:37:18-04:00

Well, Fort Hood is known for constant deployments depending on the unit. Your MOS will most likely will get you slotted where needed. Personally, I would go to Hawaii to travel and see a new places. I've been to Fort Hood twice, Germany twice, and been stationed in Georgia twice. Try to see as much as you can is my advice.

V/r
Shawn Foster

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 8:38 PM

2015-05-24T20:38:28-04:00

Fort Shafter can also take you to 307th Sig. You can also be redirected to 25th, etc...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 8:41 PM

2015-05-24T20:41:31-04:00

HEEECKKKKKKK NO. Hawaii is the TRUTH!! Never bored, all you have to do is leave your house.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 8:43 PM

2015-05-24T20:43:45-04:00

I'm currently at Fort Shafter, recently PCSed here from Fort Hood. A couple of things:

1. U.S. ARMY Pacific Command is a four star command. There are minimum deployments with only TDYs and some six month rotations to Korea

2. If you are heading to USARPAC, it will be a great career experience especial if you have been brigade and lower most of your career. You will be exposed to things from a operational standpoint.

3.Fort Hood is not a bad place, however the consistent deployments over the years has affected unit discipline and moral across the instillation. It will not be a horrible experience, you will just want to head out of town every chance you get.

4. You will note be bored in Hawaii. There is a lot to do on the island and the atmosphere, especially at Shafter is closer to the pace you are looking for compared to scholfield or hood. I've deployed twice in the last three years and this is the break I needed.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 8:41 PM

2015-05-24T20:41:56-04:00

I was stationed in Hawaii. I love it when I was there. It also helps cause I'm from there. But army it was best duty station I've had. Great PT spots. The morale was always good. I'm stationed at fort hood now. I'm been here for almost 4 years. It's not to bad here. I heard a lot of bad things about hood and 3 CR before I got here. But this assignment is running neck and neck with Hawaii. I think it's fort hoods pace gets everyone. I thought I knew my job prior to coming here. But I really learned it here. It has opened up a lot of opportunities for me and my family. Just have to think it through what best for you and your family. Now my chapter in fort hood is coming to an end as I get ready to pcs. I would return to the great place if they asked me to. Good luck with you decision.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made May 24 at 2015 8:50 PM

2015-05-24T20:50:11-04:00

Can't say that you gave enough info. Knowing the specific Hawaii assignment vs the Ft Hood specific assignment would help. Depending on unit and position, deployments could be relatively similar.

Assuming both are a wash professionally, Basing it purely off location, I would pick Hawaii.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made May 24 at 2015 8:50 PM

2015-05-24T20:50:51-04:00

If you go to Hawaii get into some hobbies like hiking, photography, and learning about the culture that surrounds the area. Don't go to Fort Hood. I have been there. Hawaii is paradise compared to the Hood.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 8:59 PM

2015-05-24T20:59:02-04:00

Go to Hawaii!!

Response by SFC Justin Rooks made May 24 at 2015 9:02 PM

2015-05-24T21:02:37-04:00

Honestly, I wouldn't delete Hawaii for Hood. I have been there twice and I can say that you would enjoy it. That being said, you have to make the choice best for you and your situation. There are few places you will go and not get caught up in a deployment rotation, unless it's recruiting or the trail. My best advice is to go, enjoy the time you have before you deploy with your family, deploy, come back and pick up where you left off. Make lemonade out of lemons!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 9:19 PM

2015-05-24T21:19:56-04:00

Hell no. Been to both. Loved Hawaii and hated Fort Hood. Keep in mind that I am something of a homebody, so your mileage may vary. If you're the type who needs road trips and family visits all the time Hawaii may not be for you. BUT, people who never visited you before will suddenly find reasons when you = Hawaii. :)

And of the three and some change years I was stationed at Fort Hood I was deployed for two of them.

Response by SGT(P) Patrice Martinez-Simpson made May 24 at 2015 9:21 PM

2015-05-24T21:21:41-04:00

No. Just no. I will tell you in all honesty Ft. Hood is not the place to be. I have been stationed at hood for a few years now and there are some incredibly painful things I'd rather do than be here. Family can always come to visit you. Y'all can meet up anywhere you like. Once you're at Ft. Hood however you're likely to be stuck there for a while. Deployments also tend to be a constant thing around here.

Response by SGT Ronnie Warford made May 24 at 2015 9:29 PM

2015-05-24T21:29:42-04:00

I have never personally been to Hawaii but I heard good things. I am currently at Fort Hood and what I can tell you is it is what you make it. There are tons of things to do and plenty of opportunities for your career. Fort Hood needs quality NCO's and you could make a great impact on the soldiers you have under you. At the end of the day though you choose what's best for you and that is respectable. GO CAV !

Response by MSG Martin C. made May 24 at 2015 9:32 PM

2015-05-24T21:32:55-04:00

I would not go to Hood unless I had no choice. Hawaii is one of those places I have never heard anything negative. The field is something you are going to have to get used to be in, Before 9-11 that's all we did FTX, and NTC as far as deployment goes is the name of the game after recruiting I had to go back to Iraq after Drill I got in a Broadening assignment and our tempo is no different we are either out the door or working 12hr shifts. It's the military no such thing as a low tempo, chilling assignment at least for me.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 10:02 PM

2015-05-24T22:02:08-04:00

I understand the family standpoint, but at the same time, the Great Place will drive you crazy. If you're down for going to NTC so that you can go to Korea and the Ukraine, come onto the great place. However, a buddy of mine who came from Hawaii wants to go back because of PACOM and USARPAC. Why? He enjoyed the TDYs all over Southeast Asia as well as to the Philippines & Australia

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 10:23 PM

2015-05-24T22:23:24-04:00

Take Hawaii and enjoy the weather

Response by MSG Gerry Poe made May 24 at 2015 11:03 PM

2015-05-24T23:03:13-04:00

Started my career at Hood and spent a significant amount of time there. Not a bad place.

Response by SGT Robert Hawks made May 24 at 2015 11:04 PM

2015-05-24T23:04:02-04:00

Go to Hawaii you'll have a great time Fort Hood is nice but Hawaii is awesome.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made May 24 at 2015 11:07 PM

2015-05-24T23:07:18-04:00

Personally, I'd take the assignment to Hawaii. But that is just me. I have heard that Hawaii does not appeal to everyone. Locals aren't always the friendliest. Folks who have wanderlust do tend to get island fever....although getting off the island really isn't all that hard to do. BUT there IS a lot to do. If you are into watersports (surfing, swimming, scuba, kayaking, etc) it's paradise.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2015 12:19 AM

2015-05-25T00:19:37-04:00

Under absolutely no circumstances. I have been stationed at Hood, and while you might be "bored" with Island life after a bit, you are still next to the Ocean, which means the beach.

Response by LTC David S. Chang, ChFC®, CLU® made May 25 at 2015 12:23 AM

2015-05-25T00:23:57-04:00

I have lived in Hawaii for almost 13 years now and love it. It is true that some get island fever, but think of of this way, enjoy as much as you can, the beaches, surfing, food, pineapples, hiking, and the other great things found in Hawaii and not elsewhere.

Many people dream of coming to Hawaii but can't afford it or find the time, but you have the best of luck by getting it! Fort Shafter is a decent post and while we have bad traffic, but you can learn how to avoid it.

Basically being stationed in Hawaii is a chance of a lifetime and the experiences is something you won't regret. Even if you get island fever, you will be out in a couple of years and have the memories that most dream of!

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made May 25 at 2015 12:46 AM

2015-05-25T00:46:32-04:00

I spent three years in Hawaii and I absolutely loved it. Beautiful beaches, hikes, etc. As an added bonus, MAC flights leave quite often departing to various destinations, so it is pretty easy to get off the island if you don't want to pay for normal airfare. If you respect the locals, you won't have any issues with them either (well most of them anyway). I still have some pretty high ranking friends who are there, let me know what unit you are going to be assigned to and I will see what I can find out for you.

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made May 25 at 2015 12:57 AM

2015-05-25T00:57:09-04:00

Life is too short to pass on opportunities like Hawaii. Doors do not open twice.

I only visited Hawaii once and loved it. I purposely stayed away from Fort Hood

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2015 1:04 AM

2015-05-25T01:04:35-04:00

At Fort Hood, you'll constantly be in the field, especially in Cav. I've been at Hood twice. There are great things, good things and bad things. It's great that your sister and Brother in law is at Hood though. You would have an escape to get away from the ridiculousness at Hood. The area itself is not bad. Plus there's a lot to do in Texas. Its really up to you. The only thing I liked about Hood is that I met life long friends I now call my brothers and sisters who will always be a part of me. if I had the chance to take Hawaii, I'd take it. How many chances do you get to live somewhere tropical or travel. It's why I chose Germany. Why not see the world. Not so easy to travel to these places unless you have money saved to take numerous trips.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2015 1:46 AM

2015-05-25T01:46:35-04:00

Do not come to Hawaii!!!!! Don't do it!

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2015 2:25 AM

2015-05-25T02:25:07-04:00

Since I currently live in Hawaii I feel I have to comment and offer my advice. I have been in Hawaii for almost 2 years and can not wait to leave. My reasons for wanting to leave are mostly professional in nature and not necessarily because of the island.

The Good - The island itself is great if your an outdoors person. Hiking, the beach, water activities, and visiting the different islands will keep you busy if you spread it out and try not to do everything within the first year. There is an abundance of Japanese and Korean food on island as well as the local foods. You are also close to Australia and New Zealand and I hear Vegas flights are not to expensive. Family will be calling out of nowhere to come visit you so you can save money that way. Also, being stationed at Ft. Shafter puts you on the nicer side of the island in my opinion because most of the fun stuff (night life, Waikiki, famous tourist attractions) are in Honolulu. Ft. Shafter has all the high ranking personnel so expect to salute a lot but I would rather be there then at Schofield Barracks. I don't think you have to worry about the field much being over there, but if you get diverted to the 25th then prepare to be gone a lot from what I here.

The Bad - Traffic is horrendous everywhere so patience is a must. The roads here are not in great shape outside of Waikiki so make sure you keep up with maintenance on your vehicle. Once you live here you will begin to notice how expensive everything is off post, especially the closer you get to Waikiki. Expect a dinner for two to cost at least $100. Shop on post or at Sam Club and/or Costco if you want save some money. You can get tired of the beach. Expect to live Aloha while your here meaning everything moves slower (especially people), no one is in a rush which takes a while to get used to.

Overall, I would choose Hawaii if I was in your shoes because this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to live were most people dream of just spending two weeks. Your experience will be what you make of it. Do your research and good luck to you.

Response by SGT Michael Cunningham made May 25 at 2015 5:56 AM

2015-05-25T05:56:45-04:00

SSG Melvin, I was at Schofield, HHB DIVARTY 25TH Inf Div. and couldn't have asked for a better duty. Plenty to do on your off time , food and people are great, and for me it was extra special since I have family on Oahu. I've been to Ft. Hood on training exercises with 1st Cav and 2nd AD , and I would pass on Hood if I had the chance. Good Luck !

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2015 7:44 AM

2015-05-25T07:44:47-04:00

I've never been to Hawaii, but I have been stationed at Hood. It was my first duty stations, and the Drill Sergeants had a field day with that. "Ha ha! PV2 Houde is going to Hood!" (My last name is pronounced "Hood," in case that wasn't clear.)

Hood wasn't all bad. There is plenty to do there. Traffic is decent in contrast to the other places I have been. Austin isn't too far away, and there is so much to do there. But, if I had the choice between Hawaii or Hood, Hawaii all the way.

Also, I don't know your MOS, so I wouldn't be able to comment on your possible duty assignment.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2015 8:23 AM

2015-05-25T08:23:29-04:00

nope

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made May 25 at 2015 8:26 AM

2015-05-25T08:26:08-04:00

Omg no way. Do not turn down Hawaii. I was there for a few years and it was amazing. Please go to Hawaii...you will thank us later!

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2015 8:45 AM

2015-05-25T08:45:13-04:00

don't let the motto fool you.. it's definitely not the great place. take Hawaii. I pcs from Hawaii to Ft hood now almost two deployments later in 3yrs

Response by SGT Scott Bailey made May 25 at 2015 10:49 AM

2015-05-25T10:49:54-04:00

I live right outside of Ft. Hood. It depends on your MOS. If you have an MOS that keeps you outside most of the time, I would go to Hawaii because the heat here is unbearable. Personally, I would go to Hawaii because when you ETS you will be in CONUS and you could go to Texas anytime. Or, go to Hawaii and choose Hood for your next assignment. You can have both. But once you're on the main land, it's very expensive to go to Hawaii. Go see your sister after you return from Hawaii. Just my opinion.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2015 12:26 PM

2015-05-25T12:26:31-04:00

Fort hood as kinda grown on me now after two years and since I have built some connection here. As a lower enlisted point of view, it all comes down to the senior leadership you end up under. To me Hawaii has less micro-management compared to fort which is a big base with there divisions and a lot of eyes on it. So rules here can be stupid sometimes but with lots of people you get more statistics issues and bunch of policies to try and mitigate those issues.

Response by 1SG Brian Allen made May 25 at 2015 2:04 PM

2015-05-25T14:04:13-04:00

I would take the Hawaii assignment. It would be an opportunity of a lifetime. Perhaps a Fort Hopd assignment could be worked out with your Branch Manager afterwards.

Response by CW3 Craig Linghor made May 25 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-05-25T14:18:04-04:00

Hiking, surfing, SUPing, trail running, kite surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, camping, biking, island hopping, kayaking, eating shaved ice, eating from food trucks, eating tons of spam musubi, sushi, etc, etc. Hawaii all the way.

Response by SFC Charles W. Robinson made May 26 at 2015 2:28 AM

2015-05-26T02:28:54-04:00

No,

I loved my Fort Hood assignment. I was there for five years.
I also loved my assignment in Hawaii. I was there for 2 1/2 years.
Hawaii was my last assignment before retiring after 26 years of service.
It was a great way to finish off my career.

You can deploy from either location - so deploying has nothing to do with location.
I deployed twice from Fort Hood.
I was slated to deploy from Hawaii, but I did not due to medical.
Good thing too, it turned out that a tumor had returned.

I loved both locations though and miss the military dearly.

Response by SFC Walter Mack made May 26 at 2015 9:41 AM

2015-05-26T09:41:19-04:00

I would, but I am brain damaged. I would hate to be stuck on an island with no land of my own (acreage), and Hood is pretty close to a lot of my family. It really just comes down to priorities.

Response by CW4 William Van Almsick made May 26 at 2015 12:58 PM

2015-05-26T12:58:08-04:00

After reading all of the posts, not one of them suggested looking at your career progression. I understand that SSG's are not slotted into an assignment until arriving at the in-processing station but you could be talking to your branch assignments section and see what potential job openings there would be for an E6 at whatever post you are considering.

Promotion boards do look at assignments and how much "boots in the mud" time you have. If it is close to promotion time, might be something to consider.

Response by SA Harold Hansmann made May 26 at 2015 2:07 PM

2015-05-26T14:07:28-04:00

GO FISHING!
How many different species can you catch? What's the largest of each species that you will catch

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2015 4:28 PM

2015-05-26T16:28:17-04:00

Only because the Austin, Texas area is home.

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made May 26 at 2015 5:29 PM

2015-05-26T17:29:25-04:00

I rather be at hawaii for my assignment.

Response by SFC Joseph James made May 26 at 2015 6:48 PM

2015-05-26T18:48:24-04:00

Nope. I've visited Hood and didn't like the area. Never been to Hawaii so....Hawaii all the way! Wars will end, but memories last a lot longer! Aloha!

Response by BG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2015 7:10 PM

2015-05-26T19:10:14-04:00

Sounds like a pysch eval is in order. How could you even compare the two?

That said, expect to go on a lot of exercises to several countries if you are assigned to a BCT. The Army is very big on showing their relevance to the re-balance and ensure that people don't think of PACOM as strictly a Navy-Air Force realm. Lot's to do in Hawaii and make sure you visit all the islands. Each one is very different with tons to see and explore.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2015 10:40 PM

2015-05-26T22:40:39-04:00

No! Seriously, I have been trying to get to Hawaii my whole career and I would drop Hood or any other assignment to take Hawaii. I am from Texas and I would still take Hawaii over Hood.

Response by SA Harold Hansmann made May 26 at 2015 11:11 PM

2015-05-26T23:11:18-04:00

Wish I could have gone to Hawaii lots of fishing, hog hunting, snorkeling, Ladies in bikinis, fishing, traditional Hawaiian foods, Korean foods, and did I say fishing.

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made May 27 at 2015 12:01 AM

2015-05-27T00:01:01-04:00

I have done both and enjoyed both. Never was bored at Hawaii and would never give it up. Hood is easy to get and is in the middle of a a great state.

Response by SFC Stephen Carden made May 27 at 2015 12:39 AM

2015-05-27T00:39:29-04:00

I wouldn't delete an appointment for a proctology exam to go to Ft. Hood.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 27 at 2015 12:39 AM

2015-05-27T00:39:06-04:00

Um.... not a chance.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2015 5:51 AM

2015-05-27T05:51:56-04:00

1st Cav was my first duty station. The Killeen/Copperas Cove area are not the greatest areas to live in if you are not going to live on post. Multiple rotations from units to NTC or JRTC. Wx is very humid hot and most likely pt in the rain. you'll have to drive to do anything (Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth).

Response by SSG Branyn Burkhart made May 27 at 2015 12:31 PM

2015-05-27T12:31:38-04:00

What?! Seriously? If you have orders to Shafter, GO! You can go to Hood anytime, trust me. Hawaii is not as easy to get assigned to as Hood. Do Hood in the future. You will not regret Hawaii. I was at Shafter and loved it. You usually will not deploy from Shafter (never say never), and time spent in the field will be minimal if at all. Getting Hawaii and Ft. Shafter is like winning the lottery. Take it and enjoy.

Response by SSG(P) Brian Kliesen made May 27 at 2015 12:51 PM

2015-05-27T12:51:02-04:00

No, just No to Fort Hood. I am sure that you will have all manner of friends and family that will want to visit you in Hawaii, and there is so much to see and do in the islands. But in Fort Hood? If you have a choice, just say no to Hood.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2015 1:14 PM

2015-05-27T13:14:36-04:00

I'm currently in Hawaii and if you had the opportunity to come here I would take it especially going to shafter with it being a 4 star billet now if you were coming to Schofield or Wheeler I'd tell you go to Hood you have a opportunity I wish I had

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2015 1:38 PM

2015-05-27T13:38:41-04:00

I personally had nothing but great experiences at FT Hood, however, I would caution you as to being stationed there fresh off the trail. If you think Shafter has a high optempo then you definitely would NOT like Hood. All of their BCTs and DIV HQs are either in the field or rotating in and out of Afghanistan, Iraq and even Kosovo. I deployed out of hood twice in the three years I was there. Loved every minute of it, but I think at this point you will have to weigh the pros/cons. I heard "island fever" sucks, but there is a lot to do. And from what a CSM I work with said, your "field" time in HI is in places like Thailand, Phillipines, Guam and the surrounding countries working with the nationals there. I would get in touch with people at both places to see what exactly is happening in either location. Especially if you have pinpoint orders or at least know what BDE or BCT you are going to in Shafter. Best of luck to you!! :)

SSG Smith

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2015 2:24 PM

2015-05-27T14:24:57-04:00

I am at Shafter now. I am less than a year from leaving. What is your MOS? I will be able to tell you a little about what you will be doing and where you would be if I knew that. There is basically no field time at Shafter and it is nothing like the trail. I left Bragg and came here and it took me a long time to readjust. A long time.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2015 5:47 PM

2015-05-27T17:47:59-04:00

My experience in military assignments is that some people will enjoy wherever they're assigned and some will complain about wherever they're are assigned so you enjoyment depends more on your personality than on the location. I've had two assignments in Hawaii and one at Fort Hood and found both to be great places (then again I enjoyed three years at Fort Irwin too, so maybe I'm not a good judge of fun places to be). For what it is worth I spent more time deployed from FT Hood than from Hawaii, but that will depend more on the specific unit you are with than the location. I was never bored in Hawaii - it is true you can't jump in the car to go see your family on a long weekend which is a downside, but we found plenty to do to keep us happy and occupied. I love Texas BBQ, but I have to say the food was even better in Hawaii. If you enjoy outdoor activities, particularly anything water related, I'd definitely recommend the Hawaii option. If you want to buy a house, establish TX residency, and pay no state income taxes for the rest of your career TX may be the way to go. Either way your options are good.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2015 5:54 PM

2015-05-27T17:54:57-04:00

Fort hood is terrible, I would never change for Hawaii, I have been here a year and spent most of my time in the field and already an Ntc rotation, morale is low here, unit cohesion is bad, deffinatly would go to Hawaii and be bored if I had the choice, deffinatly some good soldiers here and good friends but I would more than likely take any assignment to pcs somewhere else

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2015 7:43 PM

2015-05-27T19:43:26-04:00

HELL NO!!! I'm hoping to return to HI for my next assignment. :-)

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2015 11:40 AM

2015-05-28T11:40:19-04:00

I've been stationed in Hawaii for two and half years and dread the day I have to leave! Like you, I was worried about experiencing island fever; but thankfully I haven't. Every weekend here is like a vacation.

Having an assignment to Shafter in my opinion is the best location. You are centrally located on the island which could help with getting a head start against traffic.

My one and only chief complaint would be...the traffic. Hawaii is Ranked 2nd worse out of the entire U.S. You really have to plan your day around daily traffic. It can be a perfect day with pristine driving conditions; and you are still guaranteed to have a couple of accidents on the highway.

despite all of that, I still love living here. Warm weather year round, and a plethora of activities to explore.

Unfortunately I have no experience with Fort Hood, other than knowing you're not too far of a drive from Austin and San Antonio.

Good luck on your decision!

Response by SGT Kristin Wiley made May 28 at 2015 1:14 PM

2015-05-28T13:14:59-04:00

Personally, I don't like Hawaii. I came from Fort Bragg, and trying to transition from a high op tempo to the Hawaii garrison environment (island fever) is very difficult. Standards are higher at Fort Bragg, and it's difficult for me to see SM's who struggle to run a mile somehow pass their APFT. With the number of military based on Hawaii, there is a lot of senior leadership. I would say it's a more friendly environment to them. I sit at a desk all day, while my previous unit is set to go on another deployment. I look around me, and the junior enlisted have been on multiple deployments while the a lot of the seniors have an empty shoulder. I don't feel like my leaders understand the need to take care of their soldiers or develop camaraderie. The island is overcrowded, overpriced, and geographically isolated. I've never been to Fort Hood, so I can't provide an accurate comparison.

Response by SSG James Arlington made May 28 at 2015 3:27 PM

2015-05-28T15:27:02-04:00

I own a home in Hawaii, sista. Aloha!

Response by Sgt Israel Zinns made May 29 at 2015 2:23 AM

2015-05-29T02:23:31-04:00

If you like road trips (like a lot) you may miss that, but there is a ton to do on the island. Plus flights to the other islands for 4-day weekends are pretty cheap. It sucks if you want family to visit or you want to go home just because of the cost, but it's worth the life-experience. Some people never get a chance to go to Hawaii. The E-club on the Coast Guard base, called The Hideaway, is the best E-club on the island. Honolulu gets old after a while, but Kelley O'Neil's and Coconut Willy's never got old for me! Besides, depending on your MOS and what's going on in the world, you won't spend the whole time in Hawaii!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2015 11:15 AM

2015-05-29T11:15:23-04:00

Please, please, please take the assignment to Hawaii. Fort Shafter is gorgeous and you will get bored at times but your experience will be worth it. I was stationed at Fort Hood several years ago and you will have numerous deployment and the post the best but not the worse. It does not compare to Shafter. Take my advice and take the assignment.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 24 at 2015 2:17 PM

2015-06-24T14:17:45-04:00

I wouldn't delete an assignment to hell to come to Ft. Hood. First indicator that the "Great Place" isn't so great is deploying in the near future but don't know when, where, for what, the mission. I knew that deployhing out of Ft. riley before I even came to the unit. There are more details than I've ever experienced EVER in the Army. Flag Detail, Corp Guard Detail, CSM's detail, post clean up detail, we're bored so lets have a ceremony detail, and any other detail you can think of. If you can NEVER come to Fort Hoood, it has literally made me decide to hang it up.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2015 3:00 PM

2015-11-11T15:00:05-05:00

Do not hesitate take the Hawaii assignment; ship a car that is good on fuel, take the opportunity to travel in and out the island ...learn how to scuba diving, paddle boarding, and do not forget to go to the LUAU's. Do a good job stay busy and go to school get a degree if needed, you will see the time will go fast. Enjoy the culture and foods visit all the military bases and just enjoy the opportunity is once in a lifetime I love it there...I think you will enjoy. Just stay out of bars and some rough places at night time. For the most part I guarantee you will have fun and your family if you go with them enjoy the beautiful ocean and good weather during Christmas Season...

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 20 at 2015 12:19 PM

2015-11-20T12:19:42-05:00

The Army Gods are saying go forth and enjoy a new duty station.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2015 5:52 PM

2015-11-20T17:52:58-05:00

You lost me at "I don't want to be in the field or deploying all the time"...

But no... I wouldn't trade Hawaii to hood. Just personal preference.

Response by TSgt Pamela Cleere MRP, SRS, ABR, CRS, GRI, Realtor, RB-22176 made Nov 23 at 2015 6:44 PM

2015-11-23T18:44:05-05:00

Aloha Nicole, Wish I saw your post earlier. Where did you end up going? Mahalo, Pamela

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 28 at 2015 3:19 PM

2015-11-28T15:19:38-05:00

Once upon your lifetime the big Army grants upon you an opportunity to go to Hawaii because it thinks you don't have a life now. Enjoy Hawaii.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 12:01 AM

2016-02-24T00:01:07-05:00

I'm at Ft. Hood now and I'd canoe to Hawaii if I had orders there!!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2016 3:19 PM

2016-05-27T15:19:14-04:00

Unbelievable...... Take a break? I PCS'd from Ft. Riley to Ft. Hood and came down on orders while deployed.... Being on the trail for me would be a break. I can't believe that you as a SFC would even post this here. I haven't had a "break" since 2009 and there isn't one on the horizon. I am currently on orders to Ft. Campbell so where is my break? You might be thinking to yourself, well you're Infantry but no I'm a 25B, soon to be a 25D. You want a break retire or ETS and let someone willing to do the job and all that it encompasses get the promotion.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2018 5:54 AM

2018-02-15T05:54:24-05:00

Hellllll Noooo!!! I was at Ft Hood and Hawaii at Wheeler Army 3/4 CAV. Both duties were cool but Hawaii hands down.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2018 8:43 AM

2018-02-15T08:43:12-05:00

SFC Melvin, I wouldn't turn down Hawaii for Fort Hood,Texas. My family loved Hawaii and it is my favorite duty station. Yes, your stuck on an island ,bit it is inexpensive to travel to the other island and you can use Space A o Hickam AFB to get to the West Coast of the U.S or to Asia. I used to volunteer at the USO so you can trust my word on this. I understand family is important which is one of the reason why I will be moving closer to family. However, I join the military to travel to see the world. I have accomplished that goal by going to Germany and Hawaii. If I don't ever go back to those places I can die a happy man. Because I was able to see those places without pay a cent to get there. I don't know how long will live ,but I was able to scratch one of those things off my bucket list. Well, I hope you choose Hawaii. Best of luck to you.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2018 5:03 AM

2018-02-16T05:03:21-05:00

I was stationed there and it was a tremendous experience. You won't get island fever that bad because 25th is always deploying. This is a once in a lifetime chance. Texas is easy to get to. Go live in Hawaii and earn your electric strawberry

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Feb 16 at 2018 5:32 AM

2018-02-16T05:32:45-05:00

I'd have surrendered my left one for an assignment to Hawaii. I lived on O'ahu for two years when working and was the best two year working vacation of my life. If you're afraid you would get bored, you need to get out of the damn house. The only time I saw something more than once was when relatives came to visit and wanted to see something.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Feb 16 at 2018 12:31 PM

2018-02-16T12:31:20-05:00

Hawaii versus Fort Hood, your kidding right? You talk about boredom? Yeah let me know about the exciting times in downtown Killeen & Copperas Cove, or the great 2 PX's at the Army's 2 division post. Or better still, let me know about all those beauties at Belton Lake, or better yet how many hours does it take to get to Austin? I think the Male to female ratio is what 5k to 1. Sorry I would not even have to think about this one.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2018 3:39 PM

2018-02-16T15:39:37-05:00

NO.

Response by SSG Robert Ricci made Oct 31 at 2019 8:12 AM

2019-10-31T08:12:45-04:00

Absolutely! As a military policeman Fort Hood Texas unfortunately has one of the highest crime rates. But if you're a cop you want to go where the action is. Now they pulled us for various actions abroad. That's part of what we signed up for is combat support. But nothing happens in Hawaii except maybe a stolen Hawaiian shirt. LOL. The cost of living is higher in Hawaii and even as beautiful as it is I wanted to be a cop. It was a great duty assignment. We were 3 Corps and not stuck out in the field all the time with 2nd Cav.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2020 5:00 PM

2020-05-04T17:00:22-04:00

Hawaii is the perfect place to get the break you need after getting off the trail. I highly recommend taking advantage of it!

Response by SFC Randy Hellenbrand made Oct 25 at 2021 9:14 AM

2021-10-25T09:14:53-04:00

I'd never go to Hood from what is going on.