Have You Already Served in a Branch of Military Service?

Soldiers & sailors with prior service in the US military find that re-enlisting with the military offers benefits and advantages that were not previously available. Many issues go into making a decision such as this, but many former service members find this to be the best path to follow in their lives.

Many programs and opportunities become available to the prior service member that are otherwise no offered. There are many different factors having an influence on which of these program and benefits one is qualified for, but it could be worth time to explore.

How do I qualify for Prior Service programs?

Your possible qualification for Prior Service programs offered in the military will vary from branch to branch, and varies also according to the training you received previously and the job training you are seeking with re-enlistment. You may or may not be asked to complete a new physical and new ASVAB. There may be other conditions that must be met as well.

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Can I change services?

Most branches of the United States military accept applications from former service members coming from another branch of the military. Different facets of your prior service record will be taken into consideration while your new military branch locates an appropriate job or position in which to place you. Prior military experience is highly sought after, but there is the possibility your previous military career may not fill any of the openings currently available in your new branch of the service.

Will I have to repeat Basic Training?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Different issues have a relation to whether or not you will be required to go through boot camp or basic training once again. It is also sometimes possible to re-enlistment into the same branch of the military that you just separated from. This also might mean you would be able to avoid re-doing basic training. With re-enlistment into a new branch of military, especially if your new job will differ from your old job, chances are pretty fair that you will have to complete basic training again. A recruiter from the branch of the military you want to enter is an excellent source of information such as this.

Will I keep my current Paygrade?

Again this would depend on different factors surrounding your re-enlistment and your previous job description and training. As with basic training issues, the chances are good that your pay would remain close to the same if you re-enlist with the same branch of the military and are carrying out the same duties. On the other hand should you re-enlist with a new branch of the military and will be learning a different job, you may not draw the same pay as before. A recruiter would be able to address these questions for you.

Will I keep my military benefits?

Enlistment into a different branch of the military will not affect your benefits and may in fact make you eligible for additional benefits! The benefits you earned, including medals, awards and other qualifications stay with you during your service in the armed forces. Accumulated time in the military goes toward your retirement and GI Bill requirements. In addition, any bonuses, college funds or other incentives that prior service afforded you are retained intact during your time in the service.
What do I do now?

Request information using our form on the left. Make sure that you check "YES" when asked about prior service and GET GOING!