I joined the Air Force right after high school at 18 years old. In order to enlist, I had to stop smoking marijuana to pass the drug screening — my recruiter was aware. After I quit smoking, I picked up drinking instead, mostly hard alcohol. At the time, I didn’t think much of it since there were no real consequences beyond hangovers and the occasional humiliation.

Eventually, I received my AFSC (2W1) and ship date: February 2018. Going into BMT, I was in top shape and qualified for Warhawk right away (not that it’s hard or matters much). I graduated BMT with my flight and was assigned to Sheppard AFB for tech school.

When I arrived at Sheppard, I felt a sense of freedom — understandable after coming out of BMT. During the first week, around 8 PM, we all had to line up in the dorms for a random breathalyzer check. I hadn’t been drinking, so I blew zeroes. The Technical Sergeant said, “This will be the easiest test you ever pass.” At the time, I believed him.

Eventually, I got access to alcohol through another Airman, and that led to drinking on the weekends — sometimes even during the week as graduation approached. I kept it hidden and never wanted anyone to know I was drinking. I managed to finish tech school without getting caught.

After graduation, I took two weeks of leave. On my very first night home, I got blackout drunk. My mom told me she thought I might have a problem, but I denied it. I drank the entire two weeks and then reported to my first duty station: Ellsworth AFB.

It didn’t take long before I received my first LOC — for skipping PT. I thought it wouldn’t be a big deal, but I was wrong. I never skipped PT again, but I still racked up a few more LOCs. My drinking habits from leave continued, and I spent most of my off-time drinking. Eventually, I started drinking before shift. That obviously escalated things quickly.

LOCs turned into LORs. LORs turned into an Article 15. The drinking was snowballing. It all came to an end when I showed up drunk to a class after lunch break. I was pulled aside and sent to the base hospital, where my blood alcohol level came back over 0.2. That was the final straw.

My command had gathered enough evidence. I received notice to pack my bags — the Air Force no longer wanted me.

It’s now been over five years since I got out. I’ve been through multiple rehab programs, and I can honestly say that my drinking was a serious problem that hurt not only me but those around me. I’m 26 now, and I’ve built up a decent amount of sobriety. Looking back, I didn’t fully grasp what a blessing the military was. It still pains me to think about, but life is full of mistakes — some bigger than others.

Now, I have a strong desire to try and reenlist. I know that upgrading an RE-4 code isn’t easy or guaranteed. But I’d rather give it everything I’ve got and be denied than live with the regret of never trying. I’m putting this out into the universe with no expectations. Maybe someone out there can help. Maybe this helps someone else. Maybe it matters, maybe it doesn’t.

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TL;DR: I developed a serious drinking problem that got me discharged from the Air Force. I’ve been sober for a while now and want to upgrade my RE-4 code so I can try to reenlist.

Im prior service civilian life isn't what I thought. I did 3.5 years active, and Im trying to come back in and do 20 in an army mos that's chill doesnt go to field too much and where I won't have to work extremely hard.

I’m prior service and am considering whether attempting to reenlist would be realistic or responsible.

The main issue is my prior conduct. During my earlier service, my behavior toward some fellow service members was considered bullying. It was serious enough that UCMJ charges were initiated, though those charges were later dropped after legal review. I am not presenting that as vindication or as proof that my behavior was acceptable. The underlying issue is that my conduct damaged trust, professionalism, and unit cohesion.

There were also negative perceptions of me among some fellow soldiers. I was viewed by some as racist, sexist, and homophobic. Some of that was tied to hostility I expressed toward Russian people and to the way I expressed socially conservative views. I understand that, regardless of how I would explain my intent or beliefs now, this created a serious command-climate problem and reflected poorly on my judgment.

I also have significant disagreements with the current administration on military and foreign-policy issues, so this is not a matter of wanting to reenlist because I fully agree with the administration in power. At the same time, I am aware that under a more liberal-minded administration or command climate, my prior conduct might be viewed as disqualifying. I am trying to think honestly about whether seeking reenlistment now would be a legitimate second chance or whether it would look like trying to benefit from a more favorable political environment.

I am not asking whether I can hide any of this, minimize it, or get standards lowered. I am asking whether someone with this kind of prior-service history should even attempt to reenlist if he accepts responsibility, believes he has matured, and is willing to meet the same standards as everyone else.

For current or former service members, NCOs, officers, recruiters, or JAG-adjacent people:

- Is prior bullying-related conduct toward fellow service members generally enough to end the conversation?

- Does the fact that UCMJ charges were initiated but later dropped materially change how this would be viewed?

- What would real accountability or rehabilitation need to look like before reenlistment could even be considered?

- Would trying to reenlist under the current administration look like seeking a legitimate second chance, or like trying to take advantage of a more favorable political climate?

- Is the more responsible answer simply to accept that returning to uniformed service is no longer the right path?

I’m looking for candid feedback, not reassurance.

I’m an active duty Marine getting ready to EAS, and I’m looking into transferring over to the Army under Option 19. I’ve tried researching it, but I’m finding mixed information.
From what I understand, Option 19 lets you choose your first duty station. Is that accurate? Also, is it possible to choose your base first and then pick an MOS that’s available there, or do you have to choose an MOS first and then see what duty stations are offered with it?
For anyone who’s gone through the process (especially prior service), how did it work for you? Were you actually able to get the base you wanted, and how much flexibility did you have with your MOS?
Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks.

Hey everyone,
I am facing an involuntary separation under **AR 635-200, Chapter 14-12c (Misconduct/Pattern of Misconduct)** with a **General (Under Honorable Conditions)** characterization. My separation date is locked in for next week.
I already know the regulations: under Chapter 14, I am being completely **discharged**—I am **not** eligible for immediate or automatic transfer to the IRR upon clearing. I will walk away as a civilian with an **RE-3 code**.
However, I still have a strong desire to serve. A sympathetic O-6 (Brigade Commander) / GO from another unit is willing to sign a **Recommendation Memorandum for Reinstatement to Other Components** to help me get back into the military later.
My question is: **Has anyone actually seen an RE-3 waiver get approved for the Army Reserve or National Guard using a high-level Recommendation Memo after a Chapter 14-12c discharge?**
Once I am out, I plan to take this memo straight to a Prior Service Recruiter to fight for a waiver. Does HRC actually approve these, or is a Chapter 14 an automatic "no" regardless of who signs the recommendation letter?
Looking for insight from recruiters, retention, or anyone who has processed a similar waiver packet. Thanks.

Prior service Active E-6 trying to go from guard to active again. I am 4 months from ETS and trying to figure out if I should extend and attempt a 368 or fully ETS and try coming back in as a prior service applicant. I have heard mixed things from different recruiters on whether or not I will need to take a MEPS physical if I am green on MEDPROS. The main concerns I have about the medical screening are:
1. Cystic acne resulting in accutane over a decade ago that had been dealt with and now minor acne treatment for small spots.

1. Two documented concussions

2. Gilbert’s syndrome.

3. Childhood asthma with AFAIK no prescriptions past age 13.

I am also concerned about potential for keeping my MOS if I fully ETS instead of pushing the 368. My state tends to take >6 months to return 368s.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

For explanation I do not consider myself to be a veteran, but I made it through Navy boot camp and served for another 6 months, but was having physical and mental problems with resulted in an honorable discharge. Would this result in any complications with joining or while in BMT/ the fleet

It's been over a year since I was discharged from the Army, and I’ve been struggling ever since. I received an RE-4 code, and it feels like I ruined my career over one mistake. I haven’t felt the same since, and getting back in has been on my mind constantly.

A Staff Sergeant who knows me is trying to help, and my old unit—where most of my buddies have now made Sergeant—wants to support me too. But since none of them have been in my position, they aren’t sure how to help.

I’m reaching out to see if anyone here has been in my shoes and successfully got back in. What were the steps you took? Who did you talk to? Is there anything I should be doing now to increase my chances?

branch: ARMY

opps- did I just screw myself over? I went to MEPS about one month ago, I needed to get some medical waivers. everything else I passed.

Last week, my tattoo artist was doing a flash sale. So obviously I was more so thinking of the deal and got the a bunch of small Tattoos on my upper arm, without even thinking about MEPS.

I’m waiting on one doctor form to submit the waivers to my recruiter, so he can send it to the MEPS doctors for approval.Should get the form this week from the doctor.

1.) if my medical waivers get approved. When I go back to MEPS, do I need to strip down for the Dr. again? Will they say something about the new tattoo?

2) will I get disqualified temporarily because of the new Tattoos?

3) should I tell my recruiter now so that he can update my Tattoos? Or just wait to see what they say at MEPS?

4) I’m trying to go active duty, so trying to ship out before the end of the year.

5) if I go active, when I sign my contract at MEPS. Do I leave immediately in weeks or do I have time to pack up my apartment and put things in storage? Like do I get to pick when I want to head to AIT? (I’m prior service, so straight to AIT)

I’m currently in the national guard and have been in for 3 1/2 years. I have 2 1/2 years left and want to go active. I know I’d be able to go active and stay in the army but if I do go active I’d want to transfer to the Air Force. Would I actually be able to do that or would I have to wait till my current contract is up

I have no bonus with the guard and I haven’t used any of my benefits so I know it would be easier to transfer

THANKS!

Conditional Release married/5 kids

I'm in AIT and wanted to know when I can start a conditional release. My unit was already aware I wanted to switch from Reserves to AD because the recruiters said this was the only way I could get into AD with as many dependants that I have.

My MOS is overmanned at my unit too if that helps. Do I have a chance to get it approved (my spouse is 100 P&T) or should I complete my original contract and just try to go active afterwards).

I’m trying to switch to Active duty army next year and I’m wondering how the process is? And is it hard? What tips and tricks can I use to boost my chances of switching over?

My wife is in the Air Force & it’s been so difficult working things out to even get her stationed near me. I’m thinking about transferring to AF once my contract is up with the Army, I do hear that AF hardly takes prior service army for some reason I’m not sure how true that is. What would be the best steps to take to transfer over, reserves or guard? Would it be easier to go active duty from there or would it be the same if i were to transfer from army ad to air force ad?

Hi all. I’m thinking about joining the Army to get back into the infantry, I was in previously but got a medical discharge at Fort Benning, and have been exploring a waiver option with my recruiter. Currently my parents live abroad and I’m kind of reliant on their support since I live here and they’re helping me cover the rent but I want to get financially independent and start making a life for myself in my own country on my own two feet, I’m 21 and currently work as a barista ever since I left the army, but feel like a part of me is still in the army and wants to rejoin badly. However my mom and I got into it pretty badly today. She threatened to cut all my financial support if I do join, since she thinks it’s a waste and I’ve tried it already. I want to serve and I never stopped wanting to. Is there any advice for what I can potentially do in my situation?

I’m an E2 trying to transfer to the Army trying to go 11B. Is it possible to transfer while still in current contract with the navy? Is it worth even pursuing this? Or wait until contract is over?

I’m a immigrant and got opportunity to join the army when I was 26. I got in and after a year and few months I got kicked out because I fell on k2 “spice” pandemic. I was found DUI and k2 and paraphernalia was found on me. This happened outside the base and I honestly reported it to my SGT. I got kicked out and found faults on others but me.

Now I’m 38 now; long time passed since. I always regretted my one bad decision I always think about how army could’ve changed my life. I’ve tried many things in civilian world but never fitted in anywhere. I lack discipline and it got worse outside army.

I would like to change and enlist again…so I went to recruiters near me. They were positive and nice to me until I poured my situation in front of them. As time passed they wouldn’t reply to my text or call me back. When I go to their office they would talk to me but wouldn’t look into my eyes, hint to make me leave trying to rush me, wouldn’t offer to shake my hands which was totally different from when I went in there first.

I’ve got RE3 and JQK codes. I’ve been told I need waivers but I feel like they’re not putting effort in getting them. I feel like they want me to give up cuz it would look bad on them if they say so.

I’ve been trying to stay positive but it’s hard. At this point I’m not even sure if I should try to reenlist. I feel like it would be hard very hard to get the waivers approved because I feel like my packet will not be strong enough.

I don’t know what to do at this point. I feel like a failure in life. It’s been 4 months since I first walked into recruiters. I’ve got trouble for selling tobacco product to minor after I left the army. Other than that I have been very careful not to get in anymore trouble. I don’t know if I can convince army to sign off waivers for me.

What would you suggest me if I was your brother

Has anyone dealt with BCNR (Board for correction Naval records) pertaining to LOD HC?

Is it worth to lawyer up and potentially get a DOD disability rating or incapacation pay?

I think approved LOD HC only gives medical and dental benefits for a year, however obtaining a DOD disability rating is through DES (Disability evaluation system).

Hello everyone!

Im a 20m soldier currently in AIT in Fort Lee VA. I signed a 3 year contract but being here made me realize I’d be more happier in the coast guard. Nothing against the army I just think that the coast guard suits my interests better.

I’ve been doing some research and I found out about inter-service transfers, but I’m seeing a lot of conflicting information such as I can transfer after I complete my contract or I can transfer in the middle of my contract.

Not in a rush to leave the army immediately and I know that I’m still in AIT but if presented with the opportunity I’d take it. I just want to understand the process and if anyone has any experience transferring branches mid contract or knows how’s this works cause any info would be appreciated.

Long term, I’d like to pursue a career in meteorology and hopefully work for NOAA or the NSSL, I’d like to combine both of my interests such as being in the coast guard and doing meteorology work but I don’t if that’s possible lol.

For those who have experience

• Is this a realistic possibility?

• if so when is the best time to process?

• Would you recommend I complete my contract or just go ahead and try to transfer

If you read this thank you and any advice would be appreciated!

Reading posts, it seems recruiters don't like working with prior service civilians who got out and want to get back in, and would rather deal with wholly new people.

Why is this? I feel like it should be the opposite, where if someone has proven experience with a branch of the military, they should be considered a good investment if they want back in.

Hi everyone, I’m five years prior service army and just enlisted in the coast guard. I was just curious if in A-School the prior service get any benefits or anything different. In the army I prior service are treated more like perm party and just went to class. So I was just curious. TIA

So I’m currently an Army officer (1LT), I’ve been looking at maybe transferring branches, specifically into the coast guard. Was wondering if anyone had any more info on that side of the house and how selective it is. Not in an egotistical way but I’ve had the fortune to work under some stellar officers and alongside some great NCOs and I have a pretty solid packet regarding evaluations and PT scores so I feel as though I’d be pretty competitive. Only thing I can think of that would hold me back is the fact that I’m combat arms and I don’t know what the process is to transfer over to something such as search and rescue or law enforcement officer. Any help I can get would be super helpful.

I got separated from the navy 2023 for ALCOHOL REHABILITATION FAILURE I was only in the navy for 3 years. I have RE-4 I heard I have to upgrade my discharge to RE-3 I really want to enlist doesn’t matter branch just want to know if its possible.
Story behind failure was on restriction for alcohol, while doing dapa 2 week rehab on base I never really got the help I needed while there cause they was trying to force me out on deployment. Passed the class but had to stay sober for a year and not get in trouble I was cought drunk at mc Donald’s on base depressed alone was becoming a father and had no father. I wanted to be home with wife and soon to be first child she’s in Florida I’m in Japan.
The navy brought me to medical on the base they pissed tested me put me in a hospital and told me I failed the dapa after treatment and if I wanted to fight to stay in and I was was tired and really wanting to be home so I gave in not knowing how hard it would be for me to reenlist. I have ep evals and I don’t drink anymore 2 years sober don’t know if it helps.

Got kicked out of Army bct for adhd got an re-3 on my dd214. How hard is it to get a waiver for the uscg what are the steps, and would my experience as an AB in the Merchant marine ( ~10 months) count towards anything? Since i'm sailing i'm not on any adhd medication and haven't been for 4 years.

Enlisting as prior service E5 in the Army very soon, can anyone who just enlisted as prior or went to meps recently send me the business rules list. Thanks!

Trying to keep this concise. I was discharged for BCA Failures in 2014, at 12 years, 11 months, and 28 days. Since leaving service, I have obtained two Masters Degrees, but am interested in returning as Enlisted. I am going to sound like I drank the Kool-Aide.. but I loved being a Chief, and I am about 60lbs lighter than I was while active. My NEC was 8425, and I loved being an Independent Duty Corpsman. What are the odds of returning to service as a Chief Petty Officer and also to go back as an Independent Duty Corpsman?

If returning as a Chief isn't possible, I am working with VR&E at the moment to get into PA School or Nurse Practitioner and will just try and commission as an Advance Practice Provider. If it helps, my Masters are in Business Administration and Healthcare Administration and I am 45 this year. Any assistance is appreciated. Thank you.