Can You Rejoin the Military After Being Honorably Discharged?
I had always dreamed of serving my country in the military. After graduating high school, I enlisted in the Army and served for four years. I was honorably discharged in 2012 and returned to civilian life.
A few years later, I began to miss the camaraderie and sense of purpose that I had found in the military. I started to consider rejoining, but I wasn’t sure if I was eligible. I did some research and found that there are several ways to rejoin the military after being honorably discharged.
Reenlistment
Reenlistment is the most common way to rejoin the military after being honorably discharged. To reenlist, you must have been discharged within 10 years and meet the same eligibility requirements as new recruits. The reenlistment process is typically faster and easier than the initial enlistment process.
Prior Service Reenlistment Bonus
The Prior Service Reenlistment Bonus (PSRB) is a financial incentive offered to prior service members who reenlist. The amount of the bonus varies depending on the branch of service, rank, and time since discharge. The PSRB can be a significant financial benefit and can help you offset the costs of rejoining the military.
Inter-Service Transfer
An inter-service transfer is another option for rejoining the military. This option allows you to transfer from one branch of service to another. For example, if you were previously enlisted in the Army, you may be able to transfer to the Navy or Air Force.
Inter-service transfers are not as common as reenlistment, but they can be a good option if you are looking for a change of pace. The inter-service transfer process is typically more complex than the reenlistment process.
Commissioning
Commissioning is the process of becoming an officer in the military. If you have a college degree, you may be eligible to commission as an officer. The commissioning process is typically more competitive than the enlistment process. However, officers receive higher pay and benefits than enlisted personnel.
There are several ways to commission as an officer, including through the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), Officer Candidate School (OCS), and Direct Commissioning programs. The specific requirements for commissioning vary depending on the branch of service.
Tips and Expert Advice
If you are considering rejoining the military after being honorably discharged, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- Research your options. There are several ways to rejoin the military, so it is important to research your options and find the one that is best for you.
- Prepare yourself. The reenlistment or commissioning process can be competitive, so it is important to prepare yourself. This includes getting in shape, studying for the ASVAB, and gathering your necessary documents.
- Contact a recruiter. A recruiter can help you with the reenlistment or commissioning process. They can answer your questions and help you with the paperwork.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about rejoining the military after being honorably discharged:
- How long do I have to wait to rejoin the military after being discharged? You can reenlist within 10 years of being discharged.
- Do I have to take the ASVAB again? No, if you previously scored well on the ASVAB, you may be able to use your old score.
- What are the benefits of rejoining the military? Rejoining the military can offer several benefits, including financial incentives, educational opportunities, and a sense of purpose.
Conclusion
If you are considering rejoining the military after being honorably discharged, there are several options available to you. The best option for you will depend on your individual circumstances. By researching your options, preparing yourself, and contacting a recruiter, you can increase your chances of successfully rejoining the military.
Are you interested in rejoining the military after being honorably discharged?
