Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 10/13/2008

Question

Hello, I'm 40 years old and did 7 years Active Duty in the U.S. Navy from JUL1986-OCT1993, Honorably discharged under medical conditions in October of 1993 with the "disability" being diagnosed as "LBP-(Low Back Pain)", Considering Re-enlistment. I did receive a severance of $19,189.80 which should be close to being paid back. I got out as an RM2(SW) and also carried the 9545 NEC (Security Specialist) I would greatly appreciate some insight on rather or not I'd be eligible for Re-enlistment, would it be difficult, would I have to do Basic Training again, and can I actually go UP one in Rank to E-6 or at the very least retain my E-5 rank? Also is the Navy offering any re-enlistment bonuses for either of my 'specialties" currently? Sorry for the length but I wanted to be as thorough as possible in my question so your response can be same. I appreciate it and thank you so much in advance.

Answer
Dear British --

I can only answer part of your question.

You are eligible to re-enlist up to age 49 with an age waiver.  Forty-two is the oldest age you can enlist, but since you have 7 years prior service, that counts towards your maximum re-enlistment age.

Because your discharge was for medical reasons, you will need a medical waiver to re-enlist.  You will also have to pay back your severance pay.  Further, if your re-entry code is 2 or more, you will need a waiver for your re-entry code.

It is unlikely you will retain your rank, due to the long period of separation.  You definitely are not eligible for a promotion unless you have gotten an advanced degree in a field in which the Navy is conducting targeted recruiting.

If your security clearance is still current, that gives you a slight edge in re-enlisting.  If it is not current, you are no better off than a new recruit off the streets.

You will have to do a form of refresher basic training, since your separation has been longer than three years.  Usually this training is with other more seasoned recruits or returning service members that had a long break in service.  But the timing of your re-enlistment will dictate which type of class you attend.

Good luck to you, and thank you for your service.