Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 4/27/2008

Question
If i go green to gold will i have to stay in the army or can i switch to anothe branch of service such as the navy

Answer
Dear Lee --

If you go Green to Gold, you are a cadet in the Army's Reserve Officer Training Corps.  As such, you are eligible for all programs for which all the other cadets are eligible.  That means you can apply to have your commission in one of the other services when you graduate.  This is a very competitive program, and you will have to have studied a field that the Navy is looking for, as well as do very well in ROTC.  If the Navy does not accept you for interservice commissioning, you will have to serve your obligation with the Army.

If the Navy is where you are sure you want to be, and you are unmarried, you might try applying to the Naval Academy rather than going Green to Gold.  You could also apply for Navy ROTC, and if accepted ask for a transfer of service to complete your obligation as a Navy midshipman and then a Navy officer.

I wish you the best of luck with whatever choice you make.  Thank you for your service.