Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 4/19/2008

Question
Hello and Good Evening ma'am I am a PFC in USMCR and I am currently stuck in a mos that I dont care for and I also wish to go active duty. Currently I am a 3521(AOM) in the Motor-T field. I wish to switch to the infantry and active forces if possible, even if that means switching to the army. I dont care what I have to do, I want to "fight" for my country not sit around with nasty reservists who fall asleep in trucks, hide from ncos, and avoid work during drill. This is not what I joined to do PLEASE HELP, I am desperate! Good Evening MA'am

Answer
Dear Kevin --

I am sorry that you are in a less-than-stellar reserve unit.  You should be able to volunteer for active duty in the Marine Corps, and ship overseas with a currently deployed unit.  You should contact your billeting officer or NCO, and ask for an active billet.

If the active Marines cannot assist you (no billets available).  You should be able to use the "Blue to Green" program.  This program allows you to transfer from the Marines to the Army while maintaining your rank and your time in service.  The Army is actively seeking many military occupational specialties, and will work with you to determine which is best for you.  If you change specialties, you will have to attend advanced individual training in that specialty, but then you could go to a unit with orders to deploy overseas.  This program is specifically for active service personnel, but you can explore your options and request a waiver, if you are truly interested.

To explore the Blue to Green Program please visit this website: http://www.goarmy.com/btg/index.jsp

I wish you the best of luck, and thank you for your service.