Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 9/2/2008

Question
Colonel Bedell,
I hope you can be of some assistance with a few questions I have.  First off, I am an Ensign in the Navy that is currently in the process of cross commissioning (Blue to Green).  I graduated from the Merchant Marine Academy in 2006 and have been working for Military Sealift Command the past 2 years.
I started the paperwork back in June and I am still waiting for answers.  My first question is what will my commitment be to the Army on Active duty?  I was told 3 years but have not read that any where.  Secondly, what will they do when the time to go is now?  I don't have any Army uniforms or other essentials that I may need.  I have been dealing with the HRC and they haven't been able to answer any of my questions.  Hope you can give me some guidance or lead me to someone who might know.  Thank you and have a great day!

V/R
Tyler Laverick

Answer
Dear Tyler --

Generally, you owe your new military branch the remainder of your existing service commitment, plus the service obligation associated with a permanent change of station move (usually a year).  That is probably why no one wants to give you a firm time period, because it will vary based on your current obligation and whether you need to move or not.

You should get a $300 clothing allowance to buy your Army uniforms.  Unfortunately, that will only help a tiny bit.  The Army requires officers to purchase and maintain their uniforms out-of-pocket after the initial clothing payment.

I am not sure what you mean by "what will they do when the time to go is now?"  Please write back and clarify, and I will try to answer.

You should be able to get more detailed information about the actual requirements of Operation Blue to Green by filling out the form at this web site:  http://www.goarmy.com/btg/index.jsp#Info

The folks that work this site are rated by accuracy and timeliness of their responses, so it is in their best interest to get back to you with the right answers.

Please write back if you have any additional questions or if issues arise during your transition to the Army.  Also feel free to write back, if you have questions once you are transferred, if you don't feel you have someone who can understand your concerns and still keep a fair opinion of you.  Thank you for your service to the nation.