Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 9/8/2008

Question
Hello Mama,

 I have a friend that was promoted to the rank of SSgt in the Air Force in 2004, but due to some problems he was demoted to the rank of SrA. He has one more time to take the Waps test before he reachs higher tenure, but because of a bad EPR, it's not looking to well. He has four 5 above the bad EPR, but the bad EPR is still hurting him.

 The question I have is this, I know he will get an honorable discharge, but I was worried about what  reenlistment code he would get? He was also looking into join the navy if he doesn't pass the test this time, but if he have 12 years in the air force, would he be able to join the navy?  

Answer
Dear John --

It is possible to do an interservice transfer while still in the service.  It would be better for your friend to try to do the interservice transfer before his mandatory discharge.  He would have a better chance of maintaining rank, and of getting the occupational specialty he wants.

However, both the Navy and the Air Force are drawing down, so the Navy may not need his skills at his current rank.  He is more likely to get a transfer approved, maintain his rank, and get a good specialty if he transfers to the Marine Corps or the Army.

Good luck to him and thank him for his service.