Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 1/19/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I was a former Marine in 2001, I got out 2005 with an Honorable discharge and RE 1 A...my problem is I have a daughter, she's 6 and my husband and I are going through a divorce...and jobs now are difficult..so my decision was to join the Navy this time I hope..the problem is I got NJP when I was in, but my DD 214 is good to go..and would I have to retake the ASVAB..?  my MOS was supply warehousing/admin..and I didn't really get a high score on it..what would you recommend? and I'm still within weight and in shape. Thanks..

ANSWER: Dear Aiyan --

You should be able to enlist again with no problem.  Your NJP will not be an issue, your discharge and re-entry code allow you to re-enlist.

If you want to try for another specialty, study and take the ASVAB again.  If not, you should be good to go, if the Navy needs your skills.  

Since you have been out more than 3 years, you will have to take refresher military training.  Also you might have to enlist at a lower rank than you had when you were discharged.  You should gain rank back quickly due to your experience and prior service.

Either enlist while you are still married, or get your parents or someone else you trust to care for your daughter until you are done refresher and specialty training and assigned your first Navy duty station.

Good luck to you.  Thank you for your service.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thankyou for taking the time to answer my questions, actually I have another question relating to the matter, if I join the Army would it be better because it's almost like the Marines, or should I strive for going to the Navy?

Thankyou again,

Answer
Dear Aiyan --

My personal preference would be for the Army, because it is a land based service.  Much of what you will learn in refresher training will be similar to what you knew as a Marine.  You will have similar rank and specialty issues whether you go Navy or Army.  However, I think the Army is still offering reasonable enlistment bonuses, that could apply to your circumstances.

If I were you, I would explore both options.  Please write back, if you have additional questions.  Good luck to you.