Expert: Rod Powers - 10/2/2009

Question
QUESTION: Mr. Powers, I was wondering if you could clarify a current rumor I have been hearing.  I am currently active duty in the navy and my career came to a sudden and abrupt end due to some credit issues.  Now I am considering the army's blue to green program as a new means to further my military career.  The question I have is about a rumor I heard about the army offering a bonus to aid in repairing ones credit and I want to know how true this is and if so approximately how much it could consist of?  Thank you for your time.

ANSWER: Hi Bret,

That's a new one on me. There's no such thing as a "repairing credit" bonus (in any of the services).

The Army does offer several enlistment incentives, depending various MOSs (jobs), and enlistment or re-enlistment programs.

Under the Blue to Green program, the Army offers bonuses up to $10,000 for those who transfer to the Army in a job-skill that the Army considers "critical."

For more information about the US Military, feel free to visit my US Military website at: http://usmilitary.about.com

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com

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

QUESTION: ok i have another question not involving bonuses, but concerning the woft program.  Is it at all possible to qualify for the program under the blue to green program and also without being able to obtain a security clearance at this time?

Answer
Hi Brett,

I don't think it's possible to do the WOFT Program under the Blue to Green Program. However, you don't have to.

That's because the Army's WOFT program is open to applicants from any service. Under the program, you would see an Army active duty recruiter, and -- as part of the process -- the recruiter would complete a DD Form 368, "Conditional Release." This form is then sent to the Navy for approval, and basically says that if you're accepted to the Army WOFT program, the Navy agrees to release you from your Navy commitment.

In fact, my son-in-law used this program while in the Air Force seven years ago, and is now an Army helicopter pilot.

However, in order to qualify for the Army WOFT program, you must be qualified for a SECRET security clearance.

For more information about the US Military, feel free to visit my US Military website at: http://usmilitary.about.com

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com