Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/release from ANG to join Reg Army

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Question
John, my son is a rising high school senior and is about to graduate from basic training in two weeks.  He has been a member of the Alabama National Guard since Oct 08.  He wants to join the regular army.  What are the chances that he will be able to get released from his national guard contract to join the army, and what is the correct procedure?  How long should the process take and will he continue to attend weekend drills?  Thanks!

Answer
The cahnces of getting released varies by state.  Since the Alabama Guard paid for his training, I doubt they would let him go so quickly, however, the Guard is trying to downsize a bit, but maily by getting rid of those who are sick/lame/lazy.  A new soldier they want to keep.  he has to get a release paper signed by the Adjutant generals office to get released, and they are under no requirement to do so.  He will have to attend all drill while he goes thru the process.  he will have to submit letters on why he wants to leave the guard for active duty.

I say he has a 50/50 chance if his reasoning is sound.

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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John L

Expertise

I am a National Guard recruiter , been doing it for seven years and am a subject matter expert on qualifications for National Guard and I keep up to date on Regular Army regs and programs. I was in the Navy for 4 years and have 13 years in the Guard. I will not sugar coat my answers to you. They are usually short and to the point. If you need more in depth, ask me. Because each situation is different, alot of times you need to actually talk to a recruiter and let them evaluate your situation in person, by looking at your documents, issues etc. If I suggest this, it would be in your best interest to do so. Finally...thank you for your interest in serving this great nation of ours. Very few people can actually make the cut to serve let alone choose to do so. So thank you for wanting to and hopefully you will get a chance. Whatever branch you choose, thank you and good luck.

Experience

13 years Guard experince, combat missions and homeland missions. 7 years recruiting. I have been a platoon sergeant and squad leader. Mentor to new recruiters and recruits.

Education/Credentials
Recruiters course and advanced courses in recruiting

Awards and Honors
Top recruiter in district for FY 2008. Nominated for recruiter of the year for 2010.

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