Expert: Jason Grabill - 4/23/2010

Question
Right now I am in the Navy on Active Duty stationed on Guam.  I PCS from Guam in a month or two and I have orders to Bahrain till the end of my contract.  I have a little more then a year left before my EAOS.  I was looking into the Marines because the Navy is completely locked up in terms of making rank.  However, the Navy is a little to soft for me I grew up as a Navy brat and lived in a strict home so today's Navy is a lot softer then when my dad was in.  To get to the point I enjoy the Naval traditions and such so I was looking into the Marine Corps.  I have always admired the Marines and thought strongly on becoming one.  Is it possible to switch to the Marines if I am prior service and when is considered too early to call a recruiter since I still have a year.  One issue is that I will be in the middle east until the end of my contract and I don't want a break in service.  You may not know the current policy but can I start the paperwork for a conditional release from the Navy and a transfer to the Marines after my contract is done or before if possible.  I pretty sure Bahrain does not have recruiters there is need to talk to one before I go over there.  Another question is I am in my junior year of college (online school)  and I wanted to look into the Marine officer programs?  What is the MAX age for becoming an officer?  I will be probably 27 when I finish my degree and by the way I'll be 25 when I finish my enlistment.  So my main questions are when is it to early to contact a Marine recruiter (don't want them to tell me, "well why are you calling my when you have a year left.")?  Also MAX age of officer, and if the Marines will even take prior service in today's economy where everyone is joining?  Thank you

Answer
Brandon:

  No, basically what you'll have to do is wait until  your active enlistment is up.  Literally, though, the day after you EAS, you can walk into a recruiting office and enlist into the Marines.  The Marine Corps do take prior service, but as you are probably aware, you'll have to complete recruit training.

 Lastly, you won't be too old but you'll be getting very close.  (28).  

Good luck!
Jason