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Question
I have been completing the process to get back in the Marine
reserves. I got out in 1997 and have wanted to get back in
for sometime now. I am 38. They have accepted me at my
former rank.(E-5)
My question is do you think I should do this, being that I
will be in charge of lesser ranks that have more combat
experience than I do. I feel like I will have a hard time
being respected or fitting in. Also I will have to go to
Tanker school to change my MOS. What are your feelings on
this situation.
Thank you.
Mark:
It's all good. While you will certainly have to prove yourself, those Marines will, as always, respect the rank first and you second. You'll have to earn the rest. Congrats on getting back in, that's great!
It's a different Marine Corps than you remember I assure you, so there will be some 'culture shock', but essentially, things are still the same. Expect to be a class leader or something along those lines in Tanker school.
Your biggest issue will be generational. You are SNCO age, and those will be your peers. Trying to fit in with the younger crowd will just cause you issues unless you have prepped for it. Don't try too hard.
Marines are Marines, only the gear changes. Good luck & Semper Fi!
Jason
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Answers by Expert:
Jason Grabill
Expertise
Questions relating to US Marine Corps; rank, awards, uniforms, career choices. I can also help people spot and expose fakes (people pretending to be Marines or have awards they didn`t earn). Considering the Marines as a career? Or another branch, like the Air National Guard? Drop me a line. HOWever..know that I am NOT a recruiter. I can offer my expert opinion and advice, but can't (and won't) over rule what a recruiter says, they are the 'on duty' expert.
Experience
Infantry Rifleman, MOS 0311: 3 years. Marine Barracks Security (Marine Barracks, Annapolis, Maryland(not Embassy Duty): 3 years. Parachutist: MOS 9962: Got my wings in August of 1984.
Intelligence Specialist: MOS 0231 10 years working as an Intelligence Analyst with a Fixed Wing Fighter Squadron, Force Service Support Group, and at Headquarters, Marine Corps. Field Radio Operator: MOS 2531. Served as a Platoon Sergeant in a Communications Platoon assigned to MEU Service Support Group 24 (Special Operations Capable). Did a hitch in the Army reserves as an 11B (Infantryman), 3 years. Finished out my career in the Air National Guard as a BioEnvironmental Engineer MOS 4B3X1, did that for a few years.
I"ve been collecting and selling Marine Corps and other military uniforms, medals, and field gear since I was 8 years old.
Organizations
United States Marine Corps Logistical Company.
Publications
I was an Editorial writer for Marine Corps Times from 1998-2000.
Education/Credentials
Extensive library of research materials relating to uniforms, medals, and equipment of the military and the Marine Corps. 22 College credits, Community College of the Air Force. Certified Historical Interpreter.
Awards and Honors
Kosovo Campaign Medal w/1 star
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 4 stars.
Numerous other unit awards.
I was on duty on 9/11 at HQMC, near the Pentagon, and responded to that location to try and lend a hand if needed...
Past/Present Clients
United States Marine Corps Historical Company, Guardian Security and Investigations, lead Investigator for 'Stolen Valor' cases.
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