Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 9/11/2010

Question
QUESTION: I know you have answered a similar question but I am a retired Navy Supply Corp LCDR.  I have been retired for 10 years as of December 2010.   

After 10 years in the civilian world I desperately miss the Navy.  Are there any opportunities to return to active duty in the Navy or any other branch?   If there are would I have to take a reduction to O3?   If so would I have to wait the required time in rank requirements of 6 years to  be eligible for promotion to O4?

Also is it possible for me to drill non pay with a reserve unit?  Perhaps that would get me back on active duty.  I know I have asked several questions.   I need closure if there is no possibility for me to return to active duty.

ANSWER: Tim,
Sorry, but the active duty Navy won't take you.  Things have changed too much in the last ten years.  Supply is now so automated it's unbelievable.  The Navy would have to send you back to Tech School all over again and they won't spend the money to do that.

As for Reserves, it wouldn't hurt to try.  If you were discharged from the Navy more than four years ago, your paygrade and rate/rank may be modified based on Navy Reserve needs in specific ratings and the length of time since your discharge. Otherwise, you will most likely enter at your previously held paygrade and rate/rank.  Go to

https://www.navyreserve.com/request-info/prior-service/

Hopefully you will still be within the age limits.

Thanks for having served.
Colonel Howell

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

QUESTION: thanks for the quick response.  If I were to return to the reserves would there be any opportunity for promotion?   I was thinking I can find a non pay billet but possible be able to be promoted.   
Also what about returning to active duty in any other branch of the service?   I have heard the Army would considered taking me.

Answer
Tim,
Yes, you would be eligible for promotion under the same rules as everyone else.

As for the other services, it depends upon you age.  Here's the age limits:

Air Force 27
Coast Guard - Age 27.  Note: up to age 32 prior service#.
Marines 28
Marine Corps Reserve 29
Air Force Reserve 34
Navy 34
Army National Guard 35  #changed from 42 in 2009#
Naval Reserves 39
Coast Guard Reserves 39
Air National Guard 40  #Was 34 prior to 2009)
Army 42
Army Reserves 42

Often the age limit is extended one year for each year of honorable prior service.  A recruiter can tell you the details for his Service.  Go see him after October 1st, the beginning of their new fiscal year.

Thanks for having served, and wanting to continue serving.  It sorta gets in your blood doesn't it?

Colonel H