Expert: Rod Powers - 11/3/2007

Question
I am currently an E-2 in the U.S. Navy, i joined July 18 of 2007 and am very disappointed with the Navy. To speak frankly, it is pussy. I would give anything to switch right now to the Marine Corps, I would gladly give up my rank and forfiet all pay from now until the switch and during Marine Bootcamp just to put on a uniform with a globe and anchor and USMC across the chest. If there is anyway i can do this, please tell me how. Thank you.

Answer
Hi Joseph,

I'm afraid you can't.

One cannot simply transfer from one branch of the active duty Military to another (with the exception of a special program, called "Blue to Green," which allows members of over-manned jobs in the Navy and Air Force to transfer to the Army -- see the article at: http://usmilitary.about.com/od/armyjoin/a/artransfer.htm).

However, the only way to change from the Navy to the Marine Corps is to complete your current Navy enlistment, then get out, then visit a Marine Corps recruiter and apply to enlist as a prior service applicant (see my article at: http://usmilitary.about.com/od/joiningthemilitary/a/priorservice.htm).

Have you thought about applying to become a Navy SEAL? You could do this pretty much at any time during your Navy career (if you can hack the selection/training process). Most of those who make it through BUD/S (Navy SEAL Training) would call Marine Corps Boot Camp "pussy."

For more information about the United States Military, feel free to visit my U.S. Military information website, at: http://usmilitary.about.com Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com