Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 12/15/2007

Question
Colonel, I have a friend swearing into the Navy tomorrow. He already has an associates degree in information technology. I was wondering if he will have the same opportunities as someone swearing into the Navy with a bachelor's degree and attend OCS to become a commissioned officer? Or will he start off as an E3 OR E4?

Answer
Dear Frank --

Unless your friend negotiated for a chance at OCS after basic training, and that rider is in his contract, he will be an enlisted Sailor.  

With his Associated degree and a high enough score on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) he is eligible for an OCS opportunity rider.  However, if he did not ask for OCS, he was probably not offered it.

He is still eligible to apply for OCS later.  Many enlisted personnel apply for OCS and attend as a transition from their first tour of duty and their second.  They make OCS a criterion on their re-enlistment contract.

However, I know many happy and successful senior enlisted non-commissioned officers (NCOs) who would never wish to be officers.  These NCOs much preferred the mission of caring for their Sailors, Soldiers, Marines and Aircrew rather than the missions of a commissioned officer.

Please wish your friend the best of luck from me, and thank him for serving.

Happy holidays to both of you.