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hey i have a question, that i need help with. I'm currently in the air force, and deployed to iraq. i am a sniper, and am bored with the usaf. i want to join the marines, the usaf just is not at all what i was looking for, and i want to wake up and be proud of what i'm doing, and have pride in wearing my uniform. so how do i go about making the change?
Dan:
Wow. You are a sniper in Iraq? That alone sounds like more than most people would be able to do. My hat's off to ya for that.
Ok, here's the deal. The Marine Corps does take prior service. You might try talking to your career counselor (or whatever the AF calls this) about the 'blue to green' program, which allows you to switch services in mid-contract. (You'll have to finish the Iraq tour, tho).
If that isn't possible, then you'll have to wait until you are discharged from the active duty AF, then talk to an active duty Marine recruiter. You'll have to go through recruit training no matter which way you go, however.
By all means, keep me informed of your progress. You can drop me a line at zebra305@earthlink.net if you like and I can try and give you more information as well.
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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