Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 8/25/2007

Question
i have question about how long is it for you to get promted in the coast
gaurd? I have done 3yrs in Army JROTC so when i go into the coast gaurd i
will be automaticaly an E-3, and dont you get a rank after coming out of boot
camp? like E-4 if so how long will it take me to make E-5? thanks ohh and my
Email is currently not working, so if you could post this on my myspace or on
here that would be great, my myspace display name is Sholund thanks for
taking the time to answer this question thats been bugging me.

Answer
Dear Nathan --

Your paygrade and accelerated promotions all depend on your enlistment contract when you join the Coast Guard.  Since you know your JROTC experience qualifies you for accelerated promotions, you must ensure your recruiter puts those clauses in your enlistment contract.

You should ensure that excellent performance in boot camp guarantees you promotion to E-4.  You can also try to ensure that you have the clause that ensures promotion to E-5 after six months satisfactory service at your first duty station.  However that clause is usually reserved for college graduates, not high school graduates.  There is no harm asking for it, if you are a high quality candidate, but it is not guaranteed.  

Best of luck to you.  Keep up the good work.