I am currently a reservist in the marine corps as a helicopter mechanic and aerial gunner/observer. I'm extremely interested in the coast guard GM rating and AMT rating. I have contacted my local recruiter and have been told that the AMT rating is extremely hard to come by for prior service personnel even as qualified aircrew. Now I am going for the rate in which I can receive rank equivalency as an E-5. I have plenty of weapons experience as a civilian and as a Marine. I was wondering how difficult the transition is for prior service personnel, as far as no shipboard experience is concerned aside from landing a helicopter on one. Also I was wondering what the day to day activities of a GM contains, both shore based and shipboard. Any info that anyone has would be greatly appreciated.
Hi BiggRadd, I commend your prior military service. Understand that there is a process to be followed when attempting to enter the Coast Guard from another Service. As the Rating Force Master Chief (RFMC) for GMs I should state that all requests for entering the CG go through each specific RFMC. We’re but a portion of the “hiring” process but an important one. As custodians of the rate’s competencies we have to be careful about recommending someone to enter the CG with certain qualifications at a certain pay grade. This tends to affect unit effectiveness and the advancement processes. Knowing military tactics and small arms doesn’t necessarily qualify one to do the GM world of work. I too am prior service (US Army Infantry) and figured if I can lead an Infantry Squad into the bush and set up an ambush and deal with leadership issues I can do many other things. But the reality is that technical specialties are different. If you’re still interested please e-mail me at Andres.a.munoz@uscg.mil and we can talk of line and I’ll provide some personal experiences. Take care and hope you’re still interested as we can use a few good men (and women). GMCM Munoz-GM RFMC
Alright Marine, I have to hitch hike on what our RFMC has posted. Take a look on line for Coast Guard Gunner's Mate as I'm sure you'll find the link to what we do. This thread has come up HUNDREDS of times and has been answered each time. Here's the real deal: we're a small rate full of a lot of great folks who are willing to do a job that most others would run from. We work hard, play hard and take care of folks...especially our own! Give it a CLOSE look and if you still come up short, you're invited to write to me off line as well. Good hunting! R GMCS Wilbert School Chief-GM School
