Hi, I'm a prior service member of the Navy. I joined when I was 18 right after Highschool, and I recieved an honerable discharge after 4 years in Nov 2005 and I'm 24 today. My DD214 says RE1 and a recruiter told me that means I'm eligable to go back if I chose. Since being out of the Navy I've had trouble finding work and my transitioning process was pretty tough. my mother died while I was serving in Sasebo Japan, so I aint really had alot of support. I realize now that life in the military aint all that bad, and knowing what I know now I would've stayed. I've been looking into joining the CoastGaurd and I've spoken with a recruiter. I've been exersizing and studying for my Asvab and hopefully I'll be ready by the end of the month. I have a few questions regarding my entry. Am I eligable to recieve a signingbonus? I read on a website that prior service members have an option to enlist for 1 year, or 4 years and dont have to deploy for 2 years. Is there any truth to that? I dont have a criminal record of any kind, but I do have a few debts such as Bally total fitness, a student loan, and a few doctor bills. Do those debts disqualify me? I want to be an SK, what are the chances of getting in the 9th or 7th district? Thanks for reading my message
Most of your questions should be answered by your recruiter. As far as the bills are concerned I had a few bills when I joined and here I am today 15 years later in the 9th district. If you want the 9th or the 7th when you do your e-resume put units in those districts at the top of your list. Hope this helps and welcome aboard, study hard when you go to school to become an SK.
Thanks for the advice. I was beginning to doubt, but now I'm back 100% confident again. I'm really looking foward to the experience, and looking to make the most of every opportunity.
I concur with contacting your local recruiter. Also, if you check the "Recruiter's Desk" forum under Coast Guard discussions, you can find a lot of your answers there. Best of luck.
When I joined 7 yrs ago, I was offered two things: $2k signing bonus, and guaranteed location (District 11). In boot I got orders to CGC Gallatin (D7). MAKE SURE IF YOU ARE GUARANTEED ANYTHING, YOU GET IT IN WRITING AND MAKE SURE IT IS SIGNED. There was nothing I could do, but I don't regret it at all. The best year and half of my career thus far! Again, talk to your recruiter, they should be willing to work with you.
