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Volunteering for overseas tour

Posted by jp on 9/7/2002, 6:07 pm

RTAlthough I have a guaranteed duty station in my contract, could I during BCT/jump school/AIT submit a 4187 and volunteer for an overseas tour? BTW, my MOS will be 92R, so it will have to be an airborne unit. I would prefer unaccompanied, since my spouse will be in grad school for another couple of years. Thanks in advance!

Re: Volunteering for overseas tour

Posted by RT on 9/8/2002, 9:50 am , in reply to "Volunteering for overseas tour"

It is very, very difficult to get anything changed or added while in BT. We highly discourage it, and most times you are already slotted somewhere and "higher" does not want to deal with making any changes. If you can, I would try to get this in your contract before you go. Talk to your recruiter immediately.

Re: Volunteering for overseas tour

Posted by Mike C. on 9/8/2002, 10:14 pm , in reply to "Re: Volunteering for overseas tour"

RT is right. You can basically bank on not getting an overseas assignment while in a training status. You have chosen an MOS that has very little assignment variety. You will most likely have to go to your 1st duty station and then go on-line and put your wishes in the ASK site, or put your 4187 in there. You might get an overseas assignment for your next duty station. If you haven't signed a contract yet, I would push to have these wishes in it now!

Lots of questions... HELP !!!

Posted by Steph on 9/7/2002, 8:49 pm

HI everyone... first of all thanks for all the info... I have LOTS of questions... I am shipping out on Halloween.. yup OCT 31st.. cool huh LOL.. anyway, my MOS is 98X1 and I am scheduled to start BCT training at Fort Jackson on Nov 8th. 1. Will I be able to come home for Christmas?? 2. What about laundry?? I have read that you are issued two PT uniforms... but if you work out in them every single day and have to sleep in them every single night how are you going to keep a clean pair for the night and a clean pair for the next morning.. are you supposed to do laundry every night. Also I have read about the laundry service... does anyone have any clue as to how much it is and jsut exactly what they do? I mean do they press and iron and all that stuff. What about when you do do your own laundry? Do you have to have your own laundry detergent? Does it cost anything? 3. What about your wall locker? How large is it? And are you able to hang up all your clothes and stuff wihtout everything being all jammed together? 4. What about things like shoes and such? Do they stay in your wall locker at night or do you put them under your bed? And also I will be wearing glasses so where do you store your glasses at night? 5. What about where you sleep? Is it like in the movies... A HUGE room with 100 other people and a bunch of bunk beds all lined up next to one another? 6. How much time do you get to write home? I have lots and lots of people that want me to write and lots of close family and especially my fiance. I would like to keep a diary or journal while I am in BCT... is that possible? 7. graduation night? Can close friends come also or just family? 8. Will I be able to wear my civilian glasses or contacts for graduation? ( the BC glasses are ugly enough... LOL it doesnt help that I am blind as a bat which means my glasses will thicker then coke bottles) 9.I have very weak upper body strength and have approx 7 weeks until I ship out.. what is the best thing I can do to strengthen that part of my body? I can do about 5 regular pushups before I drop. And running?? I have never been athletic.. matter of fact in the last year I have lost about 50 lbs. I have JUST know gotten to where I can run a mile wihtout stopping if I really push myself. How in the world .. in 7 weeks am I going to be able to run 2 without stopping? Is it possible? I have more questions but really cant think of all them right now but those are enough right now LOL... anything will help... you can either email me at RiverviewStephie@aol.com or just post to the message board.. I will be checking back.. THANKS TO ALL... also... is there anyone else scheduled to go to the DLI around the middle of FEB?? Any one know anything about the DLI? THanks once again... ~Steph

Re: Lots of questions... HELP !!!

Posted by Sgt. Mike on 9/8/2002, 10:08 am , in reply to "Re: Lots of questions... HELP !!!"

Around the holidays, I believe from 20 December until 4 January, the Army goes on "Christmas Exodus". Most training units shut down, and start up again after the new year. You are STRONGLY encouraged to take leave during that time. (And I do mean strongly). 2 things to remember: 1)This is leave, subtracted from your annual allotment of 30 days. Which means that if you've been in the Army less than 6 mos (you earn leave at 2 1/2 days per month) you will be "in the hole" for awhile. 2)Unlike your trip to basic, YOU will have to pay for your trip home (and back, unless you plan on going AWOL!)

Re: Lots of questions... HELP !!!

Posted by RT on 9/8/2002, 10:02 am , in reply to "Lots of questions... HELP !!!"

I know I sound like a broken record, but please check the resources page for answers to many of these questions. I also suggest reading Marck's diary (see the link below or on the "What is basic training" page at this website). He talks about laundry and the day-to-day things at BT. Yes, you'll go home for Christmas, it's called Exodus. Do a search for "exodus" at the search engine on this site and you'll get the specifics. Yes, you'll be doing lots of laundry on some items (ie PT and underwear, shirts, etc). Your squad or you and your battle buddy will do laundry together. You'll be able to buy detergent at the PX. Wallockers are large enough for all your stuff not to be jammed in there. Shoes will be lined up under your bed. You can put your glasses anywhere but don't lose them. Wallockers must be locked at all times (when you are not in the room). Some recruits will be in 3-6 person rooms, there are also large bays with 40-50 of you..depends on which post you go to, which barracks, etc.. You won't have alot of time to write home the first few weeks, the only free time may be a few minutes before lights-out, but you'll find the time..more time on Sundays too. I encourage you to keep a journal..you just have to be wise when to write in it (don't let the drills always catch you writing....during "down time", you're supposed to be reading your "smart book" they give you). Family and friends are encouraged to come to graduation..it's a real accomplishment for you! Most companies will make you wear your BCGs for graduation, it all depends on the cadre. Read one of the posts below for what to do with weak upper body strength..someone else had problems w/push-ups. For running, you gotta do long slow runs over a variety of terrain coupled with Indian running/sprints. Rotate every other day, resting on Sunday. Again, someone asked this below also.

Repost from below on running and push-ups

Posted by RT on 9/8/2002, 10:04 am , in reply to "Re: Lots of questions... HELP !!!"

Re: Push-upsPosted by RT on 9/3/2002, 8:51 am , in reply to "Re: Push-ups"68.64.26.247 Some good advice for females (and those with weak upper body strength)..if you can only do three (and I'm hoping you mean proper push-ups..see the link on the resources page to make sure you are doing them correctly), I would suggest doing them on your knees. Keep your upper body in a straight line and go down where your upper arms are parallel to the floor...do them in front of a mirror or have someone watch you.I would say, do as many as you can like this until your arms start to burn and you can't possibly do any more. Rest a few minutes, then do another set. Do a few more sets. Rest the next day (work on situps or running that day) and then start up again the third day. Once you feel stronger and feel like you can do proper pushups, get off your knees and start again from there. and Re: my runningPosted by RT on 9/5/2002, 8:03 am , in reply to "Re: my running"68.64.26.108 Try alternating long slow run days (over a variety of terrain, slow pace..you're just going for distance here) with Indian Running days (sprint from one light pole to the next, then jog the next set, sprint, etc..or use whatever you are passing at the time as sprint and jog points). This is the fastest way to increase your running times in the 2 miles.

Whatever you make of it

Posted by PVT2MA on 9/8/2002, 11:52 am

Now I've posted this question in all sorts of websites, but no one has seemed to respond. This is the only website where most of my questions are answers almost immediately. So I'm sorry if it is off topic of basic training. Bear with me...I have an eight yr. contract with the ANG and I was wondering what would happen if I became pregnant during my eight years? Would I be discharged or would I have leave for awhile? Just a thought. Thanks if you reply

Re: Whatever you make of it

Posted by 74Bravo on 9/8/2002, 2:10 pm , in reply to "Whatever you make of it"

Not being femal, but having several friends who were, and in the Army who became pregnant, It would seem you would be treated the same (they were RA). You would still be required to perform your duties, or be moved to a position where you could perform your duties, and be expected to remain in physocal condition (not the PT your used to, but still remain in good condition ...ie swimming instead of running, maternaty arobics while able etc) and then continue working up till your doctor requested you to stop, or you hav ethe baby. Once your home time is up, you would be expected to return to service as before...for the friends I had both parents were in the service, RA, and were required to locate child care for their newborn on their own...on post (Ft. Belvoir) has/had several places that would except newborns, however, not all of them...there were also places off post...YMMV..and there may be different guidelines for ANG and or AR soldiers. Hope this helps even if just a little...maybe RT has more current, accurate data. You will also likely want to talk to your command and find out how they operate. 74Bravo

Re: Whatever you make of it

Posted by RT on 9/9/2002, 7:53 am , in reply to "Re: Whatever you make of it"

I'm sure the guidelines for NG are similar to Regular Army. 74Bravo is correct. After the birth you'll then get 6 weeks off to care for the baby (I believe it is 6 weeks). Afterwards, you'll have a profile of what you can do physically and of course you'll be under a doctor's care, but you work your way back up again to "full strength" duties. If you decide not to stay in the Army, you can take a discharge for your pregnancy (you won't get kicked out but you can get voluntarily released). The other thing to remember, once you have a child and let's say your husband is also in the military or you are a single parent, you have to put together a packet called a Family Care Plan. Without it, you can get kicked out of the Army, that's how vital this paperwork is (and it constantly has to be updated). It is basically all the legal paperwork to allow someone else to care for your child when you get deployed..basically a guardian for your baby. Most folks choose someone close to them, like a parent. Imagine getting sent overseas for 2 yrs after the baby is born! I've seen it happen in Saudi (not for that long), but it is just heartbreaking! You'll also always have plans in place to take your child to a caregiver (early mornings before PT, pick up late after work, when you go to the field, etc..). It takes a special kind of person to be able to get themselves and their children through such an experience:-))

Posted by Romulusguy on 9/8/2002, 4:56 pm

Its Me Again :-PI have EXTREMELY sensitive skin. I use EDGE SHAVING GEL with Aloe, since that seems to be the only shaving cream that doesnt give me razor burn. WIll this be allowed in basic? I'm sure it all depends on where you go and who your DS is, but IN GENERAL, will the army make you buy generic, MANLY shaving cream, or will they allow wimpy ALoe Gel Shaving Gel?-PFC Romulusguy

Posted by Mike C. on 9/8/2002, 10:22 pm , in reply to "Shaving Cream"

Don't worry. You will be allowed to use your shaving cream. The shopette there at your basic should have it, but just in case, I would bring a couple of cans with me if I were you. They are not so anal there that you must have plain jane cream. I'm the same way as you shaving wise, so don't worry about that.

Posted by hopefull on 9/9/2002, 5:28 pm

I have seen a couple of mentions about the security interviews at meps. I have no criminal record but I had a slightly checkered past when I fell in with the wrong crowd. Basicly I did some drugs for a while, but I never sold them or commited any violent crimes. Those days are behind me now and I was planning on leaving them there by not disclosing anything. Is this difficult to do in the interview, or ill-advised? I know that what I am asking may seem dishonest but I really do feel like I am a different person now and just want to start this next chapter of my life on the right foot. If anyone has had a similar experience and been through meps and the interviews, I would really love to hear from you. Thanks for all of the helpfull info you've already given.

Posted by billyjeffclinton on 9/9/2002, 7:03 pm , in reply to "Checkered Past"

If you have been clean (and I mean NO DRUGS, not even marijuana) for more than 90 days, and have no arrests, relax. The Army sets an arbitrarily unreasonable standard (look at my name on the posting) that few people can meet HONESTLY. Our former president AND vice president admitted to smoking marijuana, and our current c-i-c won't even answer the question. If you've stopped completely, don't worry. Once you're in, don't start. The biggest problem drug in the Army is, was and always will be alcohol. And they sell that tax-free on almost every post.

Posted by hopefull on 9/9/2002, 7:20 pm , in reply to "Re: Checkered Past"

Thanks for the encouragement. I am clean and sober and serious about staying that way. So does that mean I should "just say no" in response to any questions about what I have done? I am not a very good liar and would like to be prepared for the kinds of questions they might ask so as not to be taken by surprise. Can anyone tell me what they ask?Thanks so much, this site is a HUGE help.

Posted by dean on 9/10/2002, 2:58 pm , in reply to "Checkered Past"

in the begining at MEPS, you will be breifed in a classroom by one of the commanders. You will have a gang of paperwork at your desk. He will go through each form you are to fill out all together with evryone. He will give a long and fearfull speech about lieing and falsifying your documents and how many years in prison you will spend if they catch you on it. He will say something like, many kids try/experement with minor drugs and the military realizes this. and if it is within regulation, it will be ok. However putting down that you have done drugs, any kind, will get you questioned by the doctors when your each that point later in the day.I have never been caught or ticketed in anyway for drug use or possession, but I was slightly honest and admitted to a Clinton type response about my early days in high school. I was questioned by a doctor about my response. but I was not repremanded in anyway for it. If you have any type of drug affilation on your criminal record or on any record, i would urge you to admit to that, because they will find out. If it is just within your conscious(sp) and memory, then... well thats up to you i bought into the whole fear factor the briefing officer imposed on us about honesty, and personally regretted some of the things I put down. I realized alot of what I had said and boxes I checked on the forms, would have never been discoverd by the army, and in no way would have made me less of a soldier, and it left me with nothing but waivers, BS, and cost me the whole summer in paperwork before I could enlist. good luckDean

Posted by cece on 9/10/2002, 12:54 pm

Ok, what exactly do they do to you when you are taped? I assume it is due to being over the acceptable maximum weight limit for your height. Just curious, I am five pounds over the max. right now but I am not fat, a little top heavy but not fat. (Female) Where do they measure?

AR 600-9 The Army Weight Control Program (tape test here)

Posted by RT on 9/10/2002, 2:30 pm , in reply to "Re: taped?"

Yes, this is when you are over the weight standard for your height..doesn't necessarily mean you are overweight..lots of bodybuilders and such have to get taped. You'll find the formulas and step by step directions (all you need is a tape measure) in AR 600-9 The Army Weight Control Program. See link below:

Link: http://www.usapa.army.mil/pdffiles/r600_9.pdf

AIT what more can you bring?

Posted by mouse on 9/10/2002, 2:09 pm

Can you have a computer or a CD player at AIT ??

Re: AIT what more can you bring?

Posted by Mike C. on 9/10/2002, 3:18 pm , in reply to "AIT what more can you bring?"

Almost all AIT's prohibit those type of things. I'm pretty sure that all AIT's prohibit computers, but for really long AIT's (I mean anything over 40 weeks)It might be possible, but I doubt it. I wouldn't bring anything like that with you. If by chance you can have a cd player, just have it mailed to you. Your recruiter can tell you the rules for your particular AIT.

College First Program

Posted by Kurtis on 9/10/2002, 4:20 pm

Has anyone in here participated in the college first program? If so, how did you like it? Tell me about your experience. I am afraid if I do it, I won't be able to get what I want in my contract when I go to MEPS in two years. Any advice will help. Thanks

Re: College First Program

Posted by Angela on 9/10/2002, 4:43 pm , in reply to "College First Program"

I am not sure, I might have been lied to, but I was told by my Army recruiter's that the College first program does not exist anymore. Now even if you waited two years to go to MEPS you should be able to find what you want. It's very similar as to going two months from now to get the MOS, bonuses, etc. that one wants and this all depends on what is still available bonuses, programs, etc.

Posted by Mouse on 9/11/2002, 11:06 am

I am suppost to leave the 18th of this month, unfortunately last night I sprained my ankle, I am really upset about it. I can't even put a little weight on it, I really don't want to loose my job, but I am worried I won't be able to run in just a week....Does anyone know what usually happens in this kind of situation??????

Posted by EvanNever on 9/11/2002, 11:59 am , in reply to "sprained ankle"

My suggestion is, stay off it for as much of the next 6 days as you can. Keep it elevated and ice it often. You should be okay to walk on it after that period. Then as far as I know, you will spend at least a week at reception without much pt. I've had many sprains and they always feel really bad at first but they heal quickly. With any luck, by the time you do your PT test you will may just be a little sore on it.

BCT and Sept. 11, 2001

Posted by Angela on 9/11/2002, 1:01 pm

I realised today, that there were people attending BCT during Sept. 11 last year. It makes me wonder, did the recruits get told what was happening? Did they get exodus because of it? I simply ask because I just wonder what their experience was like. It's hard enough being at BCT with no news but to have no news during that and learn about it after you're out.

Re: BCT and Sept. 11, 2001

Posted by Shannon on 9/11/2002, 1:11 pm , in reply to "BCT and Sept. 11, 2001"

They did tell the privates who were in training what happened. I saw it on the dicovery channel's coverage of the marine's boot camp. I am not sure what type of liberties they were given to see if their friends and family were okay though. Most recruits that were filmed hoped that it would spur a movement to join the military.

Re: BCT and Sept. 11, 2001

Posted by PVT2MA on 9/11/2002, 2:53 pm , in reply to "BCT and Sept. 11, 2001"

My friend was at basic training during this day last year. They were told what was happened and the rest of the day they did classroom activities, but he said they were talking about what happened instead of doing actual learning. They also got a phonecall home that day.

Posted by JP on 9/11/2002, 4:16 pm

I hate my bank. Signed up for direct deposit; now they tell me I can't get extra ATM card for spouse. (Won't tell you name of bank, but it has a STAGE COACH IN THE AD!!!) Too close to my ship date (Sept 26) to risk setting up another bank for my Army paycheck. I heard of a support allotment; how does that work? Does it have to be a dollar amount, or can I just send "half" to my wife's account? Or just the BAH? BTW, do I get "separation pay" while in basic & AIT?

Re: Support Allotment

Posted by RT on 9/13/2002, 8:28 am , in reply to "Support Allotment"

YOu can choose to send allotments to mutual funds, other bank accts, etc. Yes, you do have to set an amount. See above for separation pay

Posted by Spiderman on 9/11/2002, 4:46 pm

Hey all, How does BAH work? I am joining the National Guard and I'm told I will be paid this allowance while I am at BCT, (I am married). Is this allowance based on your mortgage ( I'm told to bring a copy of my monthly bill ) or is it an allowance based on where you currently live or based on where you are in BCT? Anyone know how much it is for married, no kids, lives in Chicago? Best regards.

Posted by Mike C. on 9/12/2002, 4:37 pm , in reply to "BAH Question"

It is based on the average cost of housing in the area your family will be living in while you are at basic and AIT. I'm not sure about the cost for the Chicago area, but you might find it out on www.dfas.mil

Posted by RT on 9/13/2002, 7:45 am , in reply to "Re: BAH Question"

If you check the BAH calculator on the Housing Page, it'll work out the amount for you. It is also based upon your rank.

Link: http://www.armybasic.homestead.com/housing.html

Posted by PV2Stutler on 9/12/2002, 12:20 pm

Is there any chance that you can switch your MOS after your first duty station?

Posted by Mike C. on 9/12/2002, 4:51 pm , in reply to "Switch MOS"

There are ways to switch MOS's, but they are usually tied to reenlistment as a form of incentive. You also can try to change if you were to be promoted to a rank where you have no further promotion potential. You can also request a change in MOS if your current MOS is over strength and you request a change to an very understrength MOS. This is called the STAR MOS program. You also can request to change your MOS in the event of a medical condition that precludes you from performing in your MOS. My wife is in that process right now. Just changing your MOS prior to being up for reenlistment is usually unlikely unless you were to try and join Special Forces.

Posted by Mo on 9/12/2002, 3:15 pm

I'm thinking about joining the reserves, most likey will. Might be dumb question,just wondering if anyone knows if the females are allowed to have a shower cap in BCT and also if when the lights out at bedtime are you allowed to use the bathroom or fix your wall locker maybe. Any replies will help, thanks

Posted by Mike C. on 9/12/2002, 4:45 pm , in reply to "Re: Question..."

I highly doubt the shower cap will be a problem. Jusk keep it with the rest of your hygene items and you'll be fine. As far as using the latrine after lights out, that is allowed. Fixing up your wall locker is usually not allowed. You will have a little time for that before lights out, but I wouldn't want to be caught up after lights out doing stuff that should have been done earlier. Someone will get caught and you will see what I'm talking about then.

Posted by RT on 9/13/2002, 7:49 am , in reply to "Re: Question..."

Good advice. Shower caps are allowed, and yes keep them with your hygiene kit. You can get up as many times as you want to go to the latrine, in fact some people do go in the middle of the night, just to get some time alone and privacy:-)) You definitely do not want to be rootin' around in your wallocker at night! It'll be pitch black, so you'd need your flashlight. You'd also disturb those around you who are trying to sleep, and yes the fireguards do patrols (as well as the drill sergeant) and you don't want to get caught doing it. Try to get things in order before lights out.

New Stop-loss program

Posted by Kataratos on 9/12/2002, 4:24 pm

Anyone heard about the Stop-loss that TRADOC put out?

Re: New Stop-loss program

Posted by Mike C. on 9/12/2002, 4:35 pm , in reply to "New Stop-loss program"

You can read it for yourself at www.perscom.army.mil Go to milper messages and see 02-242. Interesting...

Posted by Monique on 9/12/2002, 4:54 pm

My boyfriend is graduating in a month, and I am going down to see him and I heard that since he will be in uniform, he won't be able to hug me. I wanted to know if this is true. Could somebody please help?! Thanks so much

Posted by RT on 9/13/2002, 7:52 am , in reply to "Re: Question..."

Whoever told you that must have been trying to say "no large displays of affection" while the soldier is in uniform. A hug is certainly okay. I think even a quick congratulatory kiss is fine..anything more than that in public (especially in front of the drill sergeants) is a no-no! We know that you'll be extremely happy to see your boyfriend, but you'll just have to wait until you're in private for anything more. It goes against good military order and discipline:-))

GSOC sacrifced for early ship out date.. help?

Posted by Dean on 9/12/2002, 5:39 pm

I was told I could get shipped out early by the captian of the recruiting area here. He said I would have to change my MOS and my GSOC tho. I told him I was not willing to change my MOS (11X) but willing to change my GSOC. it was Europe. =\ I was excited to go there but I really need to ship out soon.Is this a fair trade? lose my GSOC to ship out early? They say they will not give me a station of choice now at all. And that I will figure out where I am going during or after OSUT.Anyone know where I might go? What are the bases for infantry when you do not have a station on your contract? I still have time to turn his offer down and just wait. I am just affraid to get shipped to some horrible infantry unit somewhere. because I don't know the possiblities.any help would be great.thxDean

Re: GSOC sacrifced for early ship out date.. help?

Posted by Angela on 9/12/2002, 6:52 pm , in reply to "GSOC sacrifced for early ship out date.. help?"

I would say personally that if you can wait the time it takes to go OSUT with your MOS and GSOC, it would be preferable. Becuase for one you will be at your duty station for at least 18 months. Now the time for stations such as Europe I think are more like 3 years but I could be wrong. You would have to consider are you willing to give up your GSOC to go in sooner and be at a station for at least 18 months? Plus once those 18 months are over or close to ending you can request a different station but it won't be guaranteed. So I would say is going in early worth giving up your one chance to be guaranteed a place that you want to go to? It's your choice of course, , so good luck with it. Hooah!

Re: GSOC sacrifced for early ship out date.. help?

Posted by Mike C. on 9/12/2002, 11:28 pm , in reply to "GSOC sacrifced for early ship out date.. help?"

Hi Dean. I remember your situation and all I can say is that it sucks to have to make that kind of choice. If you don't get your station of choice, there are a number of posts in the US as well as Europe or Korea that you can go to. In the US, the big posts for Infantry are: Ft Benning, Ft Stewart, GA Ft Hood, TX Ft Carson, CO Ft Lewis, WA Ft Drum, NY and Ft Ord, CA You could go anywhere; there is really no way to tell where you might go. You might try to call the Infantry branch and speak to an enlisted advisor. Sometimes, they can give you an assignment that you request. If you've enlisted, you can register for an AKO account at www.us.army.mil On their site, there is something called ASK. On ASK you get to put in your prefered assignments for the US, Europe, or Korea. You don't get to pick your specific post for overseas assignments, but you can request certain stateside posts. There is no absolute certainty that you will get the assignment of your choice, but that is where the assignment managers start to try to match your preferences up to the open assignments in your MOS.

Posted by JP on 9/12/2002, 7:35 pm

Since I'm not allowed to take my wife to BCT (or AIT) will I get "separation pay"? If so, how much is it for an E-4? Secondly, since many training dates are closed this time of year, what happens if I get delayed in BCT? (by fat camp or recycled) Will I lose my guaranteed training & quaranteed station of choice?

Posted by RT on 9/13/2002, 8:26 am , in reply to "Separation Pay"

Separation pay is a standard amount. I believe they just raised it from $75 to $100 a month, regardless of rank. You get it when you will be at least 30 days away from your family. As far as getting held up in BT, it's very possible that you could lose your station of choice if you get delayed too long. I've had soldiers hurt who had obscure MOSs (with only a few AIT dates a year), and it was just terrible for them (the waiting) as they waited for the next AIT date. Most BT posts have what are called "holdover" companies (depressing place to be) where they keep you busy until it's time to go. If you have a fairly "run of the mill" MOS, then we try to find you another AIT slot coming up, and it's usually not a problem with that.

Posted by Suz on 9/17/2002, 12:46 pm

My boyfriend called me the other night and said that his company has been gettting in a lot trouble lately. Several guys were caught sneaking cookies and stuff like that from the kitchen and others were getting in trouble for not talking with their hands behind their backs or drinking their milk too soon and stuff like that. A lot of guys are getting kicked out and they only have two weeks left. The drill sergants are threathening to make the whole company start basic over again. Can they do that? My boyfriend hasn't done anything wrong or screwed up in any way. Can they make him start over because of the other guys' mistakes? Please respond if you know the answer.

Posted by RAM on 9/17/2002, 11:59 pm , in reply to "Repeating basic"

This threat sounds like the drill sergeants' scare-tactics to get the company to shape up. I've certainly never heard of an entire company being re-started. Drills are notorious for making those types of empty threats to get recruits to perform better. When my brother went through MP OSUT at Ft. Leonard Wood, he was having a hard time with basic rifle marksmanship. The day before qualification, a drill told him that if he didn't get score at least sharpshooter, that he was going to pull my brother out of the program and send him to re-class as a 92G(cook); He beleived him, practiced all day, and the next day at qualification, he hit 41 out of 42 targets. Sometimes, this added stress gives trainees the extra "push" they need to succeed.

Posted by RT on 9/19/2002, 8:54 am , in reply to "Repeating basic"

This is just a tool the drills use to motivate the recruits, they don't recyle whole companies..it just isn't done in this day and age (ie money and time). I've never had a company in this bad a shape...this is highly unusual that so many would go against good order and discipline. As a commander, I would nip behavior like this in the bud, very early. We use what is called UCMJ, kind of like a mini-court where the commander is the judge and jury. If the commander decides the recruit is guilty, he can do things like take away pay, rank, extra duty, restriction, etc.. I don't know why this is not being done in this company. Plus, I would've discharged recruits who were constantly getting in trouble. Anyway, tell your boyfriend to stay motivated and to do what he's told. He'll make it through just fine.



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Volunteering for overseas tour Posted by jp on 9/7/2002, 6:07 pm 152.163.188.229 RTAlthough I have a guaranteed duty station in my contract, could I during BCT/jump school/AIT submit a 4187 and volunteer for an overseas tour? BTW, my MOS will be 92R, so it will have to be an airborne unit. I would prefer unaccompanied, since my spouse will be in grad school for another couple of years. Thanks in advance! Re: Volunteering for overseas tour Posted by RT on 9/8/2002, 9:50 am , in reply to "Volunteering for overseas tour" 68.64.25.139 It is very, very difficult to get anything changed or added while in BT. We highly discourage it, and most times you are already slotted somewhere and "higher" does not want to deal with making any changes. If you can, I would try to get this in your contract before you go. Talk to your recruiter immediately. Re: Volunteering for overseas tour Posted by Mike C. on 9/8/2002, 10:14 pm , in reply to "Re: Volunteering for overseas tour" 65.161.170.98 RT is right. You can basically bank on not getting an overseas assignment while in a training status. You have chosen an MOS that has very little assignment variety. You will most likely have to go to your 1st duty station and then go on-line and put your wishes in the ASK site, or put your 4187 in there. You might get an overseas assignment for your next duty station. If you haven't signed a contract yet, I would push to have these wishes in it now! Lots of questions... HELP !!! Posted by Steph on 9/7/2002, 8:49 pm 205.188.209.37 HI everyone... first of all thanks for all the info... I have LOTS of questions... I am shipping out on Halloween.. yup OCT 31st.. cool huh LOL.. anyway, my MOS is 98X1 and I am scheduled to start BCT training at Fort Jackson on Nov 8th. 1. Will I be able to come home for Christmas?? 2. What about laundry?? I have read that you are issued two PT uniforms... but if you work out in them every single day and have to sleep in them every single night how are you going to keep a clean pair for the night and a clean pair for the next morning.. are you supposed to do laundry every night. Also I have read about the laundry service... does anyone have any clue as to how much it is and jsut exactly what they do? I mean do they press and iron and all that stuff. What about when you do do your own laundry? Do you have to have your own laundry detergent? Does it cost anything? 3. What about your wall locker? How large is it? And are you able to hang up all your clothes and stuff wihtout everything being all jammed together? 4. What about things like shoes and such? Do they stay in your wall locker at night or do you put them under your bed? And also I will be wearing glasses so where do you store your glasses at night? 5. What about where you sleep? Is it like in the movies... A HUGE room with 100 other people and a bunch of bunk beds all lined up next to one another? 6. How much time do you get to write home? I have lots and lots of people that want me to write and lots of close family and especially my fiance. I would like to keep a diary or journal while I am in BCT... is that possible? 7. graduation night? Can close friends come also or just family? 8. Will I be able to wear my civilian glasses or contacts for graduation? ( the BC glasses are ugly enough... LOL it doesnt help that I am blind as a bat which means my glasses will thicker then coke bottles) 9.I have very weak upper body strength and have approx 7 weeks until I ship out.. what is the best thing I can do to strengthen that part of my body? I can do about 5 regular pushups before I drop. And running?? I have never been athletic.. matter of fact in the last year I have lost about 50 lbs. I have JUST know gotten to where I can run a mile wihtout stopping if I really push myself. How in the world .. in 7 weeks am I going to be able to run 2 without stopping? Is it possible? I have more questions but really cant think of all them right now but those are enough right now LOL... anything will help... you can either email me at RiverviewStephie@aol.com or just post to the message board.. I will be checking back.. THANKS TO ALL... also... is there anyone else scheduled to go to the DLI around the middle of FEB?? Any one know anything about the DLI? THanks once again... ~Steph Re: Lots of questions... HELP !!! Posted by Sgt. Mike on 9/8/2002, 10:08 am , in reply to "Re: Lots of questions... HELP !!!" 198.81.17.23 Around the holidays, I believe from 20 December until 4 January, the Army goes on "Christmas Exodus". Most training units shut down, and start up again after the new year. You are STRONGLY encouraged to take leave during that time. (And I do mean strongly). 2 things to remember: 1)This is leave, subtracted from your annual allotment of 30 days. Which means that if you've been in the Army less than 6 mos (you earn leave at 2 1/2 days per month) you will be "in the hole" for awhile. 2)Unlike your trip to basic, YOU will have to pay for your trip home (and back, unless you plan on going AWOL!) Re: Lots of questions... HELP !!! Posted by RT on 9/8/2002, 10:02 am , in reply to "Lots of questions... HELP !!!" 68.64.25.139 I know I sound like a broken record, but please check the resources page for answers to many of these questions. I also suggest reading Marck's diary (see the link below or on the "What is basic training" page at this website). He talks about laundry and the day-to-day things at BT. Yes, you'll go home for Christmas, it's called Exodus. Do a search for "exodus" at the search engine on this site and you'll get the specifics. Yes, you'll be doing lots of laundry on some items (ie PT and underwear, shirts, etc). Your squad or you and your battle buddy will do laundry together. You'll be able to buy detergent at the PX. Wallockers are large enough for all your stuff not to be jammed in there. Shoes will be lined up under your bed. You can put your glasses anywhere but don't lose them. Wallockers must be locked at all times (when you are not in the room). Some recruits will be in 3-6 person rooms, there are also large bays with 40-50 of you..depends on which post you go to, which barracks, etc.. You won't have alot of time to write home the first few weeks, the only free time may be a few minutes before lights-out, but you'll find the time..more time on Sundays too. I encourage you to keep a journal..you just have to be wise when to write in it (don't let the drills always catch you writing....during "down time", you're supposed to be reading your "smart book" they give you). Family and friends are encouraged to come to graduation..it's a real accomplishment for you! Most companies will make you wear your BCGs for graduation, it all depends on the cadre. Read one of the posts below for what to do with weak upper body strength..someone else had problems w/push-ups. For running, you gotta do long slow runs over a variety of terrain coupled with Indian running/sprints. Rotate every other day, resting on Sunday. Again, someone asked this below also. Repost from below on running and push-ups Posted by RT on 9/8/2002, 10:04 am , in reply to "Re: Lots of questions... HELP !!!" 68.64.25.139 Re: Push-upsPosted by RT on 9/3/2002, 8:51 am , in reply to "Re: Push-ups"68.64.26.247 Some good advice for females (and those with weak upper body strength)..if you can only do three (and I'm hoping you mean proper push-ups..see the link on the resources page to make sure you are doing them correctly), I would suggest doing them on your knees. Keep your upper body in a straight line and go down where your upper arms are parallel to the floor...do them in front of a mirror or have someone watch you.I would say, do as many as you can like this until your arms start to burn and you can't possibly do any more. Rest a few minutes, then do another set. Do a few more sets. Rest the next day (work on situps or running that day) and then start up again the third day. Once you feel stronger and feel like you can do proper pushups, get off your knees and start again from there. and Re: my runningPosted by RT on 9/5/2002, 8:03 am , in reply to "Re: my running"68.64.26.108 Try alternating long slow run days (over a variety of terrain, slow pace..you're just going for distance here) with Indian Running days (sprint from one light pole to the next, then jog the next set, sprint, etc..or use whatever you are passing at the time as sprint and jog points). This is the fastest way to increase your running times in the 2 miles. Whatever you make of it Posted by PVT2MA on 9/8/2002, 11:52 am 63.214.75.63 Now I've posted this question in all sorts of websites, but no one has seemed to respond. This is the only website where most of my questions are answers almost immediately. So I'm sorry if it is off topic of basic training. Bear with me...I have an eight yr. contract with the ANG and I was wondering what would happen if I became pregnant during my eight years? Would I be discharged or would I have leave for awhile? Just a thought. Thanks if you reply Re: Whatever you make of it Posted by 74Bravo on 9/8/2002, 2:10 pm , in reply to "Whatever you make of it" 24.154.94.9 Not being femal, but having several friends who were, and in the Army who became pregnant, It would seem you would be treated the same (they were RA). You would still be required to perform your duties, or be moved to a position where you could perform your duties, and be expected to remain in physocal condition (not the PT your used to, but still remain in good condition ...ie swimming instead of running, maternaty arobics while able etc) and then continue working up till your doctor requested you to stop, or you hav ethe baby. Once your home time is up, you would be expected to return to service as before...for the friends I had both parents were in the service, RA, and were required to locate child care for their newborn on their own...on post (Ft. Belvoir) has/had several places that would except newborns, however, not all of them...there were also places off post...YMMV..and there may be different guidelines for ANG and or AR soldiers. Hope this helps even if just a little...maybe RT has more current, accurate data. You will also likely want to talk to your command and find out how they operate. 74Bravo Re: Whatever you make of it Posted by RT on 9/9/2002, 7:53 am , in reply to "Re: Whatever you make of it" 68.64.25.139 I'm sure the guidelines for NG are similar to Regular Army. 74Bravo is correct. After the birth you'll then get 6 weeks off to care for the baby (I believe it is 6 weeks). Afterwards, you'll have a profile of what you can do physically and of course you'll be under a doctor's care, but you work your way back up again to "full strength" duties. If you decide not to stay in the Army, you can take a discharge for your pregnancy (you won't get kicked out but you can get voluntarily released). The other thing to remember, once you have a child and let's say your husband is also in the military or you are a single parent, you have to put together a packet called a Family Care Plan. Without it, you can get kicked out of the Army, that's how vital this paperwork is (and it constantly has to be updated). It is basically all the legal paperwork to allow someone else to care for your child when you get deployed..basically a guardian for your baby. Most folks choose someone close to them, like a parent. Imagine getting sent overseas for 2 yrs after the baby is born! I've seen it happen in Saudi (not for that long), but it is just heartbreaking! You'll also always have plans in place to take your child to a caregiver (early mornings before PT, pick up late after work, when you go to the field, etc..). It takes a special kind of person to be able to get themselves and their children through such an experience:-)) Shaving Cream Posted by Romulusguy on 9/8/2002, 4:56 pm 4.60.36.67 Its Me Again :-PI have EXTREMELY sensitive skin. I use EDGE SHAVING GEL with Aloe, since that seems to be the only shaving cream that doesnt give me razor burn. WIll this be allowed in basic? I'm sure it all depends on where you go and who your DS is, but IN GENERAL, will the army make you buy generic, MANLY shaving cream, or will they allow wimpy ALoe Gel Shaving Gel?-PFC Romulusguy Re: Shaving Cream Posted by Mike C. on 9/8/2002, 10:22 pm , in reply to "Shaving Cream" 65.161.170.98 Don't worry. You will be allowed to use your shaving cream. The shopette there at your basic should have it, but just in case, I would bring a couple of cans with me if I were you. They are not so anal there that you must have plain jane cream. I'm the same way as you shaving wise, so don't worry about that. Checkered Past Posted by hopefull on 9/9/2002, 5:28 pm 12.253.105.236 I have seen a couple of mentions about the security interviews at meps. I have no criminal record but I had a slightly checkered past when I fell in with the wrong crowd. Basicly I did some drugs for a while, but I never sold them or commited any violent crimes. Those days are behind me now and I was planning on leaving them there by not disclosing anything. Is this difficult to do in the interview, or ill-advised? I know that what I am asking may seem dishonest but I really do feel like I am a different person now and just want to start this next chapter of my life on the right foot. If anyone has had a similar experience and been through meps and the interviews, I would really love to hear from you. Thanks for all of the helpfull info you've already given. Re: Checkered Past Posted by billyjeffclinton on 9/9/2002, 7:03 pm , in reply to "Checkered Past" 198.81.17.154 If you have been clean (and I mean NO DRUGS, not even marijuana) for more than 90 days, and have no arrests, relax. The Army sets an arbitrarily unreasonable standard (look at my name on the posting) that few people can meet HONESTLY. Our former president AND vice president admitted to smoking marijuana, and our current c-i-c won't even answer the question. If you've stopped completely, don't worry. Once you're in, don't start. The biggest problem drug in the Army is, was and always will be alcohol. And they sell that tax-free on almost every post. Re: Checkered Past Posted by hopefull on 9/9/2002, 7:20 pm , in reply to "Re: Checkered Past" 12.253.105.236 Thanks for the encouragement. I am clean and sober and serious about staying that way. So does that mean I should "just say no" in response to any questions about what I have done? I am not a very good liar and would like to be prepared for the kinds of questions they might ask so as not to be taken by surprise. Can anyone tell me what they ask?Thanks so much, this site is a HUGE help. Re: Checkered Past Posted by dean on 9/10/2002, 2:58 pm , in reply to "Checkered Past" 66.42.39.179 in the begining at MEPS, you will be breifed in a classroom by one of the commanders. You will have a gang of paperwork at your desk. He will go through each form you are to fill out all together with evryone. He will give a long and fearfull speech about lieing and falsifying your documents and how many years in prison you will spend if they catch you on it. He will say something like, many kids try/experement with minor drugs and the military realizes this. and if it is within regulation, it will be ok. However putting down that you have done drugs, any kind, will get you questioned by the doctors when your each that point later in the day.I have never been caught or ticketed in anyway for drug use or possession, but I was slightly honest and admitted to a Clinton type response about my early days in high school. I was questioned by a doctor about my response. but I was not repremanded in anyway for it. If you have any type of drug affilation on your criminal record or on any record, i would urge you to admit to that, because they will find out. If it is just within your conscious(sp) and memory, then... well thats up to you i bought into the whole fear factor the briefing officer imposed on us about honesty, and personally regretted some of the things I put down. I realized alot of what I had said and boxes I checked on the forms, would have never been discoverd by the army, and in no way would have made me less of a soldier, and it left me with nothing but waivers, BS, and cost me the whole summer in paperwork before I could enlist. good luckDean taped? Posted by cece on 9/10/2002, 12:54 pm 12.242.188.67 Ok, what exactly do they do to you when you are taped? I assume it is due to being over the acceptable maximum weight limit for your height. Just curious, I am five pounds over the max. right now but I am not fat, a little top heavy but not fat. (Female) Where do they measure? AR 600-9 The Army Weight Control Program (tape test here) Posted by RT on 9/10/2002, 2:30 pm , in reply to "Re: taped?" 68.64.25.139 Yes, this is when you are over the weight standard for your height..doesn't necessarily mean you are overweight..lots of bodybuilders and such have to get taped. You'll find the formulas and step by step directions (all you need is a tape measure) in AR 600-9 The Army Weight Control Program. See link below: Link: http://www.usapa.army.mil/pdffiles/r600_9.pdf AIT what more can you bring? Posted by mouse on 9/10/2002, 2:09 pm 63.48.37.80 Can you have a computer or a CD player at AIT ?? Re: AIT what more can you bring? Posted by Mike C. on 9/10/2002, 3:18 pm , in reply to "AIT what more can you bring?" 65.161.170.133 Almost all AIT's prohibit those type of things. I'm pretty sure that all AIT's prohibit computers, but for really long AIT's (I mean anything over 40 weeks)It might be possible, but I doubt it. I wouldn't bring anything like that with you. If by chance you can have a cd player, just have it mailed to you. Your recruiter can tell you the rules for your particular AIT. College First Program Posted by Kurtis on 9/10/2002, 4:20 pm 129.120.33.97 Has anyone in here participated in the college first program? If so, how did you like it? Tell me about your experience. I am afraid if I do it, I won't be able to get what I want in my contract when I go to MEPS in two years. Any advice will help. Thanks Re: College First Program Posted by Angela on 9/10/2002, 4:43 pm , in reply to "College First Program" 24.126.197.230 I am not sure, I might have been lied to, but I was told by my Army recruiter's that the College first program does not exist anymore. Now even if you waited two years to go to MEPS you should be able to find what you want. It's very similar as to going two months from now to get the MOS, bonuses, etc. that one wants and this all depends on what is still available bonuses, programs, etc. sprained ankle Posted by Mouse on 9/11/2002, 11:06 am 63.48.37.107 I am suppost to leave the 18th of this month, unfortunately last night I sprained my ankle, I am really upset about it. I can't even put a little weight on it, I really don't want to loose my job, but I am worried I won't be able to run in just a week....Does anyone know what usually happens in this kind of situation?????? Re: sprained ankle Posted by EvanNever on 9/11/2002, 11:59 am , in reply to "sprained ankle" 12.253.105.236 My suggestion is, stay off it for as much of the next 6 days as you can. Keep it elevated and ice it often. You should be okay to walk on it after that period. Then as far as I know, you will spend at least a week at reception without much pt. I've had many sprains and they always feel really bad at first but they heal quickly. With any luck, by the time you do your PT test you will may just be a little sore on it. BCT and Sept. 11, 2001 Posted by Angela on 9/11/2002, 1:01 pm 216.202.13.3 I realised today, that there were people attending BCT during Sept. 11 last year. It makes me wonder, did the recruits get told what was happening? Did they get exodus because of it? I simply ask because I just wonder what their experience was like. It's hard enough being at BCT with no news but to have no news during that and learn about it after you're out. Re: BCT and Sept. 11, 2001 Posted by Shannon on 9/11/2002, 1:11 pm , in reply to "BCT and Sept. 11, 2001" 65.135.66.170 They did tell the privates who were in training what happened. I saw it on the dicovery channel's coverage of the marine's boot camp. I am not sure what type of liberties they were given to see if their friends and family were okay though. Most recruits that were filmed hoped that it would spur a movement to join the military. Re: BCT and Sept. 11, 2001 Posted by PVT2MA on 9/11/2002, 2:53 pm , in reply to "BCT and Sept. 11, 2001" 63.214.84.195 My friend was at basic training during this day last year. They were told what was happened and the rest of the day they did classroom activities, but he said they were talking about what happened instead of doing actual learning. They also got a phonecall home that day. Support Allotment Posted by JP on 9/11/2002, 4:16 pm 198.81.26.175 I hate my bank. Signed up for direct deposit; now they tell me I can't get extra ATM card for spouse. (Won't tell you name of bank, but it has a STAGE COACH IN THE AD!!!) Too close to my ship date (Sept 26) to risk setting up another bank for my Army paycheck. I heard of a support allotment; how does that work? Does it have to be a dollar amount, or can I just send "half" to my wife's account? Or just the BAH? BTW, do I get "separation pay" while in basic & AIT? Re: Support Allotment Posted by RT on 9/13/2002, 8:28 am , in reply to "Support Allotment" 68.70.110.168 YOu can choose to send allotments to mutual funds, other bank accts, etc. Yes, you do have to set an amount. See above for separation pay BAH Question Posted by Spiderman on 9/11/2002, 4:46 pm 165.124.28.71 Hey all, How does BAH work? I am joining the National Guard and I'm told I will be paid this allowance while I am at BCT, (I am married). Is this allowance based on your mortgage ( I'm told to bring a copy of my monthly bill ) or is it an allowance based on where you currently live or based on where you are in BCT? Anyone know how much it is for married, no kids, lives in Chicago? Best regards. Re: BAH Question Posted by Mike C. on 9/12/2002, 4:37 pm , in reply to "BAH Question" 65.161.170.18 It is based on the average cost of housing in the area your family will be living in while you are at basic and AIT. I'm not sure about the cost for the Chicago area, but you might find it out on www.dfas.mil Re: BAH Question Posted by RT on 9/13/2002, 7:45 am , in reply to "Re: BAH Question" 68.70.110.168 If you check the BAH calculator on the Housing Page, it'll work out the amount for you. It is also based upon your rank. Link: http://www.armybasic.homestead.com/housing.html Switch MOS Posted by PV2Stutler on 9/12/2002, 12:20 pm 24.197.74.139 Is there any chance that you can switch your MOS after your first duty station? Re: Switch MOS Posted by Mike C. on 9/12/2002, 4:51 pm , in reply to "Switch MOS" 65.161.170.18 There are ways to switch MOS's, but they are usually tied to reenlistment as a form of incentive. You also can try to change if you were to be promoted to a rank where you have no further promotion potential. You can also request a change in MOS if your current MOS is over strength and you request a change to an very understrength MOS. This is called the STAR MOS program. You also can request to change your MOS in the event of a medical condition that precludes you from performing in your MOS. My wife is in that process right now. Just changing your MOS prior to being up for reenlistment is usually unlikely unless you were to try and join Special Forces. Question... Posted by Mo on 9/12/2002, 3:15 pm 64.12.96.107 I'm thinking about joining the reserves, most likey will. Might be dumb question,just wondering if anyone knows if the females are allowed to have a shower cap in BCT and also if when the lights out at bedtime are you allowed to use the bathroom or fix your wall locker maybe. Any replies will help, thanks Re: Question... Posted by Mike C. on 9/12/2002, 4:45 pm , in reply to "Re: Question..." 65.161.170.18 I highly doubt the shower cap will be a problem. Jusk keep it with the rest of your hygene items and you'll be fine. As far as using the latrine after lights out, that is allowed. Fixing up your wall locker is usually not allowed. You will have a little time for that before lights out, but I wouldn't want to be caught up after lights out doing stuff that should have been done earlier. Someone will get caught and you will see what I'm talking about then. Re: Question... Posted by RT on 9/13/2002, 7:49 am , in reply to "Re: Question..." 68.70.110.168 Good advice. Shower caps are allowed, and yes keep them with your hygiene kit. You can get up as many times as you want to go to the latrine, in fact some people do go in the middle of the night, just to get some time alone and privacy:-)) You definitely do not want to be rootin' around in your wallocker at night! It'll be pitch black, so you'd need your flashlight. You'd also disturb those around you who are trying to sleep, and yes the fireguards do patrols (as well as the drill sergeant) and you don't want to get caught doing it. Try to get things in order before lights out. New Stop-loss program Posted by Kataratos on 9/12/2002, 4:24 pm 66.139.221.94 Anyone heard about the Stop-loss that TRADOC put out? Re: New Stop-loss program Posted by Mike C. on 9/12/2002, 4:35 pm , in reply to "New Stop-loss program" 65.161.170.18 You can read it for yourself at www.perscom.army.mil Go to milper messages and see 02-242. Interesting... Question... Posted by Monique on 9/12/2002, 4:54 pm 137.238.0.1 My boyfriend is graduating in a month, and I am going down to see him and I heard that since he will be in uniform, he won't be able to hug me. I wanted to know if this is true. Could somebody please help?! Thanks so much Re: Question... Posted by RT on 9/13/2002, 7:52 am , in reply to "Re: Question..." 68.70.110.168 Whoever told you that must have been trying to say "no large displays of affection" while the soldier is in uniform. A hug is certainly okay. I think even a quick congratulatory kiss is fine..anything more than that in public (especially in front of the drill sergeants) is a no-no! We know that you'll be extremely happy to see your boyfriend, but you'll just have to wait until you're in private for anything more. It goes against good military order and discipline:-)) GSOC sacrifced for early ship out date.. help? Posted by Dean on 9/12/2002, 5:39 pm 66.42.38.157 I was told I could get shipped out early by the captian of the recruiting area here. He said I would have to change my MOS and my GSOC tho. I told him I was not willing to change my MOS (11X) but willing to change my GSOC. it was Europe. =\ I was excited to go there but I really need to ship out soon.Is this a fair trade? lose my GSOC to ship out early? They say they will not give me a station of choice now at all. And that I will figure out where I am going during or after OSUT.Anyone know where I might go? What are the bases for infantry when you do not have a station on your contract? I still have time to turn his offer down and just wait. I am just affraid to get shipped to some horrible infantry unit somewhere. because I don't know the possiblities.any help would be great.thxDean Re: GSOC sacrifced for early ship out date.. help? Posted by Angela on 9/12/2002, 6:52 pm , in reply to "GSOC sacrifced for early ship out date.. help?" 216.202.13.3 I would say personally that if you can wait the time it takes to go OSUT with your MOS and GSOC, it would be preferable. Becuase for one you will be at your duty station for at least 18 months. Now the time for stations such as Europe I think are more like 3 years but I could be wrong. You would have to consider are you willing to give up your GSOC to go in sooner and be at a station for at least 18 months? Plus once those 18 months are over or close to ending you can request a different station but it won't be guaranteed. So I would say is going in early worth giving up your one chance to be guaranteed a place that you want to go to? It's your choice of course, , so good luck with it. Hooah! Re: GSOC sacrifced for early ship out date.. help? Posted by Mike C. on 9/12/2002, 11:28 pm , in reply to "GSOC sacrifced for early ship out date.. help?" 65.161.172.124 Hi Dean. I remember your situation and all I can say is that it sucks to have to make that kind of choice. If you don't get your station of choice, there are a number of posts in the US as well as Europe or Korea that you can go to. In the US, the big posts for Infantry are: Ft Benning, Ft Stewart, GA Ft Hood, TX Ft Carson, CO Ft Lewis, WA Ft Drum, NY and Ft Ord, CA You could go anywhere; there is really no way to tell where you might go. You might try to call the Infantry branch and speak to an enlisted advisor. Sometimes, they can give you an assignment that you request. If you've enlisted, you can register for an AKO account at www.us.army.mil On their site, there is something called ASK. On ASK you get to put in your prefered assignments for the US, Europe, or Korea. You don't get to pick your specific post for overseas assignments, but you can request certain stateside posts. There is no absolute certainty that you will get the assignment of your choice, but that is where the assignment managers start to try to match your preferences up to the open assignments in your MOS. Separation Pay Posted by JP on 9/12/2002, 7:35 pm 198.81.16.167 Since I'm not allowed to take my wife to BCT (or AIT) will I get "separation pay"? If so, how much is it for an E-4? Secondly, since many training dates are closed this time of year, what happens if I get delayed in BCT? (by fat camp or recycled) Will I lose my guaranteed training & quaranteed station of choice? Re: Separation Pay Posted by RT on 9/13/2002, 8:26 am , in reply to "Separation Pay" 68.70.110.168 Separation pay is a standard amount. I believe they just raised it from $75 to $100 a month, regardless of rank. You get it when you will be at least 30 days away from your family. As far as getting held up in BT, it's very possible that you could lose your station of choice if you get delayed too long. I've had soldiers hurt who had obscure MOSs (with only a few AIT dates a year), and it was just terrible for them (the waiting) as they waited for the next AIT date. Most BT posts have what are called "holdover" companies (depressing place to be) where they keep you busy until it's time to go. If you have a fairly "run of the mill" MOS, then we try to find you another AIT slot coming up, and it's usually not a problem with that. Repeating basic Posted by Suz on 9/17/2002, 12:46 pm 192.94.109.1 My boyfriend called me the other night and said that his company has been gettting in a lot trouble lately. Several guys were caught sneaking cookies and stuff like that from the kitchen and others were getting in trouble for not talking with their hands behind their backs or drinking their milk too soon and stuff like that. A lot of guys are getting kicked out and they only have two weeks left. The drill sergants are threathening to make the whole company start basic over again. Can they do that? My boyfriend hasn't done anything wrong or screwed up in any way. Can they make him start over because of the other guys' mistakes? Please respond if you know the answer. Re: Repeating basic Posted by RAM on 9/17/2002, 11:59 pm , in reply to "Repeating basic" 216.78.28.146 This threat sounds like the drill sergeants' scare-tactics to get the company to shape up. I've certainly never heard of an entire company being re-started. Drills are notorious for making those types of empty threats to get recruits to perform better. When my brother went through MP OSUT at Ft. Leonard Wood, he was having a hard time with basic rifle marksmanship. The day before qualification, a drill told him that if he didn't get score at least sharpshooter, that he was going to pull my brother out of the program and send him to re-class as a 92G(cook); He beleived him, practiced all day, and the next day at qualification, he hit 41 out of 42 targets. Sometimes, this added stress gives trainees the extra "push" they need to succeed. Re: Repeating basic Posted by RT on 9/19/2002, 8:54 am , in reply to "Repeating basic" 68.64.26.118 This is just a tool the drills use to motivate the recruits, they don't recyle whole companies..it just isn't done in this day and age (ie money and time). I've never had a company in this bad a shape...this is highly unusual that so many would go against good order and discipline. As a commander, I would nip behavior like this in the bud, very early. We use what is called UCMJ, kind of like a mini-court where the commander is the judge and jury. If the commander decides the recruit is guilty, he can do things like take away pay, rank, extra duty, restriction, etc.. I don't know why this is not being done in this company. Plus, I would've discharged recruits who were constantly getting in trouble. Anyway, tell your boyfriend to stay motivated and to do what he's told. He'll make it through just fine.