5 Ways To Rejoin The Military After Discharge

Rejoining the military after discharge can be a complex process, but it's not impossible. Many individuals who have left the military for various reasons often find themselves wanting to return to the sense of purpose and camaraderie that comes with serving their country. Whether you're looking to re-enlist, re-enter the military through a different branch, or transition into the National Guard or Reserves, there are several ways to rejoin the military after discharge.

The military is always looking for skilled and dedicated individuals to join their ranks, and with the right guidance, you can navigate the re-enlistment process and start a new chapter in your military career. Here are five ways to rejoin the military after discharge:

Understanding the Re-Enlistment Process

Before you start the re-enlistment process, it's essential to understand the different types of discharges and how they may impact your ability to rejoin the military. There are several types of discharges, including honorable, general, other-than-honorable, and dishonorable. An honorable discharge is the most common type of discharge and is typically awarded to service members who have served honorably and fulfilled their contractual obligations.

Types of Discharges and Their Impact on Re-Enlistment

• Honorable discharge: This type of discharge is typically awarded to service members who have served honorably and fulfilled their contractual obligations. Individuals with an honorable discharge are usually eligible to re-enlist.
• General discharge: A general discharge is awarded to service members who have not met the standards of performance and conduct expected of them. Individuals with a general discharge may be eligible to re-enlist, but they may face additional scrutiny during the re-enlistment process.
• Other-than-honorable discharge: This type of discharge is awarded to service members who have committed misconduct or have performed poorly. Individuals with an other-than-honorable discharge may be ineligible to re-enlist.
• Dishonorable discharge: A dishonorable discharge is the most severe type of discharge and is typically awarded to service members who have committed serious offenses, such as treason or desertion. Individuals with a dishonorable discharge are usually ineligible to re-enlist.

Re-Enlisting in the Same Branch

Re-enlisting in the same branch is often the easiest way to rejoin the military after discharge. To re-enlist, you'll need to meet the eligibility requirements, which typically include:

• Being a U.S. citizen
• Being between the ages of 17 and 35 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
• Meeting the physical fitness standards for your branch
• Passing a background check
• Completing the required amount of time in the military (usually 6-12 months)

Steps to Re-Enlist in the Same Branch

1. Contact a recruiter: Reach out to a recruiter from your previous branch to discuss your eligibility and the re-enlistment process.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, including age, citizenship, and physical fitness standards.
3. Take the ASVAB test: You'll need to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test to determine your qualifications for different military jobs.
4. Complete the enlistment process: Once you've met the eligibility requirements and taken the ASVAB test, you can complete the enlistment process, which typically includes signing a contract and attending basic training.

Joining a Different Branch

If you're looking to join a different branch, the process is similar to re-enlisting in the same branch. However, you'll need to meet the eligibility requirements for the new branch, which may differ from your previous branch.

Steps to Join a Different Branch

1. Research the new branch: Learn about the new branch, its mission, and its culture.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the new branch, including age, citizenship, and physical fitness standards.
3. Contact a recruiter: Reach out to a recruiter from the new branch to discuss your eligibility and the enlistment process.
4. Complete the enlistment process: Once you've met the eligibility requirements, you can complete the enlistment process, which typically includes signing a contract and attending basic training.

Joining the National Guard or Reserves

Joining the National Guard or Reserves can be a great way to rejoin the military after discharge. The National Guard and Reserves offer part-time military service, which can be a great option for individuals who want to serve their country while also pursuing civilian careers.

Steps to Join the National Guard or Reserves

1. Research the National Guard and Reserves: Learn about the National Guard and Reserves, their mission, and their culture.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, including age, citizenship, and physical fitness standards.
3. Contact a recruiter: Reach out to a recruiter from the National Guard or Reserves to discuss your eligibility and the enlistment process.
4. Complete the enlistment process: Once you've met the eligibility requirements, you can complete the enlistment process, which typically includes signing a contract and attending basic training.

Re-Enlisting After a Break in Service

Re-enlisting after a break in service can be a bit more challenging than re-enlisting immediately after discharge. However, it's still possible to re-enlist after a break in service.

Steps to Re-Enlist After a Break in Service

1. Contact a recruiter: Reach out to a recruiter from your previous branch to discuss your eligibility and the re-enlistment process.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, including age, citizenship, and physical fitness standards.
3. Complete the re-enlistment process: Once you've met the eligibility requirements, you can complete the re-enlistment process, which typically includes signing a contract and attending basic training.

Conclusion

Rejoining the military after discharge can be a complex process, but it's not impossible. Whether you're looking to re-enlist in the same branch, join a different branch, or transition into the National Guard or Reserves, there are several ways to rejoin the military after discharge. By understanding the re-enlistment process and meeting the eligibility requirements, you can start a new chapter in your military career.

Gallery of Rejoining the Military After Discharge

Rejoining the Military After Discharge Image Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rejoin the military after discharge?

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Yes, you can rejoin the military after discharge. However, the process and eligibility requirements may vary depending on the type of discharge and the branch you're trying to rejoin.

How long do I have to wait before rejoining the military?

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The waiting period to rejoin the military varies depending on the type of discharge and the branch you're trying to rejoin. Typically, you'll need to wait at least 6-12 months before re-enlisting.

Can I rejoin the military if I have a general discharge?

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Yes, you can rejoin the military with a general discharge. However, you may face additional scrutiny during the re-enlistment process, and your eligibility may depend on the circumstances surrounding your discharge.

Can I rejoin the military if I have an other-than-honorable discharge?

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It's unlikely that you'll be able to rejoin the military with an other-than-honorable discharge. However, you may be able to appeal the discharge or seek a waiver from the military.