Can You go back to the military after being discharged?

Can You Go Back to the Military After Being Discharged?

The military is a lifelong commitment, and for those who have served, it can be a difficult decision to leave the service. However, sometimes circumstances arise that require individuals to leave the military, and they may wonder if they can return to service later on. The answer is yes, but it’s not a straightforward process. In this article, we’ll explore the options and requirements for re-enlisting in the military after being discharged.

What is the Difference Between Honorable and General Discharge?

Before we dive into the process of re-enlisting, it’s essential to understand the difference between an honorable and general discharge. An honorable discharge is given to service members who have completed their service with distinction, meeting all their obligations and following the rules. On the other hand, a general discharge is given to those who have not met the standards of their service or have been discharged for medical reasons.

Re-enlisting After an Honorable Discharge

If you were honorably discharged from the military, you may be eligible to re-enlist. However, the process is not automatic, and you’ll need to meet certain requirements. Here are the steps to re-enlist:

• Meet the Eligibility Requirements: You must meet the eligibility requirements for re-enlistment, which include being within the age limit, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and meeting the physical fitness standards.
• Get a Waiver: You’ll need to get a waiver from the military branch you’re interested in re-enlisting in. The waiver will depend on the circumstances of your previous discharge and the reason for your desire to re-enlist.
• Meet the Medical Standards: You’ll need to meet the medical standards for re-enlistment, which may include passing a physical fitness test and undergoing a medical evaluation.
• Apply for Re-enlistment: You’ll need to apply for re-enlistment through the military branch’s re-enlistment office.

Re-enlisting After a General Discharge

If you were general discharged from the military, it’s more challenging to re-enlist. However, it’s not impossible. Here are the steps to re-enlist:

• Meet the Eligibility Requirements: You must meet the eligibility requirements for re-enlistment, which include being within the age limit, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and meeting the physical fitness standards.
• Get a Waiver: You’ll need to get a waiver from the military branch you’re interested in re-enlisting in. The waiver will depend on the circumstances of your previous discharge and the reason for your desire to re-enlist.
• Meet the Medical Standards: You’ll need to meet the medical standards for re-enlistment, which may include passing a physical fitness test and undergoing a medical evaluation.
• Apply for Re-enlistment: You’ll need to apply for re-enlistment through the military branch’s re-enlistment office.

Types of Re-enlistment

There are several types of re-enlistment, including:

• Re-enlistment: This is the most common type of re-enlistment, where you re-enlist in the same branch and serve for another term.
• Transfer: This type of re-enlistment allows you to transfer to a different branch of the military.
• Extension: This type of re-enlistment allows you to extend your current service contract.

Benefits of Re-enlisting

Re-enlisting in the military can have several benefits, including:

• Education Benefits: Re-enlistees may be eligible for education benefits, such as the GI Bill.
• Healthcare Benefits: Re-enlistees may be eligible for healthcare benefits, including TRICARE.
• Job Security: Re-enlistees may have more job security than civilians, as they are protected by the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).
• Camaraderie: Re-enlistees may have the opportunity to rejoin their old unit and reconnect with fellow service members.

Challenges of Re-enlisting

Re-enlisting in the military can also have several challenges, including:

• Physical Demands: Re-enlistees must meet the physical demands of military service, which can be challenging, especially if they have been out of the service for a long time.
• Time Commitment: Re-enlistees must be willing to make a significant time commitment to their service, which can be challenging for those with family or work obligations.
• Separation from Family: Re-enlistees may have to separate from their family for extended periods, which can be challenging for those with family obligations.

Conclusion

Re-enlisting in the military after being discharged is possible, but it’s not a straightforward process. Service members must meet certain requirements, including getting a waiver and meeting the medical standards. While re-enlisting can have several benefits, including education benefits and job security, it also comes with challenges, including physical demands and time commitment. If you’re considering re-enlisting, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and consult with a military recruiter to determine if it’s the right decision for you.

Table: Re-enlistment Requirements

Bullets: Benefits of Re-enlisting

• Education benefits
• Healthcare benefits
• Job security
• Camaraderie

Bullets: Challenges of Re-enlisting

• Physical demands
• Time commitment
• Separation from family