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thedrifter
01-25-06, 09:32 AM
Staying Marine in Iraq
2nd Marine Logistics Group
Story by Lance Cpl. Wayne Edmiston

CAMP TAQADDUM, Iraq (Jan. 25, 2006) -- Reenlisting or separating from the Marine Corps is a decision each enlisted Marine reaches at some point in their career.

Gunnery Sgt. Antonio M. Hardy, the 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) career retention specialist is on hand here to assist Marines considering “re-uping” while forward deployed.

When reenlisting while deployed, you can receive federal and state tax-free reenlistment bonuses, Hardy explained.

This means getting the full cash amount on the paper, which you would not be able to receive in garrison.

Hardy also explained that some military occupational specialties are short handed and offering especially large reenlistment incentives.

Some of these MOS’s include counter intelligence specialist, imagery analysis specialist, Arabic cryptological linguist, legal services reporter and career retention specialist.

The incentives can be anything from parachutist school seats, choice of duty stations and permissive temporary additional duty days.

When considering reenlisting, Hardy offered some advice on preparing for the process.

“It’s important to have a current [physical fitness test], all training up to date, medical and dental records up to date, service record book up to date and the paper work is processed through your chain of command,” Hardy explained.

One Marine, Cpl. David J. Swaney, an administrative clerk with 2nd MLG (Fwd) described his process of reenlistment.

“My reenlistment went very smoothly,” Swaney said. “The benefits I have gained are a location preference, [lateral] move, 14 days [permissive temporary assignment of duty] and the ability to continue adding to my retirement.”

Generally, reenlistment for Marines is anywhere between three and five years, Hardy said.

Hardy reminded Marines, that not every Marine can reenlist. Many things are considered, such as proficiency and conduct marks. Another factor is the availability of a “boat spaces.”

“Boat spaces” are job slots available for each MOS. Acquiring one of these slots can be very competitive, depending on the availability of the occupational field.

For more information concerning the advantages of reenlistment Marines can contact their career retention specialist through their appropriate chain of command.

Hardy concluded with his motto, “Stay Marine. Failing to plan is planning to fail.”

Ellie