View Full Version : Intel or Recon
I will be presented tomorrow with the list of available active duty MOS options for Intel and Recon.
I'm a 18 year old male I scored a 90 on my ASVAB GT-122 EL-128 CL-128 MM-124
I currently have a second class PFT score (217) at the moment but it is rapidly rising with my training (Transitioning from Bodybuilding training to functional training)
My question is if presented with the opportunity for both Recon and Intel contracts which should I choose and why?
Thank you
Drew
I work with Both MOS's and each has its pros and cons. So in order to best help you I ask, why did you choose each of those as your desired MOS?
Intel because of the Security Clearance primarily and usefulness after leaving
Recon because of the higher speed lifestyle the skills learned from it and the challenge
Intel because of the Security Clearance primarily and usefulness after leaving
Recon because of the higher speed lifestyle the skills learned from it and the challenge
Good to go. If you like the high speed stuff I'd say go recon. Intel will in fact set a great foundation for careers outside the Marines and open doors to the civilian world. However, recon will offer you one of the most unique experiences in the Marine Corps. If you decide to extend your time in and reenlist you can go counterintelligence which is a high demand MOS these days. But going recon is also a risky venture. Look deep within and see if you have what it takes. It's not only excellent physical conditioning but mental fortitude and determination as well. Know that if you sign a recon contract and quit or don't make it, the Marine Corps has the right to give you another MOS. a risky gamble if you're willing to take it...
Yeah I know High Risk High Reward decision I genuinely think I'd be happy with both maybe I'd be a little happier with the high speed life style of Recon but I also worry a lot about failing out for whatever reason and being put in the infantry
Would there be opportunity for me to try out for Recon even if I choose Intel?
Rocky C
03-08-16, 08:36 AM
Yes if you are lucky enough. See my profile please. Can't speak on specifics. OPSEC.
Tennessee Top
03-08-16, 10:42 AM
Any MOS can try out for MARSOC (special ops) but I believe only infantry can try out for RECON (if you decide not to take that contract). Somebody will know for sure.
To give you an idea of which MOS's the USMC currently considers more critical. Here are the reenlistment bonuses that are being offered for Fiscal Year 2016:
0372 Critical Skills Operator (MARSOC) $56K
0211 Counterintelligence/human intelligence specialist $56K
0689 Cyber security technician $56K
0321 Reconnaissance man $51K
0651 Cyber network operator $30,750
0241 Imagery analysis specialist $20,500
0261 Geographic intelligence specialist $15K
0313/0311/0331/0341/0352 $15K
0365 Infantry squad leader $25K
Despite those bonuses (there are many more including aviation MOS's), the USMC has failed to reach its reenlistment goals so far this fiscal year (for myriad reasons - job satisfaction being #1). You'll just have to take that for what it's worth in your decision making process.
Rocky C
03-08-16, 03:29 PM
The biggest part in this whole decision process as far as I'm concerned is what you can turn into a civilian job when you get out with maximum pay.
Firefighter or Police Officer are my two first choices at this point in my life
Rocky C
03-08-16, 03:35 PM
What ? Then why are you wasting the Marines time asking about Intel and Recon ???
Because those are the things Id want to do while in the Marines
Rocky C
03-08-16, 03:44 PM
Oh so Marine Corps first and then when you get out Firefighter or Police Officer.
Got it.
Step 1, enlist. You just might want to do 20 or 30 years. If they let you of course.
Rocky C
03-08-16, 04:06 PM
You might love being a Career Marine.
I have thought about that but ill sign my first contract for 5 years and go from there
Rocky C
03-08-16, 04:11 PM
Sounds like a plan. Hope you are able to enlist.
Best of luck.
Tennessee Top
03-08-16, 04:19 PM
I'm sure you're aware already. But, the USMC does have military police and fire/crash rescue MOS's. The training, experience, certifications, and networking could prove beneficial in finding a civilian job after you get out (if that's important at all).