Hi fellas,

First off, what a great forum for dudes who dream big.

I got out of the Army two years ago to fake this thing they call college, and cant shake the feeling I didn't reach my full potential in the military. After a slightly successful Army career, some time in the 82nd Airborne Division, and 3 trips to the desert I have decided I have way more gas in the tank. During my last year at Fort Bragg I met a PJ who was quite honestly the baddest man I have ever met (prior service Marine also!). Sold on Pararescue.

I have contacted a recruiter and delivered my records, and was told to "stand by and train." I also got the feeling they don't see situations like myself often, so they were not exactly enthusiastic (helpful though). I get the bureaucracy and I know the fiscal year is about to kick off, so I'm cool with it. I would just love to hear a success story to settle my mind. Prior service guys out there who have done it, you out there?

Thanks!

So I ended up getting a CCT slot for this summer. Yes, I originally applied for PJ, but after some thought and research, I decided CCT is a better fit. I am super excited to get my chance to be a AF special operator.

I just wanted to post this to let guys know the prior service program does work, it just takes some time and patience. I was pretty skeptical in the beginning, but gave it a go. Be punctual and show your recruiters you are worth their time, and they will reciprocate. That being said, my recruiter told me the other day the PS program for this year has been closed, so I would recommend linking up with a recruiter no later than Sept with all of your paperwork in order, and be ready to kill the PAST for FY13.

BTW, I did not get one of the original three slots made available at the beginning of the FY, but sometime around February 5 slots opened up. Since my packet was approved and already at the recruiting command, I got one. Good luck to all. Hooyah!

Congrats man. Good to hear prior service success stories. How long did it take for you to get your package done, submitted and a ship date set in stone?

Good luck and kill it.

How long was it from the time you started your package + got a ship date**

I took the PAST and started the process in September. So between retaking the ASVAB, the physical at MEPS (am I really duck walking in my underwear again!), and the security clearance, it took 4 months to complete my packet. It was approved at the end of December, I was made aware of slots becoming available in January, and received my training date in February.

So I guess 6 months.

Thanks brother.

Also, what rank did you go in as? Did you have to do a 'rank retention' waiver, or whatever it is they do for PS/Interservice transfers?

I'm not sure yet, I guess they make that determination at MEPS when you enlist.

I got out of the Army as an E-6 with 4 years TIG. From what I have read I think I'll be bumped down to E-5, but my recruiter seems to think I'll keep E-6. We'll see.

Thanks for the answers brother.

Good luck and train hard.

Hillclimb, what's a "rank retention" waiver? Just curious. Never heard of it. I just got a class date and was told that I'm probably going to be bumped back down to E-5. I've only accumulated 8 years and some change according to my TAFMS. The time I spent wearing the uniform as an ART in civ status doesn't count. Kinda of chaps my *****, but just getting a shot is more than worth it.

I probably mixed up the vocab or its called something else in the Air Force. After talking to several other branches, they all had some sort of grade determination paperwork that needed to be submitted for interservice transfers/prior service. I'd gladly take a bump down to E-1 as long as they fed me and gave me a slot.

Like I said, probably wrong vocab or not applicable to the AF. idk.