Reclassing to Infantry

[Essayons479]

Hey. I'm an E-5 Army Reservist who is thinking about going active. The thing is, I would like to reclass into the infantry. How would this be arranged? Please tell me I wouldn't have to go through all 17 weeks of OSUT...

Another thing is, I really don't think I have the training or experience to jump right into the infantry as an NCO. I work in a small supply section; I've never been in charge of anyone, much less in a field or combat environment. This probably sounds like an idiotic idea, but could I come in as an E-4 so I have time to "grow" as an infantryman before putting the stripes back on?

Thanks a lot gentlemen.

[RetArmyMedic]

First, talk to your retention NCO and see what the requirements are to transfer to Infantry. Also, go talk to one of the retention NCO's with an infantry unit. Compare the information you get and go from there. Another option, try calling and making an appointment with one of the 1Sgt's with an infantry unit. That way you'll have a better idea of what you'ld be getting yourself into as an infantry NCO.




Keep in mind, this is advice from a female medic so take it for whats it worth LOL But thats what I would do if I wanted to know about another field and what Id be getting into.
Good luck!

[Essayons479]

I checked out the ATRRS site and there is a program for prior service and reclassing soldiers who want to switch to infantry. They are integrated into the fifth week of OSUT at Fort Benning.

Thanks for your advice, RetArmyMedic. And happy holidays.

[RR691983]

You'll stay an e5. Dont worry, there's a SGT in my squad that reclassed from warehouse supply and he's an outstanding team leader. You'll do fine

[lz12366]

I just went throught this process not too long ago myself. There seems to be two ways to accomplish your goal. First find an Infantry support unit in the reserve and reclass 11B for two weeks. Second if you do go active, you won't go through the entire bct/ict cycle. You will join an bct/ict training unit in phase 2. The ICT. As an NCO/e5 and above you will get some additional perks, but you will suck dirt like all the rest. Ft. Benning loves new blood.

As far as being an NCO in an Infantry unit goes, you will probably be put in an admin position for a little while until you get acclimated to Army life in a line unit. Then when they feel comfortable with you they will groom you for a leader position.

Good luck, HOOOOOOOAAAAH!

[11bang_bang8387]

I wish you the best Essayons479. I also envy you...I've been out 15 years and would love to go back. But, my wife doesn't like the idea of a 42 year old father of 3 going back in the military. Enjoy yourself and make the best of it while you can.

[armyinfmom63]

Good Luck!! I am a mother of a son that is in Infantry, currently deployed in Iraq. Just wanted to wish you good luck in your plans!!

[SSGMike.Ivy]

Best of luck and do not cut your self and capabilities short. Remember you are an 11B and might have forgotten this. Every soldier is initially a grunt first and their specialty MOS is secondary in time of war.