Prior Svc USN looking to join USMC

[FT3 Stewart82]

I had heard before that USMC does not take prior svc from any branch, I was just curious as to whether or not this is true. I've been out five years, i'm 26 yrs old. Honorably discharged and would very much like give the Marines a shot if possible.

[Brad]

I haven't talked to a Marine recruiter in a few years, but last time I did this was the case. Prior service does not count. That doesn't mean you can't enlist. It just means you'll have to go through Marine Corps basic training and don't expect to start with the rank you had when you got out.

[Grimmy]

I'd never heard of the USMC refusing anyone based on prior honorable service in another branch.

I'd go talk to a recruiter and get the straight poop. The USMC attracts weird rumors from other branches like amber attracts bugs.

[Vulture6]

Brad pretty much nailed it. Prior service can enlist, and your prior time counts for something AFTER boot camp. MCRD Parris Island and San Diego is where you become a Marine -- where you begin to earn the title "Marine" -- so that means that everyone who enlists (and I mean everyone) starts off.

So, you enlist, go to MCRD and will probably graduate as a LCpl. Your prior service time will count for promotion (time in service) but you'll still need to meet time-in-grade requirements as a Marine LCpl. I've seen E-5s enlist in the Marine Corps and come out of Parris Island and report into the fleet as Lance Corporals -- though they usually pick up Corporal pretty quickly if they are squared away -- often meritoriously.