Enlistment Increases after 9-11?

[dano]

Just wondering if anyone has heard or knows of increases in enlistment since the attack in NYC and DC?

I haven't heard this topic discussed in the media or anywhere else for that matter...

[DJOHNSON954]

I heard of this on the local news. They were interviewing an Army Recruiter. He said that the phones were ringing off of the hook and the office stayed busy with applicants. However, the amount of people who were actually qualified for enlistment was very low.

[snpusmc]

Dano.

How are you? long time no PM's (LOL)

I noticed a clip on TV that said recruitment was up and they compare it to 1991 and the Gulf war. I hear the younger guys talking about joining like in 1991 but what they (Like in 1991)don't relize is it might be over by the time they get out of boot camp and whatever school they need to go to. With the way you write (unlike myself) you would be a shoe in.

Semper FI.

[pilk706]

Unfortunately, I dont think this will be nearly as short as the Gulf War. We are in this one for the long term. God Bless all of us. God Bless America!!

[dano]

snpusmc:

Good to hear from you. I appreciate the compliment.

Actually, I am 30 years old so I am looking into CG Reserves but they will only take me in a Public Affairs capacity. The recruiter in NJ said if there are no PA billets available in the NYC area I am out of luck.

Truth be told, I don't necessarily want to join up just to be writing articles, speeches and press releases but if this is the contribution they need then so be it. America’s been very good to me and I have been an ungrateful son. I also lost some friends as a result of this tragedy.

Call me a sentimental fool or naive but I believe it is time for me to ante up both for the sake of the country and to honor their memories.

Peace...

[Ranger275]

On the subject of enlistments let it be known that there has been no overall increase in enlistments due to the recent events. Recruiters has been busy yes but all the wrong kinds of people are showing up. The reason that have rejected these people before are still rejecting them now, thankfully.

As for those who wish to join in the reserve or NG remember, at this point in time any job within the military be it front line infantry or rear echelon press corps are equally important. Service to country comes in many forms as team work at all levels is what wins wars.

However in Dano's defense I can understand the hesitation he has on "press action" over "combat action."

Fear not however folks, the Gods of Fire and Fury are smiling upon US forces and her allies.

Defiance not despair!

[JerseyBoy]

Dano,

I had noticed that you had written that you were looking into the CG reserves. I would have to tell you that just by reading your posts that you seem well educated and intelligent. You sound as if you would be a shoe in for OCS. If you did decide to join I would think that you would be much more happier as an officer than the enlisted route. NY is always looking for people. They say that if you put it down anywhere on your, "Dream Sheet". Chances are you would get it, even if it's your last choice. Because nobody wants to come here.

Remember we are not part of the DOD but the DOT. We were the first service to recall all of our reservists. Many of which had to drop classes from school because they were recalled to active duty. Sorry to hear about your losses. I know of two reservists that worked in the towers that are still missing. If you have any questions, let me know.

[dano]

I appreciate that jerseyboy.

The good news is that there is a PA billet available in Staten Island.

I began processing and was scheduled to take the ASVAB and physical next week. Now, however, it looks like I am being laid-off effective October 31! I will have to delay processing further until I know more about my severance deal and such. I think I get four months, which is pretty darn good. I quit better jobs than this and never got paid for not working in my life (I also never collected unemployment)! I am actually looking forward to it!

Problem is, at best I can only begin basic training in February. If the billet is filled before then, I am once again out of luck.

I asked the recruiter about OCS and was informed that only 3 or so openings are available to reservists per year. Whether that is true I have no clue but, apparently, it is extremely difficult to go OCS through the reserves. If I had the opportunity to go for it I certainly would.

I would appreciate it if someone could direct me to test prep materials. I know it isn't rocket science but I want to get the highest possible score. Who knows, perhaps that will help give me a better shot at OCS?

Thanks for all the help and encouragement.

[UScoastie]

Jerseyboy,
Not that it really matters, but we haven't called up all our reserves as of yet. http://www.uscg.mil/hq/reserve/reshmpg.html
Dano,
Sorry that I haven't been able to reply to your email as of yet. Please let me know if you still have any questions!
-J

[wayfarer]

DANO

you might want to check out the Coast Guard website re. the OCS situation. Try it at www.uscg.mil then click on jobs and officers. There are a couple of different ways to get into OCS, e.g. if you already have a four year degree you may be eligible, or if you were prior enlisted, even in a different service, you could still be eligible. Check with the recruiter on this. Also, for the ASVAB, there are various test prep books out there from Barrons, ARCO etc., any of those should be helpful, good luck.