Direct commission

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So far I have passed MEPS and had a great interview. Just did my flying class 3 physical. Passed everything except now I need a crown. I'm getting that done this month. My recruiter is submitting my packet so he says I should do my oath in about three weeks. I've read all the other forums and now I am wondering if this sounds right to all of you? I've read something about selection??? Does everyone have to go through selection. My recruiter seems to think that I just get in... How come I don't have to go through selection or is he wrong? I'm going to be a flight nurse through direct commission. Does that make a difference? Would love some info from someone who has already done this. Have other questions but this is so long already. Thanks for any info.

Specializes in Critical care.
Physical passed and package signed. Now I'm waiting for my oath and then COT. Anyone on the same track as me? Any clue how long it normally takes between the oath and actually getting to do something? Like everyone else the waiting is killing me.

Way to go!

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Specializes in ER, ICU.

It depends a lot on your unit and their deployment cycle. I oathed in January, started schools in August, was cleared for flight in March, and deployed in May. If you are active duty it will probably go a lot quicker, good luck, welcome.

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Specializes in Neuro, ER.

Thanks for the info!! Did you do anything between steps besides wait? Did you do UTA's? Just feel like my life is on hold and everyone keeps asking me how long... Can't wait to start anything :) when should I give my work notice? COT dates as far as I can tell is Aug, Oct and Jan. Do you think Aug is out of the question? Maybe Oct. Sorry so many questions but I'm glad to talk to someone who been there, done that!

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Specializes in ER, ICU.

Yes, once you oath you will start UTAs. This sucks because you haven't been to school and don't know anything, unless you have prior experience of course. The jury is out on whether it is better to look stupid by accidentally saluting a lower rank, or look stupid, and maybe get yelled at, by failing to salute a higher rank. God help you if you have to start at a joint base, naval rank is still a mystery...

Find out how you get uniforms ASAP. Being out of uniform really makes you feel out of place. I assume you are Guard because you ask about UTAs. Google USERRA which is the law that protects your job. Being open and honest with your employer is a must. I would wait to tell them until you have something concrete. Once you know all the steps you have to take, from your unit, it would be a good idea to schedule a meeting with your boss and let them know what's up.

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Specializes in Neuro, ER.

You are a god send! Thank you. I'm going air force reserve but the first year I will be active to receive all my training to be a flight nurse. My work knows but everyone is on hold until I leave...everyone is shifting positions when I go PRN. They are requiring a month notice so it's a balancing game. UTA's will at least give me a feeling of belonging. Since I have no military experience I'm expecting to feel stupid quite often!!! It's worth it though!!! Thanks again for the info.

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Specializes in ICU/ER.

Hi there! I see that these posts are old! But wanted to follow up and ask what happened after. I decided to join the AF reserves as a flight nurse in August 2019 and I did my MEPS and passed in September 2019. I just got confirmed for an interview mid December. Anyway, how did the rest of the process go for you? What are UTAs? I remember my recruiter saying something along the lines of watching a quick video if I ever have to start some kind of classes prior to COT so I would know the basic salutes and such when I’m training. Any input would be much appreciated!!
hope all is well with you!

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