former Navy wife, now considering Army Nursing...

[FLgal]

My husband retired from the Navy after 20yrs. He sadly misses the military life, and is thrilled at the possibility of getting a taste of that back, through me. I'm currently a LPN, recently applied to an ASN program. If I've read through some of these post correctly, my only option at this point would be the Army Reserves, is that right? Is OBLC required for the Reserves too? I read the new requirements post, and to be honest it frightened me, lol! I was the "spouse", and to be the military member would be a huge turn around. I am currently a nurse in a long term care facility, only because the pay is better there for an LPN than a hospital. I so deeply want to work in a hospital, but can't afford civilian pay to do it. I was approached with the idea of Army nursing, and am seriously considering it. Questions...what is this "STRAP" I've read of? Would the reserves pay for my RN that way? Would I have to quit my job that I'm at now to go to school? What school would it be? I'm 34 and a mom of 6, and really want more for my family. We are used to military life and really miss it. Thanks in advance for any answers/help.

[lifeafter40]

hi, and welcome to allnurses! there are many knowledgeable people on here who will be able to answer most of your questions, or point you in the right direction of finding them. until one of them chimes in, i will try to answer some of your questions to the best of my ability.

as i understand it, if you are an associate degree rn (adn) then you can commission into the army national guard/reserves. at that point, you would drill with a local medical unit once a month and two weeks in the summer.

if you apply, and are accepted into the strap program, the army will pay you a monthly stipend while you get your bsn. you would not be required to quit your regular job, but i believe you do have to be enrolled in school full time for the strap program.

from the goarmy website:

specialized training assistance program (strap)

this program is open to associate degree/diploma nurses currently enrolled in an accredited bachelor of science in nursing (bsn) program. recipients receive a monthly stipend of more than $1,600.

participants incur a two-year obligation to serve in the army reserve for each year or partial year of financial assistance.

once you have your bsn, you can apply to go active duty, if you so desire.

amedd oblc is required for all new nurse officers. there are really many options and decisions to make if and when you choose to follow this career path, your best bet is to contact an amedd recruiter and ask them to explain your options and how they will apply to your circumstances.

best of luck to you!

s