Retired Reserve to AD ANC?

[Tanker]

Hey everyone!

I am in a unique (or at least all the recruiters think so) situation and am looking to see if anyone else has this experience. I retired from the ARNG as an O-2E in 2001 (didn't have degree to continue but now have 2 BS degrees; the important one being a BSN). I have been working in an ER since graduating last May. I have a packet in with the Health Care recruiter but can't seem to get an answer either way if I can come back in active duty.

I had about 10 years enlisted (4 active AF) and 10 years officer (armor). The issue I ran into while in school was that the recruiters said they could not take retirees. An AF recruiter indicated that all regions could meet quotas if they were allowed to bring in retirees that now have nursing degrees. I find it hard to believe that there are so many walls in this time of trying to get new people in and to stay in. I know I would have to waive my reserve retirement. That is not a big deal as I would plan to do at least an active 20 years.

Has anyone been in this situation? Or know of someone else who has and their outcome? The AF says I could come in AD if I had retired ANG or USAFR. I think he didn't want to have to do some work. All NG (Army and AF report up to NGB).

[ANC_Maj]

You do have a unique situation! I've not heard of anyone coming back AD after retirement from USAR/ARNG. So, I can't offer any advice or wisdom unfortunately. Good luck in navigating the system and I hope it all works out for you. What could we do to sway you back to the Army? We (as in the federal nursing services, not just the Army) are always in need of good officers and nurses!

Keep us posted.

ANC_Maj

[Tanker]

I am trying to go Army. Looked into working for the Army as a civilian too. Unless I misread it you are only on a temporary contract. Plus the pay didn't seem that good compared to where I am (and I am not in a high paying state, probably lower 1/3). Need a little more long term employment possibility. Have considered VA too but they want you to start in Med/surg first. Just can't do that. I like the ER. If everything else goes south then maybe after a year or so of ER experience I could be accepted into the VA Urgent Care and bypass the med/surg unit?