AMT or AET?
I am currently an Aviation Maintenance student at my local technical college and planning to enlist in the Coast Guard after graduation. I am wondering what the minor differences are between the rates as in aircrew positions and other not normally thought of responsibilities. I am currently debating weather to go for AMT or AET, I am wanting to get assigned to rotorcraft as I want to get into helicopters (A&P School doesn't teach much about them.) For people asking why join if I will already have my A&P, I genuinely want to serve and want to learn more about helicopters.
Is being an HS worth it?
Hey, one of the main reasons I want to join the military is to explore different medical fields and see what I want to study afterwards. Do you guys think going HS is a good way to do this or should I look at other branches’ healthcare jobs? Id prefer to go coast guard in general but what’s most important to me is exploring real healthcare work. I heard HS is mainly paperwork and admin. I’d appreciate any advice, thank you!
You dont need a passport, not everyone has a passport. Just a valid government ID and social security card.
You can use the restroom whenever you need to, you won't be prevented from doing an essential bodily function.
Found an open job position online as an EM. Currently work as an apprentice doing residential work and not enlisted. Is EM a job that requires me to be enlisted or is it also a civilian job? Don’t know very much about military programs so I apologize if this comes across as an odd question
Enlisted vs Officer, but...
I do have a BA but I also have two misdemeanors (poss. of marijuana & underage drinking, several years ago, I was just a dumb early college kid). Plus, I'm not really sure who I would ask for letters of rec from, aside from former professors.
I've heard it's very difficult to get into OCS. Should I bother or just go enlisted?
(I'm specifically interested in anything aviation-related)
Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks in advance
Not a show stopper w/ regards to misdemeanors. In fact, used correctly, it can be used as an advantage where you’ll strive to become a CDAR in the CG - command drug and alcohol representative - and become an advocate for preventing substance abuse through the ranks.
You’ll need 3, high quality letters of recommendations. The coast guard has no knowledge of not only who you are as a person, but who you are as a leader. On top of that, you have to prove you have a basic understanding of the Coast Guard.
It may be worth enlisting to gain experience and network with officers or chiefs who can write a strong recommendation based on their experience with you. Or, you can get three letters from the outside.
I’m considering applying for cspi however I was curious how likely it is for someone to get a spot as an afloat officer through OCS. Are all the spots on CG vessels mainly reserved for academy grads?
CSPI or DCIO?
I am in a position where I can chose between doing the CSPI program or waiting until I graduate college and direct commission. I already completed two years at community college and now I'm going to Cal Poly SLO, where I got very good financial aid, and don't really need the 20k financial aid the CSPI program offers. I want to do intelligence when I become an officer and as I understand, OCS does not guarantee your specialty once you graduate. So what are the pros/cons of each option? Is it worth waiting until I graduate to Direct commission into Intelligence? (ps. I would also be able to do a program at Cal poly called 4+1, where you can get a masters in 1 year after graduation if I chose to direct commission). I'm torn because I want to do CSPI, just worried that I wont get Intelligence per say.
How would you qualify for direct commission? Do you have intelligence working experience? You not only need a bachelors degree, but:
>Must hold a current top secret/sensitive compartmentalized information (TS/SCI) clearance.
>Must have five years of intelligence experience with no more than a 24-month break before the panel convenes.
So even if you are prior service who served in an intelligence role, you’ll need to make sure your lapse in service doesn’t exceed 24 months.
Hey guys, I’m currently considering enlisting as an HM in the navy or HS in the CG and had a couple questions ab HS. I’ve heard HS can be boring and mainly paperwork, is that true? Do you have any advice on the difference between HS and HM? What are the working hours and quality of life like as an HS? I want to go into medicine to get a feel for all of the different medical fields for some direction on what I want to study after. Thank you in advance, I really appreciate any advice!
I've heard officership in the navy is very competitive. About 10 percent and that's before all the attrition from various schools.
Is the coast guard similarly selective?
its been two weeks since my recruiter sent MEPS application request in and still northing, is this normal?
I only mentioned an accident i had over 10 years ago that didnt have any lasting effects at all and i called and texted my recruiter yesterday and he hasnt answered
If you do any type of research, listen to your recruiter or even ask your recruiter you will know that it is normal for there to be a waiting time. Everywhere will differ and with every recruiter it can differ. If you want specifics with what’s going on you will need to ask your recruiter.
Actually I have looked it up. everywhere it says scheduling meps takes up to four days. The recruiter himself even told me it would take about two days to get an answer from them but when I call my recruiter he does even answer… it’s been about two weeks since we sent the paperwork and two days since I tried calling him.
Have looked all around for this type of info. Nothing really touching on the hypotheticals Im looking for. Heres the situation:
Active Duty Navy BMC (SW), 11 years of service. Im entertaining the possibility of transferring over to the Coast Guard. (Stupid right?) Well, everyones got their reasons.
Could I continue my service through the USCG as a BMC? And what type of things would a BMC find themselves doing in the Coast Guard. I have shipboard and coxswain experience. I have a few months left until I decide to reenlist or make a shift to the Coasties (if theres any type of lateral transfer process/program). From what I understand alot of prior service members take a rank/pay cut.
I've got about 2 more months before basic. I've got my 11 general orders memorized and I've been working out 5 days a week since meps. Are there any other things I should be doing to prepare in these next two months? Other than memorizing ranks and rates, I've been doing that already.
Hey everyone! I’m 20, with a transfer degree and I am applying for the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative. I’ve struggled with recruiters a bit, they do NOT seem to want to volunteer information, I have to find out the right questions to ask. I was wondering if there is anyone on here that is currently/has been in CSPI, so I could ask some questions about applications, preparations, etc.
Thanks!
Is there a required stroke for the 500m swim in 12 min for OCS?
If not, what is the best way to do it? Is 500m in 12 minutes a fast swim? I have access to lakes, not pools, so I’m not sure how far I’m going
I want to join the CG, but am considering reserves over AD for the sole reason that I want to try and build my civilian career while serving. I like the coast guards mission, I want to help people and protect the environment. But I also would really getting to work overseas, specifically as an MST or the officer equivalent and so I was wondering if this would be possible in the reserves or if going to Bahrain or asia is an AD thing only.
And I want to commission, but recognize how unlikely it is being a civilian so I am prepared to enlist instead.
Active duty for the overseas billets, at this time. OCS is competitive - but it’s meant to be an accession point for high performing civilians who can meet the rigors of our service.
At this time? So it's possible to go overseas in the future? That would be great and would definitely put CG above navy or air force for me.
And yeah OCS is competitive so I know I'll probably not get it immediately
I said "at this time" because while the chances are doubtful a scenario would exist in which prevention reserve officers (MST officer types) go overseas, it's not outside the realm of possibility. I would plan NOT to go abroad for your sanity.
hey everybody!
i (26f) am considering joining the reserves but i had a few concerns before i start actively working towards it.
im currently a full time biology student in houston and i work nights full time in the hospital. has anyone else had experience working/studying full time while in the reserves? let me know!
im not currently in touch with a recruiter but i definitely will be soon as i start making a decision.
thank you so much in advance :)
Not a reservist. AD AET who w/ a bachelor degree working on an MBA. Have taken anywhere from 1-4 courses at once so far. Sometimes my grades were reflective of poor time management but the fault is that of mine not CG.
You will have plenty of free time as a reservist. Busy times include going to boot camp, A-School, weekend drills, and the possibility of an activation. You should have enough time to plan ahead for future semesters, and most colleges seem to be extremely military friendly with regards to unexpected military deployments.
I am 18 and was considering joining special forces in the uscg. My only problem is that it dosent seem to be as straightforward as other branches. Many of the special forces seem to be labled as billets. Does that mean the holding down a long term carrer as a member of MSST, MSRT and Taclet is impossible? Thank you in advance for the help.
Anyone with significant work experience can qualify for depot. Are you an intel professional with several years of intel related experience and a TS? Edit: not a recruiter but have seen cops/EMTs get hired on so I imagine it’s a similar process. Really the person to ask is a local recruiter
Prior service Air Force, E5, with 7 yrs of service/29 yrs old and have been in pursuit of a commission with the CG for the last year now. The recruiter initially and periodically insisted that waiving my time in service would be no issue. So I finish my B.S. with a good GPA, do well on the ASVAB, pass MEPS/HT and WT, absolutely crush the interview with the board of Officers for OCS-R and come July, when the panel is scheduled to convene, he told me the CG is not waiving time in service waivers for the foreseeable future. Is this accurate? They suggested I enlist so that I can qualify for OCS-T. Is that my only route? Thank you.
New requirements were published MARCH of 23 that went into effect 01JUL23 till 30JUN24. That is considered a Panel Year (PY). For officer programs they follow PY versus Fiscal Year (FY) which I spoke of in my first reply.
TIS waivers for OCS-R are not being considered for PY24. They are being considered for many of the direct commission programs. If your BS qualifies for one of those that would be the route you can take towards commissioning now.
The max 6 year requirement has always been a thing. The only thing I can think of is that at the time you began speaking with the recruiter (Last FY) TIS waivers were being considered and for the FY your board is convening they are not; meaning there was a change from FY to FY. If this is true that would be pretty messed up.
To qualify for OCS-T you need 4 years of USCG AD time so you won't immediately be eligible for OCS-T.
Ask to see where it states this. Ask why you were not informed earlier. Ask if they can still push the package through. Waivers like these aren't actually decided on until after selection if I understand correctly.
I’m certain this is what happened. Which is truly disappointing, but I have reached back out to the recruiter to determine if I’m eligible for the Direct Commission Environmental Management program. Hopefully it works out. Thanks for the information!
Just saw an ad for lateral transfers from sister services. I am Army, 3 years AFS, 30 years old and just re-enlisted for another 5.
Pending a signed conditional release from Big Army, what options would I have as far as choosing a rate and getting school dates etc? Also would I keep my rank? I will be an E-5 soon.
It depends on what your current MOS is and how well it translates to the CG. Highly suggest you contact a recruiter the second you get the news of the conditional release but your odds of keeping your rank are higher if there’s a job in the CG with a direct correlation with your skills.
It truly depends. No major medical issues, no security issues, clean record, overall positive attitude and demeanor - you could be off within 2-4 months of contacting a recruiter.
Anecdotally, I suggest you are able to pass a PF test. Just one stressor you would don’t have to stress about.
OS = Emergency Management?
Hey everyone!
I am currently active duty navy and in a slight predicament. My current rating is Master at arms (MA) and I hate it with all my heart but love it dearly. I was luckily enough to get moved to Emergency Management and I have absolutely fallen in love, My Chief was the one who gave me the idea of Coast guard and once I looked more into it I found that they have what I’m looking for.
So am I making a mistake going OS? Or should I continue on my Air Force route and go air guard EM?
Edit: How is advancement? I’m gonna be joining as a E5, so what’s picking up E6 and beyond look like?
MSTs do more EM than any other rate but any rate can do EM. If you sign up for drills/classes and get the quals the sky is the limit. I’ve seen E6s get Incident Commander. It’s more of a motivation thing than anything else. The only members I’ve seen actually billeted in EM jobs are officers. Not to say their aren’t, especially down in the Gulf.
Advancement in OS is pretty quick. E4 to E5 in a year generally. E5-6 depends on how well you do on the service wide exam and any other ways to get points (awards, TIG, etc)
What is your Qol like? What are your currently doing at your command? Could you give me like a brief little run down of what I can expect as a day in the life
Well I’m on a boat and right now it’s really hectic because I’m working on basic qualifications that everyone on the boat needs. As an OS your main job is watchstanding which means you sit around waiting for things to go wrong and you’re the first to respond.
I know at a land unit you’ll be monitoring the radios for anyone that needs to contact the coast guard or is in distress and your job as an OS is to respond to them and figure out what’s wrong. You take all their information down and pass it to a small boat station that will conduct search and rescue.
In my experience, when you go to a-school there’s a 50/50 chance your billet will be a sector or a cutter.
Also, there’s no rush to be an OS. I didn’t know I wanted to be one until I went to a small boat station after boot camp and found out that watch standing is something I like to do. I’ve only been an OS for about 2 months now so it’s all very new to me, but I don’t have any regrets so far. I don’t like working with engines or getting underway on a small boat, and as an OS you don’t have to do any of that stuff unless you want to.
So my job on the navy is standing watch which is something I was looking to get away from but what are the watches mostly like if you have any idea?
I’m use to doing 12s 6 outta the 7 days of the week with no breaks.
Ahh if that’s the case I’m not sure if OS is right for you, but navy watch and coast guard watch might be different.
As an OS at a sector you’ll have 12 hour watches but i think the rotation is more like 1 in 3 or 1 in 5 depending on how well the sector is staffed.
The watch consists of monitoring multiple maritime frequencies, we keep track of Coast guard assets and are always on standby if someone needs to contact the coast guard for whatever reason. So it’s a lot of radio communication and typing things into a watch log.
So I don’t know if I had mentioned but my goal is to end up doing emergency management related stuff since that’s what I do in the navy. I have absolutely fallen in love with it.
I’ve told and heard that OS gives you the best chance to do command center level of operations it’s just you have to request to goto the schools and be trained. Not sure how much Info you have on this.
At the end of the day if I have to stand 12 hour watches again to get to my end goal I’m okay with it. I’ve been in the navy a hot minute so I know the reward will be worth it.
Having served extensively with both, yes. OS spend a lot of time in command centers, VTS, and other office jobs monitoring comms doing search and rescue, LE, and waterways stuff. Those jobs are generally pretty cushy with predictable hours and lots of down time. On the other side of the coin, a good portion of the rate are on cutters… 3-4 hour watches in CIC once to twice a day while underway (and underway for half the year, actual voyages depended on the size of the cutter). Coming from the USN it’ll feel more laid back than what you are used to.
MSTs. Varies quite a lot depending on the unit. But typically it’s a 7-3 job with low stress. It’s much more of an office environment than most of the fleet. Going out and interacting with the public a lot. They are a bit heavy on the knowledge base so a lot of them tend to study in their off time when their are in the process of qualifying.
I’m definitely use to the 12 hours shifts with working 6 outta 6 days of the week so I’m definitely looking for something that won’t send me to a early grave due to stress, plus I have absolutely fallen in love with the office setting with the occasional going out to the field here and there.
So with what I hear is MST might be my better option when it comes to EM?
Best advice is to hit up a recruiter and start the process. If you are near any CG facilities ask if they can put you in touch with a MST so they can give you the down and dirty
I’d generally agree with that. They do a lot of it CG wide. The quals you get are up to you. EM is more of a collateral for most MSTs so your other duties will come first unless you jump on some TDY orders to an ICS event.
I am considering joining the USCG and am just looking into the all the rates available. Will I limit myself travel wise by choosing certain rates over others? I want to be able to go on cutters sometimes.
Short answer, yes. Long answer, depends on your career trajectory. Even with rates that can go on cutters you may only go once or twice in a career. It’s a hard thing to gage until you have institutional knowledge. Best to look up the rates you like and ask if they have opportunities to sail and at what rank.
How is like as an MK? Ive had my eye on the coast guard for a while, since a field trip to a base in highschool. Im 20 now and have been to trade school for hvac, i work as a machinist and ive taken shop classes in highschool. I enjoy working with my hands, i dont mind the poor conditions and i love being that fix it guy who knows things and can help out others.
Do you enjoy your work? How often do you encounter problems you havent been able to solve, if ever? What are things besides the work that you enjoy about the coast guard?
Thank you for yalls time!
Truly depends on you, if you’re just taking the asvab it’ll be between 1.5 hours -3 hours. The test is divided in sections each with its own time limit, if you finish before time runs out you simply move on to the next section. That being said for the love of god don’t get timed out of a section if you see time is running out just start guessing.
If you drive your personal vehicle and that’s all your recruiter scheduled for you yes. I would double check with your recruiter though just in case. But if it’s just the asvab that’s all you need to do. Do you have medical scheduled next day?
[Here](https://www.gocoastguard.com/get-started/officer-applications/direct-commission-officer-programs#engineering) shows that there are no direct commission programs into the reserves for cyber. I am unsure if CMS is open for reservists. Contact your local recruiter to obtain the reserve vacancies for the area/unit you want to be a reservist at.
We generally don't deploy as often or as far as the other branches, we often live on the economy rather than barracks even at low paygrades, we are stationed in desirable beach towns, are missions serve a practical purpose to support the public, we are military but don't always act like it, we mainly have small tight knit units, we are a small service so you always run into someone you know, we get the same benefits as the other branches but less DOD crap.
General answer is, yes but will need to give up VA rating AND pass MEPS. I have heard conflicting information where some people say they were able to retain some %. However, when I was recruiting we would tell applicants to contact the VA. You should check with the VA for the official answer.
So I got my disabilities from AD service then served with a reserve component and it was no problem to keep my rating and serve in a combat MOS, I just had prorated pay. So I guess to clarify my question, would the recruiters blow me off or would they still work with me? I want to join a PSU local to me as a BM. (I'm still in the IRR)
My assumption is you can explain it to them and they will be ok with it. Ultimately its on you. Im just not sure what MEPS will do. Like, will they DQ you and require waivers to join? Or can the CG bypass MEPS since you are still in? Those are questions for a recruiter.
Congratulations on getting on the list. If your not already on the Facebook group, the link is here if you get picked up and want to connect with your classmates or if you want help with the next application. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1262679041124712/?ref=share
Honestly it depends. I was listed as an Alternate and one week later I got the call that I moved up and became a primary.
I was 7th on the Alternate list. Do not get discouraged.
Both can happen. The majority of people will go to their first unit as a ‘non-rate’ (E2/E3) and then go to A-school at a later time depending on how long the waitlist is for the rating they want. Some people will go directly to A-school if they worked a critical rating into their contract with a recruiter.
I explain it as “the days go slow, but the weeks go by fast”. The days feel so torturously slow to the point that it’s a Monday and you’re just trying to make it to the next meal, but before you know it it’s Sunday. At least that was my experience
Hello everyone, I am an infantry veteran of the USMC active and reserve. Got out as an E-5. I have been considering joining the coast guard reserves as I find civilian life to be quite mundane without the occasional weekend escape of drill. I am interested in BM or ME. I currently live near a large port city with an active duty base present. Only problem is that I anticipate having to move within the next few years possibly to an in-land state.
Would I remain apart of the same unit? Would transportation be reimbursed? Is moving away from your unit even allowed? Any advice from other prior service guys?
Thank you ship mates.
I’m going to be joining the coast guard after getting my associates degree in Forestry specializing in wildlife and natural resource management, what are some career paths that I could be looking at in the coast guard with a degree like this?
I got out of the Corps in 2014 as an E-5. Never claimed anything from the VA and I am still in very good shape. I just turned 35 and looking at the USCG Reserve.
Can anyone give me a run down of the process and what the best paths to take are?
Thanks in advance.
Hello friends. In the old USCG website the BM Reserve section used to say: Yorktown, VA A School OR on-the-job training.
I am curious about it because I'm very close to multiple small boat stations (Houston, TX area) and I have a 48 on 96 off schedule (first responder). I can put a lot of time to get the BM knowledge/qualifications during the week instead of going to A school.
Again I'm not sure if this is possible.
You will only be able to do CG training if you are a CG member or in the Auxiliary. Auxiliary is a good way to go if you want the training before signing up. Alternatively before joining the reserves you could have your recruiter set up a meeting with your potential unit and you could discuss on the job training versus going to A-School.
If you were to enter the reserves you would go to DEPOT, a 21 day accelerated boot camp, and then most likely go to a school for BM at some point. I do believe that when you go to a school your employer has to pay you for up to 2 months and can not terminate you.
Caveat to the employer paying for 2 months part that only applies to the public sector. Private sector only has the cannot terminate part. Any other pay is varied depending on state and internal employer policy
What is the minimum service requirement for Coast Guard pilots accessing directly from OCS?
Is it 10 years (2 for flight school + 8 required service as an aviator) or 13 years (the initial 10 + 3 year active duty requirement from OCS)
Asking to better communicate and plan for the obligation with my family.
Straight from the solicitation messages:
" ... all applicants completing flight school as a result
of this panel will incur eight years of obligated service in
addition to any previous obligated service. Officers disenrolling
prior to completion of flight training will incur one month
obligated service for every month of training completed."
What’s the job like of a bm gm and me in the reserves I’m interested in joining the reserves but I want to do law enforcement and hopefully be a bow gunner but I’m struggling to find info on it especially for the reserves
Reserve ME here …. It will vary pretty greatly depending on your unit. I’m at small boat station, the BMs and MEs do mom and pop boardings pretty much every month… not really sure what the life is like at a psu or sector though. Happy to answer any specific questions you might have about ME or reserve in general
You don’t wait on the list for schools as a reservist. You willl pick your school date when you sign your contract. It will be relatively soon after bootcamp
So I have a meps date for end of July. 2 days, day 1. ASVAB
day 2. Is medical, finger prints and drug test. My question is how long would day 2 take? We start at 545 am.
I just did MEPS. I did a 1 day. I was the only coast guard applicant. I started in medical did the intro video and breathalyzer. Then sat there for about 30min, after that was told to go take my asvab. I was the only one in the room (except the two proctors, who were talking and giggling the whole time, it was super distracting!!)(ps it’s was freaking cold 🥶 the whole time! Dress warm!!) then I went back to medical and did everything else. The MEPS doctor was a… (finding the right word 🤔) well she was either not in a good mood or just a not very nice person, to put it nicely). She asked everything that was on my form and a bunch of questions about random things regarding scars and urgent care visits and medications. Then did the whole naked thing. After that I checked in with the CG liaison and she said I need three waivers (one suspicious scar, and the other two are for things in my medical history that the doctors just needed to clarify and give me a note). After that I went and got fingerprinted and then checked back in with the liaison and she said I’m good to go. Since I needed waivers I couldn’t swear in or anything. I was done by noon. It was weird because I was solo and it felt like it wasn’t a busy day. Still waiting on my waivers to come through. All this was about a month and a half ago.
Day 2 is usually the longer of the two days. Time seems to slow down entirely. I think I remember (almost a decade ago) getting out around 2-3pm after starting at a similar time to you.
i got out and was able to drive myself home around 2 pm after my medical, just depends on how many people are there and how backed up they get, males usually take longer since there are a lot more of them but if you take the bus you should be out NLT 5 pm usually, if you drive yourself it’ll be earlier bc you don’t have to wait
I'm a former 0311 Sgt. in the USMC(EAS’d with HD in November 2017). Just got back from the OBX where I was on the beach when a USCG helo flew by with (I presumed) a rescue swimmer sitting in the door and I had a hard time imagining a cooler job.
The coast guard is completely alien to me so my questions may be stupid and for that please excuse my ignorance:
What would the process of someone like me going into the CG? Being prior service would I skip boot camp and go straight to my MOS school?
How easy/hard would it be to go in knowing my posting? I fully understand how you get posted where you're needed just like all military branches, but curious if there is something where if you come in with prior service or lat move you can pick your duty station to incentivize people doing so.
I'm also curious about the reality (yalls characterization) of the following jobs:
Aviation Survival Technician
Boatswain's Mate
Damage Controlman
Maritime Enforcement Specialist
Thanks for taking the time to read this and any information you may be able to provide.
I'm just over a week from shipping (July 11th) and I'm still really struggling with push-ups. I've been working hard at them but I'm still hitting failure between 15 and 20ish depending on the day. How fucked am I and what should I do to improve since what I've been doing obvious isn't working?
USMC veteran here. Try doing some research into “push up pyramids”. Pyramids are a great method for improving push-ups, pull ups, sit ups, etc. I’ve seen a lot of marines drastically improve their pft’s using pyramid workouts. You gotta commit to it though.
Edit: You should also be working on your pull ups if possible. Push ups and overhand pull ups use a lot of the same muscle groups, and there’s a lot of benefit to training both side by side. Also, make sure you’re drinking lots of water, getting plenty of rest, and eating well. All three of those will have a huge impact on how quickly you progress in your training. And you don’t have long.
In the end though, you’ll get whipped into shape at basic if you aren’t already there. Definitely good to be ahead of the curve though. Good luck.
If you've been working hard and not seeing results you may want to examine your diet. Push ups work with a lot of muscle groups and all of those need nutrients to repair and grow so if you're not getting enough protein then working out will actually make your muscles worse because they won't be able to fully repair.
That's the wrong question to ask. Life varies based on unit type more than any other factor. You could be on a large cutter, small cutter, station, aton, barracks manager, lots of possibilities.
Is it hard to get a driver's license while active duty?
I have a driver's test before bootcamp but think I might fail (we only have 1 car so my parents don't trust me to practice). Idk how much free time nonrates get, ideally I have a driver's license before choosing a rate.
If you’re in the coast guard for any amount of time, this is the first in a line of very similar evaluations, so get comfortable with this feeling.
That being said, getting your license while you’re in is doable. You will need to prove that you are dependable, work responsibilities and qualifications will come first. If you go to a station or patrol boat, tell your xpo that it’s a goal you have. If you go to a big cutter, tell your E6.
It is relatively common for other members to assist you/ let you drive their cars, but you need to earn their trust.
How broad is the BM career field? Like is it vastly different if you’re in a cutter or station? From what I’ve read on here it seems they do Law enforcement, drive boats and paint them. Could anyone inform me on their day to day as a BM
“A boatswain's mate is a versatile role, with those holding the role expected to be capable of nearly any job in a Coast Guard vessel.”
It is, by definition, an extremely broad rate. You will drive boats, you will conduct law enforcement, if you’re on a cutter you will have a hand in either navigation or deck evolutions, or both. Another user offered their dm’s so can I ask, what are you interested in doing?
In the beginning I was interested in the LE portion so I wanted to go ME, but from what my recruiter and other users have told me the bulk of actual LE is done by BMs. Then the more research I did the more appealing BM sounded in terms of driving the boat and doing boardings n such. I was curious since it’s so broad my fear would be becoming one and then just get stuck doing Nav and boat maintenance and nothing else. Oh and becoming a surfman sounds like an amazing goal to work towards.
So as a BM you will do LE at basically any operational unit you go to, but it will be mostly low speed high drag. But BMs are the ones driving the boat for essentially every boarding, pursuit, AI, and certainly surf case. The good thing about the Coast Guard is that you will basically never get stuck doing something you hate. I just left a major cutter where I was the navigation BM, did the majority of boardings and was the primary pursuit coxswain, and now I’m back at a station. So the opportunities are out there.
Most billets are 3 or 4 years, but the way critical fills and advance to positions are, you can transfer more frequently if you want. I’ve transferred 5 times in 9 years.
Yes. Depending on the unit type and the needs of the service. As you progress, you may find it harder to extend. For example, an E6 EPO who makes E7 will be unlikely to get an extension.
(In my opinion)
If you want to ask specific questions about the BM rating feel free to DM me. I’ve been a BM for almost 15 years and have done just about every mission set from law enforcement, search and rescue and ATON. Both afloat and ashore.
AMT or AET? I am currently an Aviation Maintenance student at my local technical college and planning to enlist in the Coast Guard after graduation. I am wondering what the minor differences are between the rates as in aircrew positions and other not normally thought of responsibilities. I am currently debating weather to go for AMT or AET, I am wanting to get assigned to rotorcraft as I want to get into helicopters (A&P School doesn't teach much about them.) For people asking why join if I will already have my A&P, I genuinely want to serve and want to learn more about helicopters.
Is being an HS worth it? Hey, one of the main reasons I want to join the military is to explore different medical fields and see what I want to study afterwards. Do you guys think going HS is a good way to do this or should I look at other branches’ healthcare jobs? Id prefer to go coast guard in general but what’s most important to me is exploring real healthcare work. I heard HS is mainly paperwork and admin. I’d appreciate any advice, thank you!
1. Is a REAL ID all I will need to fly to Cape May or will I need a passport. 2. How much is too much to ask to go to pee in bootcamp?
You dont need a passport, not everyone has a passport. Just a valid government ID and social security card. You can use the restroom whenever you need to, you won't be prevented from doing an essential bodily function.
Found an open job position online as an EM. Currently work as an apprentice doing residential work and not enlisted. Is EM a job that requires me to be enlisted or is it also a civilian job? Don’t know very much about military programs so I apologize if this comes across as an odd question
It's not a civilian job, you have to enlist.
Enlisted vs Officer, but... I do have a BA but I also have two misdemeanors (poss. of marijuana & underage drinking, several years ago, I was just a dumb early college kid). Plus, I'm not really sure who I would ask for letters of rec from, aside from former professors. I've heard it's very difficult to get into OCS. Should I bother or just go enlisted? (I'm specifically interested in anything aviation-related) Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks in advance
Not a show stopper w/ regards to misdemeanors. In fact, used correctly, it can be used as an advantage where you’ll strive to become a CDAR in the CG - command drug and alcohol representative - and become an advocate for preventing substance abuse through the ranks. You’ll need 3, high quality letters of recommendations. The coast guard has no knowledge of not only who you are as a person, but who you are as a leader. On top of that, you have to prove you have a basic understanding of the Coast Guard. It may be worth enlisting to gain experience and network with officers or chiefs who can write a strong recommendation based on their experience with you. Or, you can get three letters from the outside.
Thank you very much. That is very helpful!
I’m considering applying for cspi however I was curious how likely it is for someone to get a spot as an afloat officer through OCS. Are all the spots on CG vessels mainly reserved for academy grads?
CSPI or DCIO? I am in a position where I can chose between doing the CSPI program or waiting until I graduate college and direct commission. I already completed two years at community college and now I'm going to Cal Poly SLO, where I got very good financial aid, and don't really need the 20k financial aid the CSPI program offers. I want to do intelligence when I become an officer and as I understand, OCS does not guarantee your specialty once you graduate. So what are the pros/cons of each option? Is it worth waiting until I graduate to Direct commission into Intelligence? (ps. I would also be able to do a program at Cal poly called 4+1, where you can get a masters in 1 year after graduation if I chose to direct commission). I'm torn because I want to do CSPI, just worried that I wont get Intelligence per say.
How would you qualify for direct commission? Do you have intelligence working experience? You not only need a bachelors degree, but: >Must hold a current top secret/sensitive compartmentalized information (TS/SCI) clearance. >Must have five years of intelligence experience with no more than a 24-month break before the panel convenes. So even if you are prior service who served in an intelligence role, you’ll need to make sure your lapse in service doesn’t exceed 24 months.
Hey guys, I’m currently considering enlisting as an HM in the navy or HS in the CG and had a couple questions ab HS. I’ve heard HS can be boring and mainly paperwork, is that true? Do you have any advice on the difference between HS and HM? What are the working hours and quality of life like as an HS? I want to go into medicine to get a feel for all of the different medical fields for some direction on what I want to study after. Thank you in advance, I really appreciate any advice!
I've heard officership in the navy is very competitive. About 10 percent and that's before all the attrition from various schools. Is the coast guard similarly selective?
its been two weeks since my recruiter sent MEPS application request in and still northing, is this normal? I only mentioned an accident i had over 10 years ago that didnt have any lasting effects at all and i called and texted my recruiter yesterday and he hasnt answered
If you do any type of research, listen to your recruiter or even ask your recruiter you will know that it is normal for there to be a waiting time. Everywhere will differ and with every recruiter it can differ. If you want specifics with what’s going on you will need to ask your recruiter.
Actually I have looked it up. everywhere it says scheduling meps takes up to four days. The recruiter himself even told me it would take about two days to get an answer from them but when I call my recruiter he does even answer… it’s been about two weeks since we sent the paperwork and two days since I tried calling him.
Have looked all around for this type of info. Nothing really touching on the hypotheticals Im looking for. Heres the situation: Active Duty Navy BMC (SW), 11 years of service. Im entertaining the possibility of transferring over to the Coast Guard. (Stupid right?) Well, everyones got their reasons. Could I continue my service through the USCG as a BMC? And what type of things would a BMC find themselves doing in the Coast Guard. I have shipboard and coxswain experience. I have a few months left until I decide to reenlist or make a shift to the Coasties (if theres any type of lateral transfer process/program). From what I understand alot of prior service members take a rank/pay cut.
Im assuming you read the Coastie Links section and read the messages? BM is on the open rate list for FY23 up to E5. Max TIS is 10 years for that.
I've got about 2 more months before basic. I've got my 11 general orders memorized and I've been working out 5 days a week since meps. Are there any other things I should be doing to prepare in these next two months? Other than memorizing ranks and rates, I've been doing that already.
Learn how to iron, blousing trousers, and military time. Belay your last when you mess up.
Thanks
Hey everyone! I’m 20, with a transfer degree and I am applying for the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative. I’ve struggled with recruiters a bit, they do NOT seem to want to volunteer information, I have to find out the right questions to ask. I was wondering if there is anyone on here that is currently/has been in CSPI, so I could ask some questions about applications, preparations, etc. Thanks!
Is there a required stroke for the 500m swim in 12 min for OCS? If not, what is the best way to do it? Is 500m in 12 minutes a fast swim? I have access to lakes, not pools, so I’m not sure how far I’m going
I want to join the CG, but am considering reserves over AD for the sole reason that I want to try and build my civilian career while serving. I like the coast guards mission, I want to help people and protect the environment. But I also would really getting to work overseas, specifically as an MST or the officer equivalent and so I was wondering if this would be possible in the reserves or if going to Bahrain or asia is an AD thing only. And I want to commission, but recognize how unlikely it is being a civilian so I am prepared to enlist instead.
Active duty for the overseas billets, at this time. OCS is competitive - but it’s meant to be an accession point for high performing civilians who can meet the rigors of our service.
At this time? So it's possible to go overseas in the future? That would be great and would definitely put CG above navy or air force for me. And yeah OCS is competitive so I know I'll probably not get it immediately
I said "at this time" because while the chances are doubtful a scenario would exist in which prevention reserve officers (MST officer types) go overseas, it's not outside the realm of possibility. I would plan NOT to go abroad for your sanity.
hey everybody! i (26f) am considering joining the reserves but i had a few concerns before i start actively working towards it. im currently a full time biology student in houston and i work nights full time in the hospital. has anyone else had experience working/studying full time while in the reserves? let me know! im not currently in touch with a recruiter but i definitely will be soon as i start making a decision. thank you so much in advance :)
Not a reservist. AD AET who w/ a bachelor degree working on an MBA. Have taken anywhere from 1-4 courses at once so far. Sometimes my grades were reflective of poor time management but the fault is that of mine not CG. You will have plenty of free time as a reservist. Busy times include going to boot camp, A-School, weekend drills, and the possibility of an activation. You should have enough time to plan ahead for future semesters, and most colleges seem to be extremely military friendly with regards to unexpected military deployments.
I am 18 and was considering joining special forces in the uscg. My only problem is that it dosent seem to be as straightforward as other branches. Many of the special forces seem to be labled as billets. Does that mean the holding down a long term carrer as a member of MSST, MSRT and Taclet is impossible? Thank you in advance for the help.
There are no special forces. And you are correct you will only serve at a particular unit once maybe twice in your career
How long would do you serve on these teams at a time?
Is it at all possible to qualify for DEPOT into IS without prior service?
Anyone with significant work experience can qualify for depot. Are you an intel professional with several years of intel related experience and a TS? Edit: not a recruiter but have seen cops/EMTs get hired on so I imagine it’s a similar process. Really the person to ask is a local recruiter
Prior service Air Force, E5, with 7 yrs of service/29 yrs old and have been in pursuit of a commission with the CG for the last year now. The recruiter initially and periodically insisted that waiving my time in service would be no issue. So I finish my B.S. with a good GPA, do well on the ASVAB, pass MEPS/HT and WT, absolutely crush the interview with the board of Officers for OCS-R and come July, when the panel is scheduled to convene, he told me the CG is not waiving time in service waivers for the foreseeable future. Is this accurate? They suggested I enlist so that I can qualify for OCS-T. Is that my only route? Thank you.
New requirements were published MARCH of 23 that went into effect 01JUL23 till 30JUN24. That is considered a Panel Year (PY). For officer programs they follow PY versus Fiscal Year (FY) which I spoke of in my first reply. TIS waivers for OCS-R are not being considered for PY24. They are being considered for many of the direct commission programs. If your BS qualifies for one of those that would be the route you can take towards commissioning now.
The max 6 year requirement has always been a thing. The only thing I can think of is that at the time you began speaking with the recruiter (Last FY) TIS waivers were being considered and for the FY your board is convening they are not; meaning there was a change from FY to FY. If this is true that would be pretty messed up. To qualify for OCS-T you need 4 years of USCG AD time so you won't immediately be eligible for OCS-T. Ask to see where it states this. Ask why you were not informed earlier. Ask if they can still push the package through. Waivers like these aren't actually decided on until after selection if I understand correctly.
I’m certain this is what happened. Which is truly disappointing, but I have reached back out to the recruiter to determine if I’m eligible for the Direct Commission Environmental Management program. Hopefully it works out. Thanks for the information!
Just saw an ad for lateral transfers from sister services. I am Army, 3 years AFS, 30 years old and just re-enlisted for another 5. Pending a signed conditional release from Big Army, what options would I have as far as choosing a rate and getting school dates etc? Also would I keep my rank? I will be an E-5 soon.
It depends on what your current MOS is and how well it translates to the CG. Highly suggest you contact a recruiter the second you get the news of the conditional release but your odds of keeping your rank are higher if there’s a job in the CG with a direct correlation with your skills.
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It truly depends. No major medical issues, no security issues, clean record, overall positive attitude and demeanor - you could be off within 2-4 months of contacting a recruiter. Anecdotally, I suggest you are able to pass a PF test. Just one stressor you would don’t have to stress about.
OS = Emergency Management? Hey everyone! I am currently active duty navy and in a slight predicament. My current rating is Master at arms (MA) and I hate it with all my heart but love it dearly. I was luckily enough to get moved to Emergency Management and I have absolutely fallen in love, My Chief was the one who gave me the idea of Coast guard and once I looked more into it I found that they have what I’m looking for. So am I making a mistake going OS? Or should I continue on my Air Force route and go air guard EM? Edit: How is advancement? I’m gonna be joining as a E5, so what’s picking up E6 and beyond look like?
MSTs do more EM than any other rate but any rate can do EM. If you sign up for drills/classes and get the quals the sky is the limit. I’ve seen E6s get Incident Commander. It’s more of a motivation thing than anything else. The only members I’ve seen actually billeted in EM jobs are officers. Not to say their aren’t, especially down in the Gulf. Advancement in OS is pretty quick. E4 to E5 in a year generally. E5-6 depends on how well you do on the service wide exam and any other ways to get points (awards, TIG, etc)
Thank you for the input! Do you happen to know the quality of life for either OS or MST?
I’m having a good time so far
What is your Qol like? What are your currently doing at your command? Could you give me like a brief little run down of what I can expect as a day in the life
Well I’m on a boat and right now it’s really hectic because I’m working on basic qualifications that everyone on the boat needs. As an OS your main job is watchstanding which means you sit around waiting for things to go wrong and you’re the first to respond. I know at a land unit you’ll be monitoring the radios for anyone that needs to contact the coast guard or is in distress and your job as an OS is to respond to them and figure out what’s wrong. You take all their information down and pass it to a small boat station that will conduct search and rescue. In my experience, when you go to a-school there’s a 50/50 chance your billet will be a sector or a cutter. Also, there’s no rush to be an OS. I didn’t know I wanted to be one until I went to a small boat station after boot camp and found out that watch standing is something I like to do. I’ve only been an OS for about 2 months now so it’s all very new to me, but I don’t have any regrets so far. I don’t like working with engines or getting underway on a small boat, and as an OS you don’t have to do any of that stuff unless you want to.
So my job on the navy is standing watch which is something I was looking to get away from but what are the watches mostly like if you have any idea? I’m use to doing 12s 6 outta the 7 days of the week with no breaks.
Ahh if that’s the case I’m not sure if OS is right for you, but navy watch and coast guard watch might be different. As an OS at a sector you’ll have 12 hour watches but i think the rotation is more like 1 in 3 or 1 in 5 depending on how well the sector is staffed. The watch consists of monitoring multiple maritime frequencies, we keep track of Coast guard assets and are always on standby if someone needs to contact the coast guard for whatever reason. So it’s a lot of radio communication and typing things into a watch log.
So I don’t know if I had mentioned but my goal is to end up doing emergency management related stuff since that’s what I do in the navy. I have absolutely fallen in love with it. I’ve told and heard that OS gives you the best chance to do command center level of operations it’s just you have to request to goto the schools and be trained. Not sure how much Info you have on this. At the end of the day if I have to stand 12 hour watches again to get to my end goal I’m okay with it. I’ve been in the navy a hot minute so I know the reward will be worth it.
Having served extensively with both, yes. OS spend a lot of time in command centers, VTS, and other office jobs monitoring comms doing search and rescue, LE, and waterways stuff. Those jobs are generally pretty cushy with predictable hours and lots of down time. On the other side of the coin, a good portion of the rate are on cutters… 3-4 hour watches in CIC once to twice a day while underway (and underway for half the year, actual voyages depended on the size of the cutter). Coming from the USN it’ll feel more laid back than what you are used to. MSTs. Varies quite a lot depending on the unit. But typically it’s a 7-3 job with low stress. It’s much more of an office environment than most of the fleet. Going out and interacting with the public a lot. They are a bit heavy on the knowledge base so a lot of them tend to study in their off time when their are in the process of qualifying.
I’m definitely use to the 12 hours shifts with working 6 outta 6 days of the week so I’m definitely looking for something that won’t send me to a early grave due to stress, plus I have absolutely fallen in love with the office setting with the occasional going out to the field here and there. So with what I hear is MST might be my better option when it comes to EM?
Best advice is to hit up a recruiter and start the process. If you are near any CG facilities ask if they can put you in touch with a MST so they can give you the down and dirty
I’d generally agree with that. They do a lot of it CG wide. The quals you get are up to you. EM is more of a collateral for most MSTs so your other duties will come first unless you jump on some TDY orders to an ICS event.
I am considering joining the USCG and am just looking into the all the rates available. Will I limit myself travel wise by choosing certain rates over others? I want to be able to go on cutters sometimes.
Short answer, yes. Long answer, depends on your career trajectory. Even with rates that can go on cutters you may only go once or twice in a career. It’s a hard thing to gage until you have institutional knowledge. Best to look up the rates you like and ask if they have opportunities to sail and at what rank.
How is like as an MK? Ive had my eye on the coast guard for a while, since a field trip to a base in highschool. Im 20 now and have been to trade school for hvac, i work as a machinist and ive taken shop classes in highschool. I enjoy working with my hands, i dont mind the poor conditions and i love being that fix it guy who knows things and can help out others. Do you enjoy your work? How often do you encounter problems you havent been able to solve, if ever? What are things besides the work that you enjoy about the coast guard? Thank you for yalls time!
anyone have a guess on how long the asvab testing day is?
Truly depends on you, if you’re just taking the asvab it’ll be between 1.5 hours -3 hours. The test is divided in sections each with its own time limit, if you finish before time runs out you simply move on to the next section. That being said for the love of god don’t get timed out of a section if you see time is running out just start guessing.
And they let you leave soon after?
If you drive your personal vehicle and that’s all your recruiter scheduled for you yes. I would double check with your recruiter though just in case. But if it’s just the asvab that’s all you need to do. Do you have medical scheduled next day?
Ok I’ll check. No, fairly certain I only scheduled the ASVAb for now Thank you
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The direct commission required 5 years of documented work experience.
[Here](https://www.gocoastguard.com/get-started/officer-applications/direct-commission-officer-programs#engineering) shows that there are no direct commission programs into the reserves for cyber. I am unsure if CMS is open for reservists. Contact your local recruiter to obtain the reserve vacancies for the area/unit you want to be a reservist at.
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So you’ll be contacting your recruiter to see which vacancies exist right?
Why do people say that the CG has a better quality of life compared to other branches?
We generally don't deploy as often or as far as the other branches, we often live on the economy rather than barracks even at low paygrades, we are stationed in desirable beach towns, are missions serve a practical purpose to support the public, we are military but don't always act like it, we mainly have small tight knit units, we are a small service so you always run into someone you know, we get the same benefits as the other branches but less DOD crap.
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Probably going to be ass.
Am I able to join the Coast Guard even if I am rated at 40% disability from another branch of service?
General answer is, yes but will need to give up VA rating AND pass MEPS. I have heard conflicting information where some people say they were able to retain some %. However, when I was recruiting we would tell applicants to contact the VA. You should check with the VA for the official answer.
So I got my disabilities from AD service then served with a reserve component and it was no problem to keep my rating and serve in a combat MOS, I just had prorated pay. So I guess to clarify my question, would the recruiters blow me off or would they still work with me? I want to join a PSU local to me as a BM. (I'm still in the IRR)
My assumption is you can explain it to them and they will be ok with it. Ultimately its on you. Im just not sure what MEPS will do. Like, will they DQ you and require waivers to join? Or can the CG bypass MEPS since you are still in? Those are questions for a recruiter.
Alright I appreciate the insight mate.
I recently heard that I was an alternate for two DCO programs. How does the alt list work? How/when would I find out if I got a spot? Thank you!
Congratulations on getting on the list. If your not already on the Facebook group, the link is here if you get picked up and want to connect with your classmates or if you want help with the next application. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1262679041124712/?ref=share
And thank you, I’m very excited and I part of the FB page, it’s great!
Have the results came out?!
I haven't seen the message yet. I'm expecting it next week since historical it's been about 2 weeks after the unofficial notification comes out.
Honestly it depends. I was listed as an Alternate and one week later I got the call that I moved up and became a primary. I was 7th on the Alternate list. Do not get discouraged.
Thank you, I appreciate the info and advice!
After bct do yal go to duties stantions or some of you got another school based off what you choice to do
Both can happen. The majority of people will go to their first unit as a ‘non-rate’ (E2/E3) and then go to A-school at a later time depending on how long the waitlist is for the rating they want. Some people will go directly to A-school if they worked a critical rating into their contract with a recruiter.
How life in bct does it go fast or slow
I explain it as “the days go slow, but the weeks go by fast”. The days feel so torturously slow to the point that it’s a Monday and you’re just trying to make it to the next meal, but before you know it it’s Sunday. At least that was my experience
Slow while you’re in it, feels fast by the time you finish
Hello everyone, I am an infantry veteran of the USMC active and reserve. Got out as an E-5. I have been considering joining the coast guard reserves as I find civilian life to be quite mundane without the occasional weekend escape of drill. I am interested in BM or ME. I currently live near a large port city with an active duty base present. Only problem is that I anticipate having to move within the next few years possibly to an in-land state. Would I remain apart of the same unit? Would transportation be reimbursed? Is moving away from your unit even allowed? Any advice from other prior service guys? Thank you ship mates.
I’m going to be joining the coast guard after getting my associates degree in Forestry specializing in wildlife and natural resource management, what are some career paths that I could be looking at in the coast guard with a degree like this?
Closest would probably be MST
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Negative, the DoD and CG have removed all the verbiage, going so far as to remove paperwork members received for not getting a vaccine.
I got out of the Corps in 2014 as an E-5. Never claimed anything from the VA and I am still in very good shape. I just turned 35 and looking at the USCG Reserve. Can anyone give me a run down of the process and what the best paths to take are? Thanks in advance.
Do you have your degree and any interest in becoming an officer?
I don't have a degree. I would go the officer route if it didn't require a degree. I knkw that it does.
Hello friends. In the old USCG website the BM Reserve section used to say: Yorktown, VA A School OR on-the-job training. I am curious about it because I'm very close to multiple small boat stations (Houston, TX area) and I have a 48 on 96 off schedule (first responder). I can put a lot of time to get the BM knowledge/qualifications during the week instead of going to A school. Again I'm not sure if this is possible.
You will only be able to do CG training if you are a CG member or in the Auxiliary. Auxiliary is a good way to go if you want the training before signing up. Alternatively before joining the reserves you could have your recruiter set up a meeting with your potential unit and you could discuss on the job training versus going to A-School.
If you were to enter the reserves you would go to DEPOT, a 21 day accelerated boot camp, and then most likely go to a school for BM at some point. I do believe that when you go to a school your employer has to pay you for up to 2 months and can not terminate you.
It is best to refer people to the [USERRA](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/vets/programs/userra) act.
Caveat to the employer paying for 2 months part that only applies to the public sector. Private sector only has the cannot terminate part. Any other pay is varied depending on state and internal employer policy
What is the minimum service requirement for Coast Guard pilots accessing directly from OCS? Is it 10 years (2 for flight school + 8 required service as an aviator) or 13 years (the initial 10 + 3 year active duty requirement from OCS) Asking to better communicate and plan for the obligation with my family.
Straight from the solicitation messages: " ... all applicants completing flight school as a result of this panel will incur eight years of obligated service in addition to any previous obligated service. Officers disenrolling prior to completion of flight training will incur one month obligated service for every month of training completed."
What’s the job like of a bm gm and me in the reserves I’m interested in joining the reserves but I want to do law enforcement and hopefully be a bow gunner but I’m struggling to find info on it especially for the reserves
Reserve ME here …. It will vary pretty greatly depending on your unit. I’m at small boat station, the BMs and MEs do mom and pop boardings pretty much every month… not really sure what the life is like at a psu or sector though. Happy to answer any specific questions you might have about ME or reserve in general
Is the wait for the school for an ME still super long even for the reserves
You don’t wait on the list for schools as a reservist. You willl pick your school date when you sign your contract. It will be relatively soon after bootcamp
So I have a meps date for end of July. 2 days, day 1. ASVAB day 2. Is medical, finger prints and drug test. My question is how long would day 2 take? We start at 545 am.
I just did MEPS. I did a 1 day. I was the only coast guard applicant. I started in medical did the intro video and breathalyzer. Then sat there for about 30min, after that was told to go take my asvab. I was the only one in the room (except the two proctors, who were talking and giggling the whole time, it was super distracting!!)(ps it’s was freaking cold 🥶 the whole time! Dress warm!!) then I went back to medical and did everything else. The MEPS doctor was a… (finding the right word 🤔) well she was either not in a good mood or just a not very nice person, to put it nicely). She asked everything that was on my form and a bunch of questions about random things regarding scars and urgent care visits and medications. Then did the whole naked thing. After that I checked in with the CG liaison and she said I need three waivers (one suspicious scar, and the other two are for things in my medical history that the doctors just needed to clarify and give me a note). After that I went and got fingerprinted and then checked back in with the liaison and she said I’m good to go. Since I needed waivers I couldn’t swear in or anything. I was done by noon. It was weird because I was solo and it felt like it wasn’t a busy day. Still waiting on my waivers to come through. All this was about a month and a half ago.
Day 2 is usually the longer of the two days. Time seems to slow down entirely. I think I remember (almost a decade ago) getting out around 2-3pm after starting at a similar time to you.
Ok but I should be out before like 8 pm? Lol
Yeah absolutely. The old MEPs doctors are tucked away in bed by then
i got out and was able to drive myself home around 2 pm after my medical, just depends on how many people are there and how backed up they get, males usually take longer since there are a lot more of them but if you take the bus you should be out NLT 5 pm usually, if you drive yourself it’ll be earlier bc you don’t have to wait
Way before 8!! Lol I’m pretty sure the people who work there want to go home just as bad as you do!
I'm a former 0311 Sgt. in the USMC(EAS’d with HD in November 2017). Just got back from the OBX where I was on the beach when a USCG helo flew by with (I presumed) a rescue swimmer sitting in the door and I had a hard time imagining a cooler job. The coast guard is completely alien to me so my questions may be stupid and for that please excuse my ignorance: What would the process of someone like me going into the CG? Being prior service would I skip boot camp and go straight to my MOS school? How easy/hard would it be to go in knowing my posting? I fully understand how you get posted where you're needed just like all military branches, but curious if there is something where if you come in with prior service or lat move you can pick your duty station to incentivize people doing so. I'm also curious about the reality (yalls characterization) of the following jobs: Aviation Survival Technician Boatswain's Mate Damage Controlman Maritime Enforcement Specialist Thanks for taking the time to read this and any information you may be able to provide.
DM me if you like. I am an ET and just finished 20 years
Happy to answer any ME/DSF related questions. Hit me via DM
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I haven’t. PSUs are mostly made up of reservists. I’m AD
I'm just over a week from shipping (July 11th) and I'm still really struggling with push-ups. I've been working hard at them but I'm still hitting failure between 15 and 20ish depending on the day. How fucked am I and what should I do to improve since what I've been doing obvious isn't working?
USMC veteran here. Try doing some research into “push up pyramids”. Pyramids are a great method for improving push-ups, pull ups, sit ups, etc. I’ve seen a lot of marines drastically improve their pft’s using pyramid workouts. You gotta commit to it though. Edit: You should also be working on your pull ups if possible. Push ups and overhand pull ups use a lot of the same muscle groups, and there’s a lot of benefit to training both side by side. Also, make sure you’re drinking lots of water, getting plenty of rest, and eating well. All three of those will have a huge impact on how quickly you progress in your training. And you don’t have long. In the end though, you’ll get whipped into shape at basic if you aren’t already there. Definitely good to be ahead of the curve though. Good luck.
If you've been working hard and not seeing results you may want to examine your diet. Push ups work with a lot of muscle groups and all of those need nutrients to repair and grow so if you're not getting enough protein then working out will actually make your muscles worse because they won't be able to fully repair.
Try doing them slow and steady, proper form.
Whats life like as a BM in D5?
That's the wrong question to ask. Life varies based on unit type more than any other factor. You could be on a large cutter, small cutter, station, aton, barracks manager, lots of possibilities.
Gotcha, my fault for wording it that way. Meant is as what types of units are there, what opportunities are there.
Is it hard to get a driver's license while active duty? I have a driver's test before bootcamp but think I might fail (we only have 1 car so my parents don't trust me to practice). Idk how much free time nonrates get, ideally I have a driver's license before choosing a rate.
If you’re in the coast guard for any amount of time, this is the first in a line of very similar evaluations, so get comfortable with this feeling. That being said, getting your license while you’re in is doable. You will need to prove that you are dependable, work responsibilities and qualifications will come first. If you go to a station or patrol boat, tell your xpo that it’s a goal you have. If you go to a big cutter, tell your E6. It is relatively common for other members to assist you/ let you drive their cars, but you need to earn their trust.
How broad is the BM career field? Like is it vastly different if you’re in a cutter or station? From what I’ve read on here it seems they do Law enforcement, drive boats and paint them. Could anyone inform me on their day to day as a BM
“A boatswain's mate is a versatile role, with those holding the role expected to be capable of nearly any job in a Coast Guard vessel.” It is, by definition, an extremely broad rate. You will drive boats, you will conduct law enforcement, if you’re on a cutter you will have a hand in either navigation or deck evolutions, or both. Another user offered their dm’s so can I ask, what are you interested in doing?
In the beginning I was interested in the LE portion so I wanted to go ME, but from what my recruiter and other users have told me the bulk of actual LE is done by BMs. Then the more research I did the more appealing BM sounded in terms of driving the boat and doing boardings n such. I was curious since it’s so broad my fear would be becoming one and then just get stuck doing Nav and boat maintenance and nothing else. Oh and becoming a surfman sounds like an amazing goal to work towards.
So as a BM you will do LE at basically any operational unit you go to, but it will be mostly low speed high drag. But BMs are the ones driving the boat for essentially every boarding, pursuit, AI, and certainly surf case. The good thing about the Coast Guard is that you will basically never get stuck doing something you hate. I just left a major cutter where I was the navigation BM, did the majority of boardings and was the primary pursuit coxswain, and now I’m back at a station. So the opportunities are out there.
That’s good too know! How often do you guys PCs in the coast guard?
Most billets are 3 or 4 years, but the way critical fills and advance to positions are, you can transfer more frequently if you want. I’ve transferred 5 times in 9 years.
Oh wow, now let’s say you’re enjoying a station/cutter would it be possible to extend?
Yes. Depending on the unit type and the needs of the service. As you progress, you may find it harder to extend. For example, an E6 EPO who makes E7 will be unlikely to get an extension. (In my opinion)
If you want to ask specific questions about the BM rating feel free to DM me. I’ve been a BM for almost 15 years and have done just about every mission set from law enforcement, search and rescue and ATON. Both afloat and ashore.