Originally Posted by
Chris99
Today I received a letter in the mail asking me to voluntarily come back to active duty service. I just separated under the VSP program in May '07. What do you guys think? I can't believe they just gave me a huge bonus to get out and now they want me to come back not even a year and a half later. For those of you with experience in this area, what are the ramifications with a civilian job in this situation? I just got hired by NetJets, would I keep my seniority number if I go back? I think I know the answer to this, but can you get tagged for a 365-day trip to the sandbox if you volunteer to come back, or is there some kind of "7-day opt" clause that would get you out of it? Thanks for the help. I sent an e-mail to AFPC with a bunch of questions, I'll post the answers if they get back with me.
History repeats itself. I separated from the USAF in 92, and in 95 was in C-130 school for the Air Guard when I got a letter from USAF asking if I wanted to go back. I said no at that time but ended up going back on AD in 98. I just retired as a passed over Major but who had a great time flying right up to the end, including getting qualed in the C-130J. Everyone has their own situation, but for me it was the right choice to return.
BUT, traditionally, those who go back on AD are not promoted, and will not be competitive for leadership positions. Then again I know several guys in AFSOC who made O-5 after coming back, but they also has lots of MC-130 combat time and medals to boot.
I could see your situation coming. First lots of guys leave via VSP and Palace Chase and then the CSAF gets fired and re-emphasis on ISR support then the recent ad for pilots to fly the RC-12 ISR platform.
If you go back, plan on being first on the list to fly the RC-12 on a 179 day TDY then back six months and then back over, etc, etc,etc. Its a market economy, and the need for pilots is really a need for pilots to deploy. Or sit in the box at Creech/Indian Springs and fly a UAV. All these jobs are in support of the warfighter and contribute to the fight, but if you are married and have small children then the next 5 years will be tough. I did a 6 month gig as Air Advisor to the Afghan Air Corps and now all the guys are doing 365's. Again, good work but be ready to be away from home. Even for a single guy/gal it means less time to date and establish a relationship.
I just retired, and like everyone who re-enters the civilian world, its no picnic either. Civilian avaition is what it is. Remember everyone leaves the military one day and you will have to find a job on the outside. It is nice having the retirement check but no one sits on that. Good luck on your decision. If you go back get an assignment in writing! When I came back I selected MC-130 and thoroughly enjoyed it except for one knucklehead sqdn commander, but he left and we got a great replacement.