Prior Service program targets former military members

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Brian Moore
  • 367th Recruiting Squadron
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  For those who have left the military but wish to return to active duty, the Air Force has a program that provides the opportunity.

The Prior Service enlistment program allows a select number of separated individuals to return to active duty. The program is open to certain former members of military branches, as well as those currently serving in the Reserve and Guard.

The Prior Service program changes each fiscal year with three categories of opportunity: Direct duty with no requirement for completed years of service, direct duty with a requirement for completed years of service (plus or minus nine months), and various retraining opportunities.

The key element for those wanting to join through the Air Force Prior Service program is their most recent AFSC, MOS or Rate. Most applicants will fall into the direct duty with time in service requirements or retraining categories. Applicants not falling into the first direct duty category should refer to their local recruiter for the most recent prior service matrix to determine their tentative eligibility. Some applicants will fall into the direct duty with no time in service requirements category. This option is reserved for members holding very specific AFSCs.

The prior service matrix shows the total number of positions the Air Force needs for each AFSC, broken down by total years of service. For example, if you have 10 years of service, hold the 2A6X1 AFSC, and there is a positive number in the corresponding cell on the matrix, you may be eligible for the Prior Service program.

Members who do not qualify for one of the direct duty positions may be eligible to retrain (most common for sister service candidates). On average, there are anywhere between 75 to 110 retraining slots available for all prior service applicants into the following AFSCs:

  * 1C2X1 (Combat Control
  * 1T231 (Pararescue)
  * 1C431 (TACP)
  * 1T031 (SERE)
  * 3E8X1 (Explosive Ordnance Disposal)
  * 6C031 (Contracting)

The Prior Service program accepts applicants on a first come, first served basis. However, this total is subject to change based on the Air Force's needs. Members interested in this program should contact their local recruiter to determine eligibility. For additional information, or to locate your local recruiter, visit http://www.airforce.com/contact-us/faq/prior-service or call 719-548-9899 or 719-548-8993.