MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY PONIT, NORTH CAROLINA -- Career counselors and military occupational specialty monitors with Marine Corps Manpower Management Enlisted Assignments Branch conducted a road show event at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, Sept. 11.
During their visit, MMEA representatives conducted briefs and interviews informing the Marines about enlisted assignments, policies and procedures, special duty assignments, the first-term alignment plan, unit cohesion, promotion and command retention, professional military education and lateral moves.
“Everything we do going forward is just a force shaping tool because the drawdown is nearly complete,” said Maj. Nolan Duchateau, deputy enlisted retention specialist with MMEA. “It is still very important for all Marines to remain competitive because we are looking for the most highly motivated and highly qualified Marines to retain.”
Duchateau encouraged Marines to be proactive, submitting their reenlistment package early whether or not they plan to stay in the Corps.
Each Marine’s reenlistment package is channeled through a chain of approving officials beginning within the Marine’s section and ending with Headquarters Marine Corps’ approval or denial message.
“Knowing the requirements and knowing what we are looking for in a Marine who wants to reenlist gives them an advantage,” said Duchateau. “Some tips for them to remember would be to progress well within their primary MOS, maintain good physical fitness and pursue leadership roles.”
Each military occupational specialty is allotted a set number of boat spaces, so it is imperative that Marines consider that when trying to reenlist. A Marine may be well qualified, but any hesitation on submitting a package and they may lose that spot, explained Duchateau.
“There are several things affecting retention and things we are looking for when making our selections for reenlistments,” said Duchateau. “Anything from misconduct in their record and non-competitiveness in their MOS, to negative paperwork, including a 6105, Page 11 and nonjudicial punishment can disqualify a Marine.”
Marines can find information regarding the enlisted retention guidelines in Marine Administrative Message 400/14.
“This topic is important because it impacts these Marines careers,” said Duchateau. “By having maximum submissions from the fleet, we are given the opportunity to assess the broad population, which in turn allows us to really select the most qualified Marines.”