Question re. 'leaving'

[curious]

Hello everyone,

Basically I'm seriously considering a career in the marines (not to come off as arrogant, i.e, it's something I'd like to do). Like any other career, however, I'd like some 'inside info' on some little talked about issues:

In the booklet I've just received, it says that '6 months after joining, if you decide it's not for you, you can leave'
Is that after you get your green beret or what?

I realise that questions regarding leaving before you've even applied may seem stupid and/or reflect a lack of certainty. I just want to know, like I would before applying for any other career. I did try to search for it but to no avail.

regards, Curious

[Benw]

Hello Curious, and welcome to the forum. Your question is certainly one I pondered before taking the step and I am sure many more would admit to the same. It is a massive decision to make and you need assurance that should you change your mind half way through you can leave.

So, to answer your question; when you arrive at CTC to start your training, you will be required to serve a minimum of 2 weeks. After that, you may opt-out any time within the first 6 months - the day after that 6 months, you will be required to serve 3 years + 12 months notice.

I believe you can buy your way out if you really want - I think it is about £4500 or something similar.

Hope this is of help,
Ben

[42]

cant buy yourself out i`m afraid

[curious]

many thanks chaps,

Ben, I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels like this. Anyway, how can you not buy yourself out, I mean, they can't physically stop you from leaving surely?

Also, what if external circumstances change dramatically and it's just not feasible for you to continue?

thanks again

[Darren82]

they might let you go if you have serious welfare problems in or outside work but it depends on the welfare snco.

unfortunately also they can stop you leaving, that's what RMP's are for!

[T T Fresh]

It's not like the foreign legion but you do have a duty.

The MP's won't be lenient with you if you go AWOL:- even if it is to find your brothers killer and look after his wife by means of an underground fighting contest. I believe the only successful AWOL soldier was Jean-Claude

I think he went back in Bloodsport - quitter

[curious]

gutted, I was definitely planning on going AWOL and travelling the world participating in illegal street fights.
This changes everything.

But seriously... they'll physically stop you leaving?

I know you have a duty and it's a job that you shouldn't do if you're not 100% sure etc., but why can't you 'buy your way out' as they say? Wouldn't it come out of your wages or would it be a lump sum?

[curious]

So basically, the only way to leave if you just hate it, is to fail a drugs test and/or make a pass at a senior officer?
That sucks a bit in terms of your permanent record- the only way out is by your ear? No way you can part on good terms?

[42]

the way of thinking is that if you stick it to 6 months then youve had ample opportunity to decide whether or not you like it

[Chris911]

hey all, i havent read all of the messages yet but just for the info- i went to the AFCO today and there was this really friendly scottish guy there who was talking to me and he was a drill instructer. anyway, he said that the reason people have to stay in for 12 months after they have asked to leave is because the royal marines want to make sure theres some one to take their place. i know its not that intresting but at least theres some info for you.

[Woody]

32 weeks.

[Chris911]

thats exactly what i was going to say woody, your still one step ahead of me.