CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan -- Marine Administrative Messages 357/12 and 358/12, which outline current and revised re-enlistment incentives for fiscal year 2013, were signed July 2.
Competition for boatspaces will increase as the military decreases numbers to create a more modernized and efficient force. Marines will retain the capacity and capability to support current and crisis response operations through rotational deployments.
“The increased competitive nature inspired by the drawdown will give the Marine Corps a more streamlined posture in the future with the most highly qualified individuals filling our ranks,” said Sgt. Kyle T. Katchka, the regimental career planner for Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.
The Marine Corps is no longer offering composite score points as a re-enlistment incentive effective July 1, according to MARADMIN 358/12.
“These incentives were put in place to meet the needs of the Marine Corps,” said Sgt. Maj. Michael R. Saucedo, the sergeant major of Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF. “When there is no longer a need, they go away.”
During the drawdown the selection process will become more scrutinized, possibly disqualifying Marines with only a single blemish on their record, said Katchka.
“I think the Marine Corps wants to keep our combat-tested (noncommissioned officers), and you can’t put a price on the experience they have,” said Saucedo.
Although the drawdown has eliminated some incentives, re-enlistment bonuses have remained relatively the same for fiscal year 2013, as compared to last year. Some numbers have even increased.
For example, lance corporals who occupy the intelligence field will see an increase to $55,000 for FY13 compared to last year’s $46,750. However, these bonuses will no longer apply once boatspaces are full.
Marines with prior service planning on returning to active duty will not be able to do so until Jan. 1, 2013, according to MARADMIN 357/12. The changes will affect Marines with end of current contract dates ranging from Oct. 1, 2012 to Sept. 30, 2013.
“Marines wanting to re-enlist need to stay competitive by performing at a level above their peers and staying out of trouble,” said Katchka.
According to Headquarters Marine Corps, Marines will continue to provide the nation with the most ready, capable and cost-effective force.