View Full Version : Question for 18Xers
For those of you who have already contracted 18X, what was your enlistment bonus?
Scimitar
04-14-2009, 20:23
Why do you ask? Do you feel you've been 'ripped off'?
Most if not all high demand bonuses have dropped considerable since 1 March. Your bonus can also be effected by Quick-Ship, Seasonal, Education, and other things.
Comparing Bonuses isnt gonna help much there are to many variables, hell when I enlisted back in 2006 - I got $32k in my contract, today with a similar contract I get $10k
Scimitar
I'm not comparing; I have not yet signed. I'm currently squaring away all my financial obligations before I do, and was looking for a current average among other 18Xers to help crunch my numbers. But thanks for your non-answer, scimitar.
Team Sergeant
04-14-2009, 20:36
For those of you who have already contracted 18X, what was your enlistment bonus?
Colin,
I don't have that info right now, but a word of advice, if you're in it for the money you need to look else where for employment.
Starting salary for a new Special Forces soldier is probably much lower than a United Auto Worker.
Team Sergeant
alright4u
04-14-2009, 20:49
Team Sergeant. Great Answer. Did we do it for money, love , or glory comes to mind. LMAO.
Team Sergeant. Great Answer. Did we do it for money, love , or glory comes to mind. LMAO.
Free Beer, Women, More BEER, Latina's, Bourbon, Thai Women, Hell for the Women and to Protect Said Women from those foreign hoards that would drink our Beer and take our Women..:eek::p
Hell if we did it for the money we would not have to Drink Beer....
Surgicalcric
04-14-2009, 22:15
...I'm currently squaring away all my financial obligations before I do, and was looking for a current average among other 18Xers to help crunch my numbers. But thanks for your non-answer, scimitar.
Depending on a bonus to help you square away your financial obligations really isnt a wise thing to do. First off you arent gonna receive the bonus until after you complete the SFQC. If you fail out of the SFQC or are med dropped, not selected at SFAS, if you make it that far, you arent going to receive anything (its for completing training not enlisting.)
If I were in your shoes (crunching numbers to make this happen), and I was at one time, I would not under ANY circumstance plan on a bonus to help with it.
Crip
blue02hd
04-15-2009, 04:29
But thanks for your non-answer, scimitar.
Nice response. Your going to do well in the Army, I can feel it..
Beer, women and all the fun I could have in the desert sun!!
Now that's a bonus ! :D
But then again I was in the desert where we had no beer, and no women. :mad:
Bonus??!? I was drafted and then volunteered simply for the good deal and a chance to run with the Big Dogs! What's with the bonus? Hell, most times I would've paid them for the opportunity to get to do what I got to do. :p
Richard's $.02 :munchin
greenberetTFS
04-15-2009, 05:35
Depending on a bonus to help you square away your financial obligations really isnt a wise thing to do. First off you arent gonna receive the bonus until after you complete the SFQC. If you fail out of the SFQC or are med dropped, not selected at SFAS, if you make it that far, you arent going to receive anything (its for completing training not enlisting.)
If I were in your shoes (crunching numbers to make this happen), and I was at one time, I would not under ANY circumstance plan on a bonus to help with it.
Crip
Crip,
Bonus !!! :eek: When did they start giving a Bonus to complete SFTG? :confused: I got through SFTG 35 years ago, and was extremely satisfied that I was awarded my Green Beret. :rolleyes: "Bonus,We didn'tt need any f**king Bonus"...............
GB TFS :munchin
.
Utah Bob
04-15-2009, 07:36
Edited
Surgicalcric
04-15-2009, 08:31
Crip,
Bonus !!! :eek: When did they start giving a Bonus to complete SFQC? :confused: I got through SFQC 35 years ago, and was extremely satisfied that I was awarded my Green Beret. :rolleyes: "Bonus,We didn'tt need any f**king Bonus"...............
GB TFS :munchin
.
Mother Army has been giving out 18X enlistment bonuses since the onset of the program (this time.) I didnt get one of them since I am a NG guy but I know AD guys who enlisted 18X vs 11B because of the bonus. For some it was more than $30,000 which they never received because they VW'd from SOPC at the first chance.
At one time recruits could submit paperwork for their bonuses to be paid while they were at SOPC. That changed while I was there due to the sheer number of guys who were grabbing the money then ringing the gong (VW) and heading off to 2nd ID or the 82nd...
Honestly I cant say that I would have turned it down if offered but I did not need that kind of incentive to help in my decision making process.
Crip
RT AXE 10
04-15-2009, 08:32
The real BONUS, was being accepted by an "A" Team
Agreed. Before I signed I thought a lot about the bonus, and after I signed it really did not matter anymore. My friend who is waiting to ship for AF asked me the other day and I forgot it. The thing I think about most is the fact that I will get to be around the finest that there is. Thats my bonus.
Although, I GUESS if they make me take the money, I wont be disrespectful by not accepting. :D
RT AXE 10
04-17-2009, 08:36
Agreed. Before I signed I thought a lot about the bonus, and after I signed it really did not matter anymore. My friend who is waiting to ship for AF asked me the other day and I forgot it. The thing I think about most is the fact that I will get to be around the finest that there is. Thats my bonus.
Although, I GUESS if they make me take the money, I wont be disrespectful by not accepting. :D
Yes, That way, you may give thanks to the "A TEAM" that accepted you and buy them a few, (11 plus 1 for yourself), 12 cases of ice cold Beer.;)
Team Sergeant
04-17-2009, 09:34
Yes, That way, you may give thanks to the "A TEAM" that accepted you and buy them a few, (11 plus 1 for yourself), 12 cases of ice cold Beer.;)
I've never seen a 12 man A-Team..... 8,9 10 maybe but never 12.
I've never seen a 12 man A-Team..... 8,9 10 maybe but never 12.
Rarely - but I have - even 13 and 14 on occasion with a CAPO and a Rigger attached. ;)
Richard's $.02 :munchin
RT AXE 10
04-17-2009, 11:05
It's still 12 Cases... Tm Daddy gets the difference, or the Tm alcoholic...:D
It's still 12 Cases...Tm Daddy gets the difference, or the Tm alcoholic...:D
Probably the same guy. :p
Richard's $.02 :munchin
RT AXE 10
04-17-2009, 11:38
LOL,.. 9 out of 10, it's the same guy...;)
ZonieDiver
04-17-2009, 11:52
Rarely - but I have - even 13 and 14 on occasion with a CAPO and a Rigger attached. ;)
Richard's $.02 :munchin
Don't forget the Supply Sergeant added to the ODA's TO&E for a short time in the mid-70's! He'd inventory the beer and whine if anyone wanted any. :D
Don't forget the Supply Sergeant added to the ODA's TO&E for a short time in the mid-70's! He'd inventory the beer and whine if anyone wanted any. :D
He was always the junior guy on the team and we'd just beat the $hit out of him if he complained about us utilizing the Spring Water* we'd received in the resupply bundle. :D
Richard's $.02 :munchin
* Coors
greenberetTFS
04-17-2009, 13:26
The real BONUS, was being accepted by an "A" Team
Amen to that........................:lifter
GB TFS :munchin
Utah Bob
04-17-2009, 17:40
Don't forget the Supply Sergeant added to the ODA's TO&E for a short time in the mid-70's! He'd inventory the beer and whine if anyone wanted any. :D
Holy Crap! Did they really do that? Amazing!
RT AXE 10
04-17-2009, 18:07
Holy Crap! Did they really do that? Amazing!
What's amazing is that the Supply Seargent had to commit to a life of crime and sin just to please the "A" team, or he would find himself at the mercy of a B or C team doing things that he did'nt join SF to do. But, should he survive the first few years, he can then realize what a bonus it is just to serve.
Utah Bob
04-17-2009, 20:44
What's amazing is that the Supply Seargent had to commit to a life of crime and sin just to please the "A" team, or he would find himself at the mercy of a B or C team doing things that he did'nt join SF to do. But, should he survive the first few years, he can then realize what a bonus it is just to serve.
Of course.:D
ZonieDiver
04-17-2009, 20:54
It was kind of fun having the Supply Sergeant... but the Junior 12B got a little bored... :D
With the increase in guys coming out of the SFQC in prep for the addition of another Bn per Group, it isn't unusual to have 13 or more guys assigned to an ODA. In the group I was in, we were at about 110-120% strength in every MOS and actually over 100% on medics as well. The problem became that we had more guys than guns (M-4s) to deploy with. As the fouth battalions are added and resourced, this will all even back out. Most of the teams I was on for the 13+ years I was on an ODA had about 10 guys, give or take.
zfm7th
alright4u
04-20-2009, 08:16
We needed those men to liberate items. A good scrounger, I mean supply type, was worth his weight plus in goods. I was the S4 for the first 56 days before being a company CO. No one ever asked me where things came from. I am still laughing about two zeon search lights I got. I do not think the men tasked to get them working are laughing.
RT AXE 10
04-20-2009, 09:59
The Chief Scrounger, Yes, most good SF types had basic scroungers ability, but there was always a chief scrounger, normally the S-4. Two other nice to know guys were, the Mess Daddy, and the Motor pool Daddy, normally at BN level, (But keep in mind, that these 3 guys were under the constant surveillance and supervision by the SMAJ), anyway, knowing these three persons, made life in SF a bit more cozy. But you had to be cool, as these guys were SF types, and you had to run a fair deal with them, and keep a pro-relationship in order to get what you need. If not, you and your team would be sucking hind whatchamacallits when it's mission time.
Mr. Chris
06-21-2009, 17:37
I signed my contract in early April, and I got a 5k signing bonus (1k for every year).
However, to the best of my knowledge, Most MOS's whether 18x or otherwise, don't get the FIRST PORTION of your signing bonus until the successful completion of AIT. The remainder is then distributed on the anniversary of your AIT graduation for the duration of your contract (again, assuming you graduated AIT)
AND since I'm (or WE) are on an 18x, I'm likely to not get the bonus until after designated my 18 series MOS, AND IF I don't get selected, I default back to 11B and lose my bonus altogether.
This information, is by no means concrete, but this is my personal compilation of data from my recruiter, extensive googling, goarmy.com surfing, and a personal friend who just got his first bonus installment after completing AIT for 35F.
Blitzzz (RIP)
06-21-2009, 18:34
And your point is...? Many of us did it for the job and challenge. A "bonus" is just that. Extra, Plan your life on what we all did regular pay. Buy a gun with the "Bonus" as a Bonus. Blitzzz
cold100onhw1
06-25-2009, 00:33
I signed my contract about a month ago, and the bonus I got was basically nothing. Just as others have said, The bonus is not the reason I am going SF.
blue02hd
06-25-2009, 03:29
I signed my contract in early April, and I got a 5k signing bonus (1k for every year).
However, to the best of my knowledge, Most MOS's whether 18x or otherwise, don't get the FIRST PORTION of your signing bonus until the successful completion of AIT. The remainder is then distributed on the anniversary of your AIT graduation for the duration of your contract (again, assuming you graduated AIT)
AND since I'm (or WE) are on an 18x, I'm likely to not get the bonus until after designated my 18 series MOS, AND IF I don't get selected, I default back to 11B and lose my bonus altogether.
This information, is by no means concrete, but this is my personal compilation of data from my recruiter, extensive googling, goarmy.com surfing, and a personal friend who just got his first bonus installment after completing AIT for 35F.
You should probably quit now.
no specific bonus for the enlistment option. however, i got 3k for a 5 year commitment and 5k for my 4 year degree.
i read somewhere that 18xers can keep their initial signing bonus awarded in lieu of the 18x option even if they are not selected?
if this is true, im sure i have a fun time ahead of me with the army trying to weed out the kids looking for a paycheck from uncle sam....
electricjib
08-16-2009, 20:46
For those of you who have already contracted 18X, what was your enlistment bonus?
May as well go to a pawn shop...I'm not sure why you'd care with the experiences you'll get in this type of job. You get to jump out of a airplane just on the way in the training pipeline? Like many others have said, I'd pay for that opportunity if I had the money to go to that type of school.
I was in a similar situation to you looking for some money and when I started looking into the military about a year ago. Growing up in Colorado Springs I always wanted to join, It was just a matter of the job I would pick. I signed the contract in April of this year, not for money but for wanting to experience everything I could and defend my country and protect my family. I don't see this as work as I did when I started looking, as I've been training for this I've found myself to be more motivated in general life activities. I highly suggest finding several SF mentors to talk to and really evaluate if this is what you want to do with your life, or if its where you want to belong.
Yes I'm still waiting to go to basics, but for the money, I'd find a quick end of the summer job to fill your wallet and or bills you have to pay off. I am from a tough situation too. I was paying for college for 2 and a 1/2 years while I was in school. And had no help from my parents and got to travel all at the same time. Life is what you make of it, you can go anywhere and do anything, and money should never be the object of deciding what you love. I'm not saying the job isn't for you, I'm just saying that I'm from a poor situation as well with no help and aid, but you can do it! Even now before you enlist as an 18X go knock out the rest of your GED. Some cities in the US now have online programs to knock out your GED too where you can access it for free at a public library, or they'll even provide you with a laptop for the schooling for free.
As for current Bonus, when I signed in April:
you had to enlist for a minimum of 5 years: which was around 5,000 i believe
if you signed the 8 year option (3 active duty, 5 active reserve) it was 10,000
If you have certain numbers of college credits you can automatically get an extra 3,000.
That was in April though.
Probably less around this time. If that doesn't fit the bill maybe look into other branches? Or different MOS's in the Army?
My bonus came in 1967 when at Abn Inf AIT.
Some guy came around and pulled 3 of us out of formation and said we had been selected to take the SF test.
That was a bonus!
I was on an A Team 68-70 in RVN.
We generally had about 8 on the team.
I was drafted. After 5 days in the Army and completing all of the initial entry testing, I was given the option to take the specialized tests for SF. I scored well and was offered an enlistment option to drop the US (draftee) and become an RA (volunteer) for SF training. I accepted, was discharged and enlisted for the opportunity to become a 12B4S (SF Engineer Sergeant). After BCT, AIT, BAC, SFTG Phase 1 and further testing, my option was changed to the 91B4S (SF Medical Specialist).
The bonus was being on jump status @ $55/mo and the SF training and lifestyle. ;)
Richard's $.02 :munchin
The bonus was being on jump status @ $55/mo and the SF training and lifestyle. ;)
Richard's $.02 :munchin
I remember talking to this leg dude at Fort Bragg, back in 1968 while I was going through SFTG. He made a comment about us "rich" airborne guys on jump status. He was a PFC, just like me and he eyed my additional $55 a month as a moumental entitlement for us. Since the pay for a PFC back then was about $150 a month (maybe less, I can't remember). That Extra $55 that we got was huge relitively speaking. I just remember telling him, all he had to do was volunteer.
By the way, I normally didn't make it a practice to even talk to Leg Dudes back then - but I had this old twin lens box camera and I took lots of Black and White pictures with it. When I found out that the Hobby Shop on Bragg let you process and develop your own pictures - I was there. The only thing I had to pay for was the Paper. This guy was the guy that sold me the paper.
ZonieDiver
08-20-2009, 11:17
I was drafted. After 5 days in the Army and completing all of the initial entry testing, I was given the option to take the specialized tests for SF. I scored well and was offered an enlistment option to drop the US (draftee) and become an RA (volunteer) for SF training. I accepted, was discharged and enlisted for the opportunity to become a 12B4S (SF Engineer Sergeant). After BCT, AIT, BAC, SFTG Phase 1 and further testing, my option was changed to the 91B4S (SF Medical Specialist).
The bonus was being on jump status @ $55/mo and the SF training and lifestyle. ;)
Richard's $.02 :munchin
Ditto, except for the fact that I originally enlisted, and didn't have to trade-in that "US" for "RA"! That $55 sure came in handy, and seeing what went on in the 82nd back then as well as later serving in an infantry outfit in the CZ - I never regretted taking that SF option. It is the only bonus I've ever wanted. (Oh, yeah - Commo to Weapons instead of Engineer to Medic. I couldn't master the ditty-dah-dahs to the required level of 15/15.)
wbturner
08-23-2009, 18:54
I joined Co. E, 20th SFG(A) in Jackson Miss. In Oct. 1965. I was happy to be accepted by a great bunch of guys. I went to BCT at Ft. Polk, LA; then to AIT at Ft. Leonard Wood in MO. 12B4P; Jump School at Ft. Benning; SFTG, Phaze 1, Commo 05B4S. I sewed my CPL. E-4 stripes on while on the plane from Birmingham, AL to Pope AFB and Ft. Bragg. The opportunity to just BE in SF was all I needed. The pay wasn't a big topic of conversation in 1965-1967. The state ran out of money at the end of MOS school and I got orders to "Get my expensive self back to my home unit". I became the "Chief Radio Operator Supervisor" for the "C" team. I was one of the dozen or so "School Trained" NCO's. Later I was Commo man on a B-team, then later Intel Sgt. then Op Sgt on an A-team. I adapted my 12B training in AIT as cross training so I could help out in engineering etc. I would do it ALL over again if I had the chance with a few changes to smooth the way a little. I get MY INCENTIVE every time I wear my mini wings and SF Crest on my Suit Coat.
Bill Sends
afsereguy
10-12-2009, 20:14
i just signed a contract last week. no bonus. The guy at MEPS explained to me that with a falling economy more people were signing up for the military and at the start of the new fiscal year there will not be as many bonuses given out...
When I initially walked in to my station and expressed that I wanted something infantry related, I was told that this was not the norm, especially for having a college degree.
The others in the station on that day included a guy who wanted a "desk job" and to go through OCS, and a guy with a record that wanted to become an officer in the Army because of the lack of jobs available given the economic situation. Over the course of my tests to get into the Army, I found out he contracted as a 91 series because he liked working on cars. Since then, he DEP-lossed to take a job working in a law firm most likely getting coffee.
These stories happen all the time. I've already seen my share due to being DEP myself and having to check in with the station from time to time.
This is reality and this is what we're up against. As future/current/past soldiers. Just keep on humping. :lifter
What does this mean for potential soldiers? I expect the Army as well as other branches to get rid of the quick-ship and seasonal bonuses very shortly if they have not already.
It should make the MEPS experience a little more enjoyable as well. ;) They have their work cut out for them....
Nightfall
12-10-2009, 15:41
A quick reply to the original topic as of today, I was speaking with a recruiter this morning and he broke it down thusly:
$10K for 18x
$5k to go to basic within 45 days of signing
$5K to go to basic during a non-summer month
1/2 to be paid after basic, 20% in 3 years, then the residual %30 in six
To me, them telling me I get a bonus was just that, a bonus - gravy. I tend to concur with those that comment to the effect that if one is going into it for the money, perhaps one should consider alternative employment. All told it doesn't pay super good, but the training itself is worth more than I can put a dollar figure one. Combine that with the honor of it? If I had to explain that one, then they wouldn't get it anyway - and I'm not even enlisted yet, just hopeful.
The bonus is an elusive prey to catch. I look at it like I do the lottery.... if it happens, it happens- but don't count on it.
I was told that a kid came in and signed 18x at my station a month before I did and got 20K.
I got a tryout for the best in the world.
deepblack 18x
12-10-2009, 19:17
The bonus is an elusive prey to catch. I look at it like I do the lottery.... if it happens, it happens- but don't count on it.
I was told that a kid came in and signed 18x at my station a month before I did and got 20K.
I got a tryout for the best in the world.
Same here Costa, I got the chance to chase a dream. When I was at MEPS however there was one other 18X trying to get a contract. He was under the impression that he would get a 30k signing bonus. I ran into him after his contract was all ready to be signed and he had dropped the 18X option since they were going to offer him no bonus. I found it pretty sad that people want 18X because of hopes for big $. What happened to good old fashioned heart and patriotism?
Nightfall
12-10-2009, 21:58
I got a tryout for the best in the world.
Amen brother. Amen.
I like it better this way. Keeps everyone honest.
I wouldn't want someone watching my back who was only in it for the paycheck.
I'd work for free just for the opportunity to be around warriors of such high caliber. SF is the natural progression for any true warrior, and the brotherhood that is forged through blood, sweat, and turmoil is the greatest that Man will ever know. Fuck money.
Dozer523
02-01-2010, 15:33
I'd work for free just for the opportunity to be around warriors of such high caliber. SF is the natural progression for any true warrior, and the brotherhood that is forged through blood, sweat, and turmoil is the greatest that Man will ever know. Fuck money.
______________________________
Somewhere a True Believer is training to kill you. He is training with minimal food or water, in austere conditions, training day and night. The only thing clean on him is his weapon, and he made his web gear. He doesn't worry about what workout to do - his ruck weighs what it weighs, his runs end when the enemy stops chasing him. This True believer is not concerned about 'how hard it is'; he either wins or dies. He doesn't go home at 1700, he is home. He knows only The Cause.
-Still want to quit?
You'll work for free? Carry my ruck.
SF is not really a progression thing, It's not on a "To Do" list. And it isn't check the block.
As close as I was to my teammates I was always partial to my wife. And I still have her.
Language . . .tsk tsk
That quote seems familiar. Monty, how do you feel about plagerism?
BTW, Plagerism, We don't like it. In fact entire threads are devoted to the misuse and failure to acknowledge the source of that quote.
Scimitar
02-01-2010, 22:31
All told it doesn't pay super good...
You must have an advanced degree cos I wouldn't exactly say being in the 85th percentile of individual earners in the US the poverty line?
S
You must have an advanced degree cos I wouldn't exactly say being in the 85th percentile of individual earners in the US the poverty line?
S
edit: Scimitar made some very valid points in PMs with me -- so to clarify my point, although SF pays comparatively to many options that an 18X'er might have, you'll sure work harder as an 18. ;)
(Fully recognizing that 'harder' is a terribly subjective word, and that accepting some soulless cubicle job has a cost all of its own.)
Scimitar
02-02-2010, 04:18
How much is twice?
Define easy?
S
blacklist
02-05-2010, 12:46
I got a tryout for the best in the world.
Roger that. I can not wait until March. :D
Riott_Earp
04-14-2010, 21:58
A bonus? Just as a heads up I signed on 20100205 and didn't get a bonus. So if you really are looking for one, don't count on it. Just glad I got the chance at 18x.
mark46th
04-16-2010, 10:22
Like Richard, I was drafted and volunteered for SF. I reenlisted while in SE Asia so I could finish my 2nd tour. No bonus there. I always thought that TDY was a bonus until I found out that there usually wasn't any left after the O's finished with it...
Green Light
04-16-2010, 11:21
I had 6 years at the end of my first enlistment (had to extend to go to language school, extend again when I got to Germany, and had to extend again to PCS back to the states) and hadn't seen a bonus. Didn't really worry about it. I got to do cool stuff, work with some of the legends of SF at Bragg and Germany, and generally got exposed to things that you only read about in books.
When I got back to the states, they offered me a $1000 a year for reenlistment (12B4S). Cool! I keep doing the stuff that I was doing for the last 6 years plus they give me extra money for just sticking around? Sure! I got $2000 up front after taxes and they have me a couple hundred each year. No sweat. It was extra money in the pocket - used it on equipment and skydiving, not to mention a cold beverage or two.
Would I have done it if there'd been no bonus? YOU BET! I wouldn't have given up the things I got to do with the guys I got to do it with for any amount of money. That's the way it is when you love what you do and your team is closer than family. I got to to Latin America for 9 years and work against the Sandinistas, drug lords, Manuel Antonio Noriega, and see some of the most incredible sights in the world.
If you think you want to do this and a bonus is in your frontal lobe, better think twice about it. Money is a lousey reason to put yourself through what's coming ahead. But if you want to do something that few will ever imagine, raise your hand and don't worry about the paycheck.
mark46th
04-16-2010, 16:58
Green Light- Exactly. If I had wanted to be rich, I would have stayed in school...
Green Light- Exactly. If I had wanted to be rich, I would have stayed in school...
Exactly... I was less than two years from being a Doctor but had this inner turmoil that kept telling me that SF was my calling. I finally listened to the warrior within. Bonus??? I think my recruiter gave me .50 cents and a jawbreaker. It will be all that much sweeter when I walk accross the stage and shake hands with my mentors welcoming me into the brotherhood.
Green Light
04-21-2010, 19:39
If they make you an 18D, the rest of med school is gonna be a whole lot easier.
NousDefionsDoc
04-21-2010, 20:53
Exactly... I was less than two years from being a Doctor but had this inner turmoil that kept telling me that SF was my calling. I finally listened to the warrior within. Bonus??? I think my recruiter gave me .50 cents and a jawbreaker. It will be all that much sweeter when I walk accross the stage and shake hands with my mentors welcoming me into the brotherhood.
Jesus Christ, somebody should drop a rock on your foot.
Watch them make him an Echo...
Scimitar
04-22-2010, 03:05
Jesus Christ, somebody should drop a rock on your foot.
Watch them make him an Echo...
:D
:munchin
Jesus Christ, somebody should drop a rock on your foot.
Watch them make him an Echo...
Yes, someone probably should have dropped a rock on my foot but I still feel comfortable with my decision. They can make me whatever they want as long as I'm selected. I would learn to do that job just as well as I would an 18D. I hope I'll become an 18D but you never know!
Jessec760
05-04-2010, 11:19
First off, please forgive me if this question has been asked and answered before.
I have searched on this site and a few other army sites with no effect.
I go to BCT AUG252010. I am training hard everyday and i am hoping for a chance to take the SF selection and "Q" course. I enlisted as a 11X. My SSG tells me since i am entering OSUT as a E-3 i have a chance to talk to a SF Recruiter at the end of OSUT provided i do very well on my APFT, because they will consider waiving your pay grade to attend.
Could a QP please tell me if this is correct. I trust him, it is just that he was in years ago and i am not sure if anything has changed. I posted in this thread because it relates in a way to 18X so i did not start a new thread. Also would i need to change my enlistment option to 18X? Any answers, advice, or opinions you could give me would be greatly appreciated.
I dont mind if i have to wait awhile to apply after i enlist as 11X. I just want to know because if it ends up being that i have to take the iniative (if they dont come to the barracks or classrooms) and go and speak with them on my own time i would like to know. I wouldnt want to miss out on something so important to me. Thank you for any answers or advice you can help me with.
Once again - ask these guys your question.
http://www.bragg.army.mil/sorb/SORB_SPECIALFORCES.html
Richard
Jessec760
05-04-2010, 12:51
Thank you.
For what it's worth:
Signed: 20100430
Ship: 20100914
Took the CLRP and got a High Grad Bonus (60+ Semester Credits) of $2k
While I agree that one would be stupid, foolhardy, or possibly scheming something to sign 18X based on the bonus, it is nice to know what Uncle Sugar is offering these days. Wouldn't want to miss out on free money and all :D
When I was at MEPS, the MEPS Counselor almost put through my papers without the $2k. He didn't know it was there to give. My recruiter had told me about it though so I asked him to look and sure enough... bonus money.
Hope that helps,
-Pete
Ha! I would have been happy for a contract, but alas as i don't turn 20 till November:boohoo. My recruiter told me i can do a year of college and sign next may or roll the dice and enlist as 11b and hope for the best. I of course paid my non-refundable deposit for the 2010-11 school year and the next day he got a memo saying that you only have to be 20 at the end of OUST:rolleyes:, go me. May as well take it as an opportunity to train and get some better mentoring in, right?:lifter
Bonus??? I think my recruiter gave me .50 cents and a jawbreaker. And I feel you on that Kansas i got a small bag full of Army swag and a pocket full of dreams for next spring:D.
Utah Bob
05-08-2010, 15:18
Sometimes when I read this thread, I sit back and sigh heavily.
Sometimes with a smile.
Sometimes not.
:rolleyes:
Signing bonus...
A co-worker of my recruiter at the time gave me his time, opinion, and a few tips on how to push my body more to the limits so that I had a better shot at SF, but as for money... nothing. (Well.. except the running shoes.)
I signed for 18x with the sheer intent with shaking The Reapers hand, if I wanted to sound like a kiss-ass. But in honesty just the thought that I had a chance to wear that green beret one day. The final, possible, 3% chance of that reward was my sign on bonus.
18x isn't for the money, as i'm sure has been stated in this thread 1000 times.
Hell, I live off less than 900 a month when not on active duty, so don't let anyone fool you that you'll be rolling in the dough. :boohoo
Voronov
I'm going back in the army after getting 2 purple heart and learning to walk again. I'm going unto the 18x program and haven't even asked for a bounus it not about the money you want money go be a banker.
The Reaper
05-12-2010, 22:22
I'm going back in the army after getting 2 purple heart and learning to walk again. I'm going unto the 18x program and haven't even asked for a bounus it not about the money you want money go be a banker.
cpl:
This is not where your first post should go.
Please review the rules, post your intro in the proper place, and fill out your profile.
TR
I got a bonus for re-enlisting into the NG.
Now that I am moving over to SF, I am fully prepared to give every cent of it back, and to do it with a smile, if SF will have me, that is...
After you have been in the Army for a minute or two, you will realize that the money and/or financial incentives you recieve will only lead you astray from where you really want to go.
The money doesn't keep your heart in the fight, or your feet moving one in front of the other when all you want to do is stop.
Sign up for what you really want. If they happen to give you extra pay for it, just be grateful.
grndy18269
05-23-2010, 12:24
I signed my 18x contract in April 2010 and opted for the 6 year contract. It came with a 6k bonus after the completion of Q school. To be honest, I don't care about the bonus at all. I find this to be an amazing opportunity to fight alongside the best soldiers in the world, to be part of a brotherhood, to truly make a positive impact on the world. I'm more excited about learning a language, an MOS, and seeing different parts of this world than the money. I'm reading/researching everyday and training everyday. I'm thankful for this opportunity.
D Hopeful
06-18-2010, 19:20
signed in march 2010, transfering from reserve to active with 18X contract and received no bonus. just psyched about the opportunity.
timewilltell
09-24-2010, 07:45
When I signed my contract yesterday, the bonus was one thousand dollars for five years. I am more excited about the fact I am getting a chance to earn a green beret.
When I signed my contract yesterday, the bonus was one thousand dollars for five years. I am more excited about the fact I am getting a chance to earn a green beret.
Very good, now go do PT and forward the bonus check to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, or buy a truck load of Junior's Bullet Pens.
I was offered 1,000 for 5 years, or 2,000 for 6. I was completely indifferent to the bonus, (it was actually smaller than the one for the job I went up to MEPS for) but 2,000 for 6 years just seems like it's there to abuse people who are bad at math. If the money is important to you, I have to imagine that SF re-up bonuses are higher than 1,000/year, and dirty dirty contractor money will be much higher, so why take the 6 year hitch?
Edit: signed in August, 2010.
Callsign
10-29-2010, 10:22
I signed up a few days ago. I had the option for 5 years $1,000 or 6 years $4,000.
Honestly, who cares about the money? Do you realize the opportunity you're getting with the 18x program? I am too busy studying, training, researching everyday to even think about it.
Just wanted to add and voice a concern. When I spoke to my recruiter about the 18x program, they seemed very reluctant to give me a slot. The recruiters at the station would state statistics saying that only 2% of 18x'ers ever make it through SFAS, in addition to that they said the cadre is "very bias" toward more seasoned guys like Rangers or 82nd. It came to the point where I told them, if they did not want to give me 18x I will find someone who will.
Just curious if anyone else had to go through this determent?
Shockershot87
10-29-2010, 20:39
My recruiters just wanted me to sign. When I came in talking about Option 40 and 18x, they just sort of sized me up and started on the process.
I've got a buddy in 19th Group and he said that the cadre were as unbiased as could be. If the 18x guys put up, then they shut up (in a manner of speaking). ;) I would imagine that once there, its up to you. I personally am excited to be undertaking this endeavor and can't wait to try my hand at SFAS.
Enlisted Wednesday. $3000 for 5 year contract. Not concerned about the money. I'm looking past that to SOPC and SFAS.
-Shockershot87
Enlistment bonuses are there to help ease the transition to a new job. I can't see someone enlisting just because they are getting few thousand dollars.
There where many times where I couldn't believe I was getting paid to do this. Like having free reign and Scuba diving off the Galapagos Islands.
Green Light
10-30-2010, 07:48
Bonuses are kinda like a bikini: it piques the interest of those who otherwise might not consider it. :D
It's a matter of needs of the force and what the person brings to the table. IF it's a match.
I don't think I've ever seen a QP enlist or reenlist for the money. It's ALWAYS been for what we do and who we do it with. There are guys who are eligible for retirement who will figure the calculus for taking care of their families with their remaining productive years. Completely different stuff, tho. For the most part I see a bunch of candidates here whose hearts are in the right place. Hopefully, their brains and bodies will follow. ;)
When I was on my first team a bunch of us young guys were talking one night. We came to the conclusion that we would have done our first year in group free. Back in 1977, it was pretty close to true.
As Kgoerz said, the job IS the bonus. It's not the beret, not the tab, and certainly not the pay.
The Reaper
10-30-2010, 08:46
I have seen guys stay for the money.
At one time, lots of our brothers were leaving early (some short of retirement) for the contracting business. I think you can pretty quickly figure out the lure there, and it wasn't increased cameraderie or love of country.
When you are going over 20 and Mama is asking you to come home to Ft. Living Room, a bonus large enough to buy a house is a powerful temptation for another five or six years. Sometimes, spouses figure into retirement plans too. Or ex-spouses.
Recruiting Command and SF Proponency Branch strive to make strength numbers work for both initial entry and MOS/Grade requirements. Sometimes, money is a part of that math. And trust me, it works, regardless of what we think.
TR
Green Light
10-30-2010, 10:04
It might be an interesting study on what draws guys to the Q course. Then, if money was the draw, how many who sign 18X contracts make it to a team and what percentage reenlist. I'm wondering if there's a quality quotient here.
A longitudinal study, cradle to retirement would be interesting, but impossible in a practical sense. Proponency and USARC (I would wager) may be investing in the wrong place. Neither (not for lack of trying) has been particularly good at reading the long-range tea leaves.
They pay us money for serving?
That's even better.
simple man
11-08-2010, 18:51
Bonuses are kinda like a bikini: it piques the interest of those who otherwise might not consider it. :D
It's a matter of needs of the force and what the person brings to the table. IF it's a match.
I don't think I've ever seen a QP enlist or reenlist for the money. It's ALWAYS been for what we do and who we do it with. There are guys who are eligible for retirement who will figure the calculus for taking care of their families with their remaining productive years. Completely different stuff, tho. For the most part I see a bunch of candidates here whose hearts are in the right place. Hopefully, their brains and bodies will follow. ;)
When I was on my first team a bunch of us young guys were talking one night. We came to the conclusion that we would have done our first year in group free. Back in 1977, it was pretty close to true.
As Kgoerz said, the job IS the bonus. It's not the beret, not the tab, and certainly not the pay.
Ooomph...I was born in '77.
IMHO, Avarice is the root of all evil. Aren't we the "good" guys? I use to want to be Opey and looked up to Andy Griffith because he was measured, just and a good dad. Money was never on the grid.
In the reality celebrity culture of today's youth, money is the measure of a person. Where's the virtue in that?
It's the idea of bona fide competence, camaraderie, autonomy, etc... That is calling me out of the wilderness.
Buffalobob
11-09-2010, 09:04
While I have always done work I enjoy, I was very aware that running combat missions was not adequately reimbursed for the risk and hardship we endured. You look at what the average NCO makes in a combat zone versus what an NBA player makes and you begin to see some interesting things about the values that society holds dear.
In as far as current pay for 18Xs and enlistment bonuses, I would just say that I don't think the clothing/ equipment allowance is adequate. Infantry school will wear out your first set of gear and you will need to buy replacements for most of it. Then Abn and Selection will destroy another set. So by the time you have spent 6-8 months you are back into your base pay buying equipment. So while we might not think highly of the bonus as a motivational tool it certainly is welcome to keep the bank from sending you overdraft notices. A young guy who is trying to learn how to be a man and take care of himself in this complicated world doesn't need to be losing sleep over finances when he is facing Nasty Nick in the morning.
Then there is general living and if you are married and have a child as an 18X you are in a world of financial hurt although it would be the same in most fields of endeavor. Try buying a vehicle on a E-3 pay and then put gas in it and pay for insurance. I sold my son a $10,000 Toyota Tacoma for $2,000 and I put abut $800 of new tires on it before turning it over to him. The only reason I made him pay for it was so he would realize that he is financially responsible for himself and there is no longer a free ride at home. As I understand it the bonus kicks in in phases as they successfully move along the 18X track so they never get a truck load of money dumped on them and that is a good thing as it helps them managed to live on a budget.
So while money might not be the reason we endure everything it certainly is useful and helpful and the more the better and I do not begrudge one penny of my tax dollar going to the 18X bonus.
I enlisted yesterday, 11/16/10 with an 18X contract. The only bonuses available were $2,000 for being a college graduate and a $1,000 enlistment bonus. The LRP should help out with my student loan and with a 5 year active duty contract the post 9/11 GI Bill can be applied to the final 2 years of active duty after 3 years is taken for the LRP. An additional $2,000 was available to enlist under a 6 year contract, which just didn't make sense financially.
Overall, this is a decent bonus given the opportunity an 18X contract, by itself, provides to future soldiers and with the current state of the job market.
RockSolid
11-17-2010, 15:56
In September I signed my 18X contract and was given a 2,000 signing bonus, but as I told the recruiter "I could careless what the signing bonus is" or what the pay scale is. I simply was doing what I wanted to do. As of 2010.4.27 Ill be taking about a 40% pay cut, pissing my girlfriend off, and leaving behind a rather cushy life. I couldn't care less.
-RS
In September I signed my 18X contract and was given a 2,000 signing bonus, but as I told the recruiter "I could careless what the signing bonus is" or what the pay scale is. I simply was doing what I wanted to do. As of 2010.4.27 Ill be taking about a 40% pay cut, pissing my girlfriend off, and leaving behind a rather cushy life. I couldn't care less.
-RS
Send the money to Team Sergeant or the SOWF, get a new girl friend and go do push-ups.
Thanks for signing up, much appreciated.
Wet Dog
RockSolid
11-17-2010, 18:38
Wilco
and proudly
1stindoor
11-18-2010, 07:30
As another "old guy" I will readily admit that I've received a few bonuses over the years. They didn't sway me...I was going to stay anyhows...sshhhh don't tell the Army.
I just enlisted as an 18-X this Monday and my bonus was $3k; $2k for the job and $1k for my college credits. Echoing what I posted a few minutes ago, it's additional money for something that I would of done without a bonus; the chance to succeed is more than enough.
iamnastyNate
07-25-2011, 11:43
Unfortunately for me, the Army didn't approve my HS Diploma from 10 years ago since I finished my senior year out of home. Thus I was given the following two options, either sign as an 11x and try to earn my spot through patience and PT/PL leadership aptitude or age-out and miss my chance.
Originally I had a reservation for a 6 year 18x contract with $5k bonus. Then I found out the Army wanted me to get a GED and out went my 18x option (no matter how high my ASVAB score was). If it's in the cards for me, I'll find a way to make it happen. Thanks to all the 18xers for signing up and good luck in your careers.
blacksmoke
07-25-2011, 20:20
I signed on May 25 and my bonus was the promise of a full time job for 5 years!
1stindoor
08-03-2011, 16:16
Then I found out the Army wanted me to get a GED and out went my 18x option (no matter how high my ASVAB score was).
The Army has taken a fairly dim view of those that do not complete HS (traditional HS anyways) recently. Speaking with a recruiter a few months ago with my son he said GEDs are only being taken now with waivers unless the potential recruit had college credits already in his record.
1stindoor
08-03-2011, 16:18
I signed on May 25 and my bonus was the promise of a full time job for 5 years!
Good luck to you. I hope you get everything you want out of your time in the Army.
I just signed and swore in yesterday. I was so excited at being offered such a rare opportunity (The 18x contract apparently is not being offered any time in the foreseeable future all classes are full, I luckily was at MEPS just as some one was dropping out of the program) that I did not think or ask about a bonus. Turns out there was none. It's a non-issue; the 18x contract itself is precious.
1stindoor
08-05-2011, 10:23
It's a non-issue; the 18x contract itself is precious.
Good luck!...Train hard, don't quit.
MilkTheFunk
08-05-2011, 16:42
I signed my 18X contract back in May. I sat down with my MEPS counselor ready to sign without a bonus and he dropped $4K in my lap. $2K for my advanced degree and then another $2K for signing for 5 years, which from what I understood was required for 18X anyways. I accepted it graciously, but I was only seeking the opportunity to serve with America's smartest, strongest, fastest and finest.
Another thing to remember is that your bonus is taxable income. So, by the time you receive all of it you've already lost a third of it - my $4K will look more like $2.5K after taxes. If you calculate the NPV based on the bonus paying out over the course of your enlistment and account for inflation, a bonus really becomes a non-issue, which it should have already been if you're truly volunteering for SF with the right intentions.
ableonetwo
08-05-2011, 23:14
I signed my contract on tuesday and received 2k for my school and 6k for a 6 year enlistment contract and on completion of the Q, but the 2k is the only guarantee and obviously a long road ahead for the rest.
GreatfulService
02-06-2013, 17:21
In as far as current pay for 18Xs and enlistment bonuses, I would just say that I don't think the clothing/ equipment allowance is adequate. Infantry school will wear out your first set of gear and you will need to buy replacements for most of it. Then Abn and Selection will destroy another set. So by the time you have spent 6-8 months you are back into your base pay buying equipment. So while we might not think highly of the bonus as a motivational tool it certainly is welcome to keep the bank from sending you overdraft notices. A young guy who is trying to learn how to be a man and take care of himself in this complicated world doesn't need to be losing sleep over finances when he is facing Nasty Nick in the morning.
Thank you sir, its good to know what expenses to plan for once I'm in, I will price the items you mentioned, is there anything else I should include in my budget?
From the best I can figure enlistment is going to cost me many thousands of dollars to fix my credit, settle some back taxes and unpaid traffic fines. Every red cent will be the best money I've ever spent and if the army never paid me in anything but bullets and beans it wouldn't make a damned bit of difference to me. SF is a special calling that only a few can hear, and even fewer are worthy and quite obviously, they are not in it for the money. It keeps me up nights that I won't get selected, honestly that's my biggest fear in life. At the outset of this thread I was afraid we rube's would be embarrassing ourselves with avarice, it was a relief to see the tenor of this thread wasn't 'gimme gimme'.
Just a heads up you can get field quality uniforms pretty cheap at the 2nd hand store on post.