Joining the Regiment without Opt. 40

[Wrestler_1]

Hello, I've searched the threads here, and found some information on this but I'd like some clarity, if possible from the members here.

I am planning on enlisting in the US Army soon, with my primary MOS as 68w, but I am enlisting with a waiver for my vision, and was told by my recruiter that I am ineligible for an Option 40, but I can and should be able to obtain a slot for RASP while in BCT/AIT. Knowing recruiters, I'm wary he's just telling me what I want to hear.

How hard is it to get into the 75th without and Option 40?

 

[AWP]

This vision waiver....makes you ineligible for Opt. 40, but you still qualify for the 75th? What is it for? I'm sure one of our Rangers will be along shortly, but the answer to my latter question will help them sort this out and save some time.

 

[Wrestler_1]

Sorry for not clarifying, it is for my vision. The doctors at MEPS ruled me as having Hyperopia, and DQ'd me originally. My recruiter put the waiver through and I'm clear.

Like I said, my recruiters words are not facts to me, but I do not think he would lie to me(That big of a lie) just to get my signature and his commission.

 

[AWP]

Sorry for not clarifying, it is for my vision. The doctors at MEPS ruled me as having Hyperopia, and DQ'd me originally. My recruiter put the waiver through and I'm clear.

You're farsighted. How much? Correctable to what in each eye? Any astigmatism? These are details which matter.

 

[DA SWO]

Hello, I've searched the threads here, and found some information on this but I'd like some clarity, if possible from the members here.

I am planning on enlisting in the US Army soon, with my primary MOS as 68w, but I am enlisting with a waiver for my vision, and was told by my recruiter that I am ineligible for an Option 40, but I can and should be able to obtain a slot for RASP while in BCT/AIT. Knowing recruiters, I'm wary he's just telling me what I want to hear.

How hard is it to get into the 75th without and Option 40?

Can you get an Airborne Option?

 

[Wrestler_1]

@Freefalling , I am 20/100 in my right eye, and 20/20 in my left. I have an astigmatism in both, but unfortunately that is all the info I can give that this time. I'll get new info from my doctor possibly Monday, and by then I can give you a more definite answer. I'm also working with a vision therapist, who can ultimately tell me what my vision is correctable to. My doc said that PRK/LASIK is not an option for me to due to my prescription though.

@SOWT , I have not asked my recruiter, but I believe that I would be barred from that as well, considering the only thing barring me from Option 40 is my vision waiver.

 

[AWP]

AR 40-501.

http://www.apd.army.mil/pdffiles/r40_501.pdf

 

[Kraut783]

No Airborne, no SOF.

 

[Wrestler_1]

No Airborne, no SOF.

Hmm. I fear that's where I am at.

@SOWT I'm reading up now.

 

[Wrestler_1]

Sorry, I meant to mention Freefalling, not SOWT.

 

[DA SWO]

nevermind.

 

[goon175]

So MEPS is weird. You can be fully qualified for an MOS or an option, but for opt 4/40, you cannot get that at time of enlistment if you require a physical waiver. So, you can still do it, you just have to compete for the opt 40 once you get in. It's a stupid rule and one I don't understand, but it's there.

 

[Wrestler_1]

Thank you for the response goon175. Now competing for Opt 40, what is my best shot at getting it once I'm in BCT/AIT? I realize I have a long road ahead of me trying to get 68w/Opt 40, but it's one I'm prepared to take. My 5m target is preparing to get that Option 40.

 

[TLDR20]

Be a stud. Excel at everything. 300+ APFT, strive for leadership positions in BCT. Know the basics of your job and be proficient.

 

[AWP]

Not knowing when the Ranger recruiter/ monitor types come around (I thought this was in AIT), I'd also strongly recommend knocking your AIT scores out of the park.

 

[DA SWO]

Not knowing when the Ranger recruiter/ monitor types come around (I thought this was in AIT), I'd also strongly recommend knocking your AIT scores out of the park.

Back in the day (when we had two wars going) Ranger Recruiters would hit the 68W AIT every quarter looking for young warriors.
Don't know if it still happens, but you have a good MOS, so the lack of an Option 40 contract may not be a killer.
Kill PT, and do well in class ( minimal performer will not get invited to the dance)..

I wish you well.

 

[Wrestler_1]

Thank you for all the advice and information, gentlemen. I will continue to maximize my PT stats and will post SITREPs often(If that's allowed).

 

[AWP]

Thank you for all the advice and information, gentlemen. I will continue to maximize my PT stats and will post SITREPs often(If that's allowed).

Allowed? It is encouraged. Look for it elsewhere on this board, but one exists and it shows how our members went from "nobody" to "somebody."

 

[Wrestler_1]

Good to go, Freefalling. Thanks for the response.

 

[x SF med]

@Wrestler_1 Keep up the good attitude, be a sponge, and learn to apply what they're teaching. Do your best all of the time and you'll do ok.