I am a MK3 been in 5 years. Now I am starting to have some problems. Does anyone know of a way to get out early? I know the early out program is closed, but with the budget being cut there has to be a way. My wife hates my current unit, and is leaving to go back home later this month. She is taking both my children and is pregnant. She is just tired of our location and the military. I also am not making enough money to support everyone. I could make better money as a civilian, I did it before joining. I was planning to get out at the end of this tour anyway. The Coast Guard is a good service, but it is and never was a career plan to stay in. I just want out, so I can be with my family and support them. I have 2 years left on my contract. I have talked to the YNs but havent really got much help. My chief hasnt really been a help either. I have requested to talk to my CO but havent heard anything back yet. He has a open door policy but Im trying to follow the chain. To not make anyone mad. Thank you in advance for the help. MK3

Have you considered competing for advancement to MK2? I'm sorry your family is having a hard time adapting, but there's no quick and easy way out right now.

You would think there would be a way because the budget is getting smaller and smaller. I am trying to pass my eoct I just failed my first one. Even if I take the SWE It would be at least a year to year and a half till I made it. I would have to score perfect, because I have no sea time and no big award points. All the rates are pretty much locked at this point as you probably know.

The MK2 EOCT is notoriously hard. I had to take it 3 times to pass. And, you don't have to score perfect on the SWE you just have to do really well. Unfortunately, most rates are locked pretty tight right now, but it's not gonna last forever. The CRSP and retirements are going to help ease some of bottleneck.

Plan to fulfill your contract so you can retain your Veteran's benefits. The GI Bill alone is worth it. The only way you're likely to get out early is via dishonorable discharge, which you don't want. In the interim take advantage of the medical and education you have.

I can still receive my gibill if I get out early as long as its at least a general. I'm trying to write a hardship letter but have no clue where to begin. There is also tempsep due to CNC and I can request to fulfill contract in the reserves. I have read the manuals. I just have no clue on how to begin the process.

Take the references and ask your chain of command to help you get started. They'll be your best resource.

I can tell you that you don't have to score perfect to advance and it only takes roughly a year to advance from when you take the SWE. The MST field is very locked up but still can advance if you test well