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Can You Quit The Army? A Comprehensive Guide 2023

“Can you quit the army?” is a question many service members grapple with during their military journey. Joining the armed forces is a monumental commitment, often driven by a mix of passion, patriotism, and personal goals.

However, life’s unpredictability, coupled with the unique challenges of military life, can lead individuals to reconsider their decision. This article delves deep into the complexities surrounding this question, providing insights, processes, and implications of making such a choice. Whether you’re a current service member, a concerned family member, or just curious, we aim to shed light on this often misunderstood topic.

Joining the military is a significant decision that requires a deep commitment. It’s not just about serving one’s country; it’s about dedicating years of one’s life to a cause. However, circumstances change, and there might come a time when one considers leaving before their term ends. This article delves into the complexities of such a decision, exploring the various ways to get out of the military and the potential repercussions of each.

“The military is not just a job; it’s a way of life. But like all ways of life, it might not be for everyone.” – Gen. Martin Dempsey

Basics of Leaving the Military

The military isn’t just another job; it’s a commitment, often bound by a contract known as army enlistment. Leaving the military isn’t as simple as handing in a resignation letter. It involves a process, often referred to as military discharge.

Active Duty: This refers to full-time military service. Members on active duty are in the military full-time, living on a base or post, and can be deployed overseas.
Contract Renewal: After the initial enlistment contract, a military member might have the option to renew or re-enlist, depending on their military member’s position and the needs of the service.
Reserve Duty: Unlike active duty, reserve duty involves serving part-time, usually one weekend a month and two weeks a year. Reservists can be called to active duty in times of need.

Did You Know?: The average enlistment contract lasts four years, but service commitments can range from two to six years.

Reasons for Leaving the Army

There are myriad reasons why someone might consider leaving the army:

Personal and Family Issues: Balancing military life with family can be challenging, especially with deployments. For instance, a soldier might have a newborn child and wish to be present during the child’s formative years.
Physical and Mental Health Challenges: The rigors of military life can take a toll on one’s health. Soldiers might experience injuries in the line of duty or suffer from mental health issues like PTSD.
Philosophical or Moral Dilemmas: Some might grapple with their views on fighting in wars or specific missions they’re assigned to. A soldier might be against a particular conflict their country is involved in.
Desire for Civilian Life: The allure of a more “normal” life, with regular hours and more personal freedom, can be tempting. Some might wish to pursue higher education or a different career path.

Case Study: Sarah, a dedicated army officer, decided to leave after her first term. The reason? She wanted to pursue her passion for veterinary science. While she valued her time in the military, her love for animals drove her to a different path.

Types of Military Discharges

Leaving the military is categorized into various types of discharges, each with its implications:

Honorable Discharge: This is the most favorable type. It signifies that the service member fulfilled their duties honorably.
General Discharge: It’s a step below honorable and indicates that the service member’s performance was satisfactory but not exemplary.
Other Than Honorable (OTH) Discharge: This type is given for more severe offenses, like misconduct.
Dishonorable Discharge: Reserved for the gravest offenses, this type can have lifelong implications, including the loss of all military benefits.

Case Study: Consider John, a dedicated soldier who served for three years. He faced a personal tragedy and struggled to cope, leading to a few instances of insubordination. Instead of a dishonorable discharge, he received an OTH discharge due to the circumstances.

Leaving the Army During Specific Phases

Depending on when one chooses to leave, the process and implications can vary:

During Basic Training: Leaving during this initial phase might be possible, but it’s not straightforward. It requires an administrative process, and the outcome can range from an honorable to an OTH discharge.
Before Basic Training: If one has second thoughts before even starting, they might be able to request a release from their enlistment contract, often termed as “backing out.”
After Basic Training: Once this phase is complete, leaving becomes more complicated, and the type of discharge received can vary based on circumstances.

Fact: Approximately 10% of recruits don’t make it through basic training, often due to medical disqualifications or personal reasons.

Special Cases of Leaving

There are specific scenarios where leaving the army is based on unique circumstances:

Conscientious Objector Discharge: This is for those who, after enlisting, undergo a religious or moral awakening that prevents them from participating in wars.
Early Education Release: Some might be allowed to leave to pursue higher education.
Hardship Discharge: If there’s a severe personal or family crisis, like a hardship in the immediate family, this type might be granted.
Convenience of the Government Discharge: This is a broad category that covers situations not fitting other categories but isn’t dishonorable.

“The military is a commitment, but it’s also an institution that recognizes the complexities of human life.” – Lt. Gen. Richard Harding

Consequences of Leaving Without Proper Procedure

Going “AWOL” or Absent Without Leave is a serious offense. It’s one of the negative ways to leave the military. The consequences can be severe, ranging from legal penalties, time in military prison, to a dishonorable discharge.

Fact: In the U.S., if a service member is AWOL for more than 30 days, they are considered a deserter, which can lead to criminal charges.

Financial Considerations After Leaving the Army

Transitioning back to civilian life brings financial challenges:

Regular Bills: Unlike in the military, where many expenses are covered, civilians must handle all their bills, from rent to utilities.
Loss of Military Benefits: Depending on the type of discharge, one might lose specific benefits, affecting their financial stability.

Table: Common Military Benefits and Their Civilian Equivalents

Military Benefit	Civilian Equivalent
Base Housing	Renting or Owning a Home
Commissary Access	Grocery Shopping
Medical Care	Health Insurance
Education Benefits	Scholarships or Student Loans

Support for Ex-Armed Forces Members

Fortunately, there are numerous organizations dedicated to helping veterans transition back to civilian life, offering support ranging from career advice to emotional counseling.

List of Organizations:

Veterans Affairs
Wounded Warrior Project
American Legion
VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars)

Finding a Civilian Job After Leaving the Army

Transitioning to a civilian job can be challenging. Military skills might not directly translate to civilian roles, but they’re valuable nonetheless. It’s crucial to understand how to present one’s military experience in a way that appeals to civilian employers.

Table: Translating Military Skills to Civilian Jobs

Military Skill	Civilian Equivalent
Leadership	Team Management
Discipline	Work Ethic
Strategy	Project Planning

FAQs

Q1: Can I leave the army during basic training?
A1: Yes, it’s possible to leave during basic training, but it’s not straightforward. Leaving during this phase requires an administrative process, and the type of discharge you receive can vary, ranging from honorable to Other Than Honorable (OTH).

Q2: What are the different types of military discharges?
A2: The primary types of military discharges are Honorable, General, Other Than Honorable (OTH), and Dishonorable. The type of discharge one receives can have significant implications on post-military life and benefits.

Q3: What is a Conscientious Objector Discharge?
A3: A Conscientious Objector Discharge is granted to those who, after enlisting, undergo a religious or moral awakening that prevents them from participating in wars or conflicts.

Q4: Are there financial implications when leaving the army?
A4: Yes, transitioning back to civilian life can bring financial challenges. Depending on the type of discharge, one might lose specific military benefits, which can affect financial stability.

Q5: Can I be charged for going AWOL?
A5: Yes, going “AWOL” or Absent Without Leave is a serious offense. If a service member is AWOL for more than 30 days, they can be considered a deserter, leading to criminal charges in many jurisdictions.

Q6: Can I rejoin the army after leaving?
A6: It depends on the type of discharge you received and the circumstances of your departure. Those with an Honorable or General Discharge may be able to re-enlist, but it’s more challenging for those with an OTH or Dishonorable Discharge.

Q7: How can I get support after leaving the army?
A7: Numerous organizations, such as Veterans Affairs and the Wounded Warrior Project, are dedicated to helping veterans transition back to civilian life. They offer support ranging from career advice to emotional counseling.

Q8: Can I pursue higher education after leaving the army?
A8: Absolutely! Many veterans pursue higher education after their service. Depending on your discharge type and service duration, you might even qualify for education benefits to help cover costs.

Conclusion

Deciding to leave the army is a significant and often complex decision. While the military offers a structured environment with clear rules and benefits, personal, physical, or moral challenges can prompt individuals to consider an early discharge. It’s essential to understand the implications of such a decision, both immediate and long-term. Whether it’s the type of discharge, the potential loss of benefits, or the transition to civilian life, each aspect requires careful consideration. Always consult with a military legal advisor and make informed decisions. The journey might be challenging, but with the right resources and support, veterans can lead fulfilling lives post-military service.

EES Army – Evaluation Entry System (EES) Army Login

EES Army – The U.S. Army, known for its discipline, structure, and commitment to excellence, has always sought ways to evaluate and improve the performance of its personnel. One such system that plays a pivotal role in this endeavor is the Evaluation Entry System (EES). This article delves into the intricacies of the EES, its significance, and the ways to access it.

What is the Evaluation Entry System (EES) Army?

The Evaluation Entry System (EES) is an integral component of the U.S. Army’s broader Evaluation Reporting System (ERS). It is a web-based platform designed to streamline and manage the evaluation processes for both officers and noncommissioned officers within the Army. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

1. Purpose and Functionality

Centralized Evaluation Management: EES Army serves as a centralized hub where evaluations can be initiated, tracked, and finalized. This ensures a standardized and efficient process across the Army.
Visibility: The system provides field users with visibility of evaluation administrative information for both Noncommissioned Officer Evaluation Reports (NCOER) and Officer Evaluation Reports (OER). This transparency ensures that evaluations are processed in a timely and accurate manner.
Integration with IPERMS: EES Army works in tandem with the Interactive Personnel Electronic Records Management System (IPERMS). This integration ensures that once evaluations are finalized in EES, they are updated in the soldier’s IPERMS record.

2. Modernization Efforts

The Army, in its continuous pursuit of modernization, transitioned from the older Interactive Web Response System to the ERS, of which EES Army is a part. This move was aimed at leveraging newer technologies to make the evaluation process more efficient and user-friendly.

3. Features

Senior Rater Profile Tracking: EES Army keeps a record of the senior rater’s profile history, ensuring that evaluations are consistent and in line with the rater’s previous assessments.
Academic Evaluation Reports (AER) Tracking: EES Army also tracks AERs, which are crucial for recording and placing academic achievements in the Army Military Human Resource Record.
Administrative Access: For administrative tracking and other functionalities within the ERS, access is specifically requested and granted through the EES.

4. Significance to the Army

Evaluations play a pivotal role in leadership development, promotions, and career progression within the Army. EES ensures that these evaluations are conducted in a standardized, transparent, and efficient manner.
By providing a centralized platform for evaluations, EES Army aids in maintaining the integrity of the evaluation process, ensuring that soldiers are assessed fairly and that their achievements and areas of improvement are accurately recorded.
The system also aids in identifying and nurturing talent within the Army, ensuring that the best individuals are positioned in roles where they can have the most impact.

In essence, the Evaluation Entry System (EES) is more than just a digital platform; it’s a testament to the U.S. Army’s commitment to excellence, fairness, and modernization. By continuously refining and upgrading the system, the Army ensures that its personnel are evaluated with the utmost integrity, paving the way for a stronger and more capable force.

Modernization of the Evaluation System

In the Army’s continuous quest for modernization and efficiency, the Interactive Web Response System, which was previously used for evaluation tracking, has been replaced with the ERS. This revamped system not only tracks the senior rater profile history but also the Academic Evaluation Reports (AER). The AER is crucial as it tracks the receipt and placement in the Army Military Human Resource Record. For administrative tracking within this system, access is requested and granted through the EES.

Future Endeavors and Enhancements

The Army is not one to rest on its laurels. As it continues to refine the EES Army, the HRC Evaluations Branch is in the process of upgrading the EES. One of the notable features in the pipeline is the “Manage Rating Chain”. This tool is designed to empower the unit and key personnel, such as the commander and S-1, to construct their rating schemes and pinpoint rating officials based on the approved organizational structure. The expected rollout of the “Manage Rating Chain” tool is set for Fiscal Year 2017.

Why is EES Army Important to the Army?

Evaluations are the backbone of leadership development. They ensure that the Army is equipped with personnel ready to fight and emerge victorious. For evaluations to be effective, they need to be submitted, received, and processed promptly. This is where the EES and ERS come into play, enabling rating officials and Soldiers to monitor their reports and address any issues that require immediate attention. Neglecting evaluation matters can lead to rating period gaps, which could disadvantage Soldiers during considerations for promotions or pivotal assignments.

The processing times for evaluations can vary, ranging from two to 12 weeks, depending on the Headquarters Department of the Army selection board schedule and the considered population. Reports eligible for boards are identified and prioritized by the HRC Evaluations Branch for processing. All other reports undergo review based on their order of receipt.

Accessing the Evaluation Entry System (EES) – EES Army Login

Requirements:

A valid Common Access Card (CAC).
A CAC reader: This is a hardware device that allows your computer to read your CAC.
Appropriate software/drivers: Ensure that the necessary software and drivers for the CAC reader are installed on your computer.

Accessing from an Army Computer:

Ensure your computer is connected to the Army network.
Open a web browser.
Navigate to the EES Army Login Page: https://evaluations.hrc.army.mil/
Insert your CAC into the CAC reader.
Select your certificate when prompted and enter your PIN.

Accessing from a Personal Computer:

Ensure you have a CAC reader attached and set up on your personal computer.
Install the necessary middleware software that allows your personal computer to communicate with the CAC. (This can often be obtained from the official military or CAC reader manufacturer websites.)
Open a web browser.
Navigate to the EES Army Login Page: https://evaluations.hrc.army.mil/
Insert your CAC into the CAC reader.
Select your certificate when prompted and enter your PIN.

Navigating the EES:

Once logged in, you’ll be presented with a dashboard or homepage.
From here, you can access various features such as viewing evaluations, submitting evaluations, tracking the status of evaluations, and more.
Use the provided menus and links to navigate to the desired section or feature within the EES.

Logging Out:

Always ensure you log out of the EES after completing your tasks.
Remove your CAC from the CAC reader.
It’s also a good practice to clear your browser cache, especially if you accessed the EES from a public or shared computer.

Troubleshooting:

If you encounter issues accessing the EES, ensure your CAC is not expired and that you’re using the correct PIN.
Ensure your CAC reader is functioning correctly and that the necessary software/drivers are up to date.
If accessing from a personal computer, ensure you have the correct middleware software installed.
For further assistance, consider reaching out to the IT or technical support department within your unit or the U.S. Army Human Resources Command.

Remember, security is paramount. Always ensure you’re accessing the EES from a secure connection, especially if using a personal device. Avoid accessing sensitive systems from public networks or computers.

Evaluation Entry System (EES) User’s Guide

Common FAQs on the U.S. Army’s EES

What is EES and what does it do in the Army?

EES, short for the Evaluation Entry System, is a web-based tool utilized by the U.S. Army to complete and submit evaluations to the Human Resources Command (HRC).

How do you access the Evaluation Entry System (EES)?

The EES can be accessed using the web address https://evaluations.hrc.army.mil/. A Common Access Card (CAC) is typically required for login.

What are the common issues faced during Army EES login and how can they be resolved?

For any login or access issues related to Army EES, soldiers can contact the help desk at phone number: 1 (502) 613-7777 or DSN: 983-7777. They can also email at: [email protected].

Are there any training resources available for the Evaluation Entry System (EES)?

Yes, the Army Human Resources Command provides tools and training resources for soldiers and HR professionals to familiarize themselves with the EES.

How does the Evaluation Entry System (EES) integrate with other Army systems?

EES works in tandem with other systems like the Interactive Personnel Electronic Records Management System (IPERMS) to ensure that evaluations are updated in a soldier’s record once they are finalized in EES.

Can you access Army EES from home?

While the EES requires a CAC for access, it is technically possible to access it from home if you have a CAC reader and the necessary software installed on your personal computer.

What does EES stand for in the Army?

In the context of the U.S. Army, EES stands for Evaluation Entry System.

408 CheyTac vs 50 BMG? What is the Most Powerful Sniper?

408 CheyTac vs 50 BMG – In the world of long-range shooting, the .408 CheyTac and the .50 Caliber BMG have dominated the conversation for years. They’re the giants, the titans, and the heavyweights of long-range ballistics. But how do they compare to each other? This article delves into a comprehensive comparison of these two behemoths, considering factors like ballistics, accuracy, recoil, and ammunition availability.

The .408 CheyTac

Overview

The .408 CheyTac (Cheyenne Tactical) is a relatively new player in the long-range shooting scene. It was designed for accuracy at extreme ranges and has delivered this promise remarkably well. The round was developed by CheyTac LLC, primarily for use in their M200 Intervention rifle.

Key Features

It has a lower recoil than the .50 Cal, making shooting easier for extended periods.
Its superior ballistic coefficient gives it excellent performance at extreme ranges.
The .408 CheyTac is lighter and more compact than the .50 Cal, making it more manageable and mobile.

Ballistics

The .408 CheyTac was designed with a specific objective: superior performance at extreme ranges. It uses a unique combination of bullet weight, powder load, and barrel length to achieve this. The round has an exceptional ballistic coefficient, so it maintains its velocity better over long distances.

“The .408 CheyTac has an incredible ability to remain supersonic beyond 2,000 yards. This characteristic is largely due to its superior ballistic coefficient.”

The .50 Caliber BMG

Overview

The .50 Caliber BMG (Browning Machine Gun) has been in service for over a century. It was initially developed in the Browning M2 machine gun during World War I. Today, it is used in various applications, from anti-material rifles to heavy machine guns.

Key Features

The .50 Cal BMG has enormous stopping power, making it ideal for anti-material applications.
It has various ammunition types, ranging from armor-piercing to incendiary rounds.
The .50 Cal BMG is loud and has a significant recoil, making it less than ideal for extended shooting sessions.

Ballistics

The .50 Cal BMG is known for its sheer power and destructive force. It can send a 660-grain bullet downrange at speeds approaching 3,000 feet per second. This results in enormous kinetic energy, making it ideal for applications where stopping power is paramount.

“The .50 Cal BMG is a force to be reckoned with. Its sheer power and stopping ability are unrivaled in the world of long-range shooting.”

Comparison: 408 CheyTac vs 50 BMG

When comparing these two long-range titans, several factors come into play.

Accuracy: The .408 CheyTac has a superior ballistic coefficient, which gives it an edge in accuracy at extreme ranges.
Recoil: The .408 CheyTac has less recoil than the .50 Cal, making it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
Stopping Power: The .50 Cal BMG has significantly more stopping power due to its larger bullet size and higher muzzle velocity.
Ammunition Availability: The .50 Cal BMG ammunition is widely available, whereas the .408 CheyTac ammo is less common and more expensive.

Here’s a tabular comparison between the two:

Feature	.408 CheyTac	.50 Cal BMG
Origin	United States, 2001	United States, the 1910s
Bullet Diameter	10.36mm	12.7mm
Muzzle Velocity (305gr/290gr bullet)	3,590 ft/s	Varies (up to 3,000 ft/s)
Energy	Up to 11,352 joules	Between 14,000 and 20,000 joules
Rifling Twist	330.2mm	380mm
Ballistic Coefficient	High (low bullet drop)	High (less wind drift)
Ammunition Availability	Less common, more expensive	Widely available
Recoil	Less	More
Stopping Power	Lower	Higher
Ideal Use	Extreme long-range shooting	High-powered sniper rifles, anti-material roles.

.408 Cheytac vs .50 BMG Comparison Video by ClassicFirearms Channel

Both the .408 CheyTac and the .50 Cal BMG are impressive rounds that have earned their places in long-range shooting. The choice between them often comes down to the specific needs and constraints of the shooter.

The .408 CheyTac, with its superior ballistic coefficient and lower recoil, is an excellent choice for those who need to make precise shots at extreme ranges. Its performance is commendable, but it comes at a cost, both in terms of ammunition price and availability.

On the other hand, the .50 Cal BMG is a tried and true round that delivers immense stopping power. It’s been around for over a century, and its performance in various military and civilian roles is a testament to its design. It offers various ammunition types and is easily available, but its significant recoil and loud report make it less than ideal for extended shooting sessions.

Ultimately, the .408 CheyTac and the .50 Cal BMG are remarkable in their own right. The choice between them boils down to the shooter’s specific needs and mission. It’s a testament to the advancements in ballistic technology that shooters today have such powerful and capable options to choose from.

Clothing Record Army Login & Website – OCIE Army

Clothing Record Army – The U.S. Army Clothing Record and the Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment (OCIE) database are vital tools for soldiers to manage their issued clothing and equipment. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to these systems and answer some of the most commonly asked questions about them.

The Army Clothing Record is an online database where soldiers can manage their issued clothing and individual equipment. It is an important tool for both personal information and military records. Accessing and maintaining your clothing record is vital for all servicemembers. The Army clothing record is an official document that lists all the items of clothing and equipment issued to a soldier by the United States Army. This record is crucial for both the Army and the soldier as it helps to keep track of all issued items and ensures accountability.

Clothing Record Army – Login and Website

What is the Clothing Record Army?

The Army Clothing Record is an online database where soldiers can manage their issued clothing and individual equipment. It is an important tool for both personal information and military records. Accessing and maintaining your clothing record is vital for all servicemembers.

The Army clothing record is an official document that lists all the items of clothing and equipment issued to a soldier by the United States Army. This record is crucial for both the Army and the soldier as it helps to keep track of all issued items and ensures accountability.

The clothing record includes various details such as the item’s name, the date it was issued, its cost, and its expected serviceable life. It’s important for soldiers to maintain their clothing records accurately to avoid any discrepancies that could lead to penalties or charges.

The clothing record is accessible through the Army’s self-service portal.
Soldiers can print out copies of their clothing records for their reference.
The record includes details like the item’s name, issue date, cost, and expected serviceable life.

Accessing the Clothing Record Army

Accessing your Army clothing record has been made easy by the Army. These records are available on the self-service menu under ‘My Clothing Record’. To print your individual clothing record, you need to log into AKO links and click on ‘My OCIE Record’. Then, click on ‘Sign & Print’ on the bottom-right of the page.

Keeping track of your issued clothing and equipment is an essential part of being a responsible soldier in the United States Army. This is where the Individual Clothing Record comes into play. It’s an official document that lists all the items issued to you, helping to ensure accountability. Now, you might be wondering how to access this important record. Let’s walk through the steps.

To access and Print Individual Clothing Records:

Click “My OCIE Record” Links: https://ism.army.mil/ism/SelfServiceServlet?nav.nav_id=ssMyClothing
Click “Sign & Print” on the bottom-right of the screen.

Scroll down to the last page and sign the “SIGNATURE & DATE” block, then print the document.

The Army Clothing and Individual Equipment record contain information on each item, including quantity and nomenclature. It also includes stock numbers. By studying this record, soldiers can better understand the types of items issued to them and keep track of their equipment.

Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment (OCIE)

What is OCIE in the Army?

OCIE stands for Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment in the Army. It is an online database containing clothing information for administrative and logistical purposes. The OCIE includes all the clothing and equipment that a soldier is issued during their service. Soldiers can access their records online using their Common Access Card.

The OCIE is managed by the Central Issue Facility (CIF), which is responsible for providing OCIE authorized by CTA 50-900 and CTA 50-970 to all military personnel and selected DA Civilians who are assigned to their respective units.

OCIE is an acronym for Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment.
It is an online database containing clothing information for administrative and logistical purposes.
The Central Issue Facility (CIF) manages the OCIE.

How to Access OCIE?

Accessing your OCIE record is similar to accessing your clothing record. You need to log into AKO links and click on ‘My OCIE Record’. Then, click on ‘Sign & Print’ on the bottom-right of the page to print your OCIE record.

Click “My OCIE Record” Links: https://ism.army.mil/ism/SelfServiceServlet?nav.nav_id=ssMyClothing
Click “Sign & Print” on the bottom-right of the screen.
Scroll down to the last page and sign the “SIGNATURE & DATE” block, then print the document.

In the US Army, OCIE items refer to the supplies which each soldier is issued. Common examples of OCIE items include field gear such as your rucksack as well as your clothing items. Such as your uniform. Even a towel that is issued to a soldier can be referred to as an OCIE item. Soldiers do not have to pay for their own OCIE items as they are issued to each individual and are paid for by the US Army.

Central Issue Facility (CIF)

What is CIF in the Military?

In the military, CIF stands for Central Issue Facility. It is the facility responsible for issuing, maintaining, and recovering all OCIE items. The CIF ensures that all military personnel and selected DA Civilians receive the OCIE authorized by CTA 50-900 and CTA 50-970.

CIF stands for Central Issue Facility.
It is responsible for issuing, maintaining, and recovering all OCIE items.
The CIF ensures that all military personnel and selected DA Civilians receive the authorized OCIE.

CIF in the military context refers to the Combatant Commanders In-extremis Force. The CIF is a specially-trained and resourced element that is focused on Direct Action (DA) / Counter Terrorism (CT) missions. This role includes both training foreign tactical units in DA / CT techniques and carrying out DA / CT operations themselves, often with partner nation forces.

How to Find My CIF Record?

Finding your CIF record can be done through the Army’s self-service portal. You can request them from your unit or go online and search for your record. It’s important to keep your CIF record updated and accurate to avoid any issues or discrepancies.

You can request your CIF record from your unit.
You can also go online and search for your record.
It’s important to keep your CIF record updated and accurate.

CIF Operations and Organization

CIF operations have included training and standing up tactical units in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Philippines. A CIF ODA is organized into assaulters, breachers, and marksmen/snipers.

CIF Training

Green Berets assigned to a CIF Company undergo the Special Forces Advanced Reconnaissance, Target Analysis, and Exploitation Techniques Course (SFARTAETC). The course teaches small unit tactics / close-quarters combat techniques in urban environments.

Accessing CIF Clothing Record Army and Appointments

The Central Issue Facility (CIF) Clothing Records and Appointments system has undergone changes due to the retirement of the Army Knowledge Online (AKO) platform. Service members (SMs) can now access their Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment (OCIE) records through a new method.

Direct Link to ISM Page

A direct link to the Integrated Service Management (ISM) page, which was previously accessible via AKO, is now available. This link leads to the Guest My Clothing Self-Service page in ISM. It’s important to note that SMs will need an active Common Access Card (CAC), and their Department of Defense (DoD) ID must be associated with their OCIE record to gain access. The URL for this page is: https://ism.army.mil/ism/SelfServiceServlet?nav.nav_id=ssMyClothing

Information Availability

A copy of the information related to accessing OCIE records is also available on the “Welcome to ISM” front page of ISM, specifically in the Announcements section.

Troubleshooting Access Issues

In cases where SMs do not have their DoD ID associated with their OCIE records, they will receive a message stating that a record could not be found when attempting to access via the provided link. If this happens, they will need to contact their Home CIF to report the issue. A representative from the CIF will then reach out to the AHRS Service Desk to request that their DoD ID be assigned to their OCIE record. Once this assignment is made, they will be able to access their OCIE record via the provided link.