Ask an Air Force Dentist

[AFDDS]

I will be starting dental school this August and realize it is too late to apply for the four year scholarship. However is it too early to apply for the three year scholarship for years 2010-2013?

Also I have a 3.34 undergrad GPA but a 3.9 Graduate GPA (MS program) and a 21 DAT, would this matrix qualify me or do they only look at the undergrad GPA?

Usually don't apply for the 3 year until you've started dental school. However, you need to contact the recruiter now to get all your ducks in a row.

Not sure about the matrix qualification for that. Your recruiter should know.

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[AFDDS]

i've gone thru about half the posts, and got some very good info.. im really interested in joining the air force thru the HPSP program.. but i am feeling a bit skeptical of whether id even get accepted or not... i wanted to know what the chances are of getting accepted.. and what the whole application process consists of... i think id have some drawbacks on my application and wanted to know whether i shuld even bother applying... i have been accepted to a dental school already, my DAT was 19 AA, and overall GPA was 3.6 with a phyisical science major..

my major concerns are that i have been arrested when i was 17 while in hs.. my original charges were pretty bad (a felony) but after the whole court process it was dismissed and instead recieved a misdemeanor for disorderly conduct and that has been sealed from my records and does not show up on any background checks (although im sure the military would have access to it)... and recently I have been arrested again for assault charges (as a felony) because i got involved in a fight.. the thing is for my second arrest i was completely not at fault because i was actually trying to break up the fight and i guess out of confusion the victim pointed me out... i still have one more court date in june and from what my lawyer tells me the case will most likely be dismissed... and also when it comes to drug tests how does that whole process work, i have done it occasionally in high school.. but w/in the last 4 years very rarely, maybe 2-3 times at most... the past year have not touched anything.. would anything show up on tests? and shuld i admit to my past if it wouldnt who up.. i mean i am all for honesty but my app already would sound so horrible with the truth..

in all honesty my past has been my past.. i grew up in a pretty rough neighborhood and i guess you can say have been surrounded by bad influences my whole life.. i know none of that is an excuse, but i am definitely nothing like what i was anymore.. i have worked very hard to get to where i am now, and have completely let go of everything in my past.. my dream has always been to get my family out of these circumstances and i plan to do so... the military oppurtunity sounds like and ideal one for me, because i know life in the military will definitly solidfy my want to change and become a better person.. any feedback as to my chances of getting accepted will be greatly appreciated.. thanx

You're going to need to run all this by a recruiter. They know all the legal issues better than me. I know several people that used some type of illegal drug prior to entering the service that were admitted. You have to be honest. Most of them hadn't used in quite a while, so not sure whether or not your somewhat recent use will make a difference.

Bigger problem will be the arrests. You must be able to obtain a secret security clearance to serve as an officer and you're past may come back to haunt you here.

Best advice I can give is go sit down with a recruiter and talk it out with them.

 

[Brokenbus]

I was wondering how the 2 year scholarship worked. I have been told that it is a 3 year commitment to the Air Force but unlike the 3 and 4 year scholarships the AEGD residency counts as a payback year. Is this true?

 

[AFDDS]

I was wondering how the 2 year scholarship worked. I have been told that it is a 3 year commitment to the Air Force but unlike the 3 and 4 year scholarships the AEGD residency counts as a payback year. Is this true?

It does have a 3-year commitment. I'm not sure aobut the AEGD year, but I think you are correct. I'll check and let you know. Also, you need to know that 2-year scholarships are rare.

 

[Brokenbus]

sorry to bug you but, were you able to find out about the AEGD year counting in a 2 year scholarship.

 

[AFDDS]

sorry to bug you but, were you able to find out about the AEGD year counting in a 2 year scholarship.

If you have a one or 2 year scholarship the AEGD counts toward your payback. If you have a 3 or 4 year scholarship, the AEGD is a neutral year.

 

[AFDDS]

All,
I have attached a letter to HPSP students that explains the application process to AF Residency programs.

 

[zriceman]

I am not sure if anyone has gone over this, but what are deployments like in the Air Force. Is is different than those in the Navy or Army?

 

[AFDDS]

I am not sure if anyone has gone over this, but what are deployments like in the Air Force. Is is different than those in the Navy or Army?

Deployments are typically 6 months in length. Usually located at an Air Base, but we have had some filling in at Army and Navy locations. We've had one or two dentists go on ships with our Navy Brethern (by volunteer).

 

[zriceman]

All,
I have attached a letter to HPSP students that explains the application process to AF Residency programs.

Deployments are typically 6 months in length. Usually located at an Air Base, but we have had some filling in at Army and Navy locations. We've had one or two dentists go on ships with our Navy Brethern (by volunteer).

I ve read somewhere that the Air Force facilities are better in comparison to those of Navy and Army. Could you clarify how the AF are "better", especially at the bases overseas in war zones like Iraq/Afghgan - do the AF dentists practice in solid structures (trailors/buildings) vs practicing dentistry inside tents.

 

[AFDDS]

I ve read somewhere that the Air Force facilities are better in comparison to those of Navy and Army. Could you clarify how the AF are "better", especially at the bases overseas in war zones like Iraq/Afghgan - do the AF dentists practice in solid structures (trailors/buildings) vs practicing dentistry inside tents.

Unfortunately, I can't speak from personal experience. From speaking with my freinds that have gone, the AF usually has a hardened facility. However, we do and have practiced in the tent system. I've seen some pics of some Army facilities and they were just as nice as AF facilities. Since the Army has some facilites at FOB's they may have some that are spartan, but by now, most facilites should be fairly similar.

 

[LAFS]

I am a 2LT in Army National Guard and a 3rd year dental student. Can I join AF after I graduate? I have 5 year obligation with the guard.

 

[AFDDS]

I am a 2LT in Army National Guard and a 3rd year dental student. Can I join AF after I graduate? I have 5 year obligation with the guard.

You have to get permission from the Guard first. If you are not on an HPSP, your chances with the AF are nil.

 

[drillbit]

Hi - I was just recently accepted to UOP which is a three year dental school. I did not realize that I should have started the application process for an AF HPSP already. I thought I had to be accepted to a dental school first. I know I might be too late - but I did put a call into a recruiter today. I have not heard back yet....fingers are crossed!!!

Would I only need a 3 year HPSP since my dental program is 3 years, and if so, is there a greater chance a 3 year HPSP would still be available over a 4 year HPSP?

 

[AFDDS]

Hi - I was just recently accepted to UOP which is a three year dental school. I did not realize that I should have started the application process for an AF HPSP already. I thought I had to be accepted to a dental school first. I know I might be too late - but I did put a call into a recruiter today. I have not heard back yet....fingers are crossed!!!

Would I only need a 3 year HPSP since my dental program is 3 years, and if so, is there a greater chance a 3 year HPSP would still be available over a 4 year HPSP?

You've probably missed the boat on both. The recruiter should know for sure.

 

[KOM]

What are the rules for choosing your first Active Duty station following graduation...if any?

Could I just choose/rank all of my spots in a state like Texas where they have multiple Air Force bases?

 

[ALTOSS]

Hi - I was just recently accepted to UOP which is a three year dental school. I did not realize that I should have started the application process for an AF HPSP already. I thought I had to be accepted to a dental school first. I know I might be too late - but I did put a call into a recruiter today. I have not heard back yet....fingers are crossed!!!

Would I only need a 3 year HPSP since my dental program is 3 years, and if so, is there a greater chance a 3 year HPSP would still be available over a 4 year HPSP?

I literally submitted my completed appl pkg in early December as soon as I got my acceptance in 12/1 (finished application and physical in October), but the program was closed already. It seemed AF used matrix to fill the spots some time in October or November. I took the 4yr HPSP with the Army instead in Feb. I visited Army hospitals and talked with a bunch of gen dentists and specialists, and realized Army is just as sound (at least as far as equipment is concerned).

ARMY STRONG!

 

[AFDDS]

What are the rules for choosing your first Active Duty station following graduation...if any?

Could I just choose/rank all of my spots in a state like Texas where they have multiple Air Force bases?

If you are HPSP, see the post above with the Residency app letter attached. You are required to apply. If you decide not to complete an AEGD, you'll get some info on your possible assignment. AFPC will give you an idea of where we have openings and you will be able to rank order them.

 

[AFDDS]

I literally submitted my completed appl pkg in early December as soon as I got my acceptance in 12/1 (finished application and physical in October), but the program was closed already. It seemed AF used matrix to fill the spots some time in October or November. I took the 4yr HPSP with the Army instead in Feb. I visited Army hospitals and talked with a bunch of gen dentists and specialists, and realized Army is just as sound (at least as far as equipment is concerned).

ARMY STRONG!

AF tends to fill their HPSP authorizations fairly fast. You must start applying for it when you start applying for dental school. I know several people that have missed the bus.

I'd say equipment wise, we're pretty close to each other.

 

[murff05]

I literally submitted my completed appl pkg in early December as soon as I got my acceptance in 12/1 (finished application and physical in October), but the program was closed already. It seemed AF used matrix to fill the spots some time in October or November. I took the 4yr HPSP with the Army instead in Feb. I visited Army hospitals and talked with a bunch of gen dentists and specialists, and realized Army is just as sound (at least as far as equipment is concerned).

ARMY STRONG!

I'm in the same boat. No AF or Navy for me. Find out from Army tomorrow.... ahhh. Air Force never really gave me a reason but I'm sure its the same as the Navy.

 

[Hordel]

I know that this may sound like a very stupid question, but here it goes. What is the physical requirement for obtaining a scholarship?? I have been considering applying either this year or next year and wanted to know what I was going to be facing to get the scholarship. Also, is the physical requirement the same for all branches or does it vary?? I would be very interested in trying for one of the scholarships, but I have no desire to apply if I have not shot.

Thanks in advance!

 

[AFDDS]

I know that this may sound like a very stupid question, but here it goes. What is the physical requirement for obtaining a scholarship?? I have been considering applying either this year or next year and wanted to know what I was going to be facing to get the scholarship. Also, is the physical requirement the same for all branches or does it vary?? I would be very interested in trying for one of the scholarships, but I have no desire to apply if I have not shot.

Thanks in advance!

Define physical. Do you mean fitness or medical exam?

 

[Hordel]

I mean fitness. I am without a doubt not where I need to be currently. Should I even try? I had heard that if you work at it and make weight and reach other standards near the time you enter that you can still apply. I this correct??

Thanks again!

 

[AFDDS]

I mean fitness. I am without a doubt not where I need to be currently. Should I even try? I had heard that if you work at it and make weight and reach other standards near the time you enter that you can still apply. I this correct??

Thanks again!

You are partially correct. If you don't pass your physical because you are overweight, you'll have to lose weight to get accepted. If you are just out of shape, you can work on that before you come in. The AF is putting more emphasis on fitness and long-term health. You'll need to be ready to complete a PT test at COT and understand that the PT rules are changing. So no more cramming, so to speak, for your PT test.

To answer your question on "should you even try". Even if you are not coming in the AF, do yourself the favor and get in shape. You'll thank yourself later. I used to be in much better shape, but some injuries have caused me to slip and now I battle shin splints, plantar fascitis, and such. I kick myself for not staying in my top shape. Get in shape now, you won't regret it later. If you don't try, you'll always look back on what you could've done.

 

[Roto Picante]

You have said a couple of times that a greater emphasis is being placed on physical fitness and health in the AF. Also you said that PT is changing aswell. What exactly do you mean by that pertaining to pushups, situps, a being able to run long distances? If I never am able to run 1.5 miles under 9 minutes 40 seconds, am I in trouble? What if I can't do 60 pushups in a minute? Are they going to kick me out or make me remediate?

 

[AFDDS]

You have said a couple of times that a greater emphasis is being placed on physical fitness and health in the AF. Also you said that PT is changing aswell. What exactly do you mean by that pertaining to pushups, situps, a being able to run long distances? If I never am able to run 1.5 miles under 9 minutes 40 seconds, am I in trouble? What if I can't do 60 pushups in a minute? Are they going to kick me out or make me remediate?

Passing scores on the PT test went up recently. Failing the PT test is now reflected on your annual performance report. I'm not sure what the standards are for your age group, but those numbers don't seem quite right. If you fail once, you go to some fitness classes and are placed on a mandatory workout program. Repeated failures could affect your career.

When I say the AF is putting more emphasis on it now, I mean they are watching it closer. If you aren't able to meet the standards now, then it's time to work on it. You'll be required to take and pass a PT test at COT.

 

[shamrock2006]

All,
I have attached a letter to HPSP students that explains the application process to AF Residency programs.

It seems there was a high emphasis on the GRE for certain programs (i.e. specialties). All it said as far as NBDE scores is that "one is required"....is that pretty much saying that it's impossible to say what NBDE I scores are necessary for a specialty/1st choice of AEGD locations, etc.?

 

[AFDDS]

It seems there was a high emphasis on the GRE for certain programs (i.e. specialties). All it said as far as NBDE scores is that "one is required"....is that pretty much saying that it's impossible to say what NBDE I scores are necessary for a specialty/1st choice of AEGD locations, etc.?

The scores don't really matter for AEGD location. They can be used as a tie breaker or something like that if two specialty applicants look the same.

 

[Focker2Fillings]

The scores don't really matter for AEGD location. They can be used as a tie breaker or something like that if two specialty applicants look the same.

Could you list the things that are important in determining where you go for AEGD and maybe give some examples? I'm a little confused on how it all goes down.

 

[AFDDS]

Could you list the things that are important in determining where you go for AEGD and maybe give some examples? I'm a little confused on how it all goes down.

Number one is your list. AFPC works hard to get you your top choice. However, training authorizations at each base are limited. They can't send everyone that lists BaseX as their #1 choice to base X. The education board doesn't decide which base you go to. They score all the packages and AFPC assignments and education make the determination where everyone goes.

To maximize your success:
1) Be realistic. Not everyone can go to Nevada or Colorado. Think about other areas you might want to go.
2) Perform as well as you possibly can on your NBDE's, and in your classes/clinic.
3) Interview well. Don't show up late to your interview. Act like you care. Look presentable (you don't have to wear a suit and tie, but don't show up in shorts and a ripped t-shirt). I've seen all of these and then some. It doesn't make a good first impression.
4) Don't make excuses. If you have a less than stellar transcript, it's ok to explain it, but don't make excuses for it. If you have a good reason and are sincere, it will be noted. If it looks like you are blowing sunshine, it will be noted.
5) Be sincere and honest.

6) Don't be too upset if you don't get your #1 choice. You will be getting world class training no matter where you train.

 

[zriceman]

How competitive is it to get assigned to bases near the Washington D.C. area coming straight out of d-school?

 

[AFDDS]

How competitive is it to get assigned to bases near the Washington D.C. area coming straight out of d-school?

It can be fairly competitive. We have several people that want to be in that area, but it varies from year to year.

 

[theplge]

AFDDS,

First off, thank you very much for contributing here... you are a very valuable resource. I'm new to the forum so please forgive me if any of these questions are close to ones that have already been asked.

I'm doing the HPSP program through the Air Force starting in August and wanted to ask you for an unbiased opinion about a couple of things my recruiter said/implied.

First off, is it true that it is nearly impossible to be deployed to a combat zone if you are not an oral surgeon?

Second, when getting your placement, how much say do you really get? Is it true they will not send you somewhere you don't put on your 5-8 base list?

Lastly, in your opinion, is it worthwhile to do an AEGD program if you are planning on just doing the four repayment years with the AF? Does it make your repayment time more worthwhile, better pick for bases, anything like that? Will you be looked down upon if you choose not to do it?

Again, thank you very much for your time.

 

[AFDDS]

AFDDS,

First off, thank you very much for contributing here... you are a very valuable resource. I'm new to the forum so please forgive me if any of these questions are close to ones that have already been asked.

I'm doing the HPSP program through the Air Force starting in August and wanted to ask you for an unbiased opinion about a couple of things my recruiter said/implied.

First off, is it true that it is nearly impossible to be deployed to a combat zone if you are not an oral surgeon? No.

Second, when getting your placement, how much say do you really get? Is it true they will not send you somewhere you don't put on your 5-8 base list? Not exactly. The needs of the Air Force do come first. You will be given a list of where the AF has openings and you will be asked to rank order them. Our assignments personnel work very hard to get you one of your top 5 bases. Sometimes, it's not possible, but that is rare.

Lastly, in your opinion, is it worthwhile to do an AEGD program if you are planning on just doing the four repayment years with the AF? Does it make your repayment time more worthwhile, better pick for bases, anything like that? Will you be looked down upon if you choose not to do it?
I can't say enough good things about our AEGD programs. It is 110% worth it. Even if you don't look at what it does for you in the AF, think about how much further ahead you'll be when you get out. Not only will you have some experience under your belt, you'll have 1 year of the best training you can get. You will not be looked down upon, but it may affect where you go. We can use an AEGD trained dentist at certain locations that we cannot use someone without the extra training.

Again, thank you very much for your time.

The "extra"time for the AEGD isn't much. When you compare it to the rest of your career, it's a small speed bump and it well worth the time.

 

[usernametaken]

I am starting dental school this fall. When should I apply for a 3 year AF scholarship to maximize my chances of success? Generally what time of year are all slots filled (I will not be able to be matrix qualified due to my DAT scores).

Also, if I am admitted to a civilian specialty program, will the Air Force force me to start serving before I can begin school for specializing?

Thanks!

 

[AFDDS]

I am starting dental school this fall. When should I apply for a 3 year AF scholarship to maximize my chances of success? Generally what time of year are all slots filled (I will not be able to be matrix qualified due to my DAT scores).

Also, if I am admitted to a civilian specialty program, will the Air Force force me to start serving before I can begin school for specializing?

Thanks!

You need to contact a recruiter now to get the exact times. Usually, you would start applying at the beginning of the first semester, but dates fluctuate. They are usually filled in Sept to Oct.

If you are on HPSP scholarship, you will need to go through the AF first. What you want to do and what the needs of the AF are will make a difference on whether or not you can get a waiver and go to a civilian program (at your own expense) or if you will need to go through the AF application process and go to an AF sponsored program. Once you are on the HPSP, you can discuss your specialty desires with AFPC and they will guide you through the process.

 

[Driller4dmd]

AFDDS,

I currently live in GA and I am looking to go west following dental school. What bases would you recommend besides the Academy and Nellis? These are the popular ones and I assume are tough to get right out of dental school.

I plan to do an AEGD so I guess I will apply to the Academy, Nellis, or Travis. Following my AEGD, what are the chances that I will be able to stay at that base. I ask because my wife wants to go back to school. I heard you are usually relocated. Can you descride what is typical following an AEGD? what should I expect as far as dental responsibility and size of base? Number of dentists?

What non-AEGD location would you recommend near the rockies? I'm assuming this is where I could be sent following my AEGD

Can you defer your AEGD until a few years after dental school? I simply would like to be in one location so my wife can go back to school before we have children.

If you don't do an AEGD, will you stay at the larger bases so you have help?

I know ortho is very popular and tough to get. Is there an AEGD that offers more experience in ortho, pedo?

If I go out west, will the Air Force keep me out there? I heard once you go west, the military will most likely keep you out there to minimize travelling/moving costs.


If I want to go to Europe one day, do I need to stay on the east coast again, to minimize travelling costs for the military? I heard if you live in the west and want to go abroad, you will most likely be sent to Japan.


thanks for you help and I hope my questions don't portray a self serving attitude. I'm just trying to plan a little bit and see what opportunities are out there.

sincerely,
Driller

 

[AFDDS]

AFDDS,

I currently live in GA and I am looking to go west following dental school. What bases would you recommend besides the Academy and Nellis? These are the popular ones and I assume are tough to get right out of dental school.
Really depends on what you want to do (at the base and on your off time). Some of these can be tough to be assigned to.

I plan to do an AEGD so I guess I will apply to the Academy, Nellis, or Travis. Following my AEGD, what are the chances that I will be able to stay at that base.
Almost none. It is rare to stay at your AEGD base.
I ask because my wife wants to go back to school. I heard you are usually relocated. Can you descride what is typical following an AEGD? While in your AEGD, you'll get a list of bases with openings and will be asked to rank order them in the order you would like. Our personnel office works hard to get you something in your top 5. what should I expect as far as dental responsibility and size of base? Smaller bases will have less dentists and usually more opportunity for you to do anything you want. We don't have "amalgam lines" in the AF, but if you go to a base with a specialist, you will get to do less in that sepcialty, but will still get to practice it. Most specialists will work with you and help you clinically. Number of dentists?


What non-AEGD location would you recommend near the rockies? I'm assuming this is where I could be sent following my AEGD. Again - it just depends on what your looking for.

Can you defer your AEGD until a few years after dental school? I simply would like to be in one location so my wife can go back to school before we have children. No. The ADA has strict accreditation guidelines on this and these are set up for graduates right out of school.

If you don't do an AEGD, will you stay at the larger bases so you have help? Typically, you will, but not always.

I know ortho is very popular and tough to get. Is there an AEGD that offers more experience in ortho, pedo? Not really. All AEGD programs have an orthodontist, but not all have a pediatric dentist.

If I go out west, will the Air Force keep me out there? Not necessarily. I heard once you go west, the military will most likely keep you out there to minimize travelling/moving costs. I moved from Colorado to DC to Alaska, so geographics aren't really factored in like that.


If I want to go to Europe one day, do I need to stay on the east coast again, to minimize travelling costs for the military? No. I heard if you live in the west and want to go abroad, you will most likely be sent to Japan. Not true.


thanks for you help and I hope my questions don't portray a self serving attitude. I'm just trying to plan a little bit and see what opportunities are out there.

sincerely,
Driller

No problem. Just remember, many of our bases in the areas you want are very popular assignments and may be hard to get.

 

[Maka]

Hi AFDDS, thanks for answering so many questions. I attempted to get the AF scholarship for this upcoming year, however I missed the boat due to a late acceptance (better late than never I suppose) and now will do a 3 year instead of a 4 year. Anyways, what I'm most concerned about with regards to military dentistry is being able to perform a variety of procedures. I would like to be able to do different kinds of fillings/crowns etc. Will the AF afford me any flexibility with regards to that?

Also, how difficult is it to get the following assignments: Any of the Japan bases/Spain/Korea/Italy/Germany? I would love to live abroad, do those assignments tend to be in high demand?

 

[KOM]

No problem. Just remember, many of our bases in the areas you want are very popular assignments and may be hard to get.

So what are some that aren't hard to get?

 

[zriceman]

So what are some that aren't hard to get?

What are some of the popular bases that ARE difficult to get?

 

[KOM]

What are some of the popular bases that ARE difficult to get?

No, I repeat what are some bases that aren't hard to get?

 

[zriceman]

sorry about confusion KOM, I want to know the exact opposite, the bases that ARE hard to get.

 

[KOM]

ah, got ya.

 

[AFDDS]

Hi AFDDS, thanks for answering so many questions. I attempted to get the AF scholarship for this upcoming year, however I missed the boat due to a late acceptance (better late than never I suppose) and now will do a 3 year instead of a 4 year. Anyways, what I'm most concerned about with regards to military dentistry is being able to perform a variety of procedures. I would like to be able to do different kinds of fillings/crowns etc. Will the AF afford me any flexibility with regards to that?Not a problem. An AEGD is your best route, but we work hard in the AF to help you have a practice you can enjoy.

Also, how difficult is it to get the following assignments: Any of the Japan bases not too hard, especially after an AEGD/Spain no base there now/Korea Easy after an AEGD and you get a guaranteed follow on assignment/Italy hard - very popular and usually need to go to Korea first/Germany?Depends on the year. I would love to live abroad, do those assignments tend to be in high demand?

If you want to live overseas, you won't have too much trouble with that.

 

[AFDDS]

So what are some that aren't hard to get?

Almost too many to list them all. Everyone wants to go to the bases next to the big cities, but those are usually big bases with specialists. While you will still practice a comprehensive practice, you won't be the "go to guy" for the specialty work. At a smaller base, you may be the only one with post grad training or 1 of only a few.

My first assignment was Goodfellow AFB in San Angelo, TX. Some people were like "Why did you want to go there?" The simple answer was, I didn't. It was what the AF had open when I joined. However, after I got there, I found out San Angelo was a very nice place to live and had plenty for my wife and I to do on our free time. It was within 3 hrs of San Antonio and to top it all off, I was stationed with some great people. No one there wanted to do any endo, but I love endo and was doing quite a bit in private practice. I provided comprehensive dentistry there, but I also provided all the endo. It was a blast.

One thing that must be stressed, whether or not an assignment is a good one has more to do with the people there than the location. You can go to a nice place, but if the people aren't nice, you'll be miserable.

 

[AFDDS]

What are some of the popular bases that ARE difficult to get?

Whether or not a base is hard to get will vary from year to year. It all depends on how many people are leaving a given base each year. Bases close to popular tourist destinations are very popular. East and West Coast tends to be popular. Most overseas bases are popular, but it varies year to year on what bases have openings.

 

[AFDDS]

I don't want to list bases that are hard or easy to get. I hope I have emphasized enough that it varies year to year (see my recent posts in this thread). As sure as I tell you a base that is hard to get they will have several openings the year you want to go and if I say its easy, they won't have one opening.

However, I will say, Italy, Colorado, Nevada, some Cali, East coast (especially Northern East coast), Florida, Hawaii, and Alaska can be difficult.

Everything else is fair game.

 

[Focker2Fillings]

While we're on base assignments, I have a few other questions. I have heard that if you are stationed at an OCONUS base in the pacific command, you'll most likely be moved to either a CONUS or European base for your next assignment and vice versa. Any validity to that, or just another rumor?

If this is true, does it apply to Alaska and Hawaii, since they're OCONUS bases? Are they part of the pacific command, or is my thinking all off?

 

[AFDDS]

While we're on base assignments, I have a few other questions. I have heard that if you are stationed at an OCONUS base in the pacific command, you'll most likely be moved to either a CONUS or European base for your next assignment and vice versa. Any validity to that, or just another rumor? Rumor. The AF doesn't ask you to spend two tours overseas. The reason it is common to move CONUS, is because that's what most people want to do after they have been overseas and away from family for 3 or 4 years. You can request a COT (continuous overseas tour) and move to another OCONUS base. It is not a requirement for you to move from Europe to the Pacific or vise versa. I've known several people that have done that, but just as many that have been to Europe several times without going to PACAF and more commonly people that have been to several PACAF bases and never Europe.



If this is true, does it apply to Alaska and Hawaii, since they're OCONUS bases? Are they part of the pacific command, or is my thinking all off?

When I wasn't on AD, I heard so much stuff about assignments and the process used to make them, I didn't know what to think. Honestly, most of it is just false. I think it's made up by people that didn't get something they wanted and are searching for a reason.