Hi everyone. I've been lurking for a couple weeks, and am now coming forth with a question.

Here's the quick lowdown on me: first-term NCO, been at my first station (CONUS) for a good long while now, and am ready to get out. Unfortunately, it seems that the only means of escape is through the Land of the Morning Calm. Okay, fine.

So I've really had a strong interest lately in going to Osan. Every story I've heard about that place piques my curiosity further, and it is something that I really want to experience, particularly while I am still somewhat young. So the big question is: how do I make it happen?

I updated my dream sheet recently to reflect my desire to go to Osan. Given the it's my only overseas selection, I've been here a long time, I was recently promoted, and I'm fast approaching the end of my first enlistment, I can't imagine this being too difficult to accomplish.

Any pointers or insight that someone here might be able to contribute would be greatly appreciated!

Well the way we handle it in the Army (can it be that much different than the airforce?) we also update our dream sheet but even as a younger NCO I would just pick up the phone and call my branch manager (the person who make my assignments) and ask him in a very polite manor that I want to go "here" and usually I would go where ever I wanted to.

The point here, use your most A$$ kissing ability......do not burn bridges, be quick, simple, and to the point with him/her, explain what you would like to do and explain that you have updated your dream sheet. Listen to what they say, and HOW they say it....

Korea is a really good assignment, you'll enjoy it.

__________________
CH-47 SI

They must find it difficult...

Those who have taken authority as the truth, rather than truth as the authority. --Gerald Massey

Discerning NCO: Sometime I wonder, but this time I agree with our Army NCO Moderator! It is essentially the same. Update your Dream Sheet and call Randolph Assignments. Your AFSC, of course, is the deciding factor. They must have an opening. And Chuck is right again on being especially nice and LISTEN to the person at assignments. Take Yokota (Tokyo)i f it is offered. I think Misawa is too cold, and Kadena is third choice.
I'm retired AF, and lived at Osan for 3 years, 1 month and 8 days, back before you were born. It was good then, and better now!
Welcome, lurker, and let us know when you are coming.

I have no clue when it comes to the military system and trying to get to the places you want. However Mr. Joe and Chucksnee seem to have helped out quite a bit as they usually do.

Welcome to the site, I hope you do get to come over here like you are wanting

__________________

"To disagree with me is your human right. To argue with me just because you think you are right and want to see me wrong makes you legally retarded."

...and probably a good idea to have sit down with your first shirt. he has a direct line to the commander -- who can ask your Superintendent to make the call to AFPC. Being in USAF personnel for 17 years, usually that is all it takes considering your current circumstances. AFPC will want to send you over here vice trying to get a non vol and the 7 day opts that will come with it...a Korea volunteer is like gold to AFPC.

good luck and it really is kind of cool over here...and i am glad i am here to expierence it!

b

I hope it works out for you, and for me! My dh is coming out of a special duty assignment and has Osan at the top of his dream sheet. Crossing fingers for all of us!

Thanks to all of you for your well-wishes and solid advice. I wish there was someone I could just "pick up and call," but with the AF so fired about about making everything automated, I don't think that's doable. My Shirt is an option, and is a really cool Shirt at that, so I'll look into it also.

I also did some digging around on the virtual AFPC site and found out that the new EQUAL Overseas listings go up in a week, so I guess I can just chill out for seven days and see what comes up then.

You guys are great. When this thing finally happens, it's comforting to know that this community is in place.

Can't you just send your assignment manager an email?

MAKE THE CALL....just because it says automated, someone still has to input it....that person is your manager...the rest is automated, like getting an e-mail that says "hey your on orders".....

__________________
CH-47 SI

They must find it difficult...

Those who have taken authority as the truth, rather than truth as the authority. --Gerald Massey

Does it really come out in a week? That's awesome. I'll have dh stalk his career field manager to see what's up.


p.s. On the AF side, when they say automated, they really mean automated. A computer program does everything and only when orders need to be cancelled does a human hand touch a thing. The AF used to be awesome about calling up people and saying "hey, I'd love this" and actually getting that, but they cut the kaibosh on that just a couple ( I think 2?) years ago. It's a mega bummer.