The Marine Corps is continuing its Return to Active Duty (RAD) program into FY27. More than 50 officers came back to the active component through the FY26 version of this program, and HQMC is keeping it going. Reserve officers from first lieutenant to colonel can apply to return to active duty, and packages are accepted on a rolling monthly basis, not just during a single window.
Bottom line: If you're a Reserve officer (SMCR, IMA, AR, or IRR) in grades 1stLt to Col and want to return to active duty, applications are open now through 30 September 2027.
Who it affects
Reserve officers in the following categories:
- SMCR, IMA, AR: grades first lieutenant through colonel
- IRR: grades first lieutenant through colonel (streamlined submission, no O-5 endorsement required)
- Retired Reserve: not eligible
Second lieutenants commissioned through the Reserve Officer Commissioning Program (ROCP) who don't meet drill participation stop date requirements need an endorsed exception to policy (ETP) before their package will be processed.
AR officers have an added requirement: an approved DD Form 368 Conditional Release from RAM before applying.
What you need to do
The application is a single PDF submitted to MMOA-3. Build it in this order:
- Complete a NAVMC 10274 Administrative Action (AA) Form routed through your chain of command (see routing rules below).
- Write a personal statement in naval letter format explaining why you want to return to active duty.
- Include one to three letters of recommendation addressing your leadership, technical skills, and overall performance.
- Attach a signed letter from your Special Security Officer (SSO) confirming your current clearance level and adjudication date (including TS/SCI eligibility if your MOS requires it). The SSO letter must have a letterhead and signature.
- Attach current PFT, CFT, and WHtR scoresheets. Use NAVMC 11622 to certify scores not already in MCTFS. Get the WHtR worksheet at
https://www.fitness.marines.mil/BCP_Standards/. - Attach a completed DD Form 2807-1 and DD Form 2808 with a statement from a competent medical authority that you are fit (or unfit) for an active duty obligation.
- If you are in the AR program, include an approved DD Form 368.
- If you need an ETP (beyond 180 days of your mandatory drill participation stop date, or if you are an ROCP officer), route that first and include the endorsed ETP in your package.
- Submit the entire package as one PDF to
SMB_MANPOWER_OFFICER_PROGRAMS@USMC.MIL. Label the file:EDIPI_LastName_RAD. Packages not in this format will be returned without action.
Routing by grade:
| Applicant grade | Routes through |
|---|---|
| 1stLt to Maj | First O-5 commander in reserve chain |
| LtCol | First O-6 commander in reserve chain |
| Col | First general officer in reserve chain |
| IRR (any grade) | Direct to MMOA-3, no endorsement required |
If you want a PMOS lateral move: You can request one as part of your RAD application. It is considered case by case. Approval adds a service obligation after PMOS school completion. Contact POC 1 (MAJ Aldred) for details.
What to expect after you apply: MMOA-3 staffs packages monthly. The whole process, including the scrolling process to the Secretary of the Army or the Senate for AC appointment, can take 180 days or more. You will get a receipt confirmation when your package arrives, and MMOA-3 will notify you at each major decision point.
Key dates
- Now through 30 September 2027: Applications accepted on a rolling monthly basis
- 30 September 2027: Program deadline; this MARADMIN cancels on this date
The official version
This policy comes from MARADMIN 488/26. It references MCO 1001.65A, Officer Retention and Prior Service Accessions, and clarifies changes to that order until it is updated.
POC 1 (MMOA-3, general RAD questions): MAJ M.E. Aldred, SMB_MANPOWER_OFFICER_PROGRAMS@USMC.MIL, (703) 784-9284
POC 2 (AR program / DD Form 368): MAJ S.K. Herlihy, RAM-2, SEAN.HERLIHY@USMC.MIL, (703) 784-9149
Officer Promotions (DOR / LCN questions): OFFICERPROMOTIONS@USMC.MIL, (703) 784-9705
Reserve Service Calculator: https://www.manpower.marines.mil/Divisions/Manpower-Management/Separation-and-Retirements-Branch/
This is written by a reservist, for reservists. It is not an official publication of HQMC or MARFORRES. Always verify guidance with your command or unit S-1 before acting on any article or summary.