Can a US Citizen Enlist in the German Military or US Military Abroad?
Living in or traveling to Germany while considering enlistment in a military force might prompt inquiries about eligibility. Both US and German militaries offer opportunities for citizens of other countries, but conditions apply. This article will explore the possibilities for US citizens in Germany to join either the German military or the US military, and the processes and realities involved.
Joining the German Military as a US Citizen
It is technically possible for a US citizen to enlist in the German military. This is evidenced by the personal anecdote of a friend who was a German citizen but whose parents were US and German. He managed to avoid immediate service by feigning a language barrier, even though the German military previously had compulsory service.
However, there are considerable challenges and complexities. One crucial point is the lack of a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) in Germany, meaning potential recruits would need to return to the US to undergo the necessary eligibility and security clearances. Basic training for foreign recruits similarly takes place in the United States.
For those who wish to serve in the German military, another obstacle is the potential need for a passport to travel to Germany. Additionally, even if accepted, their stationing in Germany following training is uncertain and contingent on the needs of the military. This uncertainty means that a US citizen might not necessarily be stationed in Germany during their service term.
Enlisting in the US Military While Abroad
The US military is equipped to handle international enlistments, with recruiters available in Germany. US citizens can indeed enlist in the US military while living in other countries, but their initial training would happen in the United States. This is because, unlike some countries, the US does not have military bases or training facilities in every other country where military recruitment takes place.
While the process might be smoother for those already stationed in Germany, additional paperwork and travel may still be necessary. Security clearance, medical examinations, and other pre-enlistment checks must be completed in the US. This means that international enlistees often start their journey in Germany, undergo necessary processes in the US, and then finish their training back in Germany, if possible, depending on the military's needs.
Challenges and Considerations
US citizens looking to join the military while abroad face various challenges. For example, even if they manage to enlist, they may be required to go to the United States for basic training, which implies additional travel and costs. The duration of enlistment and subsequent service in Germany can depend on the needs of the US military. It's important to consider these factors before making the decision to enlist.
Additionally, the US military offers permanent residency or citizenship as a reward for enlistment. Some US citizens take this option to gain the benefits of living in the US, even if they have strong connections to Germany or other foreign countries. This is another reason why it's crucial to have a plan for life after military service.
Conclusion
A US citizen living in or visiting Germany can explore enlistment in the military, but they must be aware of the complexities involved. The process of enlisting in the German military is challenging, especially without a MEPS on-site, while the US military offers more straightforward pathways but requires initial training in the US.
The decision to enlist in the military, whether international or domestic, should be made with careful consideration of personal goals, security clearances, and the unpredictable nature of military service assignments.