The Delayed Entry Program (DEP) is a US military program that allows new recruits to delay reporting for duty, giving them time to adjust to military life and the option to back out before signing a contract. Recruits can defer enlistment for up to a year and use the time to prepare physically and mentally for boot camp. While late enlistment is a contract, recruits can opt out during the waiting period, but failure to report for duty could result in prosecution.
Delayed enlistment, often referred to as the Delayed Entry Program (DEP), is a program used by the US military to prepare new recruits for service; It provides a defined amount of time between recruitment and reporting of duty. Those considering joining the military often use delayed enlistment to maintain their place in training while giving them time to gradually adjust to military life. In some cases, delay in enlistment offers recruits the opportunity to back out before they are fully under contract with the US government.
In the US, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force offer recruits the option of deferring their enlistment. Those planning to delay entry into the military often take the tests and schedule the report date for training. The Late Entry Program can provide recruits with up to a year between signing required documentation and when they need to report for duty.
During the late entry program, those enlisting in the military usually begin physical training to prepare for camp. For those who do not fully meet the physical requirements for military service, recruiters often establish training schedules during the delayed entry program to help the recruit meet physical fitness requirements before entering boot camp. If the requirements are not met, the contract between the recruit and the military is normally terminated.
There is usually a wait time of several months to enter the boot camp. As a result, most people who enlist in the military participate in delayed enlistment for at least a month or two before training; it’s rare for a person to sign the paperwork and immediately leave for training. Those who want to fill their spot for a specific time, especially recruits planning to enlist right out of high school, often join the DEP to ensure they can report to duty at the right time.
Since most people who join the military are young, late enlistment gives them and their families the opportunity to attend military functions in their area and get used to the idea of serving in the military. DEP may also offer new recruits the opportunity to travel or visit family before reporting for duty. While late enlistment is a contract, those who change their minds during the waiting period can usually drop out of the enlistment.
After reporting for duty, recruits are required to complete their full contract unless otherwise decided by the government or military branch they serve. While those who participate in late enlistment are also technically bound to keep their word, there is an option to opt out of enlistment. Recruits who change their minds are often required to write a letter to the commander (CO) detailing why they are no longer able to fulfill their commitment. In most cases, the military allows people to get out of their contract; the armed forces are not, however, obliged to do so. Delayed enlistment is still technically considered as enlistment in the armed forces and failure to report to duty could result in prosecution.
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