When people find out about indefinite reenlistments, they often think that a Soldier is locked in a contract with the Army forever.

The Career Status Program, known as the Indefinite Re-enlistment Program, provides Soldiers ranked E-6 and above with 12 years or more of service, a sense of security by eliminating re-enlistment deadlines.

Recently, Senior Drill Sgt. Raphael Velez, assigned to the 1-389th Drill Sergeant Battalion, U.S. Army Reserve-Puerto Rico, re-enlisted indefinitely to further his military career.

“I had one year left from my previous contract, and I needed more time to be eligible for promotion,” said Velez. “Now I don’t have to re-enlist again; I can stay in until I turn 60 or until I retire.”

Velez, a sergeant first class, said he learned about the program from his mentors as they opted to re-enlist indefinitely. “I have had great mentors throughout my career that serve as inspiration for me to keep going,” said Velez.

As he reflects on his military career, Velez said it is gratifying being a drill sergeant.

“The hours are long when you are working in basic training,” said Velez. “When you see the Soldiers marching proud and flawlessly on their graduation day is one of the most rewarding experiences.”

Sgt. 1st Class Shalym Santos, from the 5th Battalion Army Reserve Careers Group, said a Soldier could request voluntary separation or retirement, as this program mirrors the management of officers.

“When a Soldier re-enlists indefinitely, his Expiration Term of Service, ETS, changes until they turn 60 years old, which is the maximum service age,” said Santos.

Once a Soldier reaches 20 years of qualifying service, they can request to initiate the retirement process, he said.

According with Army News Service, as part of the changes to the Army's retention program, Soldiers ranked E-6 or above with ten years or more of service will now be eligible.

For more information on re-enlistments and extensions, Soldiers should contact their career counselors.

U.S. Army Reserve career counselors are senior noncommissioned officers who advise and assist Soldiers on the path they want to pursue.