Military Connection: Why Join the Army Reserve?
By Debbie Gregory.
The U.S. Army Reserves wants YOU to know that they are hiring. They are looking for capable men and women, especially those who are separating from the military and have experience in hot-billet skill sets.
The Army Reserve is currently maintaining a force-strength of around 197,000 personnel. But according to Barbara Sisson, Assistant Chief of the U.S. Army Reserve, the component is targeting a force strength size of 202,000 by year’s end.
As is their standard practice, the Army Reserve is always looking to add individuals with valuable skill sets such as doctors, lawyers, engineers, and those with a specialty in crucial fields. But right now, the Army Reserve is in the uncommon position of adding to their ranks, while active duty components from all branches are in the middle of reducing their force sizes.
To determine if they are a good fit and to get started on the process, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and Coast Guardsmen should talk to their career counselors or an Army Reserve representative at least a year before separating from active duty .
The component is currently working with the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command to come up with the best way to incorporate service members from other branches. For now, except for those transitioning from the Marine Corps, service members transitioning from another branch will have to complete Army basic combat training.
If service members don’t have experience in a military occupational specialty that is in high demand, there are opportunities to retrain while still on active duty. There are also other opportunities through the Soldier for Life program, where employers provide job training at installations.
There are numerous reasons why service members should join the Army Reserve. As a Reservist, members can retain access to TRICARE health benefits, accumulate time for retirement and remain a valuable member of the U.S. military.
Joining the Army Reserve could also lead to a great civilian career. The component is part of the Private-Public Partnership Program, which establishes relationships with corporate America, academia, and nonprofit organizations. The goal of this partnership is two-fold: to employ Reserve Soldiers, and to enhance their skills in their military specialty. The program works to find Reservist internships with civilian employers in their related field. These internships often lead to regular employment.
If you are currently serving, have recently served, or have always wanted to be a member of the U.S. Military, you can obtain more information at www.usar.army.mil or visit the Army Reserve information portal.
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Military Connection: Why Join the Army Reserve? By Debbie Gregory
