Posted on Dec 23, 2015
I EASed almost a year ago. I'm thinking about going back in but as Marine reserves. Has anyone done this after being out for so long? Advice?
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The day I got my DD214 it wasn't easy. The day prior I was excited to start a new chapter in my life but when I got that DD214 it hit me that I was leaving and I just felt empty. It hasn't gotten easier since. I don't want to go active again but was thinking maybe going into the reserves would help. But I am afraid that it won't be like how I thought.
Posted 9 y ago
Responses: 109
Just be prepared that the Reserves are different in some ways. It really depends on the unit and the leadership. I recommend visiting the unit, if possible, before signing on the dotted line. Talk with the I&I staff and get a feel for what you can expect.
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First, Cpl Raquel Rocha, has your competency as a Marine really diminished significantly in "almost a year"? I'll bet you could become current and make a contribution to the unit's effectiveness without a lot of catching up, but what would be the impact on your efforts to build your civilian life? My son-in-law was a reservist and deployed to Iraq twice. His twin brother was active duty during the same period and never deployed. The potential of being torn away from your civilian life is real under current policies. All of the disadvantages of military service will be there in the reserves and you have to seriously consider your priorities before making the commitment. You might want to contact your local reserve unit and ask if you could "hang around" for a drill weekend to get a feel of what reserve life is. Unusual, but if the people in charge have any imagination it might be beneficial for you and the unit.
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Please go find a reserve unit and ask to hang out a bit... get a feeling of what it will be like.... IOW go in eyes wide open so you have good expectations management...
As others have said it will not be what you remember ...it will be different ..only you can decide if the different meets your needs....but do your best to discover that BEFORE you sign the contract.
As others have said it will not be what you remember ...it will be different ..only you can decide if the different meets your needs....but do your best to discover that BEFORE you sign the contract.
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