I am in the process of joining the Army National Guard. I am trying decide between doing the STO or going straight through. Any opinions?

2018-02-05T09:39:01-05:00

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2018 9:48 AM

2018-02-05T09:48:23-05:00

When I first joined the Army Reserves, I did the STO. For me, it was a two sided coin. On one hand, I was glad I got to have that break in between and still be able to earn a paycheck, but at the same time, I do sometimes wish I would have just gotten everything done in one stretch.

Response by Cassie McGill made Feb 5 at 2018 9:50 AM

2018-02-05T09:50:21-05:00

For sure! If I go straight through I’ll definitely have to miss the first semester of college, but if I do the STO I won’t revive my full benefits until after I finish AIT.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Feb 5 at 2018 1:05 PM

2018-02-05T13:05:47-05:00

It's your call Ms Cassie, I stayed in for 24 yrs, went IRR, December on my birthday (60th) I received my retirement orders. Guard time plus IRR 41 yrs, 3 mo. 7 days.