5 Reasons to Transition Into the Reserves

There is some truth to that article. In my experience...

One of the biggest issues to commanders is getting soldiers to participate in drill because, many soldiers sometimes have to choose between work and drill depending on their civilian obligations and rank. As in, the return on investment isn’t always obvious for junior enlisted soldiers. Those with low-paying jobs and low rank in the military, typically.

Travel- I can’t deny that I’ve traveled waaaay more in the reserves than in the RA. Part of that is due to my career choices, rank, and MOS. E.g. NCOY in AZ, ALC in UT, EOL in TN, DSA in SC... etc... where as in RA, Hawaii and Iraq where my only destinations.

Civilian occupation: once I got a job, moving up was quick. However, even now, I am on active orders and my place of employment is supposed to hold a position for me (USERRA), but there seems to be a bottleneck of sorts.

Finding full-time orders can be taxing as well. If you ARE looking, MOBCOP is where to look. Took me a few years to learn about this tool, but it’s useful.

Overall, my transition out was the worst and best experience I could have experienced. I learned so much(the hard way), was able to grow as a leader, and my experience has lended me a wealth of perspective now that I am back on the daily grind.

Biggest take-away, the reserve component is as rich as you make it. It can be frustrating and it is nothing like RA, but the opportunities are there if you position yourself to succeed. Kinda like life in general.

Also, as a reserve component soldier, once you get a full-time (ADOS) or whatever have you gig, you’re expected to be just as proficient as your RA counterparts. If you aren’t, you’re just a “typical reservist in the eyes of RA” so finding that balance of proficiency and civilian effectiveness is paramount.

This is a good way to not only start a new career but continue Your military job as well.