Hi, I'm starting my college search but am also considering joining the military. I'm especially thinking about the reserves. Can anyone explain the main differences between the reserves and regular service in different branches of the military? What are the commitments, training, and benefits like in each?
Sure, I can help with that. The main differences between the reserves and active duty (also known as "regular") military service come down to commitment time, training, and benefits.
Active Duty is a full-time commitment. Once enlisted, you are part of the military 24/7 for the duration of your contract, which can be from two to six years. You are most likely to be deployed, and you could be stationed anywhere in the U.S. or deployed overseas.
The Reserve functions more like a part-time job that you do in addition to a civilian career or schooling. In general, you'll have a commitment of one weekend a month and two weeks a year for training. It includes fields like the Army Reserve, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Air Force Reserve, and Coast Guard Reserve. There's also the National Guard, which is unique in that it serves both state and federal governments, responding to domestic emergencies and disasters.
Active duty service members have to complete Basic Combat Training (BCT), followed by Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for their specific role. Similarly, Reservists also go through BCT and AIT, although their training dates might be different from those on active duty.
As for the benefits, both active duty and reservists are eligible for benefits like tuition assistance, but regular service members normally receive higher benefits. For instance, active duty members are fully covered by a military health care plan, while reservists may receive lower cost healthcare coverage. Active duty service members also receive housing and food allowances, while reservists typically do not.
However, both active duty and reserve members can take advantage of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which can offer significant educational benefits depending on your length of service. Both can also qualify for VA home loans, and depending on the state, reservists might be eligible for additional tuition assistance programs.
Overall, the decision between the reserves and regular service essentially comes down to the level of commitment you are willing or able to make. Just keep in mind that even in the Reserve or Guard, there is always the possibility of being called to active duty.
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