Facts About the Army Reserve

The Army Reserve combines its specialized skills with civilian work experience to provide America with its blanket of national security. There are many options and benefits for those who wish to join the Army Reserve, as well as many duties that need to be fulfilled. It is not a job that can be taken lightly. Know the facts and give it careful consideration before signing on the dotted line.

History

The Army Reserve began in 1908 and its members have been training in and serving our nation's Army ever since. It has seen our troops through both world wars, the Korean War, The Cold War and Vietnam. Reservists served in the Persian Gulf under the first President George Bush and were deployed into Panama, Somali, Haiti, Bosnia and Kosovo. They have also fought courageously along side active soldiers in the Iraq War. Amidst all of this, they have played a pivotal role in the the war on terrorism. Over the years, the men and women of the Army Reserve have been deployed to participate in humanitarian and peacekeeping missions, and on April 23, 2008, they celebrated 100 years of service to our nation.

Significance

Reservists provide the Army with combat support, nation-building and civil support. They train with the Army and National Guard to ensure that the three components of the nation's military work together as one during times of need.

Requirements

You can join the Army Reserve directly or after you've served in active duty. You will be assigned a MOS (Military Occupational Speciality) after signing up. This is based on your interests, the availability of jobs, your aptitude test and the needs of the reserves. You then complete basic training and advanced individual training.

Commitment

The difference between active duty and the reserves is the time you commit. You will be required to serve one weekend a month and two weeks a year. This ensures you remain disciplined in the event your unit is deployed to an area for active duty or a peacekeeping mission.

Benefits

Soldiers finished with active duty keep their rank when they join the reserves. You can keep your original MOS, or train for a new one. You can also continue in your current career, serve close to your home and earn an extra paycheck.

Bonuses

Army reservists who sign up for three to six years receive an $8,000 bonus.
There is a Prior Service Bonus for those who have been in active service for more than 14 years and choose to continue with the reserves. If they sign on for three years, they receive a $2,000 bonus and for six years, they receive a $5,000 bonus.
Finally, there is a re-enlistment bonus for those who have served less than 14 years. For a three-year commitment they receive a $2,000 bonus and $5,000 for a six-year commitment.