Posted on Jan 18, 2019
SPC Private First Class
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As of now, I have begun the process in submitting my DD368. I am working up my chain of command at the moment. I just want to know; what sort of cultural differences exist between the two components that I need to be aware of and how potentially challenging is the change in lifestyle? I wish to know this in order to avoid any chance of being ate up upon arrival to a new, active unit (if I get approved at all, to be fair).

I am getting a marriage license and filling out paperwork for that in the coming weeks. So I understand that I will be given BAH. My spouse and I have discussed this at length so I don’t have too much concern about that at the moment.

Any advice/words of wisdom are appreciated!
Posted in these groups: US ARNGMilitary civilian 600x338 Transition
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CW5 Jack Cardwell
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NG you drill or annual training then go home and forget it till next training event, especially for lower enlistment. Your life revolves mainly around your civilian word.

Active Duty your life revolve around the military. Yes, you have free time but your thoughts become focused on your Army life.

I started out active duty, when to the NG. During my guard time transitioned to Active Duty several times including a four year tour just before I retired.
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SPC Private First Class
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Thank you sir!
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1LT Battalion Logistics (S4)
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Edited 7 y ago
I spent nearly 4 years in the AL-ARNG on the enlisted side and deployed a couple of times prior to submitting my DD368 and putting in my packet for Active Duty OCS. The change from NG to Active Duty has been far less drastic for me than going Enlisted to Officer. You clearly enjoy the Army, otherwise you wouldn't be making the transition. That tells me that you'll do just fine. Right place, right time, right uniform etc... It all still applies. Have a good attitude and be willing to learn. You'll be ahead of many of your peers just with those basic tools. Also, biggest advice on the 368 is to stay on top of it. Paperwork has to go up to the General Officer level (or the delegated authority), so it sometimes has a habit of disappearing somewhere along the way. Ask your full time Admin at the armory about it every other week or so.
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SPC Private First Class
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7 y
Thank you sir!
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