As a future soldier, how does drill work? Would I actually be doing anything? Would I get paid?

2019-04-27T23:17:04-04:00

As in, as a future soldier, would I actually be doing anything? and would I get paid?

Response by SGT Chris Stephens made Apr 27 at 2019 11:44 PM

2019-04-27T23:44:27-04:00

It depends on your unit as to what you will be doing. And, yes. You will be getting paid.

Response by CH (CPT)(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 28 at 2019 1:11 AM

2019-04-28T01:11:04-04:00

You do get paid. You can look up the reserves or guard pay chart. Basically, a full Saturday and Sunday would count as 4 MUTA's (dont ask what that stands for, or look it up.)
As far as training, it really depends on your unit. You SHOULD do training that improves your skills as a Soldier and in your MOS every drill. Does it happen? Not all the time. But if you are committed to serving your country in the military in the reserves or guard, go for it. I was in the reserves for 15 years and now I'm active duty.

One note: make sure it's an MOS that you want. If the recruiter says they don't have it, wait. Or pick something that is acceptable. Don't pick something because that's "all that is available." You will regret it. Better to delay 3-6 months for an MOS you want then to be stuck with something for a few years you don't.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Apr 28 at 2019 8:54 AM

2019-04-28T08:54:56-04:00

Drill often involves PT, briefings and MOS duties. Enlisted in reserves or Guard either eat at DFAC or at local contracted restaurant (e.g. Golden Corral, etc.) during the day for meals.

At drill, part-time personnel like you either physically or digitally sign in for accountability. After the drill weekend finishes, full time personnel process the roster for direct deposit into bank accounts a few weeks later.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 28 at 2019 12:14 PM

2019-04-28T12:14:43-04:00

Yes, you will get paid. And in fact, once you gain a few ranks, that little bit of extra pay per month (for just a weekend) isn't bad. As for what you would be doing, it all depends on your unit, and your MOS (Military Occupational Specialty--your job). Some units have a hard time training on their actual job due to money or logistical issues. While others find it easy to train on their drill weekends. And drills are usually either 2 or 3 days on a weekend but can vary based on training needs for the unit. You should have a drill calendar provided to you by your Chain of Command upon arrival that you can provide to your civilian employer or school (and they are required by law to allow you to attend). In any event, training is the number one thing you do as a Reservist (in the Reserves or National Guard).

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2019 8:18 AM

2019-04-29T08:18:58-04:00

it varies on what unit you will be with, also on your MOS. Yes, you will get paid (amount varies on the MUTA for that month).