How does it work if a soldier is getting ready to ETS from active duty but wants to make the switch to national guard or reserves?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 16:00:20 -0400

Looking to continue service in the guard or reserves without a break in service.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Jul 5 at 2019 4:17 PM

SSG Brian G. — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 16:17:21 -0400

You go see a NG or Reserve recruiter. It is also going to depend on where you are at on your enlistment in terms of years.

Response by SGT Javier Silva made Jul 5 at 2019 5:07 PM

SGT Javier Silva — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 17:07:25 -0400

If you're still in, go to the NG/Reserve Career NCO. The should be located on post.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2019 5:16 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 17:16:22 -0400

I went to see a retention counselor before I ETSed from Active Duty. (It should be on your out-processing checklist). The retention counselor gave me a list of units in my area that had an opening for my MOS and pay-grade. Once I decided on a unit, he gave me a reenlistment contract to sign and my ETS orders were amended. After I got back to my home of record, I got in contact with my new unit and went from there. Your gaining unit should be contacting you regardless once you show up on their alpha roster.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2019 5:19 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 17:19:56 -0400

You’ll be required to see a reserve/guard retention NCO as part of clearing post

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2019 6:03 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 18:03:59 -0400

Once you're six months from ETS you can contract into the RC. Talking to the Reserve Component Career Counselor is part of your SFLTAP process. There's usually one per brigade. Don't wait until you're clearing or they can't help you as well.

Response by SSG Steven Borders made Jul 5 at 2019 9:03 PM

SSG Steven Borders — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 21:03:19 -0400

SGT Private RallyPoint Member When I ETS'ed from Active I just had the reserve counselor sign my form. Didn't even talk to them, because I wanted to physically talk to the recruiters in my area as they would know them best. Wound up in a great unit, with some really great soldiers. I love being in my small little DET. But I will say this that the Reserves/NG isn't for everyone. Some active guys have a hard time transitioning. There is a lot of things you just have to learn to let go, or it will drive you mad.

Response by CW2 Michael Bodnar made Jul 5 at 2019 9:20 PM

CW2 Michael Bodnar — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 21:20:13 -0400

I encourage you to get in contact with a Guard or Reserve recruiter immediately. You want to not have any break in service if possible.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2019 9:39 PM

CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 21:39:57 -0400

Talk to your unit's retention NCO. He or she can direct you to the Reserve/NG Rep

Response by SGT Michael Hearn made Jul 6 at 2019 10:44 AM

SGT Michael Hearn — Sat, 06 Jul 2019 10:44:42 -0400

Hello Soldier,
I had a service break for 18 months I joined the Army reserve then went back active

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 7 at 2019 1:28 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Jul 2019 01:28:01 -0400

Your career counselor will be able to help you out with the process for transitioning to the Reserves. If you want to find out about National Guard, contact one of their recruiters in your state.

My friend just ETS’d a few months ago and then recently joined the Guard and got a great job with full time employment guaranteed once he graduates AIT in the same field (aviation.) That’s not going to be the same for everyone but it’s his experience and it wasn’t a long shot. First step is to talk to the right people. Good luck!