How is the process for AGR, and how specific can you be in the location you choose for duty?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 23:35:16 -0400

So I am in between two plans for financial stability during finishing my bachelors in physics (which will take me another three years), and ROTC+GI Bill is good but not as good as it was advertised; so I am planing on going AGR (don't mind if the three years turn to four) to work towards both education and retirement.
I did a bit of online research but im still a bit unclear about the true process. Can you choose specific reserve units on your AGR request? Do you have to already be drilling with the said unit to be accepted? Also what are some dark truths that you were exposed to (not the work hours or political drama, but rather a negative catch that no one knows until they get in)?

I appreciate all of your information, and all the kindness in answering my previous questions. I'm just thirsty for knowledge.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2021 12:41 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 00:41:06 -0400

I'm TPU, and as a previous company commander I at least got to see my AGR's get worked into the ground.

You'll put in an AGR packet (probably a 42A slot will give you your best chances if you are willing to re-class), and you'll take what they give you in terms of assignment location and unit, and you will take it or be put back at the bottom of the pile.

I don't know how you are going to finish a degree while full time AGR.

I don't know how AGR's can navigate their careers. In my previous unit my S4 E6 AGR was tracking $53M in equipment in 4 locations. My S1 E5 AGR was tracking up to 160 soldiers.

My current unit The AGR has a property book of $0 (Z-E-R-O) dollars and the S1 E7 is only covering down on 90 soldiers who are mostly officers and E7+.

I am sure their lives are much different at the end of the day.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2021 12:57 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 00:57:13 -0400

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Apr 16 at 2021 1:26 AM

CSM Charles Hayden — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 01:26:42 -0400

If you are seeking financial stability, according to the current media, most local economies have great positions available. If you are not absolutely dedicated to the US Military, why not test the economy while you attend university?

Response by SSG Samuel Kermon made Apr 16 at 2021 7:21 AM

SSG Samuel Kermon — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 07:21:09 -0400

Good question and good luck.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2021 12:34 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 12:34:47 -0400

As someone who has applied twice and made it on my second try, you have to currently be a reservist or someone getting out of active duty and planning on going to the reserve. You apply on HRC and submit a AGR packet.

As for your question:
Can you choose specific reserve units on your AGR request? No, needs of the army. I was a reservist in TX and was sent to California
Do you have to already be drilling with the said unit to be accepted? No, you just have to be an active reservist
Also what are some dark truths that you were exposed to (not the work hours or political drama, but rather a negative catch that no one knows until they get in)? You are one MOS but assigned as another MOS and you get a HANDFUL of additional duties. I am in a medical unit and have seen some senior NCOs/medics play the role of operations, HR and supply sgt while doing other additional duties that is not assigned to the TPU.