How was your experience transferring from the ARNG to USAR?

I transferred from ARNG to USAR after returning from Iraq and finding out that I was double slotted, and not getting paid for the drill that I used to re-register into the Guard. My retirement points record is still not properly updated, now partially my fault since I did keep a copy of my Guard record. I was glad that the USAR allowed me another mobilization opportunity to train Soldiers for deployment. The Guard attitude toward deployed Soldiers needs to be examined and changed. I was the MRO (Mobilization Readiness Officer) prior to being mobilized the first of three times, and I know that regulations prohibit double-slotting. I will one day get my revenge. In the meantime, I wish those that have benefited from the move good luck in their future careers.

We never had it when I was in the Guard either. I think it is just a Reserve thing. Like I said, you get $300 for travel in whatever form that takes, plane, train or automobile. After you drill, you get a copy of a letter that your CO signs saying you live more than 100 miles away. You get a copy of the sign in roster that shows you signed in. Then you go into DTS and create a local travel voucher. You upload those supporting documents along with your receipts for the plane ticket, gas, etc. and you are good to go. And of course Lodging in Kind is normal. I tell the S-4 I need lodging for the next months drill and they take care of the rest. I can travel to drill for nothing more than the cost of food which I pay any way. Another thing to keep in mind is that if you drill more than 100 miles away, any travel costs you incur that are not reimbursed are tax deductible and it comes off your earned income dollar for dollar and not a percentage. It has worked out great for me. I could not be happier.

The Guard won't do it b/c there is a HIGH likelihood that you can drill within a reasonable distance from your house. The reserves do because you have less control (feasibly) of your career location. I remember USAR drilling with people from all over the US. In the NGAR, I drill with only 3 people that travel from out of state and only a handful from outside of a couple hundred miles (aviators). But, the NGAR policy is more or less that if you don't want to travel, change MOS or branch.

Until recently the Guard units I was assigned to did pay for hotel rooms for Soldiers >50 miles away but due to budget constraints that has stopped. I now share a room with a fellow officer on drill weekend. Not a lot of $$ but still an expense.

IDT lodging seems to have have more to do with how the commanders want to spend their money more than whether it is allowed. The Air Guard has done it for years. When the state wanted more movement in the enlisted ranks it started to offer it, but at LTC Groton noted, with current budget constraints, the program is still authorized, but unfunded which mean the Soldier is paying. Unfortunately, there are zero E-9 slots or Field Grade slots more than 100 miles from the capital, so if you want the rank, you will have to travel. Even E-8 slots are slim, I think there is one maybe two.