I am switching from inactive to 25B in the Reserves. What can I expect switching to Reserves?

SPC Shaun Boykin — Sat, 25 Feb 2017 12:20:43 -0500

Im curious how would my first day be like and what can i expect for inprocessing? I been out for awhile so will they issue me new gear? What benefits will i be recieving also? Also ill be going to AIT what can i expect as a prior service guy? Any help is appreciated

Response by LTC John Shaw made Feb 25 at 2017 1:11 PM

LTC John Shaw — Sat, 25 Feb 2017 13:11:25 -0500

Your experiences in the Army Reserve will depend on the unit you are joining and what part of the training cycle, called Army Force Generation (ARFORGEN).
Expect to spend most of your time with the S1, inprocessing to the Army Reserve and obtaining guidance from your Signal section chief as you are starting as a 25B.
In the reserve, you need to take the initiative and keep in touch with your section leaders and 1SG, even a simple phone call between battle assembly will set you apart from the people who just hang out.
You will be issued some gear by your reserve unit and when you mobilize for an overseas tour you will receive a full issue of body armor and combat vests with appropriate accouterments.
Regarding AIT, I think you will find Fort Gordon, GA a nice post with the classrooms and facilities centrally located.
I strongly recommend you pay attention and do well and work yourself into SSG positions and then strongly consider cyber, warrant officer or other technical positions as you find your interests in the Signal Branch.
God Speed in your journey.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2017 6:35 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Feb 2017 18:35:30 -0500

Going to the Reserve from inactive will not be as exciting as you may think. Your monthly drill may include cleaning and programming the radios in the various vehicles for training. It all depends on your unit. AIT, nope! If you can speak to your training NCO and you have your APFT on file, you might be able to go to your leadership school. If National Guard you could go to PEC and get your security plus certification. I'm not sure what the Reserve offers.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2017 5:13 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Feb 2017 17:13:06 -0500

It will vary by unit. I've been 25N in the reserves for 3 years and haven't done jack shit related to my MOS.

Response by SSG Billyray Musselman made Feb 28 at 2017 11:49 AM

SSG Billyray Musselman — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 11:49:29 -0500

You will most likely be working i an S6 help desk assisting customers with basic computer trouble shooting software and hardware and in the field you will be setting up and maintaining the cpn and stt.

Response by SGT Alan Dike made Mar 2 at 2017 11:14 AM

SGT Alan Dike — Thu, 02 Mar 2017 11:14:53 -0500

Youll be in with the reclassers... I reclassed in 02, and it was interesting. Had a PVT from my class come up and ask where the mail room was.. I pointed a direction, told him how many doors to go down in the next building.. and he was good to go. Immediately after, I had a SGM come give me a talking to because I was an NCO giving directions to a private without a battle buddy...