I'm reenlisting with a 4 yr degree, and I want OCS. Is it better to go ARNG or Army Reserves? Which has overall better benefits?

2017-01-11T19:52:32-05:00

Response by LTC John Shaw made Jan 11 at 2017 8:42 PM

2017-01-11T20:42:58-05:00

PFC Dustin Lloyd The Guard is better if you plan to stay in the same state and you are early in your career. As you reach mid-career point you can look at the Army Reserve for career development. If you plan to move because you work for an employer who is nationwide, the Reserve is a better fit for this requirement.
I started as a LT in the KYNG and switched to the Army Reserve when I was transferred to MI, then IL, then Ohio.

Some states have marginally better benefits in the Guard, like partial or free tuition, but these usually only apply to enlisted and NCOs, not officers.

Once you are a Commissioned Officer the benefits differences are minimal.

Response by SFC George Smith made Jan 11 at 2017 8:55 PM

2017-01-11T20:55:10-05:00

depends on your MOS and Career Field...
The Majority of Combat and Combat support Units are in the National Guard...
combat service support is generally in the Reserves... what is the MOS you are going after and the career field you want to pursue...

Response by CW3 Cherif L. made Jan 11 at 2017 10:30 PM

2017-01-11T22:30:36-05:00

PFC Loyd - A few things to consider, as have already been mentioned, are what career path are you considering? If supply is where you think you want to be than consider going Active Reserve as a Warrant Officer (920 Series) The benefits of a Warrant Commission are stability in your area of concentration, stable station and full benefits to name a few. It's the path I chose and I'm going on 16 years with 10 under a Warrant Commission. It's a respectable position without the hassles of command, changes of stations and concentrations.

Think about it and of you have any questions reach out to me. A good place to start is the Army's Warrant Officer recruitment page: http://www.usarec.army.mil/hq/warrant/index.shtml

The downside is you probably need to be an E-5(P) so you may want to wait. Depends on your career/personal goals. Think things over and make an informed decision. Remember the choices you make in life - make your life - so choose wisely!

Good luck!

PS - don't pay any attention to people who have negativity in their comments. Men join the service for many reasons. A true leader of men realizes that soldiers come from many different stations in life and have their own specific ways of attaining their goals along with their priorities. His job, as a leader, is to guide you in making the right decisions for and matching your goals with the services needs. Do you. Don't worry about what others think.

U.S. Army Recruiting Command's Warrant Officer Recruiting Information Site

Response by CW3 Cherif L. made Jan 11 at 2017 10:42 PM

2017-01-11T22:42:39-05:00

PFC Loyd: PS - don't pay any attention to people who have negativity in their comments. Men join the service for many reasons. A true leader of men realizes that soldiers come from many different stations in life and have their own specific ways of attaining their goals along with their priorities. His job, as a leader, is to guide you in making the right decisions for and matching your goals with the services needs. Do you. Don't worry about what others think.

Response by LTC John Mohor made Jan 11 at 2017 11:36 PM

2017-01-11T23:36:57-05:00

Depending on your degree you might qualify for a direct appointment. Talk to your in service recruiters and career counselors especially Officer ascessions. I'm partial to the Reserves. They have more Combat Support and Combat Service Support Officer opportunities. If your hell bent on going only OCS there's the option of the Benning School for Boys as it's been nicknamed in the past at Fort Benning or each state National Huard has their state OCS that runs one weekend a month as well as Annual Training periods. Be sure to look into all the options! Good Luck. Getting to E-4 and WLC first wouldn't hurt in your preparation for the future either. It would also allow your ribbons to indicate you were prior enlisted via the MCO Professional Development Ribbon.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 12 at 2017 9:44 AM

2017-01-12T09:44:44-05:00

I tend to agree with a few comments down the list. What is your MOS that should be factored in, what branch do you want as an officer. What units are in your area, how far are you willing to drive. I know in my area there are more opportunities closer to home in the reserves. Only one ARNG battalion close by. I would think benefits wise they are the same.

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Jan 12 at 2017 11:02 AM

2017-01-12T11:02:12-05:00

You said "reenlisting", what is your current status? Are you on active duty, currently a drilling member in a reserve component, in the IRR, or a prior service civilian? The application process for either depends on your status. Also, you should ensure you meet or can meet all the requirements and qualifications for OCS selections, and understand the application process. That may help you decide which route to go.
The OCS link at goarmy.com will show you the prior service requirements for USAR OCS, which would apply to you if you are currently separated or in the IRR.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 12 at 2017 11:00 PM

2017-01-12T23:00:39-05:00

Army National Guard might be better depending on your State, some States support their Guard in addition to the regular Army benefits for the Reserve Component. It's going to require some research.