What are some things to look out for after a long break from service?

2018-11-08T23:34:27-05:00

I have 21 years in the Army National Guard and I went IRR (inactive ready reserve) 8 years ago. From the time I left the Guard I have received emails from the Army Reserve asking me if I'd like to get in the USAR. AT the end of this past September I replied back and said I'd be interested. They have found me a unit and a slot. The forms have been filled out and sent to HRC at Ft Knox. Anyone out there jumped back in after such a long break? I'll be going back in as an O4. And yes I have been working on my PT already.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 11:38 PM

2018-11-08T23:38:25-05:00

Sir, I came back after 10 years. PM me or call me.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 12:06 AM

2018-11-09T00:06:49-05:00

You have the new combat fitness test to look forward to LOL

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Nov 9 at 2018 11:15 AM

2018-11-09T11:15:34-05:00

Old majors don't need PT. ;). Long ago, for a while, I think I was the most senior, longest time in grade, Major O4, in the whole US Army, active, USAR, IRR, any component, I was in the Utah Nat'l Guard and I was the most senior Major out there. (No prof but I claim it.). Anyway, in the last couple years nobody bothered me, I walked my 2.5 miles and did my duty and nobody bothered me.

Response by MAJ Bruce Wenger made Nov 9 at 2018 11:10 PM

2018-11-09T23:10:10-05:00

I did 3 years enlisted and got out. I used the GI Bill and did 4 years of college and 4 years in Law School. After one year of practicing I got a direct commission into the JAG reserve and a 3 years later I was back on active duty. This was 12 years between my active duty time and 9 years without any military time. It went great! I had a leg up on everyone else in my JAG class because of my prior service and it helps as a lawyer to wear an SF Tab, jump and air assault badges. I stayed in until I got my 20! Go for it!

Response by CH (MAJ) Tom Conner made Dec 21 at 2018 4:32 PM

2018-12-21T16:32:56-05:00

I served 6 years AD, ETSed and went into the FLNG, went to college and seminary, and went back after 17 years. Was I ever in for a shock! My first assignment was Fort Jackson, BCT. Gone were the days of "wall to wall" counseling and if you aren't puking after a meal--you did not eat fast enough! Hello to having an hour of "Free time" every night, going to bed at 2100 and getting up at 0530. It took me a few weeks to figure out the Army changed!! Just take everything you thought you knew, and throw it out the window! Be ready for some massive changes!