I just finished my four years of active-duty service,and was talked into signing up for direct transfer to a reserve unit. The deal they gave me was this:
- I signed up for 2 years - 2 years were taken off my remaining 4-year obligation - I will be stabilized, i.e. I cannot be involuntarily deployed, for 2 years
So in other words, I will get paid to hang out and go to drill for 2 years.
My problem is this:
My four years on Active Duty were not the worst years of life, or the best. I enjoyed my time and learned alot. But at this point I feel really, really done. I do not feel like I want to have anything to do with the Army. I am using the GI Bill to go to school and trying to unwind and figure out what I will do with my life.
My decision to sign up for the reserves was made under pressure, 2 days before I signed out on terminal leave.
Also:
I have not yet reported to my reserve unit. The only thing they have of mine is my transfer paperwork.
My question:
If I never call or show up, what is the worst thing that could happen?
Please understand, I am not trying to get out of anything yet, I am only trying to fully explore my options. I'm still leaning towards doing the "right" thing, but it's always good to know "what if?".
Worst case is that they log you AWOL and you go to jail the next time you get pulled over during a traffic stop. Best case? You push your way to someone in your Reserve CoC and get them to let you out. Write you off, whatever. They can get you out, since they haven't paid you anything yet. You'd better act now though boss.
If I never call or show up, what is the worst thing that could happen?
In reality, nothing will happen. It's a pain for the reserve unit as they will show you on their books and takes months to get rid of you.
2 years off your MOS plus 2 years stabilization, you can't beat it. Give the reserve a chance. There's a huge difference between AC and USAR/NG. Trust me, I felt the same way as you did 11 years ago when I left active duty.
- Your remaining obligation will be adjusted back to the eight year date on your DD 214; - You will be back in the IRR on their 'call me first if you need help' list; - Expect to lose one pay grade/rank; - If you ever want back in any service you will need a waiver to do so; - Also, if there is a bonus associated with your reserve enlistment you may make yourself ineligible for a bonus if you want back in if you fail to complete the time requirements of your current reserve enlistment. Good luck; cul8r.
Thank you for the replies. As far as the 2-year stabilization thing, I know its a great deal but for some reason I can't stop kicking myself for taking it. At least I didn't go for 4 years and actually get a bonus.
I would suggest you get in contact with the unit you will be drilling with. I would bet you could work something out that would allow you to take a little break before having to show up for drill. I was amazed at the flexibility the unit had for drilling options available to good squared away guys. No doubt you need a break after 4 years active, I know I did. Just don't do anything like not show up etc. You will end up explaining and rationalizing that period to people over and over again as you go through life. You never know the kind of job/ career you may be drawn to 10 years from now. You have done a great job thus far, so if at all possible, hang in there for this obligation and then decide.
Well, I went and talked to the unit admin, who recognized me right away because we worked with them in Iraq in 07. I told them I wanted to be transferred to the IRR. They told me that normally I have to be drilling for a whole year before I make the request, but if I just come to one drill and bring the letter of explanation, they'll put the packet in right away.
So I'm wondering, is this accurate? Not that I would mind attending one drill, or that I would really expect them to trick me intentionally...
