With tensions building around the globe, it takes a multi-tiered force of highly trained, committed Soldiers to protect our freedoms and uphold democracy. This force consists of Active Duty Soldiers and Soldiers in the Army Reserve. These two groups work in tandem to create the most powerful, well-prepared fighting force in the world.

Active Duty is similar to working at a full-time civilian job. There are hours when, as a Soldier, you will be training or performing your job, and then there are off-hours when you can do what you like. For an Active Duty Soldier, your length of service can range from two to six years. Typical deployments are 12 months in length, and after six months, Soldiers are usually eligible for a two-week Rest & Relaxation (R&R) leave. The exact length of deployment depends on each unit’s specific mission.

The Army Reserve is more like a part-time job that enables you to keep your civilian career while you continue to train near home and serve your country. Many professionals as well as college students are Soldiers in the Army Reserve.

As a Soldier in the Army Reserve, you should expect to spend one weekend a month in training and attend a two-week Field Training Exercise (FTX) once a year. In times of war, Soldiers in the Army Reserve may be called up to Active Duty (“activation”) as our country’s needs require. Service options for the Army Reserve range from three to six years, depending on your Army job and where your Army Reserve Center is located.