Us Army Reserve Training: A Step-By-Step Guide

As a citizen-soldier, serving in the US Army Reserve requires a unique blend of civilian and military life. To prepare for this dual role, Reservists must undergo comprehensive training that equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their military careers. In this article, we will delve into the world of US Army Reserve training, exploring the various stages and processes that transform civilians into capable and confident soldiers.

Basic Combat Training (BCT)

Basic Combat Training (BCT) is the initial training phase for all new Army Reservists. This 10-week program is designed to introduce recruits to the fundamental skills and values of the Army, including drill and ceremony, first aid, map reading, and combat techniques. BCT is divided into three phases, each with a specific focus:

• Red Phase: This initial phase focuses on transforming civilians into soldiers, teaching basic soldiering skills, and introducing the Army's values and culture.
• White Phase: In this phase, recruits learn combat skills, including marksmanship, first aid, and combat tactics.
• Blue Phase: The final phase prepares soldiers for their future roles in the Army, introducing them to their chosen Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and providing hands-on training.

Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Training

After completing BCT, Reservists attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT) to learn the skills specific to their chosen MOS. This training can last from several weeks to over a year, depending on the complexity of the MOS. Some examples of MOS training include:

• Infantry Training: Teaches soldiers the skills necessary to serve as infantrymen, including combat tactics, marksmanship, and first aid.
• Combat Engineer Training: Prepares soldiers for roles in combat engineering, including demolitions, explosive ordnance disposal, and bridge construction.
• Medical Training: Trains soldiers in medical specialties, such as nursing, pharmacy, or medical laboratory technology.

Army Reserve Officer Candidate School (ROCS)

For those seeking to become officers in the Army Reserve, Officer Candidate School (ROCS) provides the necessary training. This 12-week program is designed to develop the leadership and tactical skills required of Army officers. ROCS is divided into three phases:

• Phase 1: Focuses on introducing candidates to the Army's values and culture, as well as basic soldiering skills.
• Phase 2: Emphasizes leadership development, including team-building, problem-solving, and decision-making.
• Phase 3: Prepares candidates for their roles as officers, teaching them tactical skills, including combat operations and military justice.

Drill Sergeant Training

Drill Sergeants play a critical role in the training and development of new soldiers. To become a Drill Sergeant, Reservists must attend the Drill Sergeant Academy, a 10-week program that teaches the skills necessary to train and lead new recruits.

Annual Training (AT)

Annual Training (AT) is a two-week training period that Reservists attend each year. AT provides an opportunity for soldiers to maintain and improve their skills, as well as participate in unit-level training exercises. AT is a critical component of Army Reserve training, ensuring that soldiers remain prepared to deploy and perform their duties.

Professional Military Education (PME)

Professional Military Education (PME) is an essential part of a soldier's career development. PME courses, such as the Army Reserve's Distributed Learning System, provide soldiers with the knowledge and skills necessary to advance in their careers and take on leadership roles.

Combat Training

Combat training is a critical component of Army Reserve training, preparing soldiers for the rigors of combat. This training includes:

• Combat Skills Training: Teaches soldiers the skills necessary to survive and thrive in combat, including marksmanship, first aid, and combat tactics.
• Urban Warfare Training: Prepares soldiers for combat operations in urban environments, including room clearing and building searches.
• Field Training Exercises: Provides soldiers with hands-on experience in combat scenarios, including squad-level training exercises.

Leadership Development

Leadership development is a key aspect of Army Reserve training, ensuring that soldiers are prepared to take on leadership roles. This training includes:

• Leadership Courses: Provides soldiers with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead teams and units, including the Army's leadership principles and core values.
• Mentorship Programs: Pairs experienced soldiers with junior soldiers, providing guidance and mentorship.

Pre-Deployment Training

Before deploying, soldiers must attend pre-deployment training, which prepares them for the specific challenges and hazards they will face in theater. This training includes:

• Theater-Specific Training: Teaches soldiers about the culture, customs, and geography of the deployment area.
• Combat Skills Refresher: Provides a refresher on combat skills, including marksmanship and first aid.
• Deployment Preparation: Prepares soldiers for the deployment process, including preparation of equipment and personnel.

Re-Entry Training

After deployment, soldiers attend re-entry training, which helps them readjust to civilian life. This training includes:

• Re-Entry Briefings: Provides soldiers with information on benefits, entitlements, and resources available to them after deployment.
• Re-Adjustment Counseling: Offers counseling and support to soldiers and their families to help them cope with the challenges of re-entry.

US Army Reserve Training Image Gallery

We hope this comprehensive guide to US Army Reserve training has provided you with a deeper understanding of the processes and stages involved in becoming a capable and confident soldier. If you're considering joining the Army Reserve or are already a part of this proud tradition, we encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.