The first step in becoming a Soldier in the U.S. Army is being armed with knowledge. Our recruiters are ready with the know-how to answer your questions.
WHAT IS ACTIVE DUTY? Active duty Soldiers serve in the Army 24 hours a day, seven days a week for the duration of their service commitment. Think of it as working a full-time job. WHERE WILL I LIVE? Your living situation will be based on a number of factors, including your unit, your Army job (Military Occupational Specialty), and your deployment status. But generally, you will live on a base, eit
her in a forward area of operations or within the United States. Most bases have a fitness center, a community pool, parks, walking and biking trails and camping areas. You could also take part in a wide variety of intramural sports, including, football, baseball, soccer and Frisbee golf. Soldiers have access to specialized and discounted shopping at the Post Exchange (PX), and you’ll find all of the brands you would in the civilian world, but at much more affordable prices. WHERE WILL MY FAMILY LIVE? Both single Soldiers and Soldiers with families may live on an Army base. Single Soldier barracks are equipped with general-purpose washrooms, an apartment-style kitchen area, walk-in closets and a common area. Families are provided with modern housing with yard space, appliances, laundry rooms and a garage. HOW LONG WILL I SERVE? Active duty service terms typically last two to six years, but your service length may vary depending on your unit’s mission. Soldiers are eligible for a two-week rest and relaxation leave after six months of deployment. WHAT KIND OF JOB WILL I HAVE? When you make the decision to join the Army, you will take a test called the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). Think of it as the Army’s version of the SAT. It’s designed to help the Army understand your skills. Once you complete the test, you’ll be able to choose from a list of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) that match your qualifications. ARMY RESERVE
SERVING WHEN NEEDED
Unlike active duty, Army Reserve Soldiers serve part time, allowing them to earn an extra paycheck, go to school, or work a civilian job while still maintaining many of the benefits of military service. WHAT IS THE ARMY RESERVE? The Army Reserve is the Army’s pool of extra resources and personnel. Reserve Soldiers perform critical Army jobs on a part-time basis. WHEN WILL I SERVE? You will spend one weekend a month on duty and two weeks a year in training. Soldiers in the Army Reserve may be called to active duty to provide their expertise. Your total service length in the Army Reserve may range from three to six years, depending on your Army Reserve job. Unlike serving on Active Duty, you will be able to live anywhere in the United States. If you are planning on attending college or advancing within your civilian career, Army Reserve service will provide you with the flexibility to live where you choose. WHAT'S THE PAY LIKE? Even though you will spend a limited amount of your time on duty, Army Reserve Soldiers earn competitive salaries, and have access to a wide range of benefits. As a Private, for example, you will make more than $3,000 a year, and you’ll receive health care, retirement and education benefits. As you move up in rank, your pay increases.
