Becoming a U.S. Navy reserve—how do you do it? Well generally speaking there are some requirements for joining and you have to make sure you’re prepared for the expectations that will face you if you’re called to serve. The most basic requirements are you must be at least 18 years old, pass a physical exam to make sure you’re healthy enough to serve and have a high school diploma or a college level degree for Officer position. A minimum requirement of at least one weekend a month and two weeks every year for service is necessary to maintain your position as a U.S. Navy reserve. In some rare cases there can be adjusted schedules.
Becoming a U.S. Navy reserve offers many benefits and advantages. Compensation is typically one of the most compelling reasons people enlist to serve and rightfully so. There are great pay rates for enlisted members that include 4 days of base rate pay, full pay for meals and housing during your annual training and there are even over time opportunities to earn more on days you volunteer to work. The money is one thing, but there are also other benefits. Medical care and insurance are two huge incentives for being a part of the reserve. During training you will receive medical care and treatment right on site at military facilities and as a Navy reservist you’re granted TRICARE reserve benefits.
If you’re looking into becoming a U.S. Navy reserve it’s important that you have a good idea of what your career outside the reserve will be. Since the reserve can help you with your education and supplementing it financially (if not entirely paying for it) you have a lot of options at your disposal. If you visit the U.S. Navy website to see what careers are in high demand for serving you can also go through one of their programs and learn more about what’s available. Generally speaking occupations like nurses and construction workers are almost always in demand and can make great careers outside of the reserves.
Becoming a U.S. Navy reservist isn’t for just anyone, it requires a certain type of person who can handle challenges and responsibilities well. If you’re up for the task at hand and think you’re ready to join the reserves then you can get started online learning a lot more about the appropriate forms and steps to take for your specific career path and needs.