Does a Reservist have to attend their Annual Training?

Question

I am an army reservist who has some personal issues going on do I have to attend my AT?

Answer 1

You can get out of it, if it is important and are in good standing.....but you will have to make the 2 weeks up later

Answer 2

Yes, you need to attend your Annual Training. If you don't, you could be considered AWOL (Absent Without Leave) and be processed under the UCMJ (Unified Code of Military Justice). Some units are very aggressive when it comes to punishing individuals that miss AT.

If you are having personal issues - talk immediatley with your First Line Leader and use your chain of command. Take it to the 1SG if you need to. An alternate AT can be done with the CO's appproval - or possibly some type of training school in lieu of AT. There are provisions for this type of thing.

You may even be able to go to a Chaplain if you have one available. These individuals have some resources at their disposal and may even be able to send you in the right direction to receive some help with your problems. I've see these things work for a number of soldiers - they just have to have the personnel courage to explain and ask for help.

Answer 3

You must attend 2 weeks of AT as per your contract. There are several ways to do this though. If your issues are financial, you can talk to your CO about the hardship and they will most likely try to work something out for you. If they are issues with physical/mental health, they will probably activate you and have you work from your post with the nearest Tricare provider. Some units will allow you to divide your 2 weeks over a certain time period so to cause the least disruption to other issues in your life. Set up a meeting with your CO ASAP and discuss your options. Most are willing to work with you. You can also substitute any schools for your AT time as long as they fall withing a certain time range from your units AT. Good luck and I hope things work out for you.

Answer 4

Well, it's a grey area. Yes, you should do your AT. However, since retirement is based on points, you will either need to ask if you can make up this time before FY08 begins. Otherwise, you will be marked as a "bad year". Basically you would loose a year towards your retirement.

So again, should you...YES, if you can work something out with your Command, NO...you don't have to...we all know things happen.

Answer 5

YES YOU DO.

As a wife of a former amry reservist and active duty first Srg. You better show up or they will come & get ya. LOL

Yes you have to show up. You can explain things to the comanding officer and go thru procedures....but YES SHOW UP. It's your duty. You signed on and are paid. Jail isn't the answer.......yes... AT is mandatory.

Answer 6

If you have not been on active duty orders for 2 weeks all ready this year than yes. If not talk to your team leader or section leader, be warned you will still have to make it up/

Answer 7

Former Active Duty and former Reserve ... yes ... but you have to talk to your Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant and your CO ... they may be able to help you with your problems that you are having now ... or they may be able to release you from your duties ... which you will have to make up within the next year.

Answer 8

Yes, but there are ways to make it up if there is a good reason why you can not attend.

Answer 9

You made a commitment and you should honor that commitment.

Contact your unit immediately and talk with someone- 1st Sgt or CC would be best. Explain the situation.

Answer 10

No, just take the checks and show up when you feel like it. That's the new Army Reserve!