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What's the difference between army reserves and a full time soldier

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  • 1 replies
  • 6 views
  • Author: Jack M.
  • Category: Role, Role comparison
  • Date asked:
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    Robert H. Marketing Officer

    Hi there


    There are some key differences, I’ve broken them down into what I beleive to be the 5 key ones:


    Commitment Level


    Reservist: Typically serves on a part-time basis. They train on evenings, weekends, and during annual training camps (usually two weeks).

    Regular: Full-time personnel who commit to the Army as their primary occupation. They train and work daily as part of their role.


    Deployment


    Reservist: Can be called up for deployment during times of need, such as conflicts or emergencies. However, deployment is less frequent and usually planned in advance.

    Regular: Readily deployable at all times as part of their full-time role, with frequent and extended deployments.


    Training


    Reservist: Completes basic and specialised training over an extended period to fit their part-time schedule, balancing it with civilian life.

    Regular: Completes intensive and continuous training as part of their full-time role, often at a faster pace.


    Civilian Life


    Reservist: Maintains a civilian job or lifestyle alongside their military commitments. Their Army role supplements their civilian career.

    Regular: Fully committed to military life, with little to no involvement in civilian jobs during their service.


    Pay and Benefits


    Reservist: Paid only for the time they spend training or deployed. They may also qualify for tax-free bonuses and certain benefits.

    Regular: Earns a full-time salary with additional benefits, such as housing, healthcare, and pensions.


    Hopefully this helps you understand what I feel to be the key differences