Pick up where you left off Reasons to Join

Servicemembers who transition away from the military find time to focus on other obligations, priorities and goals. But they also give up an important part of who they are. Part-time service in the Navy Reserve can put you back in touch with what’s missing and enable you to pick up right where you left off.

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Video: Navy Reserve - Ensign Jose Acay, Supply Officer

Reserve Ensign Jose Acay, Supply Officer. The Navy Reserve does give me that ability, that flexibility to have a very balanced life.

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U.S. Navy

Military experience is something that stays with you. Whether you served as an Enlisted Sailor or Officer in the Navy. Whether you served in the Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, Coast Guard or National Guard. Whether you served on Active Duty or as a Reservist. And that holds true whether you’ve been away for a few months or a few years.

Once you’ve heard the call to serve, you know how important and worthwhile military service is. These are some of the things that lead many to carry on their legacy in uniform – part-time in the Navy Reserve.

Reconnect with Military Life

The life you led as a servicemember, Navy or otherwise, was unique. You had the satisfaction of being part of something bigger than yourself. You enjoyed a sense of camaraderie and a purpose that those outside the military can’t relate to.

The Navy Reserve lets you stay connected – to the people, the friendships, the pride and the lifestyle. It enables you to resume your career in uniform – while giving you the flexibility to enjoy a full home life, have a civilian career and pursue educational interests. It allows you to actively contribute to the mission of America’s Navy – without having to do it full-time on Active Duty.

Reap the Benefits Again

Navy benefits (and military benefits in general) are exceptional by most standards. Those who leave the military often find that civilian benefits just don’t measure up. Serving part-time, you can reclaim many of the benefits you once enjoyed. Supplementing what you receive in the civilian sector with what you receive as a Reservist. Securing a better future for you and your family.

The Navy Reserve provides everything from generous pay to additional points toward retirement. It gives you access to many of the same financial, health, education and travel benefits that you received when serving before. What’s more, you could earn a potential affiliation bonus from $5,000 to $20,000 when you join. Contact a Navy Reserve Recruiter for details.

Want to learn more about how the Navy Reserve can help you move forward and make the most of the time you’ve already put in? Look into Navy Reserve benefits and be sure to check out the pay calculator.

Potential affiliation bonuses now available

Depending upon your rating or specialty and whether you qualify as Enlisted or an Officer, you could be earning a bonus from $5,000 to $20,000 when you affiliate with the Navy Reserve.

Further Refine Your Skills

Navy Reservists work side by side with Active Duty personnel. They have access to the same training, equipment and advancement opportunities. They take on significant responsibilities. This means you can build on the expertise you have in both the military and civilian sectors and further enhance your abilities.

As a Reservist, you’ll be the ultimate team player – ready when needed. You’ll take skills acquired in uniform and apply them to your civilian job – and vice versa. It’s truly an opportunity to make the most of your experience.

Realize the Potential for Career Advancement

Today’s Navy Reserve has a wealth of career opportunities. From Construction to Cryptology. Health Care to Chaplaincy. Law Enforcement to Office Administration. Continue to do what you do best – but on a part-time basis. The ongoing experience will not only help further your military career, it can open doors in the civilian sector as well.

If you’re in the Navy, you will typically maintain your current rate or rank in the Navy Reserve. If you’re transitioning from another service branch, you can check out the Rate/Rank Converter to see how your current role may translate in the Navy Reserve. And be aware that those with the right skill sets who are interested in areas outside of their specialty may even qualify to cross-train into a new field. Contact a Navy Reserve Recruiter for details.

Resume Your Mission and Renew Your Commitment

Military life doesn’t have to be an either/or proposition. You can balance your life outside the military with your desire to serve again. You can have the best of both worlds. You can do it as a respected member of the Navy Reserve.

It’s an ideal transition. Open a new chapter in uniform. Focus on everyday commitments or pursuits in the civilian sector. Return to serve a familiar mission, every month and every year.

Officer Experience Is in High Demand

The importance of having experienced Officers joining the ranks of the Navy Reserve has never been greater. And who better to offer insight into the part-time service option than actual Officers who’ve affiliated with the Navy Reserve.