A Marine reservist usually has three responsibilities. The first is to make personnel available to the Marine Corps during times of peace. A second duty is to provide support to Marine forces in times of national emergency or war. Finally, the reservist serves in the community. Reservists typically commit to the Marine Corps part-time for one weekend per month and two weeks per year, and they either attend school or work a civilian job.
Marine reservists can attend one of three boot camp training facilities. West of the Mississippi River, recruits are usually sent to San Diego, California. For reservists east of the Mississippi, Parris Island, South Carolina, is the destination. Potential police officers are trained in Quantico, Virginia. Active duty recruits are also trained at one of these facilities. For reservists and active duty Marines, boot camp lasts 13 weeks.
The marine reservist attends occupational training after completing Marine boot camp and infantry school alongside recruits enlisting for active duty. This part-time training allows the reservist to continue their civilian career or pursue an education. His reserve activity could take place near school or at home, but the exact location will be determined the reservist’s occupational training. “Ready, Willing, Able” is the motto of reservists, and they almost always sign an eight-year contract.
The Selected Marine Corps Reserve is the most traditional form of reserve service (SMCR). This route allows marine reservists to have normal civilian jobs and lives. The reservist is on active duty two weekends per month and one week per year as a member of the SMCR.
During times of war, the marine reservist assists the Corps mobilizing with active-duty Marines. The reservist’s part-time active-duty training is intended to keep him or her ready for such mobilizations. His responsibilities may also include assisting deployed Marines’ families and community outreach.
During times of peace, marine reservists are responsible for maintaining positive relationships with community leaders. It’s critical to cultivate positive relationships with fire and police departments, as well as gain political support. The job description of a marine reservist includes public awareness campaigns and active promotion of Marine Corps goals.
Marine reservists can choose from a wide range of careers. An aptitude test can help a reservist decide which career path to pursue. The job description for a marine reservist will be determined the career path he chooses. Many reservists claim to have the best of both worlds in that they are recognized as Marines while also having the freedom of a civilian.