US Coast Guard Reserve

Unlike the other armed services, the Coast Guard does not have a Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) specifically for college students. What it does have is the US Coast Guard Reserve, a part-time force of about 8,000 individuals who serve with the Coast Guard one weekend a month and two weeks every year. Reserve members are specially trained to work alongside and perform the same jobs as active duty Coast Guard personnel.

Coast Guard Reservists usually belong to a unit in their community. This gives them the opportunity to improve the quality of life of their friends and neighbors. In addition to a sense of pride, reservists receive several tangible benefits such as a monthly paycheck for the weekend they serve, up to $7,500 toward a college education through the Montgomery G.I. Bill, retirement benefits, and skills that can land a better paying job in civilian life.

There are several US Coast Guard Reserve programs, each designed to fit the needs of a particular type of individual.

• For high school seniors, college, and vocational students between the ages of 17 and 28, there is the Student Reserve Program. Enlistees train for two summers and serve one weekend a month during the school year. Their schooling continues uninterrupted. They receive pay for their weekend service and after training is complete begin Reserve duty.
• For those not in school aged 17 to 27, there is the Petty Officer Selectee Program. You must not have any prior military service to enlist in this program. Enlistees take about 30 weeks of basic and advance training (which includes training in a chosen skill), and schooling is guaranteed before returning to civilian life.
• For those who have a skill that is of use to the Coast Guard and are between the ages of 26 and 35, there is the Direct Petty Officer Program. You must not have any prior military service to enlist in this program. Eligible civilians are given the opportunity to enter the Reserve directly as a petty officer with a higher level of responsibility and pay than standard enlistees.
• Finally, those with prior military service may qualify for the Prior Service Program. Depending on their previous position, veterans may be able to enlist at the same pay rate they previously held. Many use this program as a way to reach the 20 years of service required for additional retirement benefits.

For more information on the Coast Guard Reserve call 1-877-NOW-USCG or visit online to contact the recruiter nearest you.