Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 9/26/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have been in the Army Reserves for 17 years (3 years enlisted & 14 as an officer).  What do I have to do to get out?

ANSWER: Dear JC --

If you have no additional service obligation from attending schools or from a permanent change of station move, you can resign your commission via your manager in Human Resources Command.  You will need to send in a letter resigning your commission.  If you are not in a stop-loss branch, they will work with you to determine a separation date.  

The process can take over 6 months.

Do you really want to resign your commission less than three years from retirement?

Good luck to you and thank you for your service.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Ma'am,
I have no additional obligation.  Specifically, my wife passed last year and I am now a single parent with four children ages 15 to 3.  I wanted to get out after my wife passed, but my BN Commander told me not to make a decision at that time, which I believe she was correct.  I am now ready to get out and devote my time to my four children.  Is there any other way of getting out other than resigning my commission or having an invalid family care plan (which is difficult for me to obtain from family members and friends)?

Answer
Dear JC --

There is really no other way to discontinue your position in the Army than to resign your commission.  Officers do not get discharged after they complete their obligation, they continue serving at the Army's and their pleasure.  To show that you no longer wish to serve, you must resign your commission.  The Army could also separate you if you fail to meet their standards, but I am certain you do not want to take that route.  

If you no longer want to drill, you could request Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) status.  However I do not recommend that status during this war as many IRR Soldiers and Officers have been called to duty unexpectedly.  Given your family situation, you do not want to risk an unplanned call-up and deployment.

Good luck to you and your family.  Thank you for your service.  Please write back, if I can assist in any way.