Expert: John L - 10/26/2009

Question
John,
My son will be transferring to Utah State this Dec. where he will be entering into their AROTC program combined with the UTANG on an O9R scholarship program.  I'm still unclear to me as to exactly what his commitment will be to the Guard after he graduates.  Will he be a weekend warrior or is he required to be a full time soldier for 6 years?  Also, he has made it clear that he wants to be assigned to their air unit with the intention of becoming a pilot.  He says he has been told that they are holding a "spot" for him there, providing he qualifies for it...is that possible?
Thanks,
Bill

Answer
It depends on what he contracts as when it comes time.  he can contract as a Guard Officer or Regular active officer.  he can conract as early as his sophomore year, but must by his Junior year.  Either way, it is a 6 year commitment after his commission.

as far as holding a spot, they will not or can not hold a spot for 4 years while he finished college.  Be has to compete for any spot as an officer upon graduation.  He cannot be guaranteed a pilot slot or for that matter, an aviation slot.  ANYONE is the army guard can apply for a pilot slot if they meet the qualifications.  If selected, they start pilot school, if they make it, then they are pilots, if they fail, they go back to their old jobs.