If I'm accepted into the Reserves I will live several hours away. What happens if in the winter there is a big storm and the interstate closes? Am I going to be punished for not making it in? Don't get me wrong I know I will have responsibilites. I'm not saying if it's snowing Im not going to go. But realistically speaking sometimes a vehicle just cannot do it (4 inches of ice for example) I'm just wondering because need to know before it's too late. Also, is the drill weekend always the same weekend or could you possibly do the last weekend of one month followed by the first weekend of the next month? Thanks.

Mustang,

Typically your dirll weekend is the same weekend (3rd) each month. It could differ depending on your unit and/or a holiday. That said, yes you are responsible to make it to your drill weekend. In most cases your command is going to understand if things like family or weather come up. As long as it does not become a regular problem you should be fine. I would be careful about taking a billet where you could potentially miss alot of time. If you do not get enough points each year it will be a problem for your retirement and/or promotion. Something else to think about is the travel cost to and from your unit. You are responsible to pay for your gas, plane, bus or train ticket. That can get pretty expensive. The unit should give you barracks or a hotel to stay at while you drill. However agreeing to a billet and then claiming it's a hardship down the road is going to land your butt in a sling. I would talk to the unit directly about your questions/concerns before you sign on the dotted line. See if they will let you come for a visit during a drill weekend. Just my two cents.

Irish