DEPLOYMENT
WHAT HAPPENS DURING DEPLOYMENT?
Deployment is when an active duty or Army Reserve unit is sent to a specific area of operations, usually on foreign soil — most recently in Afghanistan, Kuwait and Iraq. Yet a common misperception is that a deployed unit is automatically sent to a war zone.
Oftentimes, units are deployed to noncombat regions, including Hawaii, Italy, Germany and South Korea. Or they are utilized for humanitarian efforts, such as helping civilians rebuild their lives after a natural disaster.
“As far as the training and the Army and the program and the units and how they handle themselves, I’ve always been impressed with the lengths that the Army and the entire military go to keep Soldiers safe.”
— Cathy, Staff Sergeant John Martin’s Mom
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN AN ARMY RESERVE SOLDIER IS DEPLOYED?
Once activated and deployed, Army Reserve Soldiers receive the same pay as Soldiers of the same rank on active duty. Additional types of pay, including Incentive, Special Pays and a Family Separation Allowance, are available to those who qualify. Federal law also protects the civilian jobs of deployed Army Reserve Soldiers serving their country.
“You always get a little worried when your child is off in a land that isn’t a very nice land. But I felt that Ryan was doing something that, if it was up to me, I’d probably be doing the same thing.”
— David, Staff Sergeant Ryan Yates’ Dad
A GREATER COMMITMENT
The U.S. Army has taken a lead role in the fight against terrorism — a threat that affects each and every one of us. The global war on terror is part of an international, long-term action to secure peace for all nations. This mission relies on the great strength and commitment of American Soldiers.
A Soldier’s job comes with a certain level of risk. Because of this, safety is a major priority within the Army — during training, on the job and on a mission. Recent technological advances have also improved safety and preparedness.
Some Soldiers are asked to serve in dangerous situations. However, Soldiers are always fully prepared before deployment. Every Soldier in every unit goes through extensive training exercises that closely resemble what they will experience in the field. Depending on the reason and the needs of the Army, deployment can last up to two years.
“I think what helped me is Ryan was very confident in himself, and he really believed in what was happening. So that helped me get through it.”
— Kathy, Staff Sergeant Ryan Yates’ Mom