So, I've been stalling on writing this, the words have been lost on me, but here goes my best attempt to stifle my procrastinatory tendencies.
As many of you know, I served with honor in the 82D Airborne Division of the United States Army for 4 long years. Much of that time spent in Iraq. I tried not to be bitter for the fact that I had joined to go to Afghanistan and ended up in Iraq, and just decided for myself that when my time was up, I would politely take my leave. And so I did.
Here I am, 2 years (come October 3rd) after watching Ft. Bragg shrink in my rear view mirror for the last time, and I have had an interesting turn of events. You see, the thing they don't tell you in the Army o' One commercials is that whenever you sign up... you do so for 8 years. Oh sure... you can get a 6, 4, or even a 3 year contract when going in, but from the moment you sign said contract... they make you their possession until 7 years 364 days later. Well, if you are any good with math, you'll realize that that leaves me with 2 years of retention in what is called the Inactive Ready Reserve, or IRR. There has been some quiet news stories over the past few years of just HOW they are "backdoor-drafting" people who have already served a reasonable obligation back into service. I honestly didn't give the thought that they would do it to me much thought... but they did.
They wanted me to be an MP and kick in doors for the next 2 years. No thanks. Been there... done that... got the CAB. But what could I do? Well, A friend of mine recently dealt with the same problem, and having heard his solution, I applied it to my own. I beat them to the punch. I got myself voluntarily re-activated into a local reserve unit with no combat mission. Sorry fellas... I've done my time, and now, I'm gonna be an Information Systems Specialist (25B) A.K.A. Computer Geek.
It requires me to cut my hair and shave my face again, which I don't much care for, as I am still baby-faced enough to make being taken seriously for my accomplishments difficult. Oh well. At least I'm in control to SOME extent.
Ken
