Do reservists go to Basic mixed in with full-timers or are they separated out? I could imagine people who are too far into their careers at that age to drop out and enlist on fulltime active duty but have realized that their jobs aren’t fulfilling, and want to be part of something bigger than themselves to the extend that they can.
In 1986 we were mixed. The only time one’s destiny made a difference was in calling out meal card numbers in the chow line.
“J4045475, National Guard, Ma’am!”
—that was me.
In 1987, finding I enjoyed Guard Drills more than my civilian job, I joined the Regular Army.