Reservist in the Coast Guard receive a benefits package that can really help you extend your civilian dollars and work perks. College tuition assistance and dental benefits are just the beginning of the benefits offered to active-duty Guardians.
Steady Pay
For starters, you will get paid. Coast Guard Reservists receive the same pay that other military members receive with the same pay grade and status. For more information is available at Coast Guard Reserve Drill Pay.
Education
Through the Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve, the Coast Guard will help you pay for college or vocational technical training. More information is available at Montgomery GI Bill.
There is also information on the new “Post 9-11 GI Bill” (which offers a substantial increase in benefits).
Coast Guard members, both active-duty and Reserve, also can take advantage of the tuition assistance program to help pay for higher-level education.
Medical and Dental Care
Reservists enjoy low-cost, quality medical and dental coverage through the US Armed Forces TRICARE program.
Free Travel
As a Guardian, you may get the opportunity to travel far and wide as part of your job. Not only will you get to see new places, you’ll do it on the Coast Guard’s dime.
Also, as a Guardian, you will have access to military Space Available flights. This is a unique privilege provided to service members, retirees, and their families. Under the Space-Available (Space A) program, eligible passengers can fill unused seats on DoD-owned or controlled aircraft, once all the space-required (duty) passengers and cargo have been accommodated.
Training
You choose your career path based on your aptitude, physical abilities, security clearance, motivation and determination. Unlike other military services, the Coast Guard offers all specialties to both men and women equally – including combat roles.
Ongoing Training
The two-week annual commitment for Reservists is normally devoted to training. However, it is not uncommon for Reservists to complete this training by being engaged in actual operational duty, side by side with active-duty Guardians.
Specialty Training
As needed and when it fits the needs of the unit’s and member’s schedule, Reservists can receive Class ‘C’ school specialized training designed to go beyond the basics for a job specialty.
Life Insurance
Coast Guard Reserve members can elect to be covered by low-cost life insurance in amounts of up to $400,000 from Servicemember’s Group Life Insurance (SGLI).
Other Benefits
You’ll have shopping privileges at military bases and access to all kinds of recreational facilities.
And, looking into the future, Coast Guard Reserve members start building a retirement starting with their first drill. After 20 good years, Reserve members will have earned retirement benefits. What other part-time opportunity offers this?