Once a Marine,
Always a Marine.
Your service doesn't have to end. The SMCR lets you keep your title, earn real pay and benefits, and stay connected to the Corps — on your terms. There's no obligation to try it first.
You're still under contract in the IRR — but you're getting nothing for it. You can show up, drill with a unit, and see if it fits before you commit to anything. Bonuses and Lateral Moves come with an obligation, but trying it first costs you nothing.
38 days a year in uniform — 24 Drill days and 14 days of Annual Training. Unit training schedules may vary. Your civilian career, your family, your life — all stay exactly where they are.
Federal law (USERRA) prohibits your employer from firing, demoting, or discriminating against you for Reserve service. Keep your civilian benefits while serving your country.
SSgt Garza can work with you on a realistic timeline before you affiliate. If you join after May 1st, you won't even need to run a PFT for that cycle.
The Selected Marine Corps Reserve (SMCR)
Is the SMCR Right for You?
You're in the IRR
You're still under contract — just not getting anything for it. Joining an SMCR unit changes that. You get paid, you keep your benefits, and you earn retirement credit. Best part? You can try it before you sign anything.
You Want to Stay Connected
Civilian life hits different after the Corps. If you miss the brotherhood, the structure, or just having a reason to stay sharp — the Reserves keep that alive. You keep your job, your family stays home, and you still get to be a Marine. It's a win for everyone!
You Want Real Financial Benefits
Drill pay every month. A bonus of up to $25,000 just for affiliating. Affordable health and dental coverage for you and your family. And a retirement check waiting for you. The tabs above break down exactly what you'd make.
What Happens Next
Call or text SSgt Garza. He reviews your service record, MOS, and goals. No paperwork, no commitment — just a conversation.
SSgt Garza identifies your bonus eligibility, available units, and any MOS options. You'll know exactly what's on the table.
Meet with SSgt Garza for screening paperwork and any additional paperwork after deciding what move best fits your lifestyle.
Affiliate non-obligated to see how it feels to be back with the boys, or obligate from the get-go for a bonus or lateral move. Either way, your first drill weekend starts here.
What Marines Are Saying
"I was in the IRR for two years getting nothing. One phone call with SSgt Garza and I was drilling the next month. Wish I'd done it sooner."
"The bonus alone paid off my truck. My employer was totally fine with it — they actually respect it. The TRICARE for my family was the real game changer."
"I thought I was done with the Corps. Turns out I just needed a break. The Reserves gave me the best of both worlds — I kept my civilian job and I'm still a Marine."
Ready to Find Out What You Qualify For?
SSgt Garza can review your service record, MOS, and goals in a single conversation — no commitment required. Use the tabs above to explore every benefit, then reach out when you're ready.