The Basics of Military Tours: Exploring the Different Types and Benefits

Introduction

Military tours are an integral part of military service. The purpose of this article is to explore the different types of military tours, as well as the benefits associated with serving in a tour. Additionally, it will provide an overview of the requirements for enlistment, security clearance, and education.

Exploring the Different Types of Military Tours

There are several different types of military tours available. These include active duty tours, reserve duty tours, and training/drill tours. Each type of tour has its own unique set of responsibilities and benefits.

Active Duty Tours

Active duty tours are the most common type of military tour. During an active duty tour, members of the military are typically deployed for extended periods of time, usually lasting anywhere from six months to a year. During an active duty tour, the individual is expected to perform a variety of duties, including combat missions, humanitarian efforts, and other operational activities.

Reserve Duty Tours

Reserve duty tours are less common than active duty tours, but they still play an important role in the military. Reserve duty tours involve individuals who have already completed their active duty service, but who remain part of the military in a reserve capacity. During a reserve duty tour, individuals are required to complete specific training exercises and may be called upon to participate in operations when needed.

Training/Drill Tours

Training/Drill tours are short-term tours that are typically conducted on a regular basis. During these tours, individuals are given the opportunity to hone their skills and learn new techniques. Training/Drill tours can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the individual’s needs.

A Guide to Understanding Military Tours

Once you have chosen the type of tour that best suits your needs, it is important to understand the specifics of each type of tour. The following section will provide an overview of the length of tours, tour locations, and types of jobs on tours.

Length of Tours

The length of a tour depends on the type of tour being undertaken. Active duty tours can last anywhere from six months to one year, while reserve duty tours may last for up to two years. Training/drill tours typically last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Tour Locations

The location of a tour can vary greatly depending on the type of tour being undertaken. For example, active duty tours may take place anywhere in the world, while reserve duty tours are typically limited to the member’s home state or region. Training/drill tours may take place at a local base or other military installation.

Types of Jobs on Tours

The type of job that an individual is assigned during a tour depends on the type of tour being undertaken. For example, active duty tours may involve combat missions, humanitarian efforts, or other operational activities, while reserve duty tours typically involve more administrative tasks. Training/drill tours may involve a variety of activities, such as learning new techniques or honing existing skills.

The Benefits of Serving in a Military Tour

Serving in a military tour can be a rewarding experience. There are numerous benefits associated with serving in a tour, including increased pay and allowances, improved job skills and experience, and college credit for serving.

Increased Pay and Allowances

Individuals who serve in a military tour are eligible for increased pay and allowances. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, “Members of the armed forces on active duty receive basic pay, which is based on rank and time in service. They also receive additional pay for special duties, such as hazardous duty or foreign language proficiency.” In addition to basic pay, individuals can also receive allowances for housing, food, and other expenses.

Improved Job Skills and Experience

Serving in a military tour can provide individuals with valuable job skills and experience. According to a report by the Rand Corporation, “Military personnel gain valuable job skills and experiences related to team building, leadership, problem solving, and critical thinking. These skills and experiences can be used to gain employment after leaving the military.”

College Credit for Serving

Individuals who serve in a military tour may be eligible for college credit. According to the American Council on Education, “Many colleges and universities offer credit for military service, including credit for courses taken during a tour of duty.” College credit for military service can help individuals save money and time when pursuing a degree after their tour.

How to Prepare for a Military Tour

In order to prepare for a military tour, individuals must meet certain physical fitness requirements, obtain necessary supplies, and mentally prepare for the experience. The following section will provide an overview of these requirements.

Physical Fitness Requirements

All individuals who are planning to serve in a military tour must meet certain physical fitness requirements. According to the U.S. Army, “All soldiers must pass the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), which includes push-ups, sit-ups, and a two-mile run.” Individuals must also meet other physical fitness standards, such as body composition and cardiovascular endurance.

Mental Preparation

In addition to physical preparation, individuals must also mentally prepare for a military tour. According to the National Center for PTSD, “It is important to prepare mentally for the challenges of military life, such as the possibility of being in combat or facing other stressful situations.” Mental preparation can help individuals cope with the pressures of a military tour.

Obtaining Necessary Supplies

Individuals must also ensure that they have all the necessary supplies for their tour. According to the U.S. Army, “Soldiers should make sure they have all the necessary gear, such as uniforms, protective clothing, and weapons.” It is also important to ensure that all medical records are up to date and that any medications needed are obtained prior to the tour.

An Overview of Military Tour Requirements

In order to serve in a military tour, individuals must meet certain requirements. These requirements include enlistment requirements, security clearance, and education requirements. The following section will provide an overview of these requirements.

Enlistment Requirements

In order to serve in a military tour, individuals must first meet the enlistment requirements. According to the U.S. Air Force, “All applicants must meet age, education, moral, and physical requirements in order to be eligible for enlistment.” Additionally, individuals must also pass a background check and drug test.

Security Clearance

Individuals who wish to serve in a military tour may also be required to obtain security clearance. According to the U.S. Navy, “Personnel must possess the appropriate security clearance before they can be assigned to a tour.” Security clearance is typically required for individuals who will be working with sensitive information or materials.

Education Requirements

Finally, individuals must also meet educational requirements in order to serve in a military tour. According to the U.S. Marine Corps, “All personnel must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent in order to be eligible for a tour.” Additionally, some tours may require individuals to have a college degree or specialized training.

What You Need to Know About Military Tours

Before embarking on a military tour, it is important to understand the rules and regulations associated with the tour. This includes understanding the deployment policies, reenlistment rules, and health care options available to individuals serving in a tour.

Deployment Policies

Deployment policies vary depending on the type of tour being undertaken. According to the U.S. Army, “Deployment policies can vary based on the type of tour, but generally involve the deployment of personnel for a specified period of time.” It is important to understand the deployment policies prior to embarking on a tour.

Reenlistment Rules

Individuals who wish to serve in a military tour may be required to reenlist after completing their tour. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, “Reenlistment rules vary depending on the type of tour being undertaken. Generally, personnel must have served honorably in their previous tour in order to be eligible for reenlistment.”

Health Care Options

Individuals who serve in a military tour may be eligible for health care options. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, “Veterans who have served in a tour of duty may be eligible for health care benefits through the VA, including medical, dental, and vision care.” It is important to understand the health care options available to individuals serving in a tour.

Conclusion

Military tours are an important part of military service. This article explored the different types of military tours, such as active duty, reserve duty, and training/drill tours, and the benefits associated with serving in a tour. Additionally, it provided an overview of the requirements for enlistment, security clearance, and education. Serving in a military tour can be a rewarding experience, and individuals should ensure that they are adequately prepared before embarking on one.

Summary of Article

This article explored the different types of military tours, such as active duty, reserve duty, and training/drill tours, and the benefits associated with serving in a tour. Additionally, it provided an overview of the requirements for enlistment, security clearance, and education, as well as the deployment policies, reenlistment rules, and health care options available to individuals serving in a tour.

Final Thoughts

Serving in a military tour can be a rewarding experience. Individuals should ensure that they are adequately prepared before embarking on a tour, both physically and mentally. Additionally, they should understand the rules and regulations associated with their tour, as well as the benefits and requirements associated with serving in a tour.