According to a recent announcement, Air Force reservists will have the opportunity to join the Space Force as full-time guardians. The application process, which opens on Saturday, aims to integrate reservists with space-related expertise into the Space Force's ranks, offering them the chance to undertake a more fluid role between full-time and part-time service. This step, as stated by Gen. Chance Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations, “This is an important first step toward fully integrating critical space expertise from the Reserve into our force," a position he underscored in a release obtained by Air Force Times.
Prospective applicants will find themselves in good company, as interest in the Space Force is on the rise, evidenced by the journey of Medina Valley High School's sole 2024 graduate, Dylan Lee, who has embarked on a path to become a guardian. Lee, who was originally considering the Air Force for its cyber program, shifted his sights skyward after a military recruiter highlighted the nascent branch's potential for career growth in cybersecurity. According to a KENS 5 interview, Lee explained, "Practically everything we have today is rooted around cyber technology and if we don't protect it, it's a huge weakness that could end up injuring a lot of society."
Applications for Air Force reservists will be accepted until Nov. 30, with selections occurring through boards in September, November 2024, and January 2025. Transfers will start the following fiscal year, under the condition that applicants commit to a minimum of two years active-duty service, or up to six for enlisted personnel. However, there are potential challenges, notably for those reservists whose circumstances require them to remain in a fixed location due to family or other commitments. The Space Force has acknowledged these issues, saying, "Members that are not assigned at or near a Space Force location, or members assigned at, or near a Space Force location, but no authorized vacancy exists, will likely be reassigned, which may require [a permanent change of station]."
Meanwhile, enthusiasts like Lee are counting the days until their training commences. With basic training scheduled for June 25 at JBSA Lackland, Lee hopes to complete the program by mid-August. His ambition carries him forward, with his eyes set on a potential position in Colorado, where, as he told KENS 5, "I'm surprised more people haven't seen this opportunity that's there. With the U.S. Space Force being such a new branch, there's so much more room for growth,"
Such sentiments resonate with the Air Force Reserve's Lt. Gen. John Healy who said, "The Space Force is about to integrate some of the most talented space operators."
