Note: Members already serving in the US Army must follow the process set forth in the latest MILPER message; a copy can be downloaded from the Army Talent Management page at https://talent.army.mil/job/civilaffairs-reserve/.
The first step is to create your packet for the Military Government Officer (38G) direct commissioning board. Below is a short list of some of the required documents that will need to be included in your packet:
- Resume (Not a CV). No mandated required format, but it must include the specific months worked (i.e. 15 March 2012 – 25 September 2015, rather than 2012-2015). Professional experience is a key aspect of Direct Commission candidacy, so you are encouraged to include all relevant details.
- Narrative essay (750 words): This should be a statement that can be read and digested rapidly by members of the board, an overall statement of purpose highlighting what you, as a candidate, think are your strongest “selling points” for Direct Commission and what your fundamental motivation is. 3.
- Three Letters of Recommendation. The letters should be addressed to the “the members of the 38G Direct Commissioning Board” and should speak to your eligibility to be an Officer in the US Army and your competence relating to the 38G skill identifier you are seeking.
- Scans of transcripts and diplomas. You must have a Master’s Degree or higher. We do not need official sealed paper copies of transcripts sent to us via postal mail. Applicants should scan and send transcripts for all colleges and universities attended. Transcripts must include the following:
- all courses attended and grades received
- proof of degree conferral
- date of degree conferral
- grading policy and scale
After preparing your packet, you will submit it for consideration by a panel of Army Officers who will determine if you are qualified for the 38G program and that your skills currently fulfill an operational priority. The timeline for your packet to go before a panel is typically 6-12 months after you contact 38G Accessions for the first time.