INITIAL TRAINING

Every officer candidate in the Coast Guard Reserve must go through Initial Training, which is essentially Basic Training for officers. This tough program is designed to prepare you to make split-second decisions and take charge in any situation.

Initial Training is a rigorous, three-week Reserve Officer Candidate Indoctrination (ROCI) course at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT. Upon successful completion of ROCI, you'll receive your commission in the Coast Guard Reserve.

When you graduate from the program, you'll receive a commission as an officer in the Coast Guard Reserve. You may be assigned to a ship, to a staff job, or to an operations billet ashore.

However, first assignments are based on the needs of the U.S. Coast Guard. Personal desires and ability are considered.

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 Coasties.