Department of Defense

Question for CSEL, but TAG answered

With retention being a critical focus, are there plans to address the challenges of balancing military duties with civilian careers, especially for Guardsmen facing employer conflicts or scheduling difficulties?

Answer from TAG

Yes, retention of the traditional IDT or M-Day Soldiers (Drill Status Guard (DSG) Airmen for HIANG) is one of our top priorities. I note that you indicate that you’re ARNG-AGR, but I’ll address our ANG personnel as well. I have been M-Day balancing a law enforcement career, AGR, MILTECH, and now state employee throughout my career and fully understand the challenges our Servicemembers face. I utilize the metaphor of “balancing the three rings of life” to describe their challenges. These “rings” are their civilian career, Families, and military careers. Rarely, is there simultaneous growth in all three areas. Here are some ways I’ve tried to address the issues:

1. Predictability. Throughout my military career I’ve observed commanders who craft carefully developed training plans that translate into firm, well-resourced training schedules that enable Servicemembers, Families, and civilian employers to adequately plan for known events. I’ve also seen some who don’t plan very well, which regularly results in last minute changes that exponentially disrupt our Servicemembers’ lives. I’ve experienced this myself, where I’ve had to request leave from my employer at the last minute. To prevent this, I’ll review the TY-26 Training Plans for the Hawaii Air National Guard, Hawaii Army National Guard, and Hawaii National Guard Joint Staff in April 2025 after their respective commanders conduct their Unite Training Briefs (UTP). This will prevent any discontinuity that should reduce last minute changes to zero.

2. Employer Support to the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). Where advanced planning and communication to employers is ineffective, we have access to the Hawaii ESGR (https://www.esgr.mil/About-ESGR/Contact/Local-State-Pages/Hawaii) to assist our Servicemembers by recognizing outstanding employer support, educating Servicemembers on their rights and responsibilities under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA), and providing mediation services. Many of our Hawaii ESGR members are former members of the HING and know all too well the challenges of balancing a civilian and military career. I meet with Hawaii ESGR members regularly and encourage and support their activities so that our HING Servicemembers do not have to struggle unnecessarily.

3. These efforts may not be completely successful, and the servicemember may need to contact the U.S. Department of Labor (https://www.dol.gov/agencies/vets/programs/userra/userra-pocket-guide#ch2) to request additional support, representation, or file a claim. During my career, I’ve had to resort to this option which resulted in successful outcomes. Regulations and procedures have improved over my time in uniform, and I hope this option in rarely needed today.

4. Lastly, you are not alone. My fellow Adjutants General and I recognize the sacrifices made from our all-volunteer military Servicemembers. As the only constitutionally mandated reserve component force in our nation, your National Guard stands trusted, ready, and responsive to the needs of this country and its communities. To provide this, we’re constantly evaluating ways to improve benefits to our Servicemembers and protect their rights. I thank you for your service.