Full-Time Manning in the Army's Reserve Components

Testimony was given on the results of a GAO review of the Army's Full-Time Manning (FTM) Program for Reserve Components. Under the program, active National Guard and Army Reserve (AGR) personnel are assigned to Reserve units to enhance unit readiness and deployability through improved training, personnel administration, maintenance, supply, and operational activities. GAO found that the majority of personnel in the units which it visited appeared to be well qualified, met military occupational specialty requirements, and many had active duty experience. However, GAO found that the Army needs to better manage the FTM program to ensure that program goals and benefits are achieved and that program costs are controlled. GAO found that the same type of units had significant differences in manning requirements. GAO also questioned an across-the-board application of FTM unit models which would provide the same level of manning for all units regardless of deployment priority. In addition, GAO found that program management weaknesses have resulted in: (1) a lack of uniform personnel management; (2) overgraded personnel; (3) confusion over the proper role of civilian technicians; (4) the assignment of two persons to the same authorized position; and (5) concerns about career viability. Finally, GAO found problems with mixing AGR personnel and civilian technicians in deployable units, including: (1) personnel management problems; (2) supervisory problems; (3) confusion among subordinates; (4) friction due to pay and benefit disparities; and (5) decreased unit effectiveness. While an all-civilian technician force would be a less costly alternative, GAO believes that an AGR force would be preferred because: (1) civilian technicians cannot be deployed with their units; (2) higher military pay and benefits would enhance recruitment and retention of qualified personnel; and (3) the management problems associated with mixed-force units would be eliminated.