Courage to Resist published “Resisting Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) recall” in February 2009. Since then, inquiries from current and former military personnel affected by the IRR program have been a substantial part of our daily work.

This FAQ assumes that you have already read our original resisting IRR overview.

Important Update: Some “Post-9/11 GI Bill” benefits affected by refusal

• How do I know that the information you provide is true and accurate?
• What happens if I just don’t show up for involuntary activation?
• Do I need to go “underground” and hide if I don’t report?
• Is it true that I might be arrested and jailed for not reporting?
• Is there any danger of being court martialed for failing to report?
• Where does it state that the UCMJ does not apply to the IRR?
• What about my military benefits?
• I’m leaving active duty soon. Can I avoid being placed into the IRR?
• Should I reenlist or transfer to a Reserve unit in order to avoid IRR activation?
• How many people are currently being involuntarily recalled by the IRR?
• Should I file for a formal exemption from involuntary activation?
• What more can you tell me about filing for an exemption?
• What about intentionally failing the drug test to get out of activation?
• Does this information apply to the “Individual Warrior" catagory / program also?
• Does the information about the IRR apply to Reservists also?
• Does the information about the IRR apply to “Stop Loss” also?
• What’s the actual fall out of a bad IRR discharge?
• By making this IRR information available, will not the military close this "loop hole"?
• If I refuse activation, and they come after me, will you help me?
• Should I hire an attorney to get me out of an involuntary activation?
• What about reporting for semi-regular IRR musters?
• I’m an officer. Does this information apply to me also?
• What’s the difference between resisting activation, and just not showing up?
• After resisting IRR recall, can I still work on or visit my local military base?
• Should I donate to Courage to Resist for helping me out with this information?

Regardless of if you find your question listed or not, please feel free to call us at 510-488-3559 to discussion your situation.