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Notification

A unit usually is put on alert before it is activated. Once on alert, activation can come within hours or days, but units often are alerted months before activation or deployment.

All reserve and National Guard units have an alert notification system. Reservists normally are alerted by their chain of command via a phone call, which is followed up with an Automatic Digital Network message or certified letter. Your unit should have your current home and work addresses and phone numbers.

You are required to notify your employer, school and/or landlord after your orders are in hand. It’s a good idea to tell them as soon as possible. Tell them as much as you can, including deployment dates. Employers with questions can contact your commanding officer.