Headquarters and Service Battalion

1. Direct Affiliation Program (DAP) Joins

• Once you are approved a DAP, ensure your active-duty administration section gets a copy of your approval to run the proper transfer codes. Your reserve gaining command will need a copy as well.  If you’re joining an IMA all joins will be run by MarForRes so a copy of your approval must be sent to   OBO.MFR_IPAC_CSC@usmc.mil

• Your join date to your command should be the day after your EAS.

• If you transitioned directly from active duty to an IMA billet through DAP, your assignment should already be established.

• Ensure that your End of Active Service (EAS) and Reserve contract align correctly to avoid gaps in service.

• Verify your Reserve Orders in Marine Online (MOL) and update your contact information.

• You are required to complete your Initial Drill Period (IDP) within 60 days of your join date.

2. Prior Service Recruiter (PSR) Joins

• If you were recruited into the IMA program by a Prior Service Recruiter, confirm your unit assignment and ensure you have a valid reserve contract in place and when your effective join date is.

• Work with your IMA Operational Sponsor (OpSponsor) to determine your training schedule and administrative onboarding as each detachment has their own requirements.

• Ensure that your records, including medical and dental readiness, are up to date in Marine Corps Training Information Management System (MCTIMS) and MOL.

3. Interunit Transfers Reserve Training and Management System (RTAMMS) Joins

• Once approved, you should get an email notification, you will download your approved Interunit Transfer orders from RTAMMS and sign them accepting the orders.  You will then put that signed IUT into an EPAR that will be forwarded to MarForRes to join you to your new unit.

• If you transferred from another IMA Detachment or SMCR unit via (RTAMMS), verify your new billet information in MOL.

• Ensure that your training, PME requirements, and Annual Training (AT) obligations are properly transferred and scheduled.

• Contact your new IMA unit OpSponsor to ensure all reporting requirements are completed.

1. Complete the Initial Drill Period (IDP)

• All new IMA Marines must complete their Initial Drill Period within 60 days of assignment. This includes administrative in-processing and training validation. During one of your first drills, reservist in the Norther Virginia Area shall report to Henderson Hall RLO to get assistance with a self-audit and check into security.

2. Coordinate Your Annual Training (AT) & Drill Periods

• IMAs must complete a minimum of 12 days of Annual Training (AT) per fiscal year.

• Work with your OpSponsor to schedule your drills in alignment with mission needs.

3. Update Your Medical & Dental Readiness

• Schedule any required PHA, dental exams, and immunizations to maintain deployability status.

• Ensure your records are current in MCTIMS and the Medical Readiness Reporting System (MRRS).

4. Maintain PME & MOS Training Requirements

• Complete any necessary Professional Military Education (PME) based on your grade and MOS.

• Update any MOS-specific certifications or training as required for your billet.

5. Verify Pay & Benefits Enrollment

• Ensure your Drill Pay, Tricare Reserve Select enrollment, and SGLI elections are correct in MOL and Marine Forces Reserve Admin Centers.

• Review your retirement points and service obligation to track career progression.

Communicate with Your IMA Operational Sponsor

• Your sponsor is your primary point of contact for training, scheduling, and mission requirements.

Stay Updated on HQMC & IMA Policies

• Monitor updates through MOL, MARADMINs, and your unit admin team.

Use Career & Professional Development Resources

• Take advantage of PME opportunities, MOS enhancement training, and career counseling.

Once you are joined in the systems, MOL and RTAMMS, all reservists will request access to the RLO TEAMS page.  This page will have pertinent updates, templates, and additional contact information for IMA Marines attached to HQMC Henderson Hall. You can gain access to the teams by contacting us at RLO email.

For any questions or assistance please use your new IMA Detachment Opsponsor as your first line for assistance.  If you do not know who your OpSponsor is or cannot get a hold of them, please contact the Henderson Hall Marine Corps Reserve Liaison Office. We’re here to ensure a smooth transition and support your continued service in the IMA Detachment at HQMC!

• Description: SMCR Marines serve in traditional drilling reserve units, typically at Marine Reserve Centers across the country.

• Commitment: The standard commitment is one weekend per month and two weeks per year (annual training).

• Role: These Marines train regularly as a cohesive unit and are deployable as a unit when activated.

• Best For: Marines looking for a structured unit environment, consistent training, and the camaraderie of a traditional reserve unit.

• Description: IMA Marines are assigned to active-duty commands (such as Headquarters Marine Corps at Henderson Hall) and provide direct support to their respective units when activated.

• Commitment: More flexible than SMCR—reservists work with their assigned command to schedule training and drill periods, typically completing a minimum of 12 days of Annual Training per year.

• Role: IMAs augment active-duty units during high-tempo operations, mobilizations, or contingencies.

• Best For: Marines who prefer flexibility in scheduling drills and want to directly support operational commands without the regular monthly drill obligation of SMCR units.

• Description: IRR Marines are not assigned to a drilling unit and do not have required training obligations, but they remain eligible for activation in times of national emergency or operational need.

• Commitment: No mandatory training unless voluntarily participating in professional military education, certain courses, or activation.

• Role: IRR Marines do not drill regularly but can be recalled to active duty if needed.

• If you want a structured, unit-based environment with consistent training → SMCR

• If you want flexibility and direct augmentation to active-duty commands → IMA

• If you want to maintain military affiliation with no regular commitment → IRR

• Each program offers unique benefits and opportunities based on your career goals, lifestyle, and desired level of involvement in the Marine Corps Reserve. If you're considering transitioning from active duty, the Reserve Liaison Office at Henderson Hall can provide guidance on available IMA billets and help you find the best fit for your continued service.

• Best For: Marines who want to maintain military affiliation with minimal obligation, often while pursuing civilian careers or education. Which Option Is Right for You?