MEMORANDUM FOR CORRESPONDENTS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Army Officials will discuss the reporting process for the mobilization of the individual ready reserve (IRR) Soldiers today at a media roundtable. Mr. Robert H. Smiley, Principal Assistant for Training, Readiness, and Mobilization, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Manpower and Reserve Affairs), and Brigadier General Sean J. Byrne, Director of Personnel Policy, will give an overview at 12:15 p.m. in the G1 Conference Room, 2E477.

Media representatives will receive an update about the IRR process, delay and exemption information, and current personnel reporting data involved with the call-up. Plans continue for IRR Soldiers to be brought on active duty over an extended period in several phased groups, through the end of the year. Soldiers have been assigned to designated mobilizing Army Reserve and National Guard units based upon the needs of the Army. Soldiers have been given a minimum 30 days advance notice to report.

The all-volunteer Army now exists in one of the most demanding periods in its modern history. Sustained operations are the norm and the need to organize and balance the force between the active and reserve components is critical to meet current mission requirements.

Media wishing to cover the roundtable discussion should arrive at the Metro entrance no later than 11:30 a.m. Members of the press must have proof of affiliation and two forms of identification. Please contact the Media Relations Office at (703) 697-2000.

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