Just did my I and I interview. (Info for Reserves)

[HLeyb]

I've heard of this interview before and I've seen some questions on it, I figured I'd report to the reservists who were wondering what the interview is like and what it involves.

I did my I and I interview at 6th Comm Batt. in Brooklyn.

Basically this is an interview with your Inspector and Instructor (I and I), although the Master Gunnery Sergeant who interviewed me was neither my inspector nor my instructor.

He went over my MOS and asked me if I understood what my commitment to the Marine Corps was, he asked me why I wanted to join the Corps and if I knew what my MOS was (specifically). He went over my term of enlistment, what programs and bonuses, if any, I was eligible for. It really was brief, about 20 minutes, but the side conversations I had with some of the Marines while waiting were AWESOME!

I spoke to both a Captain and a Sergeant Major who asked me when I was going to Boot and gave me some solid advice which I'll be sure to heed and want to share (although we've all heard it before): Move Fast, Be Loud and Pay Attention to Detail.

Anyway hope this helps some you poolees (reserves) who were wondering what the interview was about.

[Echo_Four_Bravo]

How do you figure the Master Guns wasn't "your" inspector or instructor? All of the active duty Marines there are on I&I duty, to inspect and instruct the whole of the unit. As a Master Gunnery Sgt. he will inspect and instruct anyone he pleases, you get that right with that much weight on your collar.

Glad it went well for you. Now go earn the right to drill with those Marines.

[rvillac2]

It could be that he meant the Master Gunny was a reservist who just happened to be there.

Regardless, HLeyb, I think your comment was vague and borderline disrespectful. Be careful how you characterize one of the most senior Marines in your future unit. Lots of people read this forum.

[HLeyb]

That was certainly not my intent, and I'm sure the Master Gunnery Sergeant would attest that I showed him great respect throughout the interview, heck I was so honored to be interviewed by a Master Gunnery Sergeant.

What I meant by the statement was according to my Recruiter I would be assigned a Sergeant within the base who I would work with, and essentially he would become my I and I. I have the utmost respect for any Marine, much less a Senior NCO.

[Echo_Four_Bravo]

Oh, I see what you're saying now. Honestly, when I was in the reserves I never really did much with the I&I staff. You will be under the command of the reserve Marines, not the I&I people. The only time I really talked to the I&I staff was when I was just sitting around with nothing to do- which happens when you are a part of HQ platoon as a comm guy in an infantry company.

But, be nice to the Master Guns. There aren't many of the out there, and they tend to know EVERYONE in the Marine Corps.

[rvillac2]

Thanks for clearing that up.

And to elaborate on E4B: You don't have an "I&I" that will work with you like an individually assigned mentor. There is actually only one I&I and he is the senior Officer in charge of the Reserve Center. The I&I certifies the readiness of the unit as part of the Reserve Marine Corps. The I&I and his staff maintain the day to day operations of the center, assist with logistical planning for training, and mentor the different sub units within the main unit.

In our Artillery Battery, we had an I&I Staff NCO for Artillery, Motor T, Comm, and Admin. The I&I and his staff ensure that everything is in place for training and sometimes lead classes themselves. However, the unit structure of SNCO and NCO's is the same as every other unit in the Corps. So, more than likely, you will be in a small squad within your MOS and a corporal will be mentoring you.

Last thing to note: The I&I and staff are assigned to the Reserve Center, not the unit. When the unit activates and deploys, they do not go with them. This was a sore spot for the staff we left behind for Desert Shield/Storm.