Research for SMCR

In this paper, we examine the Selected Reserve (SelRes) affiliation behavior of prior-service (PS) Marines. We use Marine Corps Total Force Structure (MCTFS) data on enlisted Marines and Marine officers who left active duty and transitioned to the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) between October 2001 and September 2011. We estimate the effect of Marine characteristics and service history (active duty and reserve) on the SelRes affiliation decisions.

This research memorandum summarizes CNA's analysis of Marine Corps forces for the congressionally mandated Active and Reserve Force Structure and Mix Study. It discusses the historical use of the Marine Corps Reserve in the Korean and Persian Gulf Wars, legislation pertaining to Marine Corps force structure, the Marine Corps' implementation of Total Force Policy, development of alternative force structures, and preparation of reserve forces for war. It also discusses ten alternative force structures. The analysis of alternative force structures considers the capability to respond to future contingencies, peacetime forward-presence/rotation capability, reserve force sustainability, total number of personnel in active forces and the Selected Marine Corps Reserve, transition costs, and steady-state costs. See also 27 920161, 27 920168, 27 920180, and 27 920185.