RECRUIT SUSTAINMENT PROGRAM | RSP

Waiting to ship? RSP gets you ready.

The Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP)

These weekends are your first step toward success, designed to strengthen you mentally, physically, emotionally, and administratively as you prepare for your future in the Guard. At RSP, you'll start mastering the language, discipline, and traditions that make the Guard a force like no other—and you'll get paid while you train! RSP is broken down into five dynamic phases, each building your confidence and setting you up to thrive at BCT and beyond.

FIND OUT MORE

take a look into RSP

Watch the video

red phase

Your first weekend at RSP is Red Phase. In this intensive training you'll be introduced to the Illinois Army National Guard and begin building a foundation for your future career.

You'll learn about:

• RSP Introduction

• Army Structure

• Chain of Command

• Rank and Insignia

• Customs and Courtesies

• General Orders

• Reporting Procedures

• Drill and Ceremony

• Physical Fitness

• AKO & MyPay Setup

As you learn the Army structure, chain of command and rank insignia, you'll gain a better understanding of what's expected of you as a Soldier.

white phase

Each RSP weekend brings you one step closer to Basic Combat Training (BCT). The length of White Phase varies for most. This phase is where you build on the foundation you developed during Red Phase and continue to prepare for BCT.

You'll learn about:

• Proper Wear of the Military Uniform

• Army Values, Soldier's Creed and Warrior Ethos

• Employ Camouflage, Cover and Concealment

• Basic Soldier Skills and Tactics

• Weapons Familiarization

• Physical Fitness

You will continue developing skills, discipline, and confidence that will help you succeed at training. You may also have the opportunity to earn a promotion to PV2 through the Stripes for Skills Program.

blue phase

YOU'RE ALMOST THERE! Blue Phase is your final RSP weekend before shipping to BCT. This phase brings everything together with the goal of ensuring you're prepared, confident, and ready for what comes next.

Along with physical preparation, you'll review:

• What to expect at BCT

• Inspections

• Important information before you ship

• Updates to Personal or Administrative Information

• Final Preparations for BCT

Think of this phase as your last readiness check. This is an opportunity to review what you have learned, address any changes in your life, and make sure you're fully prepared for the journey ahead.

green phase

You have completed BCT- now it's about staying SHARP.

Green phase is designed for Soldiers participating in the Split Training Option (STO). Soldiers in the STO program are those who attended BCT between their Junior and Senior year of high school. This option allows you to finish your Senior year of high school and prepare you for Advanced Individual Training (AIT).

During Green Phase, you will continue to develop skills such as:

• Urban Area Operations

• Convoy Operations

• Navigation Techniques

• Weapons Familiarization and Function Checks

• Leadership and Soldier skills

This phase bridges the gap between BCT and AIT. This allows you to maintain the skills you have learned, to grow as a leader, and stay prepared.

gold phase

YOU MADE IT! After completing BCT and AIT, you'll return to RSP for one final drill before transitioning to your assigned unit.

Gold Phase is your Battle Handoff- the final step in your RSP journey. You will have the opportunity to connect with representatives from your unit, learn what to expect at your first drill, and receive information to make your transition from RSP to your unit as seamless as possible.

Before you leave RSP, you will cover:

• Bonuses/ Financial Readiness

• Education Benefits Briefing

• Battle Handoff/ Unit Sponsorship

• Army Structure/ Chain of Command

• Physical Health Assessment

You entered RSP as a new recruit, and now you leave as a trained Soldier.

GET THE EXPERIENCE

Watch the video

get started today

A recruiter can answer questions and help you understand your options. Complete this form to receive your local recruiters contact information.

Get started with the Illinois National Guard