You’ve just taken the oath and you’re on your way to becoming a U.S. Army Soldier—what an incredible journey!
As you prepare to move through Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), you may already be counting down the days until you get to come home again . But here’s some exciting news you may not have heard yet:
You may have the chance to come home—and get paid for it—before reporting to their first duty station.
It’s called the Hometown Recruiter Assistance Program, or HRAP, and it’s an amazing opportunity for both you and your community.
Here’s what every Future Soldier should know.
What Is HRAP?
The Hometown Recruiter Assistance Program (HRAP) allows newly trained Soldiers to return to their hometown for up to 14 days after graduating from AIT to support their local Army recruiter.
Think of it as a mini homecoming before their first official assignment—except this time, they’re coming back in uniform, with confidence, and with a mission:
To inspire the next generation of Soldiers right from the community they came from.
Why HRAP Is a Big Deal
For Soldiers, HRAP is a unique gift. It gives you the chance to:
- Spend additional time at home before shipping out to their first duty station
- Get paid their regular Army salary during the program
- Reconnect with their roots, schools, mentors, and friends
- Inspire other young adults in your community to follow in their footsteps
- Continue building their confidence and leadership skills in a real-world setting
And yes—it counts as official Army duty time.
What Will I Do During HRAP?
While on HRAP, you will:
- Report to the recruiting station where they enlisted
- Visit local schools, events, or job fairs alongside a recruiter
- Share their Army story with friends, peers, and future recruits
- Offer insight into Army life, Basic Training, and career opportunities
- Help their recruiter connect with new Future Soldiers
They are not required to sign anyone up for the Army—they’re simply there to share their experience and represent what’s possible.
Who Is Eligible?
To participate in HRAP, you must:
- Be a new Soldier who has completed Basic Training and AIT or OSUT
- Have no disciplinary issues during training
- Receive approval from their unit and recruiting command
Speak with your Recruiter now to ensrue you can participate in the HRAP program.
Final Thoughts: A Moment of Pride, A Mission of Purpose
HRAP is more than just a break—it’s a meaningful mission that allows you to give back, reconnect, and inspire others before heading off to your first duty station.
It’s a proud moment for you. It’s a proud moment for your family. And it’s a powerful way to help build hometown connections to America’s Army.
See you back next week! Hooah!
SGM Kris Broadus, U.S. Army (Retired)
