SPFMAN36-2136 — Guardian Participation Program

SPFMAN36-2136 governs Guardian participation and the determination of federal service points for promotion and retirement purposes.

Search SPFMAN36-2136

  • Publication number: SPFMAN36-2136
  • Title: Guardian Participation Program
  • Date: 2026-05-29

View SPFMAN36-2136 on armypubs.army.mil


It addresses general requirements, satisfactory participation, training, pay, retirement points, and Individual Ready Reserve screening. Compliance with the publication is mandatory, and it establishes approval and crediting requirements for specified activities.

Applies to: It provides guidance and procedures on Guardian participation and how to determine federal service points for promotion and retirement purposes and applies to uniformed members of the United States Space Force (USSF).

Topics covered

  • Guardian participation
  • General requirements
  • Individual Ready Reserve screening
  • Training and retirement categories
  • Federal service points
  • Satisfactory participation

Questions and answers

What exemptions apply to Individual Ready Reserve screening?

Exemptions from Individual Ready Reserve screening during a FY are for Guardians who: 1) served in an active duty status during the FY; 2) are scheduled for discharge during the FY; 3) are in a grade of O-4 and higher or E-8 and higher and have no remaining military service obligation, or 4) were successfully screened in the preceding FY. (paragraph 3)

How many annual training days are used for annual screening requirements?

10 USC § 12301(b) Reserve Components Generally, sets guidelines for these Guardians to perform 2 to 3 calendar days of AT each FY (up to a maximum of 15 calendar days each FY) to accomplish the annual screening requirements outlined in 10 USC §§ 10149, 10204, 10205, and 10206. (paragraph 4)

Where do members accomplish their training?

Members accomplish their training at the unit. (paragraph 5)

How are active duty and inactive duty training points credited?

Award one point for each day of active duty. Award one point for each IDT period not to exceed two IDT periods per calendar day. (paragraph 4)

When may points be credited?

Points may only be credited to the date a Guardian actually performed the duty, except in those activities where the cumulative method is authorized (e.g., ALO, teleworking, etc.). (paragraph 4)

Ask Reggie.Bot a question about SPFMAN36-2136