1979 Reserve Force Studies Surveys

Describes a set of interrelated surveys administered between late November 1979 and June 1980 to 224 Army National Guard and 221 Army Reserve company-sized units. The purpose of the 1979 Reserve Force Studies Surveys was to collect data that would allow analyses of reserve force unit manning problems and the assessment of strategies for improving reserve strength. Questionnaires were administered to all unit personnel — both junior and senior enlisted members and unit commanders. Data were also collected describing the characteristics of the unit and the community in which the unit is located. The first five sections of the Note describe the policy and research rationale, as well as the analytic objectives of the surveys, the sampling plan and sample selection procedures, the questionnaire development process, the contents of the questionnaires, and the procedures used for data collection. The final section summarizes the problems encountered in conducting these surveys and includes recommendations for future efforts. Appendixes include copies of the questionnaires and all administrative materials.