Volunteer Reserves (United Kingdom)

[2] Volunteer Reserves are allowed to use the post-nominal letters VR after 10 years of service.

[3] The Volunteer Reserves also includes the armed forces University Service Units (incl.

[4][5][6][7] The Volunteer Reserves primarily consist of four elements, each being an integrated part of their parent service and liable for military operations.

University Service Units are listed alongside the service they fall under: Under the Reserve Forces Act 1996, fully mobilising or "calling-out" the Volunteer Reserves for active service can only be made by a royal proclamation on the advice of the Secretary of State for Defence under specific circumstances: (a) if it appears to [the monarch] that national danger is imminent or that a great emergency has arisen; or

[8]However, in the case of lesser events, the Secretary of State can call-out those who have accepted a "special agreement" making them liable for up to 12 months of active service if required.