The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is grappling with a significant issue: a lack of understanding about the role of reservists. This problem is particularly pronounced among military reporters and full-time CAF members. Many do not fully grasp what reservists do or the nature of their service. Reservists are not merely volunteers; they are part of a voluntary military system where all members, including full-time personnel, join willingly. Each member accepts an obligation of "unlimited liability," meaning they are prepared to be deployed in dangerous situations. Reservists serve part-time and are compensated for their service, with training standards intended to match those of their full-time counterparts. Reservists come from diverse backgrounds, with a significant number being students. Most training courses for reservists occur during the summer when the regular forces are less active. The regular forces are considered the full-time elite of the military, distinguished by their training and commitment. However, this distinction is more pronounced in special forces than in the regular army, navy, and air force. In contrast, reservists are part-time soldiers who balance military commitments with civilian careers. They serve in local communities across Canada, often in small, underfunded units that have historical significance but receive limited support from the full-time military. There is a perception among some regular force members that they are superior to reservists, which can lead to a lack of respect for the contributions of part-time soldiers. Historically, the full-time military has struggled to maintain readiness without relying on reservists. Since before World War I, the regular force has often been unprepared for deployment and has needed to fill ranks with reservists. Currently, the full-time military cannot operate effectively without trained reservists, particularly junior leaders, who are often lured away from their part-time roles by full-time contracts. This dynamic has led to stagnation within the reserve force. Despite their limited time, part-time reservists bring enthusiasm and dedication to their roles, which can lead to the development of capable officers and soldiers. During World War II, many army officers were reservists, and by 1945, three of the five division commanders were pre-war reservists. However, Canada has not adequately nurtured this potential. Mobilization planning is crucial for any military, especially in times of crisis. Interviews with senior officers revealed a prevailing belief that traditional mobilization would not occur. However, experts warn that recent global events, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine, highlight the importance of having a well-prepared reserve force. The situation in Ukraine serves as a cautionary tale for NATO countries. The loss of trained personnel in Ukraine's professional army underscores the need for a robust reserve force. Without a partially trained reserve, a military may be forced to conscript untrained civilians in a crisis. As noted by defense researcher Peter Dawson, effective contingency planning must include mobilization strategies that utilize partially trained units. The challenges facing the Canadian Armed Forces regarding reservists are complex and require attention to ensure the military is prepared for future crises.