Yes, NR members have trained and deployed to Afghanistan.
No, you will not be able to do so until your initial training is complete.
If you have your heart set on this goal:
- Submit a current AVREP (Availability Report) requesting your trades courses as soon as possible
- During your wait for courses, on a DIN computer or through SHO (Ship's Office) staff, print your DAG sheet off your EMAA account. Use this form to ensure you have DAG'ed green on all sections of the form (ie: passport, driver's license, FCP ect...)
Remember, over the next couple of years there are other high profile employment opportunities within the Naval Reserve that you will be able to apply for once your training is completed.
A couple of good places to look for employment opportunities is the message float file in the SHO, on the ship's training notice board, on the NRHQ intranet website, or through the divisional system.
**Edited to add below**
[quote author=PMedMoe]
I imagine there will be someone along with better info than I have. E.g. Time in trade required, training level required, etc.
[/quote]
If you are looking to find out what course(s) and time in you need, on a DIN computer at the unit or ask the SHO staff for a copy of MARCORD 9-1, Annex B, page 5. That table will list what you need in order of progression through your MARS career. This was posted ealier
at this link.
**Edited again: I found the reference on Milnet**