University military reservists are unsure of the status on their potential deployments, but are preparing for possible deployment after the Pentagon's announcement last week regarding the need for more guards and reservists in Iraq.

The 6th Engineering Battalion of the U.S. Marine Corps, which includes some University students, will begin monthly drills this weekend, according to Lance Cpl. Mike Larson.

Larson said his unit is likely to deploy because the reconstruction stage of the war calls for engineering skills, including the rebuilding structures and removal of debris. Larson said his battalion was deployed to Camp Pendleton, Calif., for a month to participate in marine combat training, which teaches basic infantry skills. After a month his unit was deployed to Kuwait, while he was sent to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina to undergo more training.

Larson's fellow reservists Lance Cpl. Matthew Dickson and Cpl. Daniel Rhodes, both University students, accompanied the battalion to Kuwait in February. Rhodes said deployment of their company is unlikely because active units are already in Iraq and have the situation under control.

In Kuwait, the unit helped fortify bases while waiting for the war to begin. A month later, the battalion was deployed to Iraq where it supported infantry, protected fuel and water purifying units, assisted in demolitions disposing of old Iraqi mortar rounds and destroyed mines, he said. If mines were uncovered and presented a hazard to other ally forces, the battalion would be responsible for eliminating the threat, Rhodes said. He also said his experiences in Iraq taught him about new military tactics, Muslim culture and the value of life.

"You never know what is going to happen there," Rhodes said. "You learn to appreciate what you have back home."

He said he encountered grieving Muslims who had lost family members "to Saddam," which he said reassured him of his purpose for being there.

Both Dickson and Rhodes said they did not mind being deployed and were glad to do their jobs.

Rhodes said he had a desire to help during the Gulf War, but could only watch from the sidelines. He said he was proud that he was able to participate in this war.

"I was glad I could do my part," Rhodes said.

All three reservists fell behind a semester at the University because of their deployment.

"I really want to get my school done, but that's one of my responsibilities as a reservist," Larson said.

Rhodes said he is trying to gain as many credits as possible by taking online courses and planning for summer school.

Dickson said he will probably appeal to receive an extra semester.

"As far as the education standpoint goes, I'd rather get on and finish my time in school," Dickson said.