uvmflier,
Good start. Don't give up. I was on many Navy Selection Boards for aviators to go in reserve units. Persistence is key once you pass muster as someone who will hang well with the squadron. Sounds like they were encouraging you to come back. We picked many who did return, some several times. It takes awhile to cue up, but you will know by the encouragement. Stay in touch between boards in a non intrusive way.

""Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination are omnipotent. The slogan 'press on' has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race." ~ Calvin Coolidge

Worked for me. Best of luck in the Guard!