Join the Army National Guard: Serve with Pride Locally
Are you looking for a way to serve your country, develop new skills, and make a positive impact in your community? Joining the Army National Guard can be a rewarding and challenging experience that allows you to do just that. As a member of the National Guard, you’ll have the opportunity to serve your state and nation while also enjoying the benefits of military service.
What is the Army National Guard?
The Army National Guard is a reserve component of the United States Army that consists of citizen-soldiers who serve part-time. National Guard members typically drill one weekend a month and attend an annual two-week training session, known as Annual Training (AT). This allows you to maintain a civilian career or attend school while also serving your country.
Benefits of Joining the Army National Guard
Joining the Army National Guard comes with a range of benefits, including:
- Education Benefits: The National Guard offers education assistance, including the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) and the National Guard Tuition Assistance Program.
- Career Training: The National Guard provides training in a variety of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), which can translate to civilian careers.
- Leadership Opportunities: As a member of the National Guard, you’ll have the opportunity to develop leadership skills and take on leadership roles.
- Travel Opportunities: As a member of the National Guard, you may have the opportunity to travel and experience new places.
- Health Insurance: National Guard members are eligible for TRICARE, the military’s health insurance program.
- Retirement Benefits: National Guard members are eligible for military retirement benefits after 20 years of service.
Types of Jobs in the Army National Guard
The Army National Guard offers a wide range of jobs, known as Military Occupational Specialties (MOS). Some examples of MOS include:
- Infantryman: Infantrymen are the backbone of the Army, and are responsible for fighting and defending on the ground.
- Combat Engineer: Combat engineers are responsible for building and repairing infrastructure, as well as conducting demolitions and explosive ordnance disposal.
- Healthcare Specialist: Healthcare specialists provide medical care and support to National Guard members.
- Cybersecurity Specialist: Cybersecurity specialists are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from cyber threats.
- Aviation Mechanic: Aviation mechanics are responsible for maintaining and repairing aircraft.
How to Join the Army National Guard
To join the Army National Guard, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility requirements, including:
- Age: You must be between the ages of 17 and 35 (with some exceptions for older candidates).
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Physical Fitness: You must meet the Army’s physical fitness standards.
Once you’ve met the eligibility requirements, you can begin the enlistment process by:
- Visiting a Recruiter: Contact a National Guard recruiter to discuss your options and begin the enlistment process.
- Taking the ASVAB: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a test that measures your aptitude for different MOS.
- Completing Basic Training: Basic training, also known as Basic Combat Training (BCT), is a 10-week training program that teaches you the basics of being a soldier.
- Attending Advanced Individual Training (AIT): AIT is a training program that teaches you the skills you’ll need for your specific MOS.
Conclusion
Joining the Army National Guard can be a rewarding and challenging experience that allows you to serve your country, develop new skills, and make a positive impact in your community. With a range of benefits, including education assistance, career training, and leadership opportunities, the National Guard is a great option for those who want to serve their state and nation.
What is the minimum age requirement to join the Army National Guard?
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The minimum age requirement to join the Army National Guard is 17 years old, with parental consent. Without parental consent, the minimum age is 18 years old.
Do I need to have a high school diploma to join the Army National Guard?
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Yes, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent to join the Army National Guard.
How long is the enlistment contract for the Army National Guard?
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The enlistment contract for the Army National Guard is typically 6 years, with 2 years of active drilling and 4 years of inactive reserve.
