Joining The Air National Guard As A Prior Service Member

Joining the Air National Guard as a prior service member can be a fantastic way to continue serving your country, while also benefiting from the unique advantages that the Guard has to offer. Whether you're looking to maintain your military career, transition back to civilian life, or simply give back to your community, the Air National Guard can provide a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

As a prior service member, you've already demonstrated your commitment to serving your country, and the Air National Guard recognizes and values that experience. By joining the Guard, you'll have the opportunity to continue serving part-time, while also pursuing your civilian career and personal goals. Plus, with the Guard's flexible scheduling, you can balance your military and civilian responsibilities with ease.

Benefits of Joining the Air National Guard as a Prior Service Member

As a prior service member, you're likely aware of the many benefits that come with serving in the military. But did you know that the Air National Guard offers some unique advantages that can enhance your military career and civilian life? Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect:

• Education Benefits: The Air National Guard offers a range of education benefits, including the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) and the Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) program. These benefits can help you pay for college, vocational training, or certification programs.
• Career Advancement: As a prior service member, you've already demonstrated your skills and experience. By joining the Air National Guard, you can continue to advance your career, take on new challenges, and develop new skills.
• Leadership Opportunities: The Air National Guard offers a range of leadership opportunities, from squadrons to wings. As a prior service member, you'll have the chance to develop your leadership skills, mentor junior airmen, and take on new responsibilities.
• Camaraderie and Esprit de Corps: The Air National Guard is a tight-knit community, and as a prior service member, you'll have the chance to connect with fellow airmen who share your values and experiences.
• Service to Your Community: As a member of the Air National Guard, you'll have the opportunity to serve your community, respond to natural disasters, and support local law enforcement.

Types of Prior Service Members Who Can Join the Air National Guard

The Air National Guard welcomes prior service members from all branches of the military, including:

• Active Duty Airmen: If you're currently serving on active duty, you can transfer to the Air National Guard and continue serving part-time.
• Reserve Airmen: If you're currently serving in the Air Force Reserve, you can transfer to the Air National Guard and take advantage of the Guard's unique benefits and opportunities.
• Veterans: If you're a veteran of the Air Force or another branch of the military, you can join the Air National Guard and continue serving your country.
• Separated Airmen: If you've separated from the Air Force or another branch of the military, you can rejoin the Air National Guard and pick up where you left off.

How to Join the Air National Guard as a Prior Service Member

Joining the Air National Guard as a prior service member is a relatively straightforward process. Here are the steps you'll need to take:

1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements: Make sure you meet the Air National Guard's eligibility requirements, including age, citizenship, and physical fitness standards.
2. Choose Your Career Field: The Air National Guard offers a range of career fields, from aviation to cyber security. Choose a field that aligns with your skills and interests.
3. Contact a Recruiter: Reach out to an Air National Guard recruiter to discuss your options and get started on the enlistment process.
4. Take the ASVAB Test: The ASVAB test is a multiple-choice test that measures your aptitude in various subjects. You'll need to take the test to determine your career field eligibility.
5. Complete the Enlistment Process: Once you've chosen your career field and taken the ASVAB test, you'll need to complete the enlistment process, which includes a physical exam, background check, and other paperwork.
6. Attend Basic Military Training (BMT): If you're new to the Air Force, you'll need to attend BMT to learn the basics of military life and protocol. If you're a prior service member, you may be able to waive BMT.
7. Attend Technical Training: After BMT, you'll attend technical training to learn the skills and knowledge you need for your chosen career field.

Challenges and Considerations

While joining the Air National Guard as a prior service member can be a great opportunity, there are some challenges and considerations to keep in mind. Here are a few:

• Service Commitment: When you join the Air National Guard, you'll be committing to serve for a certain period of time, typically 6-8 years. Make sure you're prepared to make that commitment.
• Drill Status: As a member of the Air National Guard, you'll be required to drill one weekend a month and attend an annual training (AT) period. Make sure you're prepared to balance your military and civilian responsibilities.
• Deployment: As a member of the Air National Guard, you may be eligible for deployment. Make sure you're prepared for the possibility of deployment and the impact it could have on your civilian life.

Conclusion

Joining the Air National Guard as a prior service member can be a fantastic way to continue serving your country, advance your career, and take advantage of the Guard's unique benefits and opportunities. While there are some challenges and considerations to keep in mind, the rewards of serving in the Air National Guard far outweigh the costs. If you're a prior service member looking for a new challenge, consider joining the Air National Guard today!

Gallery of Air National Guard Images

Air National Guard Image Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and opportunities of joining the Air National Guard as a prior service member. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please don't hesitate to reach out to an Air National Guard recruiter today!