Intro
Discover Army National Guard positions and careers that offer service, security, and skill-building opportunities. Explore various military occupational specialties, including infantry, aviation, and medical careers. Learn about enlistment requirements, training, and benefits, and find the perfect role to suit your skills and interests in the Army National Guard.
Joining the Army National Guard is a great way to serve your country, develop valuable skills, and advance your career. With a wide range of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) to choose from, you can find a position that aligns with your interests, skills, and career goals. In this article, we'll provide an overview of Army National Guard positions and careers, including the different types of roles available, the benefits of serving, and the steps to take to join.
What is the Army National Guard?
The Army National Guard is a reserve component of the United States Army that is made up of citizen-soldiers who serve part-time. The National Guard is unique in that it has a dual mission: to provide support to state governors and the federal government. In times of war or national emergency, National Guard members can be called to active duty to support the federal government. In times of peace, they serve their state by responding to natural disasters, riots, and other emergencies.
Types of Army National Guard Positions
The Army National Guard offers a wide range of positions, from combat roles to support roles. Here are some examples of the different types of positions available:
- Combat Roles: These roles involve direct combat with the enemy. Examples include infantry, artillery, and armor.
- Support Roles: These roles provide support to combat units, including transportation, logistics, and medical care.
- Administrative Roles: These roles involve administrative tasks, such as human resources, finance, and communications.
- Technical Roles: These roles involve technical skills, such as engineering, intelligence, and communications.
Army National Guard Careers
The Army National Guard offers a wide range of careers, from entry-level positions to senior leadership roles. Here are some examples of careers available:
- Officer Careers: Officers are leaders in the Army National Guard. They hold positions such as platoon leader, company commander, and battalion commander.
- Warrant Officer Careers: Warrant officers are technical experts in their field. They hold positions such as helicopter pilot, communications specialist, and engineer.
- Enlisted Careers: Enlisted members are the backbone of the Army National Guard. They hold positions such as infantryman, truck driver, and medical specialist.
- Civilian Careers: The Army National Guard also employs civilians in a variety of roles, including administration, logistics, and maintenance.
Benefits of Serving in the Army National Guard
Serving in the Army National Guard offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- Education Benefits: The Army National Guard offers education benefits, including the Montgomery GI Bill and the Army National Guard Kicker.
- Health Benefits: Members of the Army National Guard receive medical, dental, and pharmacy benefits.
- Career Advancement: The Army National Guard offers opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
- Leadership Opportunities: Members of the Army National Guard have opportunities to develop leadership skills and take on leadership roles.
Steps to Join the Army National Guard
If you're interested in joining the Army National Guard, here are the steps to take:
- Meet the Basic Requirements: You must be a U.S. citizen, be between the ages of 17 and 35, and meet certain physical and medical requirements.
- Choose Your MOS: Choose a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) that aligns with your interests and skills.
- Take the ASVAB: Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test to determine your aptitude for different MOSs.
- Attend Basic Training: Attend Basic Combat Training (BCT) to learn the skills you need to succeed in the Army National Guard.
- Attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT): Attend AIT to learn the skills specific to your MOS.
Conclusion
Joining the Army National Guard is a great way to serve your country, develop valuable skills, and advance your career. With a wide range of positions and careers available, you can find a role that aligns with your interests and skills. By meeting the basic requirements, choosing your MOS, taking the ASVAB, attending Basic Training, and attending AIT, you can start your career in the Army National Guard.
FAQs
- Q: How old do I have to be to join the Army National Guard?
- A: You must be between the ages of 17 and 35 to join the Army National Guard.
- Q: What is the ASVAB?
- A: The ASVAB is the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test, which is used to determine your aptitude for different MOSs.
- Q: How long is Basic Training?
- A: Basic Training is typically 10 weeks long.
- Q: What is AIT?
- A: AIT stands for Advanced Individual Training, which is training specific to your MOS.