Intro
Discover the 5 key differences between the Army National Guard and the Army, including deployment, training, benefits, and more. Learn about the unique characteristics of each branch, and which one is right for you. Get the inside scoop on the distinctions between active duty, reserve components, and citizen-soldiers.
When it comes to serving in the military, many people are unsure about the differences between the Army National Guard and the Army. Both are part of the US military, but they have distinct roles, responsibilities, and requirements. In this article, we will explore the 5 key differences between the Army National Guard and the Army.
Difference 1: Mission and Purpose
The Army National Guard and the Army have different primary missions. The Army National Guard is a reserve component of the US Army, composed of citizen-soldiers who can be called upon to serve in state and federal missions. Their primary mission is to provide defense support to civil authorities, respond to natural disasters, and participate in homeland security operations. On the other hand, the Army is a full-time, active-duty force that focuses on national defense and global security operations.
Difference 2: Service Requirements
One of the most significant differences between the Army National Guard and the Army is the service requirements. Army National Guard soldiers typically serve one weekend a month and two weeks a year, also known as "drill weekends" and "annual training." In contrast, Army soldiers serve full-time, typically for 3-6 years, depending on their enlistment contract. Army soldiers can also be deployed overseas for extended periods, whereas Army National Guard soldiers are generally deployed within the United States.
Training and Deployment
Army National Guard soldiers typically undergo Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) similar to Army soldiers. However, Army National Guard soldiers may have additional training requirements specific to their state or unit. When it comes to deployment, Army National Guard soldiers can be deployed in support of state or federal missions, while Army soldiers are often deployed in support of national defense and global security operations.
Difference 3: Pay and Benefits
The pay and benefits for Army National Guard soldiers and Army soldiers differ. Army National Guard soldiers typically earn drill pay for their monthly drill periods, which is based on their rank and time in service. Army soldiers, on the other hand, earn a full-time salary, plus benefits such as housing allowance, food allowance, and medical benefits. Additionally, Army soldiers are eligible for GI Bill education benefits, while Army National Guard soldiers may be eligible for the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) program.
Difference 4: Career Opportunities
Career opportunities also vary between the Army National Guard and the Army. Army National Guard soldiers often pursue civilian careers and balance their military service with their civilian life. In contrast, Army soldiers typically make a career out of their military service, with opportunities for advancement, education, and training. Army soldiers can also choose from a wider range of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) than Army National Guard soldiers.
Enlistment Process
The enlistment process for the Army National Guard and the Army is similar, but with some differences. Both require applicants to meet age, education, and physical fitness requirements, and to pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. However, Army National Guard applicants must also meet specific state requirements, such as residency and background checks.
Difference 5: Lifestyle and Culture
The lifestyle and culture of the Army National Guard and the Army differ significantly. Army National Guard soldiers often maintain a civilian lifestyle, with the ability to pursue higher education, start families, and work civilian jobs. In contrast, Army soldiers often experience a more intense and immersive military lifestyle, with limited time for civilian pursuits. The culture of the Army is also more formal and hierarchical, while the Army National Guard has a more relaxed and community-oriented culture.
Gallery of Army National Guard vs Army
Army National Guard vs Army Image Gallery
In conclusion, while both the Army National Guard and the Army are part of the US military, they have distinct differences in terms of mission, service requirements, pay and benefits, career opportunities, and lifestyle and culture. Whether you're considering joining the Army National Guard or the Army, it's essential to understand these differences to make an informed decision. We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below, and to explore other articles on our website for more information on military service.