5 Ways National Guard Deployment Schedules Work

The National Guard is a unique branch of the US military that serves both federal and state governments. As a reserve component, National Guard members typically hold civilian jobs and attend drills one weekend a month, known as drill weekends. However, when called upon, they can be deployed to support military operations, humanitarian efforts, or domestic emergencies. The deployment schedule of National Guard members can be complex and may vary depending on the mission, unit, and individual circumstances. Here are five ways National Guard deployment schedules work:

Drill Schedules

National Guard members typically attend drills one weekend a month, which can be anywhere from 2 to 4 days, depending on the unit's needs. During these drills, members receive training, attend meetings, and participate in various activities to maintain their skills and readiness. Drill schedules can vary, but most units follow a standard pattern, such as:

• One weekend a month (e.g., the first Saturday and Sunday)
• Two weeks a year (e.g., an annual training period, known as AT)

Annual Training (AT)

Annual Training, or AT, is a two-week period when National Guard members attend intensive training, usually during the summer. AT can be held in various locations, including military bases, camps, or even abroad. During AT, members receive advanced training, participate in exercises, and conduct team-building activities. AT schedules can vary, but they often take place during the summer months (June to August).

Deployment Schedules

When a National Guard unit is deployed, the deployment schedule can vary greatly depending on the mission, location, and duration. Deployments can range from a few weeks to several months or even years. National Guard members may be deployed to support:

• Military operations (e.g., combat missions, peacekeeping)
• Humanitarian efforts (e.g., disaster relief, medical aid)
• Domestic emergencies (e.g., natural disasters, civil unrest)

Deployment schedules can be unpredictable, and members may receive short notice before departing.

Mobilization and Demobilization

Mobilization is the process of preparing National Guard members for deployment. This can involve receiving equipment, attending briefings, and completing necessary paperwork. Demobilization is the process of returning from deployment and readjusting to civilian life.

Mobilization and demobilization schedules can vary, but they typically involve:

• Pre-deployment training and preparation (e.g., medical checks, equipment issue)
• Post-deployment processing and reintegration (e.g., debriefings, counseling)

State Active Duty (SAD) Schedules

National Guard members can be called upon to support state emergencies, such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or search and rescue operations. When activated for state duty, members may work extended hours, including evenings and weekends.

State Active Duty (SAD) schedules can vary, but they often involve:

• Short-notice activations (e.g., a few hours or days)
• Extended duty periods (e.g., several days or weeks)
• Variable schedules (e.g., night shifts, weekend work)

Support and Resources

National Guard members and their families can access various resources and support during deployment and upon return. These may include:

• Family support groups
• Counseling services
• Financial assistance
• Education benefits

Gallery of National Guard Deployment Schedules

National Guard Deployment Schedules Image Gallery

We hope this article has helped you understand the complexities of National Guard deployment schedules. If you have any questions or would like to share your experiences, please leave a comment below.