5 Ways To Join Marine Corps National Guard

Serving in the Marine Corps National Guard is a unique opportunity to serve your country, community, and family while also pursuing a civilian career. As a member of the Marine Corps National Guard, you'll have the chance to develop valuable skills, build lasting relationships, and make a real difference in the world. But, getting started can seem overwhelming, especially for those who are new to the military. In this article, we'll break down the five ways to join the Marine Corps National Guard, making it easier for you to take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding career.

Understanding the Requirements

Before we dive into the five ways to join the Marine Corps National Guard, it's essential to understand the basic requirements. To be eligible, you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen
• Be between the ages of 17 and 28 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
• Meet physical fitness standards
• Pass a background check
• Score well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test

Way 1: Enlist as a New Recruit

The most common way to join the Marine Corps National Guard is to enlist as a new recruit. This involves attending a recruiter's office, taking the ASVAB test, and passing a physical fitness test. If you're eligible, you'll be able to choose from a variety of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) and attend boot camp.

Enlistment Process

The enlistment process typically takes several weeks to several months. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect:

1. Meet with a recruiter to discuss your options and determine if you're eligible.
2. Take the ASVAB test to determine your qualifications for different MOS.
3. Pass a physical fitness test to ensure you're in good physical shape.
4. Attend a Medical Examination to ensure you're healthy enough for service.
5. Take the oath of enlistment and sign your contract.

Way 2: Join as an Officer

If you have a college degree or are currently attending college, you may be eligible to join the Marine Corps National Guard as an officer. This involves attending Officer Candidates School (OCS) or a service academy.

Officer Candidate School

OCS is a 10-week course that teaches you the skills and knowledge you need to become a Marine Corps officer. Here's what you can expect:

1. Meet the basic requirements for officer candidacy.
2. Apply for OCS and attend a selection board.
3. Attend OCS and complete the 10-week course.
4. Receive a commission as a Marine Corps officer.

Way 3: Transfer from Active Duty

If you're currently serving on active duty in the Marine Corps, you may be eligible to transfer to the National Guard. This involves meeting with a recruiter and discussing your options.

Transfer Process

The transfer process typically takes several weeks to several months. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect:

1. Meet with a recruiter to discuss your options.
2. Determine your eligibility for transfer.
3. Complete the necessary paperwork and attend a transfer ceremony.

Way 4: Join as a Prior Service Member

If you've previously served in the military, you may be eligible to join the Marine Corps National Guard. This involves meeting with a recruiter and discussing your options.

Prior Service Requirements

To be eligible to join the Marine Corps National Guard as a prior service member, you must:

• Have previously served in the military
• Have an honorable discharge
• Meet physical fitness standards
• Pass a background check

Way 5: Join as a ROTC Cadet

If you're currently attending college, you may be eligible to join the Marine Corps National Guard through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program. This involves attending ROTC classes and training exercises while pursuing your degree.

ROTC Program

The ROTC program is a four-year course that teaches you the skills and knowledge you need to become a Marine Corps officer. Here's what you can expect:

1. Meet the basic requirements for ROTC candidacy.
2. Apply for an ROTC scholarship.
3. Attend ROTC classes and training exercises.
4. Receive a commission as a Marine Corps officer upon graduation.

Gallery of Marine Corps National Guard Images

Marine Corps National Guard Image Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the five ways to join the Marine Corps National Guard. Whether you're a new recruit, an officer, or a prior service member, there's a path for you to serve your country and community. Don't hesitate to reach out to a recruiter or visit the Marine Corps National Guard website to learn more.