National Guard Active Duty: What You Need To Know

Serving in the National Guard can be a rewarding and challenging experience, but it's essential to understand the ins and outs of National Guard active duty. As a member of the National Guard, you may be called upon to serve on active duty, which can impact your personal and professional life. In this article, we'll delve into the world of National Guard active duty, exploring what it entails, the different types of active duty, and what you can expect.

What is National Guard Active Duty?

National Guard active duty refers to the period when a National Guard member is called to serve on full-time duty, often in support of federal missions or operations. During this time, Guard members are subject to the same rules and regulations as active-duty military personnel. National Guard active duty can be voluntary or involuntary, depending on the circumstances.

Types of National Guard Active Duty

There are several types of National Guard active duty, including:

Federal Active Duty: This type of active duty is typically used for federal missions, such as deploying overseas or supporting national emergencies. Guard members on federal active duty are paid by the federal government and receive the same benefits as active-duty military personnel.
State Active Duty: This type of active duty is used for state-specific missions, such as responding to natural disasters or civil unrest. Guard members on state active duty are paid by the state and may receive different benefits than those on federal active duty.
Training Active Duty: This type of active duty is used for training purposes, such as annual training (AT) or drill periods. Guard members on training active duty are paid by the federal government and receive benefits similar to those on federal active duty.

Benefits of National Guard Active Duty

Serving on National Guard active duty comes with a range of benefits, including:

Pay and Allowances: Guard members on active duty receive pay and allowances similar to those of active-duty military personnel.
Education Benefits: Guard members on active duty may be eligible for education benefits, such as the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) or the Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) program.
Healthcare Benefits: Guard members on active duty are eligible for TRICARE, the military's healthcare program.
Retirement Benefits: Guard members on active duty may be eligible for retirement benefits, such as the Military Retirement System or the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).

Challenges of National Guard Active Duty

While serving on National Guard active duty can be rewarding, it also comes with its challenges. Some of the challenges Guard members may face include:

Time Away from Family: Guard members on active duty may be away from their families for extended periods, which can be difficult for both the member and their loved ones.
Career Impact: Serving on active duty can impact a Guard member's civilian career, particularly if they are away for an extended period.
Physical and Mental Demands: National Guard active duty can be physically and mentally demanding, particularly for those deployed to combat zones.

Preparing for National Guard Active Duty

To prepare for National Guard active duty, Guard members should:

Stay Physically Fit: Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help Guard members prepare for the physical demands of active duty.
Stay Mentally Prepared: Guard members should prioritize their mental health and seek support if needed.
Communicate with Family and Employers: Guard members should communicate with their families and employers about their active duty schedule and any challenges they may face.

National Guard Active Duty and Your Civilian Career

Serving on National Guard active duty can impact your civilian career, but there are steps you can take to minimize the impact. Some tips include:

Communicate with Your Employer: Inform your employer about your active duty schedule and any challenges you may face.
Take Advantage of USERRA: The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) provides protections for Guard members who are called to active duty.
Seek Support: Seek support from your employer, colleagues, and family members to help minimize the impact of active duty on your civilian career.

National Guard Active Duty and Your Family

Serving on National Guard active duty can be challenging for families, but there are resources available to support them. Some resources include:

National Guard Family Support: The National Guard offers a range of resources to support families, including counseling services and financial assistance.
Military OneSource: Military OneSource provides 24/7 support to military families, including counseling services and financial assistance.
Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and connection for Guard families.

Conclusion

Serving on National Guard active duty can be a rewarding and challenging experience. By understanding the benefits and challenges of National Guard active duty, Guard members can prepare themselves and their families for the demands of active duty. Whether you're a seasoned Guard member or just starting out, it's essential to stay informed and take advantage of the resources available to you.