7 Steps To Join Army National Guard

Serving in the Army National Guard can be a rewarding and challenging experience, offering a unique opportunity to serve your country and your community. The National Guard is a reserve component of the US Armed Forces, composed of citizen-soldiers who can be called upon to support state and federal authorities in times of need. If you're considering joining the Army National Guard, here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To be eligible to join the Army National Guard, you must meet certain basic requirements. These include:

• Being a US citizen or national
• Being between the ages of 17 and 35 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
• Being in good physical health
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Scoring well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
• Passing a background check

Age Waivers and Exceptions

While the maximum age limit for joining the Army National Guard is 35, there are some exceptions and waivers available. For example, if you have prior military service, you may be eligible to join the National Guard even if you're older than 35. Additionally, some careers may have different age requirements, so it's worth exploring these options if you're close to the maximum age limit.

Step 2: Choose Your Career

The Army National Guard offers a wide range of careers, from infantry and artillery to engineering and healthcare. When choosing a career, consider your skills, interests, and education level. You can also talk to a recruiter or career counselor to get a better sense of the different options available.

Job Categories

The Army National Guard has several job categories, including:

• Combat careers, such as infantry and artillery
• Engineering careers, such as construction and mechanics
• Healthcare careers, such as nursing and medicine
• Administrative careers, such as human resources and finance

Step 3: Take the ASVAB Test

The ASVAB test is a multiple-choice exam that measures your aptitude in various subjects, including math, science, and language. The test is used to determine your eligibility for different careers in the Army National Guard. You can prepare for the test by studying and taking practice exams.

ASVAB Test Sections

The ASVAB test has several sections, including:

• General Science (GS)
• Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
• Word Knowledge (WK)
• Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
• Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
• Electronics Information (EI)
• Auto and Shop Information (AS)
• Mechanical Comprehension (MC)

Step 4: Meet with a Recruiter

Once you've taken the ASVAB test and chosen a career, you'll meet with a recruiter to discuss your eligibility and options. The recruiter will review your test scores and help you determine which careers you're eligible for. They'll also answer any questions you have about the enlistment process and what to expect.

What to Expect During the Meeting

During the meeting with your recruiter, you can expect to discuss:

• Your ASVAB test scores and eligibility for different careers
• The enlistment process and what to expect
• Your education and training options
• Your benefits and compensation package

Step 5: Complete the Enlistment Process

Once you've met with a recruiter and chosen a career, you'll begin the enlistment process. This involves:

• Completing paperwork and forms
• Taking a physical fitness test
• Passing a medical exam
• Getting a background check
• Taking the oath of enlistment

The Oath of Enlistment

The oath of enlistment is a promise to serve your country and defend the Constitution. It's a solemn commitment that requires you to put the needs of your country and your fellow soldiers before your own.

Step 6: Attend Basic Training

After completing the enlistment process, you'll attend Basic Combat Training (BCT). BCT is a 10-week training program that teaches you the skills you need to become a soldier. You'll learn about:

• Military protocol and procedures
• First aid and combat techniques
• Map reading and navigation
• Teamwork and leadership

What to Expect During Basic Training

During Basic Training, you can expect to be challenged physically and mentally. You'll be pushed to your limits, but you'll also have the support of your fellow recruits and instructors.

Step 7: Attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT)

After completing Basic Training, you'll attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT). AIT is a specialized training program that teaches you the skills you need for your specific career. You'll learn about:

• Your job specialty and duties
• Equipment and procedures
• Teamwork and communication

What to Expect During AIT

During AIT, you can expect to learn the skills you need to succeed in your career. You'll be taught by experienced instructors who will help you master your job specialty.

Army National Guard Image Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to joining the Army National Guard. Remember to meet the basic requirements, choose your career, take the ASVAB test, meet with a recruiter, complete the enlistment process, attend Basic Training, and attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT). If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a recruiter or career counselor. Good luck on your journey to becoming a member of the Army National Guard!