Where are Guard units located?
The Army National Guard has more than 1,832 units located in more than 2,700 communities
across the 54 states, territories and the District of Columbia. Each state has a unique
force structure and a varying number of units, personnel, armories and training sites.
Do I have to go to Basic Training?
If you have never served in any branch of the military, you will have to attend the
National Guard’s eight-week basic training. In addition, you will have to attend a
period of Advanced Individual Training (AIT), which teaches your specific Military
Occupational Specialty (MOS). The length of AIT varies widely with MOS.
How long do I have to join for? If you have never served
in any branch of the military, there are several enlistment options. Initially,
soldiers can serve for as little as three years, with longer periods available
as well. Some benefits are based upon the length of your initial enlistment.
Veterans who have served in any branch of the military have additional options
available to them, including a “Try One” program which allows a veteran to serve
for only one year on a trial basis before committing to a full enlistment.
A recruiter can provide further details.
How will my membership in the National Guard affect my civilian
job? Generally, membership in the Guard has a positive influence on civilian jobs.
The skills and leadership you acquire are sought after by many employers. Some
soldiers find their civilian and military jobs complement each other, while others
seek to add diversity to their lives and skills by serving in a capacity quite
different than their civilian occupation. Regardless, your membership within the
Guard should not have a negative impact on your civilian employment. There are
federal laws preventing employers from discriminating against an employee
due to his or her membership in the National Guard. In addition, if you are called to
active service, your employer is required by law to allow you to return to the
same job you had when you left. The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
organization has a web site located at
www.esgr.org that can provide additional information.