National Guard
The Army National Guard is one of three components of the U.S. Army. The other two consist of the Active Army and the Army Reserves. The Army National Guard has been an indispensable part of America’s defense network since its founding in 1636. It is a direct reflection of the American spirit and declaration to Live Free or Die.

Serve Part Time - Two Weeks a Year - One Weekend a Month

Did you know that you can join the National Guard Full Time? You Can.

National Guard Jobs
If you have a career goal in the private sector, the National Guard has a corresponding career path. Your job in the Guard can help establish you in some of the most sought-after industries and career fields.

National Guard Training
The Guard employs innovative training methods to give its members access to high quality training.

Have A Specific Question? See Our FAQ



Guard Benefits
The Guard offers a series of benefits ranging from competitive pay and education assistance to insurance and retirement benefits. A broad range of skills are learned through schools and job training, and leadership opportunities are numerous. Beyond these tangible benefits, most Guard members agree that the greatest benefit is the opportunity to serve their country, state and community. Enlist
The Army National Guard has very specific requirements, including age, citizenship, education and family status. In addition, you are required to be in excellent physical and mental condition.


7 Steps to Join




ASVAB


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.

 

 



Contact A Recruiter

Active Duty

Army Reserve

National Guard

Prior Military Service

Special Operations

ROTC

Request Information