Serve logo

What to Know About the Army National Guard

Do you know anything about the Army National Guard? Read on and find out all about it.

By Jacqueline HanikehPublished 7 years ago 4 min read
Top Story - September 2017
Like

A lot of us know alot about the Navy, the Air Force, the Marines, Coast Guard, etc. But what about the Army National Guard? Most of us have heard of it before, but don't quite know enough about it. And, of course, we should know more about all of the armed forces who fight for our country and keep us safe.

All of these armed forces are here to serve our country — risking their lives for the love they have for the United States. The immense courage these strong individuals have blows my mind each day and they should definitely get more recognition.

But if you don't know what the Army National Guard is, don't you worry, because I'm about to lay out everything for you in just one article. And after you read this, you'll know the Army National Guard like the back of your hand without any hesitation. Also, spread the information to your fellow family members and friends, so they're aware about the Army National Guard, as well.

What is the Army National Guard?

Believe it or not, the Army National Guard is one of the oldest components of the United States armed forces and is also a unique element of the U.S. military that serves both the country and the community. These strong individuals respond to domestic emergencies, overseas combat operations, counter-drug efforts, reconstruction missions, and a lot more urgent situations that need powerful assistance. What's great about the Army National Guard is that any of the soldiers can attend college and even hold civilian jobs while they attend military training. They gain these benefits, because their main area of operation is their home state — awesome, right?

All recruits have to meet specific height, weight, age, fitness, and education requirements to be enlisted. Those who are already teachers, doctors, accountants, lawyers, etc. may be eligible for a Direct Commission through the ARNG Direct Appointment Program. In order to join the elite program, you must gain your Bachelor's Degree in Science (or equivalent) as well as receiving a nomination and selection from your Commanding Officer.

If you're willing to do a short-term commitment in the Army National Guard, you can enlist for at least three years, including commitment to the Individual Ready Reserve, a.k.a., IRR. Even though soldiers part of the IRR don't train with a unit, they can still be called in for an emergency.

High schoolers can also enlist before they graduate and undergo drill periods, but they cannot begin Advanced Individual Training.

Once you enlist as part of the Army National Guard, you'll be able to choose a job which is known as a Military Occupational Specialty, a.k.a., MOS. Every single job in the Guard has a title, number, and a letter; for example, John Smith is MOS 19D (19 Delta). There are more than 150 options in multiple career fields. A few of the fields are Aviation, Infantry, Military Police (MP), and Public Affairs.

While the total enlistment is eight years, you can serve either three or six years — spending the remainder in the IRR. Without a doubt, you will be sent into combat, because the moment you enlist and begin your training, you're being prepared to fight in combat either overseas or domestically.

Training, a.k.a, "drills," is one weekend per month with an addition two-week period each year. Depending on your job in the Army National Guard, training can vary between four and six weeks, while others that handle more critical jobs can last up to 64 weeks. Not to mention that Special Forces are much longer. Your Saturdays and Sundays will be spent doing drills, and there will be the occasional Friday night duties that you will be asked to report to. Annual training can last a little longer, depending on your MOS.

Basic Combat Training (BCT) is definitely difficult and tough to get through — which is the whole point. The training lasts for ten weeks with intense courses and drills that focus on strengthening your weaker points, and even preparing you mentally for emergency calls.

Where do they serve?

As for service, it varies from your current MOS — it can literally be anywhere. The drills that you will attend will most likely be around your hometown or anywhere near it; you're basically remaining in the state. But for major emergencies, like a natural disaster, you can be sent to help in that state that is in need. It's also possible to be sent overseas to like places like the Middle East to fight in battles and assist other soldiers.

What makes the Army National Guard different from the rest?

Just like the Army National Guard, Army Reserve Soldiers also train one weekend per month and two weeks every summer. Also, both can be called for full-time service to support any Army combat mission. The only difference is that a Guard soldier serves a dual mission, since they can be called by their state governor or by the federal government, like helping out during hurricanes, earthquakes, etc.

army
Like

About the Creator

Jacqueline Hanikeh

Reading good literature plays a huge role in my life — and so does online shopping and wine.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.