What does a National Guard do?
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A National Guard is a military force that is called up in times of need, such as during war or natural disasters. National Guardsmen are typically part-time soldiers who have civilian jobs when they are not serving.
National Guard job duties include:
- Serve as a member of the National Guard
- Be on active duty during wartime or national emergencies
- Serve on a part-time basis, usually one weekend a month and two weeks a year
- Receive training in a variety of military skills
- Be available for deployment at any time
- Serve in a unit close to home
- Work with other members of the National Guard to maintain equipment and vehicles
- Attend regular meetings and drills
- Be prepared to deploy at a moment’s notice
National Guard Job Requirements
The National Guard is a reserve force of the United States Army. It is composed of Army National Guard units and Air National Guard units. The National Guard is divided into two categories: the Title 10 forces, which are federally funded and under the president's command for use in national emergencies; and the Title 32 forces, which are state-funded and under the governor's command for use in state emergencies.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as job requirements for the National Guard vary depending on the specific position. However, in general, most positions in the National Guard will require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may also require additional education, certification, or experience.
National Guard Skills
- Leadership
- Organizational skills
- Time management
- Ability to work independently
- Flexibility
- Adaptability
- Physical fitness
- Mental toughness
- Combat training
- First aid
- CPR
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How to become a National Guard
The National Guard is a reserve force of the United States Army. It is composed of National Guard soldiers who serve on a part-time basis, typically one weekend per month and two weeks per year. National Guard soldiers are also activated for federal service in times of war or national emergencies, such as hurricanes and floods.
If you are interested in becoming a National Guard soldier, you must first meet the minimum age and education requirements. You must be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also be a U.S. citizen or legal resident alien.
Once you have met the basic requirements, you will need to complete an application and undergo a physical examination. You will also be required to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. This test is used to determine your eligibility for enlistment into the National Guard.
After you have completed the application process and been accepted, you will attend basic training. Basic training is eight weeks long and will teach you the basics of being a soldier, including weapons training, first aid, and military customs and courtesies.
After completing basic training, you will attend advanced individual training (AIT). AIT is specific to your chosen career field within the National Guard and can last anywhere from four to 52 weeks. Upon completion of AIT, you will be assigned to a National Guard unit in your state or territory of residence.
As a National Guard soldier, you will be expected to participate in regular drills and annual training exercises. These drills typically occur one weekend per month and two weeks per year. You may also be called upon to serve in active duty situations, such as during national emergencies or times of war.
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