Today's Military:
ARMY
As the oldest branch of the U.S. Military, founded in 1775, the Army is one of the most powerful fighting forces on earth. Approximately 549,015 full-time Soldiers in today’s Army defend and serve our nation by land, sea and air. Elite groups within the Army, such as the Army Rangers and Special Forces, receive specialized training for advanced combat situations.In addition to domestic bases, the Army has permanent stations in Asia, Europe and the Middle East, as well as troops on the ground wherever there is a conflict. Length of individual service commitment varies, and in some cases may be as little as two years.
BEFORE SERVING IN THE ARMY
To enlist in the U.S. Army, you must be between 18 and 42 years old (17 with parental consent). You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien. A high school diploma is preferred, but a high school equivalent such as the GED may be accepted. You must also pass the ASVAB test and a physical fitness exam.To serve in the Army, recruits must complete 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training, commonly known as boot camp. Eligible college students can participate in their school’s ROTC program or attend a military academy to enter the Army as officers after graduation.See more entrance requirements
ARMY BENEFITS
A competitive salary is just one of the benefits of Army service. All Soldiers receive health care, housing and food allowances, and educational opportunities. After 20 years of service, retirement pay is guaranteed as well. On top of that, there are special pays for everything from deployment to medical training, depending on your job and location.
ARMY CAREERS
The Army offers hundreds of career opportunities across various disciplines, from aviation to information technology to Special Forces. No matter what your specialty is, you’ll receive top-notch training and the experience to handle whatever comes your way. It’s no surprise that civilian employers often favor Army veterans for crucial positions.
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The Army Reserve offers citizens the opportunity to serve near home until they are needed to deploy. Reserve Soldiers receive the same training as active-duty Soldiers. After Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), Reserve Soldiers return to their civilian lives and spend one weekend a month drilling to keep their skills sharp. For roughly two weeks a year, Reserve Soldiers serve on Active Duty, focusing on challenging field and specialty training. They may even have the opportunity to attend competitive Army training programs such as Airborne and Air Assault schools. Reserve Soldiers may be called to Active Duty when needed.Today’s Army Reserve is 205,297 troops strong. Service options for the Army Reserve range from three to six years.
BEFORE SERVING IN THE ARMY RESERVE
To enlist in the U.S. Army Reserve, you must be between 18 and 40 years old (17 with parental consent). You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien. A high school diploma is preferred, but a high school equivalent such as theGED may be accepted. You must also pass the ASVABtest and a physical fitness exam.All Reserve Soldiers must complete 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training, the same boot camp attended by full-time Army Soldiers.See more entrance requirements
ARMY RESERVE BENEFITS
The Army Reserve offers many of the same benefits as the full-time Army, including fair pay for all time spent training or deployed. Reserve Soldiers develop skills and confidence, working as a team toward a larger goal. There are few experiences that have such lasting impact.
ARMY RESERVE CAREERS
The Army Reserve can be a great way to develop career skills and serve our nation while maintaining a civilian career. More than 120 Reserve jobs are available for qualified applicants.
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ARMY NATIONAL GUARD
Like the Army Reserve, the Army National Guard is made up of Citizen-Soldiers who train part time, close to home, until needed. Since 1636, each state has had its own militia. These became the foundation of today’s Guard units (this was mandated by the Constitution in 1787). The Guard mobilizes to protect U.S. domestic interests in times of conflict or natural disaster, and may be deployed internationally alongside full-time troops when the situation demands. Today’s National Guard consists of approximately 358,391 troops from all U.S. states and territories.
BEFORE SERVING IN THE ARMY NATIONAL GUARD
To enlist in the Army National Guard you must be between 18 and 42 years old (17 with parental consent). You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien. A high school diploma is preferred, but a high school equivalent such as theGED may also be accepted. You must also pass theASVAB test and a physical fitness exam.All National Guard members must complete 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training, the same boot camp attended by full-time Army Soldiers.See more entrance requirements
ARMY NATIONAL GUARD BENEFITS
Members of the Army National Guard are fairly compensated for all hours spent training, drilling or deployed. The Guard allows members to train close to home while maintaining civilian careers. This provides valuable experience that benefits individuals at home and while serving.
ARMY NATIONAL GUARD CAREERS
National Guard training is highly prized by civilian employers. Add qualities like dedication and responsibility to this training, and you have a compelling mix of traits that employers look for. Whether a servicemember’s job in the Guard mirrors or complements his or her civilian career, time spent serving is a valuable asset.
