How can you tell the difference between Army and National Guard?

A person who is active duty is in the military full time. They work for the military full time, may live on a military base, and can be deployed at any time. Persons in the Reserve or National Guard are not full-time active duty military personnel, although they can be deployed at any time should the need arise.

Can I do basic training at 17?

Here’s how it works: You enlist while you’re still a junior (you must be 17 years old to enlist and have permission from a parent or guardian), finish that year and attend Basic Combat Training during the summer between your junior and senior years.

Are National Guard considered soldiers?

Let’s take a look at the issue in more depth. Yes, National Guard members can, indeed, be considered U.S. Veterans as of 2016. The Honor America’s Guard-Reserve Retirees Act was passed, giving retired Guardsmen and women the chance to earn Veteran status in the eyes of the law.

Can I enlist in the Army at 17?

Age Limits for Enlisting You must be at least 17 to enlist in any branch of the active military. The oldest you can be to enlist for active duty in each branch is: Coast Guard: 31. Marines: 28.

What’s the difference between the National Guard and the Army Reserve?

Although the National Guard is a part of this nation’s reserve forces, there are a few differences between the Army or Air Force Reserve and the Guard. The National Guard is by far the oldest component of any of the uniformed services. It traces its roots to the colonial militia, and claims a “birthday” of 1636.

How does the Army National Guard work?

The Army National Guard is one half of the Army’s Reserve Component, the other half being the Army Reserve. Reserve Component units, including the Guard, have a small full-time cadre that keeps the unit running day to day, however the bulk of the unit members are part-time, drilling be weekend each month and 2-weeks annual training each year.

Should I join the National Guard or active service?

Joining the active service, National Guard, or Reserve is a personal choice. If you want to serve but don’t want the full time commitment, a Guard or Reserve slot can be just what you need. The important thing to remember is to judge your needs and goals compared to the type of service you are contemplating.

How many soldiers are in the US National Guard?

The National Guard has a projected strength of over 340,000 soldiers. They make up 39\% of the Army’s Operational Force. The National Guard is in every state, three territories, the District of Columbia and has over 150 career options.