Volunteer To Deploy With The National Guard Today

Joining the National Guard can be a life-changing decision, offering a unique blend of service, education, and career opportunities. As a National Guard member, you'll have the chance to make a real difference in your community, while also developing valuable skills and earning benefits that can enhance your civilian life. If you're considering volunteering to deploy with the National Guard, here's what you need to know.

Why Join the National Guard?

The National Guard offers a wide range of benefits, including education assistance, career training, and healthcare benefits. As a National Guard member, you'll also have access to exclusive job opportunities, both in the military and in the civilian world. Plus, you'll be part of a proud tradition of service, defending the United States and its citizens from threats both foreign and domestic.

What to Expect as a National Guard Member

As a National Guard member, you'll typically serve one weekend a month, known as a drill weekend, and two weeks a year, known as annual training. During this time, you'll participate in training exercises, attend meetings, and engage in community service projects. You may also be called upon to deploy in times of crisis, such as natural disasters or military conflicts.

The Deployment Process

The deployment process typically begins with a notification from your unit, informing you of an upcoming deployment. You'll then undergo a series of briefings, medical screenings, and training exercises to prepare you for your mission. Depending on the nature of your deployment, you may be sent to a combat zone, a disaster area, or a humanitarian mission.

Preparing for Deployment

To prepare for deployment, it's essential to stay physically and mentally fit. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management can help you cope with the demands of deployment. You should also take care of your personal and financial affairs, ensuring that your family is well taken care of while you're away.

Benefits of Deploying with the National Guard

Deploying with the National Guard can be a rewarding experience, offering a range of benefits that can enhance your life and career. Some of the benefits include:

Education Assistance: Deploying with the National Guard can help you earn education benefits, including the GI Bill and state tuition reimbursement programs.
Career Advancement: Deployment experience can be valuable in your civilian career, demonstrating your leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Healthcare Benefits: As a National Guard member, you'll have access to comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Camaraderie: Deploying with the National Guard can be a bonding experience, creating lifelong friendships with your fellow soldiers.

Challenges of Deploying with the National Guard

Deploying with the National Guard can also present challenges, including:

Time Away from Family: Deployment can mean spending extended periods away from your loved ones, which can be difficult for both you and your family.
Physical and Mental Demands: Deployment can be physically and mentally demanding, requiring you to work in challenging environments and make tough decisions.
Uncertainty: Deployment can be unpredictable, with changing circumstances and unexpected challenges.

How to Volunteer to Deploy with the National Guard

To volunteer to deploy with the National Guard, you'll need to meet the following requirements:

Age: You must be at least 17 years old (with parental consent) or 18 years old (without parental consent) to join the National Guard.
Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident to join the National Guard.
Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent to join the National Guard.
Physical Fitness: You must meet the National Guard's physical fitness standards, which include passing a physical fitness test and meeting body fat percentage requirements.

To get started, you can visit the National Guard's website or contact a recruiter to learn more about the enlistment process.

What to Expect During the Enlistment Process

The enlistment process typically involves the following steps:

Initial Contact: You'll contact a recruiter to express your interest in joining the National Guard.
ASVAB Test: You'll take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, which measures your aptitude in various subjects.
Physical Fitness Test: You'll take a physical fitness test, which measures your endurance, strength, and agility.
Medical Screening: You'll undergo a medical screening, which includes a physical exam and a review of your medical history.
Enlistment: If you're eligible, you'll be enlisted into the National Guard and begin your training.

Gallery of National Guard Images

National Guard Image Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the National Guard?

The National Guard is a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces, comprising citizen-soldiers who can be called upon to defend the United States and its citizens.

What are the benefits of joining the National Guard?

The National Guard offers a range of benefits, including education assistance, career training, healthcare benefits, and camaraderie.

How do I volunteer to deploy with the National Guard?

To volunteer to deploy with the National Guard, you'll need to meet the eligibility requirements, which include age, citizenship, education, and physical fitness standards.

If you're considering volunteering to deploy with the National Guard, we hope this article has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Remember to stay physically and mentally fit, take care of your personal and financial affairs, and prepare for the challenges and benefits of deployment. Good luck!