I have other questions.

Find answers to your other questions here.

How long will my child be committed to serve?

There are different enlistment options available, usually totaling eight years. For example, a Soldier might serve three active years and then enter the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) for the remainder of their term. Your recruiter can explain all the options. And remember, most Guard service is completed one weekend a month, and two additional weeks a year. Learn more about your National Guard commitment. 

How soon will my child leave for training?

It will take at least two weeks to process paperwork, so depending on the school date chosen, it could be between two weeks and a year. If your child’s ship date is longer than 30 days, they will attend a weekend-long Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP) Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP):
If a recruit can't ship to Basic Training sooner than 30 days after enlisting, they are required to attend a weekend-long Recruit Sustainment Program once each month until Basic Training. once each month until Basic Training Basic Training:
Basic Training (BT) is a 10-week course of intense physical and mental training, during which recruits develop essential Soldier skills, discipline and values..

Could my child be deployed?

Yes. With the Guard’s dual state/federal mission, we answer to both state governors and the U.S. president. When needed, Guard companies can be mobilized for overseas service. But rest assured, Guard troops receive the same training and are as mission-qualified as Active Duty Active Duty:
Full-time military service (not training), either as part of a temporary domestic emergency or extended overseas deployment. Soldiers.

Is the National Guard the best military branch for my child?

While your child can be deployed overseas for Active Duty, he or she is just as likely to train in their own community and serve in this country. Add this to all the Guard’s other educational and career benefits, and we believe it offers a great way to serve.

Will I be able to communicate with my child during training?

We keep our Soldiers busy, and there won’t be a great deal of time to chat due to the abbreviated training periods. But should communication be necessary, telephone, email and mail are all available and accessible.

Still have questions? Your recruiter has the answers.