The Army National Guard (ARNG) is one component of The Army (which consists of the Active Army, the Army National Guard and the Army Reserves.) The Army National Guard is composed primarily of traditional Guard members -- civilians who serve their country, state and community and train on a part-time basis. Each state, territory and the District of Columbia has its own National Guard, as provided for by the Constitution of the United States.

The National Guard has a unique dual mission that consists of both Federal and State roles. For state missions, the governor, through the state Adjutant General, commands Guard forces. The governor can call the National Guard into action during local or statewide emergencies, such as storms, fires, earthquakes or civil disturbances. In addition, the President of the United States can activate the National Guard for participation in federal missions. Examples of federal activations include Guard units deployed to Bosnia and Kosovo for stabilization operations and units deployed to the Middle East and other locations in the war on terrorism. When federalized, the Combatant Commander of the theatre in which they are operating commands Guard units.

Guard Training
At a minimum, National Guard members train for one weekend each month and for one two-week annual training period each year. Weekend drills usually consist of one Saturday and Sunday each month, but occasionally include reporting for duty on Friday night. Initially, all non-prior service personnel are required to attend initial entry training (IET), also known as Basic Training. After Basic Training, soldiers go to their Advanced Individual Training (AIT), which teaches them the special skills they will need for their job in the Guard.

As a citizen-soldier who trains part-time in the Army National Guard, you can: Serve Your Community and Country Earn great benefits (including educational benefits) Earn Money for College Earn an Additional Paycheck Find Career Opportunities Find Adventure and Challenge With over 3,200 locations around the U.S., the chances are good that we have a position for you in, or near, your hometown or wherever you plan to go to college.		College is in your plans, and you're ready. Thanks to the Army National Guard, you'll have the money to pay your college tuition. And because most Guard members train part-time, you'll still have your time with family and friends. Your college degree is waiting for you. Come join the team that will help you get it.   The Army National Guard offers a series of benefits ranging from competitive pay and education assistance to insurance and retirement benefits. A broad range of skills is learned through schools and job training, and leadership opportunities are numerous. Beyond these tangible benefits, most Guard members agree that the greatest benefit is the opportunity to serve their country, state and community.