National Guard Going Active Duty

Introduction to National Guard Active Duty

The National Guard is a unique branch of the US military that serves both state and federal governments. While most National Guard members serve part-time, they can be called to active duty in times of war or national emergency. Active duty refers to full-time service in the military, where members are required to be available ²⁴⁄₇. In this post, we will explore the process of National Guard members going on active duty, the types of active duty, and what to expect.

Types of Active Duty for National Guard

There are several types of active duty that National Guard members can be called to: * Title 10: This type of active duty is for federal missions, such as deployments to combat zones or humanitarian missions. National Guard members are federalized and become part of the active duty military. * Title 32: This type of active duty is for state missions, such as responding to natural disasters or civil unrest. National Guard members remain under state control but are paid by the federal government. * State Active Duty: This type of active duty is for state-specific missions, such as responding to emergencies or supporting state events.

Process of Going on Active Duty

The process of going on active duty can vary depending on the type of active duty and the individual’s circumstances. Here are the general steps: * Notification: National Guard members are notified by their unit or the state adjutant general’s office that they are being called to active duty. * Pre-deployment processing: Members undergo medical screening, complete paperwork, and attend briefings to prepare for active duty. * Training: Depending on the mission, members may receive additional training to prepare them for their duties. * Deployment: Members report to their assigned duty station and begin their active duty service.

What to Expect on Active Duty

Active duty in the National Guard can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Here are some things to expect: * Long hours: Active duty members often work long hours, including nights and weekends. * Time away from family: Members may be required to deploy to locations far from their families, which can be stressful and difficult. * Physical demands: Active duty service can be physically demanding, requiring members to be in top physical condition. * Emotional challenges: Members may experience stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges due to the demands of active duty service.

Benefits of Active Duty Service

While active duty service can be challenging, it also offers several benefits: * Education benefits: Members may be eligible for education benefits, such as the GI Bill, to help pay for college or vocational training. * Career advancement: Active duty service can provide opportunities for career advancement and professional development. * Travel opportunities: Members may have the opportunity to travel and experience new cultures. * Sense of pride and purpose: Serving on active duty can give members a sense of pride and purpose, knowing that they are contributing to the safety and security of their country.

Challenges of Active Duty Service

Active duty service can also present several challenges: * Time away from family and friends: Members may experience feelings of loneliness and isolation due to time away from loved ones. * Physical and emotional demands: Active duty service can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring members to be resilient and adaptable. * Uncertainty and unpredictability: Members may face uncertainty and unpredictability, as their duties and deployment locations can change rapidly. * Reintegration challenges: After completing active duty service, members may face challenges readjusting to civilian life.

👉 Note: National Guard members should be prepared for the challenges and uncertainties of active duty service, and should stay informed about their duties and responsibilities.

Support for National Guard Members on Active Duty

There are several resources available to support National Guard members on active duty: * Family support groups: Many states offer family support groups to provide emotional support and connection for families of deployed members. * Mental health resources: Members may have access to mental health resources, such as counseling and therapy, to help cope with the stresses of active duty service. * Financial assistance: Members may be eligible for financial assistance, such as housing allowances and food stipends, to help with living expenses. * Career support: Members may have access to career support, such as resume building and job placement assistance, to help with transition back to civilian life.

Type of Active Duty	Description
Title 10	Federal missions, such as deployments to combat zones or humanitarian missions
Title 32	State missions, such as responding to natural disasters or civil unrest
State Active Duty	State-specific missions, such as responding to emergencies or supporting state events

In summary, National Guard members may be called to active duty to serve in a variety of roles, from federal missions to state-specific missions. While active duty service can be challenging, it also offers several benefits, including education benefits, career advancement opportunities, and a sense of pride and purpose. By understanding the process of going on active duty, the types of active duty, and what to expect, National Guard members can be better prepared for the challenges and opportunities of active duty service. Ultimately, serving on active duty requires resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to serving one’s country.

Related Terms:

• Call to active Duty program
• Active Duty Recruiter
• Army active duty
• joining army prior service
• army national guard deployment website
• army reserves prior service