Army National Guard Basic Training Guide

Introduction to Army National Guard Basic Training

The Army National Guard is a reserve component of the United States Army, and its Basic Training, also known as Basic Combat Training (BCT), is the initial training program for new recruits. The training is designed to prepare soldiers for the physical and mental demands of military service. In this guide, we will provide an overview of the Army National Guard Basic Training process, including its structure, requirements, and what to expect.

Pre-Basic Training Requirements

Before attending Basic Training, recruits must meet certain requirements. These include: * Being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident * Being between the ages of 17 and 35 (with some exceptions for older candidates) * Meeting the physical fitness standards * Passing the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test * Completing the enlistment process, including taking the Oath of Enlistment

Basic Training Structure

The Army National Guard Basic Training is approximately 10 weeks long and is divided into three phases: * Red Phase (weeks 1-3): This phase focuses on introducing recruits to the Army way of life, including drill and ceremony, first aid, and map reading. * White Phase (weeks 4-6): This phase emphasizes combat skills, including marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat, and combat tactics. * Blue Phase (weeks 7-10): This phase focuses on preparing recruits for their future roles in the Army, including leadership skills, teamwork, and advanced combat training.

Physical Fitness Requirements

Physical fitness is a critical component of Army National Guard Basic Training. Recruits must meet the minimum standards for: * Push-ups: 30-40 repetitions in one minute * Sit-ups: 30-40 repetitions in one minute * 2-mile run: completion in 16-19 minutes * Obstacle course: completion of a challenging course that includes obstacles such as walls, ropes, and trenches

Training Activities

Some of the training activities that recruits can expect to participate in during Basic Training include: * Drill and ceremony * First aid and medical training * Map reading and navigation * Marksmanship training * Hand-to-hand combat training * Combat tactics and techniques * Leadership and teamwork training * Obstacle course training

Life in Basic Training

Life in Basic Training is highly structured and disciplined. Recruits can expect to: * Wake up early (around 5:00 am) and go to bed late (around 10:00 pm) * Participate in physical training and drill and ceremony * Attend classes and training sessions * Eat in the dining facility (DFAC) * Have limited access to phones and personal belongings * Be required to follow strict rules and regulations

📝 Note: Recruits should be prepared to follow orders and instructions from their drill sergeants and other training staff.

Graduation and Next Steps

After completing Basic Training, recruits will graduate and move on to Advanced Individual Training (AIT), where they will learn the skills and knowledge necessary for their specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). Some recruits may also attend additional training, such as airborne or ranger school.

Benefits of Army National Guard Service

Serving in the Army National Guard offers many benefits, including: * Education benefits: The Guard offers tuition assistance and other education benefits to help soldiers pay for college or vocational training. * Healthcare benefits: Guard soldiers are eligible for TRICARE, a comprehensive healthcare program that includes medical, dental, and pharmacy benefits. * Career advancement opportunities: The Guard offers opportunities for career advancement and professional development. * Retirement benefits: Guard soldiers are eligible for retirement benefits, including a pension and other benefits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Army National Guard Basic Training is a challenging and rewarding experience that prepares soldiers for the physical and mental demands of military service. By understanding the structure, requirements, and benefits of Basic Training, recruits can better prepare themselves for the challenges ahead and set themselves up for success in their military careers.