I've been considering the National Guard as an option after high school, but I'm a bit confused about where it fits into the bigger picture of the US military. Does anyone know which branch the National Guard falls under? I'd really appreciate any advice or information!
The National Guard actually operates under two military branches in the United States: the Army and the Air Force. This creates two distinct organizations: the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard.
The Army National Guard, affiliated with the U.S. Army, primarily serves domestic functions, such as responding to national emergencies, disasters, and civil unrest. Still, they can also be called upon for overseas deployment.
The Air National Guard operates in a similar capacity but is associated with the U.S. Air Force. They provide aerial support and aid in domestic crises and can also serve in international conflicts when necessary.
Both the Army and Air National Guards work on a state level and are commanded by the governor of their respective state, but they can also be deployed for federal missions under the President's authority. In addition, some members serve full-time, while others serve part-time while maintaining civilian jobs or attending school.
Remember, when considering a future in the military, it's essential to understand the different roles and commitments associated with each branch. You might want to consult with a recruiter or career counselor to explore which path aligns best with your goals and lifestyle.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.