In the Air National Guard, you get to serve in a way that fits your lifestyle. That means serving close to home in a role that best suits you, all while building strength in the communities you serve, both locally and globally.
Members of the Air Guard are dynamic individuals who lead purpose-driven lives. Most attend school or maintain a full-time career in addition to training one weekend a month and two weeks a year in the Air Guard. They typically train close to their homes, often alongside neighbors and friends, and they take immense pride in serving their local communities. They’re also proud to be a part of the Air Guard family – a community of people dedicated to supporting each other and improving the lives of others.
All Air Guard members receive a comprehensive benefits package and a regular paycheck for their service. In addition to these federal benefits, the Air Guard offers unique state benefits that can range from money for college to state-specific tax benefits.
Unlike the Active Duty Air Force and Air Force Reserve, the Air Guard carries out both a federal and state mission, offering members a unique opportunity to serve their local community as well as their country. In times of global crisis or contingency, the Air Guard may be called upon by the President to be part of the Active Duty Air Force. When a regional or local disaster strikes, Air Guard units may be activated by a state governor to protect the lives of American citizens. No matter where in the world conflict arises or crises erupt, the Air Guard is able to mobilize and respond within 48 hours.
There are many paths to military service. And no matter how you get here, when you join you become family. We are a tight-knit community who have unique experiences and perspectives in our Air Guard units and the larger military community.