Do National Guard Members Go to Boot Camp?

When it comes to military service, the National Guard is a unique branch. Whereas full-time members of the armed forces typically enter boot camp immediately after enlistment, National Guard members do not. Instead, most new recruits in the National Guard will attend basic combat training (BCT) and then advance individual training (AIT).

For those who are interested in joining the National Guard, it is important to understand what will be involved in basic training and how it differs from the traditional boot camps of the other military branches. BCT is designed to teach new recruits the basics of military life, including basic combat skills and discipline.

Unlike boot camp, BCT is typically shorter and less intensive. For example, recruiters may be able to complete BCT in as little as 10 weeks.

AIT is a more specialized form of training that focuses on an individual’s specific job within the National Guard. For example, an infantryman might attend AIT for several months or longer in order to learn advanced combat tactics and techniques. During AIT, recruits will also learn about their specific roles within their unit.

For many National Guard members, BCT and AIT are essential parts of their preparation for active duty service. While there is some overlap between boot camp and BCT/AIT, it is important to remember that they are two distinct experiences with different objectives.

The length of time spent at each depends on an individual’s role within the National Guard.

Conclusion:

In summary, National Guard members do not go through traditional boot camp but instead attend Basic Combat Training (BCT) followed by Advance Individual Training (AIT). Both BCT and AIT provide valuable instruction on military life and preparing for active duty service but have different objectives than those found in traditional boot camp.

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Samantha Mckinney