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The Curious Bag
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Joining the National Guard may prove perfect for someone who wishes to test out military life without the full commitments of joining active duty Army forces. The Guard offers many of the financial and educational benefits received by U.S. Army members.
Financial
The U.S. National Guard provides up to $20,000 in incentives to those who go on to enlist as full time members of the U.S. Army. In addition, the National Guard will pay for college expenses and access to shopping discounts and low-cost insurance.
Intangible
In addition to monetary benefits, joining the National Guard gives people a sense of pride knowing they are doing their civic duty to protect the U.S., and they gain job skills in the process.
Tips
The National Guard gives an extra $800 re-enlistment bonus to people who agree to serve at least six years in a specialized field or job, such as physician. This goes up to $5,000 for those with prior Guard experience.
Post-Military Life
The time spent in the National Guard factors into the minimum 20 years of duty required to qualify for a military pension; however, you can only receive this after the age of 60.
Joining
In order to join the Army National Guard and start receiving benefits, prospective applicants should find a recruiter at the National Guard's official website (see References).
Source:
Georgia Department of Defense: Air National Guard Entitlements
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