01. Why do people join the Air National Guard?
The reasons are as diverse as our members and include such reasons as a deep desire to serve their country, money for college, travel, new job skills and the pride that goes with belonging to the greatest military organization in the world.
02. How many years do you enlist for?
If you are Non-Prior Service, the typical enlistment is for six years with two years in the inactive reserves (non-drill status, but subject to call up). Other options are available, including a four-year enlistment with four years inactive reserve. If you are Prior Service, enlistment options vary from a one- to six-year enlistment, depending on your qualifications.
03. What is basic training like?
Basic training is eight and a half weeks of intense training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. While there, you will make the transition from civilian life to military life. In addition to various types of military training conducted, you will learn Air Force history, customs and courtesies, and proper wear of the uniform.
For more information, visit Lackland's official Web site at www.lackland.af.mil.
04. What are the basic qualifications to join?
For Non-prior Service:
- Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) tests. Minimum Score is 31.
- Pass a military physical
- Have no alcohol or excessive law violations
- Have a high school diploma or GED, or be within one year of graduating from high school
- Be 18 years old (17 with parental consent), and less than 35 years old
For Prior Service:
- Received an honorable discharge from your branch of service
- Be able to complete 20 creditable years of service by age 60. Your prior service time counts towards the 20 years of service.
05. What are my benefits if I join the Air National Guard?
For a list of Air National Guard benefits, please visit www.goang.com/benefits/.
Plus, each state has its own list of benefits for guardsmen. For Florida Air National Guard benefits, visit www.goang.com/units/detail/benefits/default.aspx?o=457.
06. What about a military retirement?
Members who accumulate a minimum of 20 years creditable service are entitled to receive a military retirement at age 60. Your retirement pay is based on your rank, years of service, and total retirement points accumulated.
07. Do I have to buy my own uniforms and shoes?
No, enlisted members are provided uniforms free of charge.
08. What types of careers are available?
There is a wide range of job opportunities with the Florida Air National Guard, including:
A-10, F-15, and U-2 Avionic Systems, Attack Control
Aerospace Propulsion, Jet Engines
Aircraft Armament Systems
Aircraft Maintenance Officer
Aircraft Structural Maintenance
Aircrew Egress Systems
Education and Training
Intelligence Officer
Munitions Systems
Security Forces
Tactical Aircraft Maintenance, F-15
09. Is it really worth my time?
Absolutely! One weekend a month and 15 days of Annual Field Training is all it takes. As a member of the Florida Air National Guard, the pride you will have for your state, your country, and for yourself is beyond words. A little bit of time, a lifetime of pride.
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