How Long is Army National Guard Basic Training?
The Army National Guard (ARNG) is a reserve component of the United States Army, consisting of part-time soldiers who can be called to active duty in times of war or national emergency. One of the most significant aspects of joining the ARNG is completing Basic Combat Training (BCT), also known as Basic Training. In this article, we will explore the duration of Army National Guard basic training and what to expect during this critical period.
Duration of Army National Guard Basic Training
The length of Army National Guard basic training is 10 weeks, which is identical to the duration of basic training for the active duty Army. The training program is designed to transform civilians into skilled soldiers, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the military.
What to Expect During Basic Training
During the 10-week training period, recruits will undergo a comprehensive training program that includes both physical and mental challenges. Here is an overview of what to expect:
Weeks 1-2: Red Phase
- Initial processing and administrative tasks
- Physical training (PT) to build endurance and strength
- Introduction to Army values and customs
- Basic combat skills, such as marksmanship and first aid
Weeks 3-4: White Phase
- Advanced PT and obstacle course training
- Map reading and land navigation
- Basic tactics and first aid
- Introduction to Army weapons and equipment
Weeks 5-6: Blue Phase
- Live-fire training and marksmanship exercises
- Advanced first aid and combat skills
- Leadership and team-building exercises
- Preparing for the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT)
Weeks 7-10: Night Operations and Final Training
- Night operations and tactical training
- Final evaluations and APFT
- Preparing for graduation and deployment
- Final leadership and team-building exercises
Highlights of Army National Guard Basic Training
- Physical Training: Recruits can expect to lose 15-20 pounds during basic training due to the intense physical demands.
- Sleep Deprivation: Recruits will be required to survive on limited sleep, with some days having only 4-5 hours of rest.
- Mental Challenges: Recruits will be pushed to their limits with mental challenges, such as obstacle courses and team-building exercises.
- Camouflage and Survival Skills: Recruits will learn how to survive in the wilderness, including building shelters, starting fires, and navigating without GPS.
Comparison to Active Duty Army Basic Training
While the duration of Army National Guard basic training is the same as the active duty Army, there are some key differences:
- Intensity: Active duty Army basic training is often more intense and physically demanding than Army National Guard basic training.
- Pace: Active duty Army basic training is typically faster-paced than Army National Guard basic training, with more emphasis on physical training and less on administrative tasks.
- Deployment: Army National Guard soldiers may have more time between deployments compared to active duty Army soldiers.
Conclusion
Army National Guard basic training is a challenging and transformative experience that prepares soldiers for service in the military. While the duration of the training program is 10 weeks, the physical and mental demands are significant, and recruits can expect to lose weight, develop new skills, and build camaraderie with their fellow soldiers. By understanding what to expect during basic training, recruits can better prepare themselves for the challenges ahead and make the most of their Army National Guard experience.
Table: Army National Guard Basic Training Schedule
| Week | Training Focus |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Red Phase: Processing and PT |
| 3-4 | White Phase: Advanced PT and Obstacle Course |
| 5-6 | Blue Phase: Live-Fire Training and Marksmanship |
| 7-10 | Night Operations and Final Training |
Bullets: Key Takeaways
• Army National Guard basic training is 10 weeks long, identical to the active duty Army.
• Recruits can expect to lose 15-20 pounds during basic training due to intense physical demands.
• Sleep deprivation is a key aspect of basic training, with some days having only 4-5 hours of rest.
• Recruits will be pushed to their limits with mental challenges, such as obstacle courses and team-building exercises.
• Camouflage and survival skills are an important part of basic training, teaching recruits how to survive in the wilderness.
