Can You Be a Ranger in the National Guard?
The answer is a resounding "yes"! Being a Ranger in the National Guard is a prestigious and highly selective role that requires individuals to meet specific requirements. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of what it takes to become a Ranger in the National Guard, and the benefits that come with serving in this elite unit.
What is a National Guard Ranger?
Rangers are members of specialized military units that operate deep behind enemy lines, conducting operations such as reconnaissance, ambushes, and extraction. In the National Guard, Rangers are part of the 75th Ranger Regiment, which is trained and equipped to perform operations that require expertise, strength, and strategic thinking.
Requirements to Become a Ranger in the National Guard
To become a Ranger in the National Guard, individuals must meet the following eligibility criteria:
• Age: Rangers must be between 18 and 35 years old, with some flexibility allowed for those with prior service experience.
• Education: Rangers must have completed high school or have an equivalent education.
• Citizenship: Rangers must be U.S. citizens.
• PT Scores: Rangers must pass a rigorous Physical Fitness (PT) test, scoring 240 or higher (based on a 200-meter sprint, push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run).
Training and School
To become a National Guard Ranger, individuals must first enlist in the Army National Guard and complete their basic training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT). They will then attend Airborne School, where they will learn the basics of parachute operations.
Pathways to Becoming a Ranger
There are three main pathways to becoming a National Guard Ranger:
- Recruit: Start by enlisting in the Army National Guard and undergoing basic training and AIT.
- Officer: Attend Officer Candidate School (OCS) or receive a commission through ROTC.
- Non-Commissioned Officer: Advance to a higher paygrade through promotion, training, and experience.
Duties and Responsibilities
As a National Guard Ranger, your duties may include:
• Combat: Participate in combat operations, such as reconnaissance and raids.
• Airlift: Operate military aircraft, such as the UH-60 Black Hawk.
• Rapid Deployment: Perform rapid deployment operations, sometimes on short notice.
• Specialized Skills: Acquire specialized skills such as linguistics, languages, and cultural expertise.
Benefits of Serving as a National Guard Ranger
Serving as a National Guard Ranger offers numerous benefits, including:
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Higher Pay: National Guard Rangers receive higher pay scales, with opportunities for incentives and bonuses. | |
| Specialized Training: Receive specialized training and access to advanced equipment. | |
| Leadership Opportunities: Opportunities to develop leadership skills and take on critical leadership roles. | |
| Camaraderie: Strong bonds formed among fellow Rangers, built on shared experiences and trust. | |
| Deployment Cycle: Alternate between deployment cycles, allowing for a manageable work-life balance. |
Conclusion
Becoming a National Guard Ranger is an extraordinary opportunity for those willing to meet the challenging requirements and commit to the esteemed role. With a clear understanding of the requirements, training, and benefits, it’s clear that service as a National Guard Ranger offers a unique and fulfilling experience. If you are ready to take on this extraordinary challenge, we urge you to explore the option further and consider enlisting as a National Guard Ranger today!
