How Long is Basic Training for Army National Guard?
The Army National Guard (ARNG) is a reserve component of the United States Army, made up of part-time soldiers who can be called upon to support the active duty military in times of war or national emergency. One of the first steps in joining the ARNG is completing basic training, also known as Basic Combat Training (BCT). But how long does basic training for the Army National Guard typically last?
Direct Answer:
Basic training for the Army National Guard typically lasts 10 weeks, which is the same length as basic training for the active duty Army. During this time, new recruits, known as "troops," will undergo intense physical and mental training to prepare them for the challenges of military service.
What to Expect During Basic Training
Basic training for the Army National Guard is designed to push recruits to their limits, both physically and mentally. Here’s what you can expect during the 10-week training period:
- Weeks 1-2: Introduction to Army values, history, and customs. Recruits will also undergo initial physical training, including push-ups, sit-ups, and running.
- Weeks 3-4: Recruits will learn basic combat skills, including marksmanship, first aid, and hand-to-hand combat.
- Weeks 5-6: Recruits will participate in field training exercises, where they will apply the skills they’ve learned in a simulated combat environment.
- Weeks 7-8: Recruits will focus on building their teamwork and leadership skills through obstacle courses, team-building exercises, and leadership challenges.
- Weeks 9-10: Recruits will participate in a final field training exercise, where they will put everything they’ve learned to the test.
Key Dates and Milestones
Here are some key dates and milestones to keep in mind during basic training:
- Day 14: Recruits will take a written exam to test their knowledge of Army values, history, and customs.
- Day 28: Recruits will participate in a physical fitness test (PFT) to assess their physical readiness.
- Day 42: Recruits will participate in a combat readiness test (CRT) to assess their combat skills.
- Day 70: Recruits will graduate from basic training and receive their Army National Guard uniforms.
Tips for Success
To succeed during basic training, recruits should:
- Stay focused and motivated: Basic training can be intense and challenging, but recruits who stay focused and motivated will be more likely to succeed.
- Build strong relationships with their fellow troops: Recruits who build strong relationships with their fellow troops will be better equipped to work together as a team.
- Listen to their drill sergeants: Drill sergeants are experienced soldiers who have been trained to help recruits succeed. Recruits should listen to their advice and guidance.
Conclusion
Basic training for the Army National Guard is a challenging and intense experience, but it’s also an essential step in preparing new recruits for military service. By understanding what to expect during basic training, recruits can better prepare themselves for the challenges ahead and set themselves up for success. Whether you’re joining the Army National Guard for the first time or re-enlisting for a second tour, basic training is an experience you’ll never forget.
Basic Training Timeline
Here is a more detailed timeline of the basic training process:
Week | Training Topics | Key Dates and Milestones |
---|---|---|
1-2 | Army values, history, and customs | Introduction to Army values, history, and customs |
3-4 | Basic combat skills | Marksmanship, first aid, and hand-to-hand combat |
5-6 | Field training exercises | Application of combat skills in a simulated environment |
7-8 | Teamwork and leadership skills | Obstacle courses, team-building exercises, and leadership challenges |
9-10 | Final field training exercise | Application of all skills learned during basic training |
Physical Fitness Test (PFT) Requirements
Here are the physical fitness test requirements for Army National Guard recruits:
Event | Requirement |
---|---|
Push-ups | 35-43 push-ups (male), 19-27 push-ups (female) |
Sit-ups | 35-43 sit-ups (male), 19-27 sit-ups (female) |
2-mile run | 14:30 minutes or less (male), 16:30 minutes or less (female) |
Note: These requirements are subject to change, and recruits should check with their drill sergeants for specific requirements.