What Comes Next?
Post Secondary Resource Guide
The Marine Corps was founded in 1775. The core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment inform everything a Marine does. The Marine Corps is often the first on the ground in most conflicts. Marines are stationed around the world, ready to deploy at a moments notice.
The army is the oldest branch of the Military, founded in 1775. It is one of the most powerful fighting forces on Earth. Approximately 557,780 full-time Soldiers defend and serve our nation by land, sea, and air. Elite groups such as the Army Rangers and Special Forces receive specialized training for advanced combat situations.
The U.S. Military consists of five active duty Services and their respective Guard and Reserve units. All branches are equal elements that make up the United States Uniformed Services, headed by the president as commander in chief.
The Air Force began as a subdivision of the U.S. Army. It wasn't until 1947, following World War II, that the Air Force was recognized as it's own branch. The Air Force operates to keep a three-part vision of global vigilance, reach and power, and space and cyberspace superiority.
The U.S. Navy was founded under the authority of George Washington in 1775. Today's Navy is equipped to handle operations both on and under the sea, in the air, and on the ground. The Navy spans worldwide with international ports and navigation of the open ocean. Elite groups such as the SEALS and Navy Divers receive specialized training for advanced warfare situations.
Doing the Reasearch on Military Service Branches
The Coast Guard was created after combining several federal services. In 1915, a congressional act combined the Life-Saving Service and Revenue Cutter Service to form the Coast Guard. Currently, the Coast Guard operates under the department of homeland security during peacetime and under the Navy during wartime. In addition to protecting our waterways, they also perform search and rescue, law enforcement, and environmental cleanup.
Service Branches
Explore the following service branches and opportunities to see which one is right for you.
The Army Reserve trains near home untill they are needed to deploy. Reserve Soldiers receive the same training as active-duty Soliders. Reserve Soldiers return to civilian life after training, spending one weekend a month drilling to keep their skills sharp.
The Army National Guard is made up of Citizen-Soldiers who train part time, close to home. The Guard mobilizes to protect U.S. domestic interests in times of conflict or natural disaster and may be deployed internationally alongside full-time troops when the situation demands.
To enlist in the U.S. Army, you must be 18 to 41 years old (17 with parental consent). You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien. A high school diploma is most desirable but a high school equivalent such as the GED may be accepted. You must also pass the ASVAB test and a physical fitness exam.
To serve, recruits must complete 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training (boot camp). Eligible college students can participate in a ROTC program or attend a military academy to enter as officers after graduation.
The Marine Corps Reserve is critical to the Marine Corp's ability to provide a ready force. Many Marines come to the Reserve after serving Active Duty. This gives them the opportunity to pursue a civilian career or further their education while continuing serving.
To join the Marine Corps, an individual must be 18 to 29 years old (17 with parental consent) and have a high school diploma. College students wishing to train for Marin Corps officer positions may enroll in their school's Navy ROTC program.
All recruits undergo 12 weeks of Recruit Training. This training is mentally and physically intense, shaping recruits against the core Marine Corps values. Only the most elite make it through.
The Navy Reserve is a valued partner of the Navy's active-duty department. If offers citizens a chance to serve part time, training near home, until called to Active Duty. The Navy Reserve's involvement with the Navy continues to grow.
To join the U.S. Navy, you must be 18 to 34 years old (17 years old with parental consent). A high school diploma is most desired but a GED may also be accepted. Interested college students are encouraged to look into the Navy ROTC program.
Training begins with 7 to 9 weeks of boot camp. Rigorous physical exercise and classroom exercises prepare recruits for their first tour of duty.
The Air Force Reserve is an integral part of the Air Force's presence in air, space, and cyberspace. There are currently 64,730 trained reservists that contribute to more than 20 percent of all Air Force missions.
The Army Reserve trains near home untill they are needed to deploy. Reserve Soldiers receive the same training as active-duty Soliders. Reserve Soldiers return to military life after training, spending one weekend a month drilling to keep their skills sharp.
To join the Air Force, you must be 18 to 27 years old (17 with parental consent). High school diplomas are preferred, with few exceptions made for candidates with GEDs. Officer candidates are required to take the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT). Qualified college students should consider Air Force ROTC or the Air Force Academy.
All recruits spend 8.5 weeks in Basic Military Training. During this time, recruits develop discipline,confidence, and skills to grown into Airmen.
The Coast Guard Reserve offers citizens an opportunity to serve part-time while still serving their country and community. Reservists take part time in maritime safety, mobility, security, national defense, and the protection of natural resources.
To join the Coast Guard you must be 18 to 27 years old (17 with parental consent), and a U.S. citizen or resident alien. High school diplomas are preferred. Those interested in becoming officers may aply to the Coast Guard Academy or talk to their local recruiter about other options.
Basic training lasts for 8 weeks including daily fitness and swimming drills combined with classroom instruction. This is to prepare recruits mentally and physically for life in the Coast Guard.