Your MOS
Know the job title, what it actually does, the training length and whether the vacancy is in the unit/location you expect.
BEFORE YOU ENLIST
Know what you are signing.
The goal is not to rush you. It is to make sure you understand the job, training, commitment, benefits and real military obligations before you make a decision.
Your contract
Know the total service obligation, what portion is drilling status, and any special terms written into your contract.
Your incentives
If a bonus, Kicker or other incentive matters to your decision, make sure eligibility and the actual incentive are verified in the appropriate documents.
Your education plan
Know which education programs you expect to use, their application deadlines, eligibility rules and what expenses are not automatically covered.
Your training timeline
Understand RSP, Basic Combat Training and AIT, including that initial training is a full-time period away from home.
Your unit & drill
Know where your assigned unit is and understand that 'one weekend a month, two weeks a year' is a baseline—not a promise that no additional duty will occur.
Deployment & activation
Guard Soldiers can be activated for state missions and can deploy federally. Do not join based on a promise that you will never deploy.
Your questions
Ask the uncomfortable questions before signing. If something matters to you, get a clear answer before you make the commitment.
THE PATH
From conversation to your unit.
1
Talk & explore
Goals, jobs, school, questions and basic qualifications.
2
ASVAB
Your scores help determine qualification and job options.
3
MEPS
Official medical, administrative and enlistment processing.
4
RSP
Paid Guard weekends that prepare you for initial training.
5
Basic
Full-time Basic Combat Training.
6
AIT
Job-specific training; length depends on MOS.
7
Your unit
Return to Missouri and begin serving with your assigned unit.
WHAT HAPPENS IF…?
Questions people are sometimes afraid to ask.
I have medical history?
Tell me privately and early. Some history only needs records; some may require additional review or a waiver. The official process determines qualification.
I have legal history?
Tell me privately. The answer depends on the offense, disposition, number/type of incidents and current waiver rules.
I do not get the ASVAB score I want?
We can identify the weak areas, review current retest rules and build a study plan.
the MOS I want is not available?
We can look at other vacancies you qualify for or discuss whether waiting makes sense. Availability changes.
I get hurt during training?
Military medical and training personnel handle the situation based on the injury and circumstances. Outcomes vary; do not rely on a one-size-fits-all answer.
my plans change before I ship?
Contact me immediately. Do not disappear or guess what happens next; we need to address the actual situation and your contractual status.
Still have a question?
Ask it before you sign.