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Prior Service

For many, the call to military service never stops. There’s nothing else like the adventure, the camaraderie and the pride of serving your country. If you have prior service and are thinking about continuing your military service, you need to connect with the National Guard.

The Guard’s unique dual mission—serving both the state and federal governments—offers you opportunities you won’t find in other branches. You’ll live and work where you choose. You’ll be combat-trained and equipped to defend America anywhere in the world, but you’ll be just as likely to serve in your home community—usually by training just one weekend per month and one two-week period each year.

Whether you’ve served in the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force or Coast Guard, you’ll be able to combine your years of prior service with time in the Guard to stay on track toward your 20-year retirement. Depending on your state, you may also qualify for MSO reduction or up to two-year stabilization. Ask your local recruiter for details.*

Check out all these benefits of National Guard service:

  • Use your experience and critical skills to qualify for a re-enlistment or extension bonus.*
  • Pay for college or earn an advanced degree with state and federal tuition assistance.*
  • Move into a new MOS, or move up to the next level in your current MOS.
  • Hone your leadership skills through advanced leadership schools.
  • Combine your prior service with your Guard service to earn retirement benefits.
  • Continue to enjoy all the other traditional military discounts and benefits.
  • Military Service Obligation (MSO) reduction.*
  • Stabilization policy.*

*Benefits vary; check with your local recruiter or Reserve Component Career Counselor (on Active Duty posts) for the most up-to-date information.

You already know about the action, the excitement and the sense of purpose you get from serving your country. Now you can apply your leadership and skills around the world and in your community. Put your prior service to use in the National Guard.

Get more answers in our FAQ section. Then find out what it will take to join others from your branch who are now serving in the National Guard by visiting NationalGuard.com.