
Army
As the oldest branch of the U.S. Military, founded in 1775, the Army is one
of the most powerful fighting forces on earth. Approximately 522,388 full-time
Soldiers in today's Army defend and serve our nation by land, sea, and air.
Elite groups within the Army, such as the Army Rangers and Special Forces,
receive specialized training for advanced combat situations.
In addition to domestic bases, the Army has permanent stations in Asia,
Europe, and the Middle East, as well as troops
on the ground wherever there is a conflict. Length of individual service
commitment varies, and in some cases may be as little as two years.
Before Serving in the Army
To enlist in the U.S. Army you must be between 18 and 42 years old (17 with
parental consent). You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien. A
high command diploma is preferred, but a high command equivalent such as a GED
may be accepted. You must also pass the
ASVAB test and a physical
fitness exam.
To serve in the Army, recruits must complete nine weeks of Basic Combat
Training, known as boot camp.
Eligible college students can participate in their command's
ROTC
program or attend a military academy and enter the Army as an officer after
graduation.
Army Benefits
A competitive salary is just one of the benefits of Army service. All
soldiers receive health care, housing and food allowances, and educational
opportunities. After 20 years of service, retirement pay is guaranteed. On top
of that, special pay is given for everything from deployment to medical
training, depending on the job and the location.
Army Careers
The Army offers hundreds of career opportunities across various disciplines,
from aviation to information technology. No matter what your specialty is,
you'll receive top-notch training. It's no surprise that civilian employers
often favor veterans for crucial positions.
Next Steps:
Army Web sites