Commentary
So, you want to join the Air National Guard (ANG), huh? Great choice! Which one do you want to join? If you think that there’s just one ANG you’d be completely wrong. Oh, there’s an HQ called the Guard Bureau, and a set of regulations that govern things, but the ANG is not a homogenous organization.
But before I go too much further, I should toss out some credentials and caveats. This article is based on my personal experience and may not be the same as anyone else’s. Your actual mileage may vary. 38 years total, 4 active duty, 34 ANG
Crew chief solely on fighter and attack aircraft
Five different ANG units in four states
Held E1-E9
Was never a full-time Guardsman (explanations later)
I have no time in the Air Force Reserve I mention all of these because I want to be clear that I have no ANG experience with tanker, bomber, helicopter, or transport aircraft. Life in those units may be completely different from what I discuss, although I doubt it. I also have no ANG experience in any field other than aircraft maintenance. The people in finance and other support roles may have completely different perceptions of the ANG. The short story is, it’s totally cool if you don’t agree with what I’m about to say. Write a rebuttal. I fully support your right to disagree….