Enlisted Ranks
The Army profession is a unique vocation of experts who are entrusted to defend the Constitution and the rights and interests of the American people. More than an indication of pay grade, Army ranks provide a system of leadership that indicates a Soldier's level of expertise, responsibility and authority inside that profession. Regardless of rank, every Soldier has a significant role in the total Army mission.
Enlisted Soldiers are the backbone of the Army. They have specific specialties within an Army unit, perform specific job functions and have the knowledge that ensures the success of their unit's current mission within the Army. Enlisted Soldiers are the most important part of the Army structure. They carry out orders and complete missions. As a Soldier, you will be challenged to accomplish tasks that will put your abilities to the test, and you will discover talents that you never dreamed you had.
After you have completed Basic Combat Training, you will then attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for specialized instruction in the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) you have chosen. Upon graduating AIT, you will join your Colorado Army National Guard unit.
Requirements for Joining the U.S. Military
To join the enlisted ranks, in general you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder
- Non-citizens must speak, read, and write English fluently.
- Non-citizens must currently live in the U.S.
- Be in good health
- Be 17 to 40 years old (different branches have different age requirements)
- View a chart of age requirements by service
- Have a high school diploma (some branches will accept a GED)
- Pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
- To join as an officer, you must also have attended college.
Waivers for Conditions that May Disqualify You
A recruiter may ask a military command to overlook a condition that would otherwise disqualify you. Types of waivers include: Medical, Mental Health, Criminal, Education, Moral, Age...
Learn More About Military Service
If you're curious about military service in the National Guard, but are not quite ready to contact a recruiter just yet, visit www.nationalguard.com.
Contact a Recruiter or Apply Online
National Guard:
1-800-GO-GUARD (1-800-464-8273)