The United States Army

The United States Army was organized in June 1775 with George Washington as it's first commander in chief. With forces augmented by local militias from the thirteen original colonies, the Army fought and helped win the Revolutionary War.

Since then, the United States Army has become a fighting force without equal.

With over 580,000 officers and enlisted men, today's Army is a modern, land based operation that is ready to defend America, it's allies, and it's resources, anywhere around the globe.

The enlistment criteria for the Army is that the recruit must be an American citizen or a registered alien, be between 17 and 35 years of age, be in good physical condition, and pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery.

The enlistment period may be for two, three, four, five or six years, depending on the enlistee's choice of training and duty assignment.

Basic Training is demanding and lasts for eight weeks with an intense program designed to teach new recruits discipline, pride, honor, and the importance of teamwork.

After Basic Training, soldiers are sent directly to Advanced individual Training where they learn, in classroom settings and in the field, fundamental skills of the occupational field they have chosen.

The Army is wide open for those who want to advance in his or her chosen field and offer soldiers the opportunity to cross train into other fields of work.

Soldiers can volunteer for service oriented training and are eligible to participate in Educational Assistance Programs in conjunction with the Army, such as the Montgomery GI Bill, which provide cash for future educational needs.

It also encourages soldiers to take college courses during off duty time while serving and to apply for Officers Candidate School (OCS) or the United States Military Academy.

Women are encouraged to join the Army because it offers them the same benefits and status as men.

Like most civilian jobs, the Army is a 40 hour a week profession, though at times, you may be required to work longer.

The Army, like all branches of the service, gives 30 days of leave (vacation time) a year, full medical, dental, eye care service, and hospitalization for soldiers, their spouses, and their children.

There are many benefits offered by the Army. To get further information, contact your local Army recruiter.

The Coast Guard

The Air Force

The Marines

The Navy

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