Air Force Active Duty vs Air National Guard/ Air Force Reserve. What's the best choice for me?

In this video, I discuss the pros and cons of the active-duty Air Force vs the Guard/ Reserve. These are just a few of the talking points that come to mind when discussing the difference between the two. There are many more differences and you should take the time to properly research your path before committing one way or the other. If you would like more information about the Air National Guard/ Air Force Reserve check out my blog which can be found on my website at www.youralternateroute.com
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[@Meyblc70]

I did 4 years in the Active Duty Air Force, got out and "Palace Chased" into the Air National Guard for another 26 years. Spent 15 years of my ANG time as an AGR. There are pro's and cons to both sides but I loved the Guard.

[@eelyeoj5799]

I did 3 years active-duty Air Force and went palace chase. Then I did 2-year regular Air Force reserves and then did 1 year in the Virginia Air National guard. I enjoyed the Virgina Air Force National guard the best.

[@karlphilippalses3272]

This was so very helpful to me, thank you! I was in the dark about the Active Duty and National Guard for not knowing about the Air Force as a whole. This gave me all the relevant information that I needed.

[@christiansantillanes]

Dude this is great. I’m in the middle of Active and Guard because I wanna travel and meet cool people

[@killerbopeep]

As someone aspiring to find a route to get pilot training, I love this, I was thinking active duty but I’m going to ask about reserves

[@bennythepenny9]

Sir you are awesome for making these.

[@alternateroute935]

Thank you!!

[@barryklinedinst6233]

I did 4 years active duty. Spent most of it at Dover Afb. My biggest mistake was getting out. If your lucky enough to be part of the USAF you should be proud. It's a great experience.

[@ThomasHartshauser]

I'm 32 yrs old, (turning 33 in 3 months) currently working on my private pilots license. I have 45 college credit hours. I was thinking of enrolling into Active Duty to find stability, finish my bachelors online while serving. Then using the benefits to pay & finish flight school afterwards. Spoke with a pilot who served Guard over 30 years ago and told me to look into it, so thankful to find your channel! My question is from my position/age and lack of education, with hard work and some good luck can I make this work? Through the guard of course.

[@zarmril1756]

Thanks.

[@TonytheZealot]

this was so helpful thank you

[@lacku2677]

Do national guard/guard reserve pilots do more missions/exercises overseas or around the area of their base? Active duty sounds like it's more overseas.

[@alternateroute935]

I'd say that the Guard/ Reserve pilots tend to fly more locals and exercises stateside. The purpose of having a Guard/ Reserve pilot is to support active duty in wartime. Therefore, the purpose is to be current, qualified, and ready to be called upon at any moment. For that reason, you typically don't do as many overseas trips, however, it always depends on your MWS and mission set.

[@forbiddenorganics6163]

How is it being on the ground forces as a NG? Like a security or special force

[@XxS1l3nTxa1Mx]

Thank you for the videos they are awesome! How can I apply for your unit or similar?

[@7Logik]

Marantha

[@ethanrose3243]

Thank you so much for this video! I was originally in the AFROTC but decided not to continue because I heard about the AF reserve. I loved the idea of me being able to control my life especially while I am young to choose where I can go and what I can fly. My plan is after college go to OTS and be an officer and then get sent to a unit of my choosing. I know you mentioned that there's full time available.. since I want to be an F-16 or honestly any fighter or close air support aircraft like the A-10, in your experience what are the chances I can go full time until I have enough hours to go to the major airlines? Or is it more likely that I will need a second job until then. Another question is as someone who wants to go into close air support I want to help the troops on the ground so as a fighter reserve squadron or even in an A-10 squadron is there a good chance to be able to help over seas. I appreciate the content! Keep it up! Aim High!

[@alternateroute935]

I'm glad you are finding some value from the video I post. I'm just hoping to help the next person and pay to forward. In terms of full-time positions within the squadron, it is never a guarantee as there are many factors at play. The economy, rate of deployment, involvement in exercises, federal funding for that fiscal year, and the defense budget are just a few of the factors that affect full-time position availability. Don't let that be the determining factor, either way, you will be able to find ways to build flying time and earn a decent living, even as a Guard or Reserve bum. Deployments and exercise opportunities are available to all interested parties. These typically support troops on the ground either directly or indirectly. I don't think you will have a shortage of overseas deployments and opportunities to be part of the fight!

[@Eljefe5948]

How long do you serve as an officer in the airforce?

[@estebanborja3049]

Is it also a 10 year commitment for national guard/reserves for pilots?

[@josiahesper763]

My understanding is that transferring or moving bases when in the guard/reserver is possible depending on availability, permission, etc. How often does this happen realistically for pilots specifically? Is the process relatively easy or hard? Thanks for these video, they are very informative and clear-cut! Your insights are certainly helping guide me in exploring this path to potentially become a pilot in the Air Force.

[@alternateroute935]

Transferring from base to base happens quite often (even for pilots). It is easier if you stay within your organization (guard to guard or reserve to reserve), but it is still possible to transfer between the two.

[@josiahesper763]

@@alternateroute935 Thank you!

[@emopopo]

I'm 34, and want to do fulltime and commit to it until I get old. I recenlty lost a lot in my life so I'm thinking of joining air force. I'm single and have no responsibilities aside from my condo and car. For now I have a monthly bill of $2,5k, would I be able to pay the bill while im away? Any advice would be awesome.

[@alternateroute935]

The current cut-off for pilot applicants is 35 years old. Unfortunately, I think it is too late for you.

[@marcusx3605]

Can someone clarify something for me. I am 34 going on 35 next month may 27th.. I’d love to try my shot at becoming a pilot in the guard or Air Force. I spoke with a recruiter and he said there is no age waiver it’s strictly you have to have started before you turn 35. Everything I have read and looked up says there are waivers and I seen a few people speaking about becoming a pilot at 36-37 .. now I am unsure if they started before 35 or was the recruiter just stern on killing my dream which I feel like he wouldn’t but I’m certainly unsure now.

[@alternateroute935]

The current waiver is for people who are between the age of 33-35 yrs old. Under 33 no waiver is required, but between 33-35, there is. Unfortunately, if you are over 35 there is no waiver at this time and they are not accepting applications from those candidates.

[@marcusx3605]

@@alternateroute935 over 35 meaning you started before turning 35 or if you are 35 before starting there is no way. I guess that’s my confusion.. once you turn 35 there is no way? And thank you btw

[@7Logik]

If you are prior service you can join, they subtract years of service from your current age