So You Wanna Be a Texas-Sized Soldier? Your Guide to Joining the Texas National Guard
Howdy, partner! Ever looked out at the vast Texas sky and thought, "You know, I could be defending that with a sidearm and a whole lot of grit"? Well, then the Texas National Guard might be the perfect ten-gallon hat-sized opportunity for you! But hold your horses (or should we say longhorns?), there's more to this rodeo than just wrangling some patriotism.
Who We Want on Our Team (Besides Folks Who Can Ride a Rattlesnake)
The Texas National Guard is lookin' for a mighty fine bunch of individuals to join our ranks. We're talking folks who are gung-ho about America (and maybe a little bit about Texas too, let's be honest), but also meet a few basic requirements:
- Age: Gotta be at least 18, with a parental green light if you're under 18 (those pesky growing pains, eh?).
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a path to citizenship.
- Education: High school diploma, GED, or be well on your way to earning one.
- Fitness: Spry enough to keep up with the pack. We're not asking you to win the rodeo, but some basic fitness goes a long way.
- Background: Gotta be squeaky clean, no criminal history that would make John Wayne blush.
Bonus points for:
- Eagle Scout in your past? You're practically a shoo-in, partner!
- College degree? We like smarty-pants too. You might even qualify for a higher rank right off the bat.
- Got some mad skills? Doctors, mechanics, IT whizzes – we need all sorts of folks to keep this operation running smooth.
Don't Worry, We Won't Throw You to the Wolves (Or Coyotes)
Basic training will whip you into shape and teach you the essentials of being a soldier. You'll learn to shoot, salute (without snagging your hat on your holster), and navigate the sometimes-confusing world of military acronyms (PT = Physical Training, FYI). But most importantly, you'll become part of a team, a band of brothers and sisters (and non-binary pals, we're inclusive here in Texas) who will watch your back in any situation.
Pro Tip: Don't be afraid to ask questions. There are no dumb ones in basic training, except maybe "Hey, Sarge, will these boots ever stop feeling like they're made of cactus leather?" (Spoiler alert: they will.)
So, You Think You Have What It Takes?
Great! Here's how to get started:
- Head on over to your local Texas National Guard recruiter. They'll answer all your questions and get you on the path to becoming a soldier. You can find one near you by hittin' up the website (
https://tmd.texas.gov/home - Get in shape. Those basic training PT sessions ain't no joke. The fitter you are going in, the easier (and less like a telenovela full of dramatic gasping) it'll be.
- Brush up on your knowledge. Learn a little about the military, the National Guard's role, and maybe even some basic Texas history (bonus points for knowing who Davy Crockett was).
Alright, enough with the fancy talk. Let's get down to brass tacks.
How-To FAQs for the Aspiring Texas National Guard Soldier:
How to Apply? - Find your local recruiter using the Texas National Guard website (
How Old Do I Need to Be? - At least 18, with parental permission if you're under 18.
How Fit Do I Need to Be? - Get in decent shape before basic training. You'll thank yourself later.
How Much Does it Cost? - Serving in the National Guard comes with many benefits, but there's no upfront cost to join.
How Long Does it Take? - Basic training has a set duration, but your overall commitment will depend on your chosen service length.
So there you have it, pilgrim! Now you know how to join the Texas National Guard and become part of something bigger than yourself (and maybe learn to two-step while you're at it). Remember, the National Guard offers a unique chance to serve your country, gain valuable skills, and be part of a legendary Texas tradition. Now git out there and make us proud!
